When the EU entry system runs on October 12, the French government challenges British travelers to adhere to a set of laws that have been very sleepy for decades.
As Independent The leaked is asked by Eurostar travelers in London ST Pancras International as to whether they have adequate cash, accommodation, return tickets and medical insurance.
Those who fail in one or more cases can disappear – even if they travel to Belgium without stopping through France, which have strict rules.
France decides to impose an additional layer of laws on the needs of the Schengen area – which can make life difficult for some travelers, especially those who make medical insurance very expensive and travel without it.
These are key questions and answers.
What is the European Input System (EES)?
Visitors to the UK record fingerprints and biometrics as they cross the Schengen border posts from October 12. It covers most of the European Union (but not Cyprus or Ireland) as well as Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.
The requirements for entering the Schengen area are the same since Brexit, when Britain negotiated so that British travelers would be “third country nationals”. Passports must be issued on the day of arrival in the past 10 years and are considered at least three months on the day of departure.
Passengers must provide evidence that they have a place of residence, sufficient financial resources and tickets abroad.
In addition, however, any member state can impose its needs. France is the only Schengen nation that insists that travelers have medical insurance and the demand for Eurostar travelers will be explicit from October 12.
As the second most popular destination for British travelers (after Spain), what France wants is very important for many British passport holders.
What medical insurance do I need to travel to France?
“You must have an insurance certificate that covers all medical and hospital costs that you may be responsible for your stay in France as well as the costs and costs of medical return if they die,” the French government says.
The certificate must be in English or French.
Can I show a “ghic” instead?
No. The UK World Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaces the old European health insurance card (EHIC) and has the same impact. These citizens give the British cure in public hospitals similar to those similar to locals, which are usually free or at a nominal cost. But it does not cover “costs and costs of medical return in case of death”.
What else do I need to travel to France?
“Proof of accommodation in the entire duration of stay.” This is expected to be a hotel reservation or certificate that shows your residence with a relative – but the latter must have a lot of credibility in a place MaggieOr city hall
“Sufficient financial means.” The definition of “sufficient” is half of a daily guaranteed minimum wage (SMIC). This is 41.58 euros (36.30 pounds). If you do not prove resettlement, this figure will double – but, as above, you need to have a place to stay.
“Your return ticket or financial means to obtain one on the foreseeable return date.” This demand is actually weaker than the standard demand for the Schengen area for “returning tickets or travel rounds”. The EuroStar kiosks ask you if you have a return ticket – and so you have to have one.
What if I lie?
It seems unavoidable that some travelers who use the Eurostar respond to “yes” knowing the correct answer “no”. Many people get away with it. But passengers are warned: “Your answers are binding, you may be asked to provide proof.”
Are these questions just a Eurostar?
Independent Is trying to find. No questions are asked at the Eurotunnel Leshuttle terminal in Folkestone. It is still unclear whether such questions will exist in the referee or French airports.
What does the British government say?
“From October 12, travelers who register for EES in a kiosk may need to answer a number of questions, including whether they have medical insurance,” a government spokesman said.
“Medical Insurance for the Citizens of England traveling to the EU under EES will not be a mandatory requirement. However, we strongly recommend that all travelers buy comprehensive travel insurance, including medical coverage before traveling abroad.”
Why France suddenly wants these – especially medical insurance?
Independent He has asked the French Embassy in London and is waiting for the answer.
Read more: Simon Calder answers your questions about the new EU logging system
