Brexit information

The UK plans to leave the European Union on 29 March 2019. Whilst we don't yet have all of the answers when it comes to Brexit, we have summarised some of the main points below as at today’s date (30 January 2019) and suggest that you stay up-to-date by visiting ABTA’s website here.

Can I still fly to Europe after Brexit?

Yes, regardless of the outcome of the government's Brexit negotiations, UK citizens will still be able to fly between the UK and the EU. If we leave the EU with a deal, then everything will stay the same until the end of December 2020. In the case of no-deal, the European Commission has made assurances that UK-based airlines will still be able to operate between the UK and the EU, and the same goes for EU-based airlines flying into the UK.

Will I need a visa to travel to the EU?

From what we know so far, UK citizens should not have to obtain a visa to travel to the EU after Brexit. As long as European citizens are guaranteed the same when travelling to the UK, this will not change – even in a no-deal scenario. According to the European Commission, from 2021 UK citizens will have to pay a visa exemption fee of 7 Euros (similar to the current US ESTA process).

What happens if my holiday is cancelled due to Brexit?

Nothing suggests this will happen, even in the case of a no-deal Brexit. Flights will still operate, and when you book a holiday with Classic Collection Holidays you're protected by the Package Travel Regulations, meaning that you’ll be entitled to an alternative holiday or a full refund if your holiday can’t be provided. The government has stated that even if we leave the EU without a deal, if you buy a package holiday from a UK-based business, your protection will stay the same. Please click here to read our Booking Conditions.

ITV's This Morning show recently hosted travel expert, Simon Calder, who spoke about the security of package holidays specifically, and that by booking elements together rather than separately, if your holiday can't be provided, you'll get your money back much more easily.  "I would have no hesitation booking a package holiday," Calder said. "The worst that will happen is you will get your money back."

Passport renewals

Check the date your passport expires. When travelling to the EU after 29 March 2019, the UK government recommends that you have six months left on your passport on the date of your arrival to an EU country.

It is important, however, to check when your passport was renewed. If you renewed your 10-year adult passport before it expired, extra months may have been added to your new passport’s expiry date. These extra months over 10 years will not count towards the 6 months that must be remaining. The UK Government has published a website tool to check the validity of your passport under these rules.

You may wish to renew your passport sooner rather than later, in order to ensure you have it in time for your holiday or travel plans and you can renew your passport online or by going to a Post Office with a Check and Send service. Full details on renewing your passport can be found here.

Health and travel insurance

In the event of a no-deal Brexit, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will no longer be valid in many countries. In any event, Classic Collection Holidays advises customers to take out appropriate travel insurance when going abroad, ensuring that private medical care is covered.

Will I be able to drive in the EU after Brexit?

Currently if you have a full UK driving licence, you are permitted to drive in the EU. If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, this is likely to change, and you will need an International Driving Permit, which must be applied for in advance of travel.

Will I have free mobile data roaming in the EU after Brexit?

If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, free EU roaming will no longer be automatically available to UK citizens. However, some UK service providers may continue to offer free roaming in the EU. Please check details with your service provider prior to travel.

More information about Brexit and travel after 29 March 2019

Please visit ABTA’s website here.