Naturally we all have questions about what Brexit means for groups travelling to EU countries. As experts in school and club sports travel, we hope this short article will go some way to clarifying the situation and answering those regularly asked questions.
Keeping the UK market flowing
Although the UK is an important contributor to global travel, with over 58 million trips each year, Europe retains the number one overseas destination for travelers. It can be fair to say that the recent uncertainties over Brexit may impact this market significantly.
There are questions of UK residents’ retaining their willingness to travel abroad and how easy these activities may become after Brexit. So let’s reassure you…
Key information on Brexit for group travelers
The latest advice highlights the fact that the UK will enter a transition period TODAY and is valid until 31st Dec 2020.
1. Group travel after January 31st
Government officials from both the UK and the European Union have stated that there would be a transition period where everything can function as normal during this period. This means that all travel arrangements can go on as normal while the Brexit deal is finalised.
2. Will every traveler need a visa?
One of the most asked questions we receive from clients about Brexit is whether it will see them having to apply for a visa to enter Europe. According to ABTA the answer is “no”. UK travelers* won’t need a visa to travel to the EU after Brexit.
3. Passports
You can still use a valid passport to travel in Europe. You also do not need six months left on your passport to travel – but it obviously needs to be fully valid for the duration of your trip.
4. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
The European Health Insurance Card allows any EU citizen to access state medical care when they are travelling in another EU country. During this transition period, UK registered EHICs will still be valid throughout 2020.
ABTA (of which inspiresport and inspireski are an assured member) has always advised travelers to make sure they have appropriate travel insurance, whether they have an EHIC card or not, as there are limitations to EHIC.
When travelling in the EU and beyond, it is important you take out travel insurance and check that it covers your current circumstances, including any medical conditions.
Here at inspireski we can provide any future travel insurance required. Just ask us for more information.
In Summary
As we enter this “transition period”, UK group travelers will still be able to enjoy normal travel without a visa* and with a current, valid passport. As ABTA and ATOL assured members, we’ve put their links here to further expand on points if you need it…
If you have any further concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our advisors here at inspiresport and inspireski.
Travel with us, with confidence from the
inspireski team
02920 390 747 | [email protected]