Brexit – Travelling in Europe in 2021

Travelling in Europe in 2021

The transition period for the UK to leave the EU ends on 31 December 2020. What does this mean for insurance abroad in 2021.

Unless an agreement is reached, it is likely there will be a legal requirement to carry a physical document known as a Green Card when driving in Europe.

What is a green card?

The Green Card is an international certificate of insurance proving visiting motorists have the minimum compulsory insurance cover required by the law of the country visited. All EEA countries are part of a Green Card free circulation area, meaning that motorists based there do not have to carry Green Cards when visiting other countries in the area. This is what UK-based motorists have been used to as a result of the UK’s EU membership, but when the transition period ends, with or without a trade deal, UK motorists may be required to carry Green Cards for the entire system, including EEA countries.

In the event it becomes a legal requirement, if you need to drive your vehicles outside the UK you must carry a Green Card if driving in an EU or specified EEA country.

The legal requirements of the Green Card system mean anyone driving abroad under a UK insurance policy must carry a physical Green Card. This used to be on green paper (hence Green Card) but this is no longer compulsory.

This is particularly important for customers based in Northern Ireland, as Green Cards will be required to drive into the Republic of Ireland.

For customers wanting to take a trailer or caravan, a separate Green Card is required for any towed vehicle.

Your insurers will need to be advised in advance if you intend to use a vehicle in Europe. Green cards can be issued on an annual basis or for short periods if the vehicle does not travel regularly. A green card needs to be issued for each vehicle and each trailer or towed vehicle.

Check out our other articles on how Brexit may affect insurance:

CPC Requirements After Brexit: Here’s What You Need to Know

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