Following BREXIT, new travel rules apply when visiting the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein. You may need to complete additional steps before your trip.
Passport requirements
If you're travelling to an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland, you may need to renew your British passport earlier. On the day of travel, your passport must:
- Have at least six months of validity remaining
- Be less than 10 years old (even if it still has six months left)
These rules do not apply to Ireland—your passport only needs to be valid for the duration of your stay.
Healthcare coverage
- Your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) remains valid when travelling to EU countries.
- In Norway, you can use a UK passport to access medically necessary healthcare (e.g. emergency treatment or treatment for a pre-existing condition).
- If you're travelling to Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein, it’s essential to get travel insurance with healthcare coverage, ensuring it covers pre-existing conditions that were previously included under the EHIC scheme.
For more details, check advice on buying travel insurance with the right coverage.
Driving in Europe
If you plan to drive your own vehicle, you will need:
- A Green Card
- A GB sticker
You may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in some EU countries and Norway, particularly if you:
- Have a paper driving licence
- Hold a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man
Check with the embassy of the country you are driving in to confirm specific requirements.
Pet travel: Allow at least one month for arrangements
The previous pet passport scheme is no longer valid. Instead, you will need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for your pet.
- Allow at least one month to complete this process and any necessary vaccinations.
- Follow the official guidance for travelling with your dog, cat, or ferret abroad.
For the most up-to-date information, visit the UK government website.