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For many of us, particularly teens eager to explore, travel is a vital way of experiencing new cultures, languages, and histories. travelling to Europe has long been a rite of passage for many young people in the UK. However, Brexit has brought about several changes that could affect how you as a UK resident travel to European Union (EU) countries. Understanding these changes is crucial for anyone planning a trip to Europe. Let's dive into the particulars of how Brexit has altered the travel landscape and discuss some strategies to navigate these changes effectively.
Understanding Brexit's Impact on Travel
In January 2020, the United Kingdom officially left the European Union, ending a 47-year membership. This departure, commonly referred to as Brexit, initiated a transition period to negotiate new rules for the relationship between the UK and EU. One significant area of change is travel, touching on everything from passports and visa requirements to health insurance and mobile roaming charges.
Passport and Visa Changes
The first and perhaps most immediate impact of Brexit on your travel plans is the requirement around passports. UK passports must now be burgundy or dark blue, and crucially, they must have at least six months left on them when you travel. This stipulation is essential because, without it, you might not be able to enter the EU.
As for visas, UK citizens can stay in the Schengen Area (which covers most of Europe) for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without needing a visa. However, if you plan to stay longer, study, or work, you'll need to check the specific requirements of the country you are visiting. Starting in 2023, UK citizens will also need to pay for a visa exemption scheme called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), which is a new requirement for several non-EU countries.
Impact on Health Insurance
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provided health coverage throughout the EU for UK citizens. Post-Brexit, these cards are being replaced by the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). While similar, the GHIC does not cover Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland. If you're planning to travel to these countries, you might need additional travel insurance.
Changes in Border Control
With the UK no longer part of the EU's freedom of movement policy, UK travellers can now expect longer waiting times at borders as they will need to go through additional checks. Be prepared for immigration officials to ask about the purpose of your visit and the duration of your stay, and you might also need to show proof of a return ticket and sufficient funds for your stay.
Mobile Roaming Charges
Remember the days when you could use your mobile phone in any EU country without fretting about additional roaming charges? Sadly, this is no longer guaranteed post-Brexit. Some UK mobile operators have reintroduced roaming charges for users travelling to the EU. It's important to check your mobile plan before you travel to avoid surprise bills.
Practical Strategies for Travelling Post-Brexit
Navigating travel to Europe post-Brexit might seem daunting, but with a bit of preparation, you can still enjoy a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some practical tips:
- check your passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned date of return. If you need a new passport, apply well ahead of your intended travel dates to avoid delays.
- Stay informed about visa requirements: Always check the latest requirements for the countries you plan to visit, considering any special arrangements that might apply to UK citizens post-Brexit.
- Arrange adequate health insurance: Apply for a GHIC, but also consider additional travel insurance, especially if you're going to a country not covered by GHIC or if you're planning activities that might require special coverage.
- Plan for extra travel time: Arrive early at ports and airports as there might be longer queues due to the extra border checks.
- Be prepared at the border: Have all necessary documents handy, such as a return ticket, proof of accommodation and evidence of sufficient funds.
- Mind your mobile usage: check your mobile operator's policy on roaming charges and consider purchasing a local SIM card if you intend to use data extensively.
In conclusion, while Brexit has indeed changed the way UK citizens travel to Europe, it doesn't have to significantly disrupt your travel plans. With the right preparation, you can continue to enjoy the vast cultural richness that Europe has to offer. Remember that every big change comes with an adjustment period and the same goes with post-Brexit travel!
How are you feeling?
It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.
If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:
- Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
- NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
- The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
- SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
- Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)
*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.
