Brexit latest: this page was last updated on 09th September 2021. To the best of our knowledge, the information below is full and correct, but we’ll continue to update it in line with government guidance.
As of 2nd September 2021, unless you’re travelling to Moldova or North Macedonia, you’ll no longer need a green card when travelling to countries in the European Union (EU) & the European Economic Area (EEA).
Here are some FAQs about green cards, and how to request one from us, as well as other information you need to know about driving in the EU.
If this advice changes, we will let you know as soon as possible.
What is a green card?
A ‘green card’ is a document that you must carry with you when driving abroad. It proves that you have at least the minimum level of motor insurance required for the country you’re travelling in.
Following recent changes to the system, green cards no longer need to be green – black and white printed documents of the green card are valid in participating EU countries.
If you are looking to be covered to the same level of cover that you have while driving in the UK you will need to contact us before you travel, even if we have previously given you a green card or you don’t need to carry one.
Do I need a green card when I’m travelling in the European Union (EU)?
Yes. If you’re travelling to the EU on or after 1 January 2021, you will need to carry a green card with you. If you don’t, you could have to pay additional insurance costs at the borders of any countries you visit.
Does a green card cost money?
No. Swiftcover will supply you with a green card at no additional cost to the price you have paid for your insurance.
How do I get a green card?
Getting a green card is simple: you just need to request one by calling Swiftcover on 0330 159 1514.
Our opening hours are below:
Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm
Saturdays Closed
Sundays Closed
Bank Holidays Closed
How long does it take to get a green card?
When you request a card, we’ll send you a black and white document in the post, which can take up to 14 days to arrive. If you need one sooner, we can email it to you, but you’ll need to print it yourself on plain white A4 paper. When driving in the EU, make sure that you have your green card and motor certificate with you at all times.
Is there a digital version I can use?
No. An electronic copy or email of your green card is not acceptable evidence of insurance. Authorities in EU countries will only recognise the physical version.
Do I still need a green card if I began my trip in the transition period, but still haven’t returned?
Even if you began your trip during the transition period, you’ll still need a green card to drive through EU countries on your return. Please call us on 0330 159 1514 to request a green card via email, and make sure to print it on white A4 paper before resuming your journey.
If my policy renews when I’m away, is my green card still valid?
If your policy expires while you’re away, and you needed a green card to travel to the country you are visiting, then you’ll still need a green card to cover you until your return. If you renew with us, you’ll need an additional green card for the period from your renewal date to the end of your trip. If you take out a policy with a new provider, contact them to request a new green card. Your new provider can only issue cover for the period they insure you for.
Which countries do I need a green card for?
As of 2nd September 2021, you’ll no longer need a green card for most countries in the EU & EEA. However, you’ll still need a green card for Moldova and North Macedonia. If you don’t have a green card for these countries, you may need to pay additional insurance costs at the borders of these countries.
Will I need to display a GB sticker on my van?
Some vehicles when travelling in any EU country will now need to display a GB sticker on their vehicles. You do not need a GB sticker if your number plate includes the GB identifier on its own or with the Union flag. However, if your vehicle’s number plate includes a Euro symbol, a national flag of England, Scotland or Wales only, or no flag or identifier, you will need to display a GB sticker clearly on the rear of your vehicle.
In addition, if you’re in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you must display a GB sticker, no matter what is shown on your number plate.
Please ensure you read about the requirements for GB stickers on the Government website
Do I need to carry additional documents with me?
You must also carry your motor certificate, your UK driving licence and your log book (V5C)
You will not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in EU countries and Norway from 1st January 2021, unless you have a paper driving license, or a license issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man. Find out more about IDP requirements on the Government website.
Do I need to carry additional documents if I’m driving with a trailer?
Depending on the size and type of trailer, you may need to register it with the DVLA. They’ll then issue it with a separate registration number for travel outside the UK. Find out more on the DVLA website.
You will need to request an additional green card from us if you are travelling with a trailer. You will need to provide a description of the make and model to us for this. You will then receive two green cards that you must carry with you – one with just the details of your van, and one with the details of your van and your trailer.
Do I need to let Swiftcover know which countries I’ll be visiting? Do the rules vary depending on the country I plan to travel to?
If you are looking to have more than the minimum legal cover to drive in the country you’re visiting, you’ll need to let us know details about your trip before you leave so we can let you know the level of cover we are able to provide.
If you plan on travelling to any country which is not in the EU, then you will need to let us know about this before you leave so that we can let you know if we are able to provide any cover for your trip. We can discuss this with you in more detail when you contact us to tell us about your journey.
Where can I find further information?
Leaving the EU means several changes that may affect everyone. Keep yourself up to date with the latest information by checking the Government website: https://euexit.campaign.gov.uk/