Whether you’ve already booked your holiday, or cruise, or you’re just thinking about planning your next getaway, you’re probably wondering what Brexit will mean for your break. Here, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about holidays after Brexit.
Should I be concerned about my holiday with the uncertainty of Brexit?
We understand you may be anxious to find out more about what may happen with Brexit, to help you plan your holiday. The good thing to know is that the European Commission has said that planes leaving from the UK will still be allowed to fly over the territory of the European Union, even in a no-deal scenario. So you can rest assured that your flight should still go ahead as planned. Here at TUI, we’ll continue to operate our holidays to all of our fantastic destinations, including those within the EU, so you can still book holidays with us in confidence.
Will TUI flights still operate?
You can rest assured that, regardless of the Brexit outcome, planes will still be able to fly between the UK and the EU. When and if a deal is agreed, we’ll go into a transition period, meaning everything will stay as it is until the end of December 2020 and flights will continue as normal. Even in the case of a no-deal scenario, the European Commission and UK government have said that UK airlines will still be able to operate flights between the UK and the EU. The UK government has also agreed that airlines operating out of the EU will be able to fly into the UK.
Will I need a visa to travel to the EU after Brexit?
On 4th April 2019 the European Parliament approved legal changes to ensure that UK citizens will not need a visa to travel to the EU for short stays after Brexit – even in the event of a no-deal exit. ABTA is also providing advice to travellers about visiting the EU after Brexit, with the latest information available at: abta.com/Brexit.
What happens if I book to travel after 31st January 2020?
There is nothing to suggest that you won’t be able to continue with your holiday plans after 31st January. Even in a no-deal scenario, the European Commission and UK government have said flights to and from the UK will still be able to operate. Customers who book a package holiday with a UK travel company can relax knowing that they’ve got the most comprehensive protection as a consumer. If you book a package, your holiday will be protected under the Package Travel Regulations, meaning you’ll have the right to a full refund if your holiday can no longer be provided.
Will I still be able to use my current passport?
You may need to renew your British passport earlier if you’re travelling from 1 January 2021. On the day you travel, you'll need your passport to have at least 6 months left and be less than 10 years old- even if it has 6 months or more left. You can check for the latest information on the government's website.
Will my cruise be affected by Brexit?
The government has confirmed that cruises will continue as normal after 31st January 2020, even in the event of a no-deal Brexit. So you’ll still be able to sail the shining seas to over 200 destinations with Marella Cruises.
Will I need to take out extra travel insurance because of Brexit?
No, but it’s important to have full travel insurance any time you travel. You can include travel insurance in your holiday when you book with us – AXA is our travel insurance provider, who have more information about travel insurance and Brexit in the event of a no-deal scenario. Or you can arrange insurance of your own. Booking a package holiday gives you extra protection, as it’s the travel provider’s responsibility to make sure your holiday goes ahead. They’ll offer an alternative or a refund if it can’t be delivered.
What is the post-Brexit situation regarding driving licences and International Driving Permits?
If you have a full UK driving licence you don’t currently need an additional licence to drive in the EU. This is likely to change in a no-deal scenario and UK travellers looking to drive in the EU on or after 31st January 2020 may need to apply for the relevant International Driving Permit which is available directly from the Post Office. Please note which permit is required for each country you intend to drive within, as you may need more than one permit to comply with the law. The Government is also advising that you will need a GB sticker for your car. For Full information visit gov.uk/euexit and the ABTA website.
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