Visas, GHIC/EHIC & Passport Information

Since Brexit, rules around travel to Europe continue to evolve, particularly following the UK’s exit from the EU and the introduction of the new border systems. Visit the Government website for up to date information on passports, GHIC/ EHIC, healthcare and more. We recommend checking official sources before every trip to ensure you have the latest information.  

Do I need a Visa to travel?

When planning any trip it is extremely important that you check whether you need a visa to enter the country. You can do this online, with your travel agent or with the Consulate or Embassy of the country you are planning to visit. Some countries offer visas on arrival or electronic visas (eVisas), but requirements vary and should always be confirmed.

You will normally have to fill out a form, providing information about yourself, your trip and your background, plus a passport sized photo. In many cases, applications are now completed online without needing to send your passport. Make sure you do this in plenty of time, as it could take several weeks to get your visa approved. Some visas are easy to obtain and others are more difficult. Always ask for help from the Embassy or a travel professional if you are unsure.

A visa is an official document or stamp proving that you have been granted permission to enter the country. A visa will usually determine;

• How long you are permitted to stay in the country
• Whether you are permitted to work or study
• Where you are allowed to travel

Plus much more.

If you are planning to travel, work, get married or study abroad you must make sure you have the correct type of visa.

If you do not have the correct paper work you will not be allowed to enter the country, which will make your trip short and expensive. It is your job to make sure you have all the correct documentation in place before you arrive.

Some countries are constantly changing their rules and regulations regarding visas and border control. View the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice for specific countries here. Remember that a visa does not always guarantee you entry into a country.

What is the EU Entry / Exit System (EES)?

The EU’s Entry/Exit System has been introduced in phases and will apply to some non-EU travellers, including UK citizens, entering participating European countries. Travellers may be required to register biometric information, such as fingerprints and a facial image, at the border. Requirements and implementation dates may change, so travellers should check the latest official guidance before departure. You can find out more about what to expect with the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) on our dedicated EES information page.

What is ETIAS?

If you are travelling to the Schengen Area, UK travellers may need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) waiver once introduced (this is currently scheduled for roll out at the end of 2026). Always check current requirements before travel.

GHIC/ EHIC

If you’re travelling within the European Union, make sure you have a valid Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). The EHIC replaced the old E111 form in 2006. Both cards are free and can be applied for via the NHS website.

If you need medical treatment whilst abroad, the GHIC/ EHIC should entitle you to free or discounted health care in European countries, and some additional countries; however, cover may vary by destination.

If you need health care whilst travelling, make sure you visit a state hospital and take your GHIC/ EHIC and Passport as proof of EU citizenship. In some European countries, such as Spain, you may be directed to a private clinic instead of a state facility; however the GHIC/ EHIC is only recognised by state hospitals.

Remember that the GHIC/ EHIC is not a substitution for travel insurance – it will not cover you for repatriation or private treatment. You should always make sure you invest in quality travel insurance before you depart for your holiday.

If you already have an EHIC, it remains valid until its expiry date. After this, you will need to apply for a GHIC. Cards typically last up to 5 years.

For further information and to apply for an EHIC, please click here.

Passports

Most travellers are familiar with passports, but for anyone who is unsure or has a query, we have collated our top tips and advice concerning passports; whether that is renewing, travelling or reporting one stolen.

• A passport is an official document which allows you to travel to other countries.

• You can renew your passport at any time, however extra validity is no longer added when renewing early.

• Passport fees are subject to change; make sure to check the latest costs on GOV.UK before applying.

• A passport applications typically take several weeks, but processing times can vary, especially during peak periods. Apply well in advance of travel.

• Even when visiting EU countries you should take a passport. UK citizens cannot use national ID cards for EU travel and must carry a valid passport.

• If you’re flying, most airlines now want to see your passport as proof of ID even if you’re using a domestic flight.

• Check that your passport will not expire during your trip.

• Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 3-6 months beyond your return date and issued within the last 10 years. Always check entry requirements for your destination.

• Take a photocopy of your passport, visas and any other important documents. Make a note of passport numbers, dates and where they were issued. Also take a note of your travel insurance policy number.

• When you reach your destination, keep your passport and travel documents in a safe place (the hotel safe if possible), don’t carry them around with you if you can avoid it.

• Some countries ask you to carry your passport as a form of identity card, check if a photocopy would suffice, if you do need to carry the original make sure you leave a photocopy in the hotel safe.

• Should your passport be stolen, your travel insurer will offer advice on how and where you can get a replacement passport. You should report the theft to local police and obtain a police report, then go to your local embassy who should be able to cancel your passport and issue you with emergency paperwork, there may be a fee and background checks involved in this.