With the end date fast approaching for the UK to leave the EU on the 29th March, there are many questions surrounding how it will affect people’s holidays in the future. The pound has already been unpredictable against both the Euro and the Dollar, demonstrating the uncertainty that lies ahead. Just how much will Brexit affect holidays to Europe greatly depends on whether there will be an agreement or if there’s ultimately no deal. We look into how this could impact holidaymakers:
Is it Safe to Book a Holiday in the EU?
This is the question that many people are asking in a post-Brexit world. Though some things are likely to change after Brexit, ABTA (the Association of British Travel Agents) have stated that it’s still completely safe to book a holiday in the EU. There’s nothing to suggest that holidaymakers should encounter any problems when booking a holiday. UK tourists are a big market for many European countries, so it makes sense that they still want them to feel welcome when travelling abroad.
Package Holidays
There is some evidence to suggest you would be more protected by booking a package holiday through a reputable company rather than booking each element individually. This is because anyone who books a holiday through a UK travel company will be liable for a full refund if for any reason it cannot be provided through Brexit. Although this scenario is unlikely, it comes as some reassurance to holidaymakers who may still be concerned.
You May Need New Documents
British citizens are not going to be required to apply for a visa, the European Commission has said. By 2021, British people may need to apply for another type of travel document called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) which will be valid for three years. If holidaymakers are worried about the documentation they may require, it’s worth consulting immigration lawyers who will be able to assist. The UK government have prioritised free movement for British citizens in their Brexit deal, and it’s likely that even with a no-deal, residents won’t require a visa to travel.
Should the UK leave the EU with no deal, the public have been advised that they will need an extra six months left on their passport from their date of arrival in that country. This is opposed to the duration of the stay, as per the previous advice. In addition, you can no longer carry any extra months over to your new passport.
The Effects on Ferries and Eurostar
ABTA have said that because Ferries are covered by international maritime convention, there won’t be any changes. Any British citizens travelling by ferry to their destination will remain unaffected no matter what the Brexit outcome. The same goes for Eurostar, as this is still protected by EU regulation in everything including rail passenger’s rights.
Stay Updated With the Latest Advice
As negotiations are constantly underway, advice is always changing regarding Brexit. To keep up-to-date, check the latest travel advice with whoever you’re flying with and the country’s tourist board. When we reach the 29th March, the advice should become much clearer and straightforward, without the need to guess what lies ahead.