The Foreign Office has updated travel information for those with Blue Badges who are planning to travel to 17 countries in Europe – here is the advice
The Foreign Office has issued fresh travel updates for 17 European destinations, offering crucial advice on the risks associated with travel to help Brits make savvy decisions before jetting off.
The latest update is particularly important for British nationals who rely on Blue Badges. These badges are a boon for those needing to park closer to their destinations and can be used by both drivers and passengers for on-street parking, though they’re not valid in car parks.
Eligibility for a Blue Badge extends to individuals with physical disabilities or health conditions that impair walking safety, as well as those living with hidden disabilities like dementia, autism, or Parkinson’s disease. In other similar news, British passport holders are urged to do one important thing before October 12.
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In terms of international travel, the Foreign Office advises checking if your UK Blue Badge will be recognised in the country you’re visiting, as per guidance on Gov.uk: “Before visiting a country, check whether it recognises the UK Blue Badge. Some countries may require you to display a local parking notice as well as your Blue Badge.”
The advice doesn’t stop there: “Even in countries that recognise the Blue Badge, parking rules can vary in different parts of the country. Rules can also change, and some countries may have changed their rules.”
For the most accurate information, the Foreign Office recommends researching local parking regulations or contacting the relevant local authority directly, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Furthermore, when parking abroad, it’s wise to carry any additional documentation that might be needed, such as a doctor’s note or a translation of your Blue Badge, especially in countries with more stringent parking regulations.
The Foreign Office has refreshed the safety and security advice for various European destinations on Gov.uk, noting: “If you are visiting [country] you may be able to use your Blue Badge in some circumstances. Check local parking rules.”
The countries are listed below:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Norway
- Poland
- Slovakia
- Sweden
- Switzerland
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For those looking to apply or renew a Blue Badge, it can be done via the official GOV.UK website. Applicants will need to supply:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of address
- A recent head and shoulders digital photo
- National insurance number (if you have one)
- Contact details (phone number, email and postal address)
To confirm your identity, you’ll need to provide a copy of either:
- Passport
- Driving licence
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Divorce or dissolution certificate
- Birth of adoption certificate