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Johnson clause permits foreign travel for home inspections, sales and rental

Johnson Clause Permits Foreign Travel

If the coronavirus has blown a hole in your holiday plans, there’s good news from the Johnson clause if you enjoy the pros of caravan ownership and have a holiday home abroad.

From March onwards you’ll be able to travel abroad if it’s in connection with the rentals, sales and home inspections of a holiday home. The so-called ‘Stanley Johnson clause’ came about because the Prime Minister’s father was accused of breaking Covid guidelines when he travelled to Greece to ‘Covid-proof’ his villa for guests.

The Johnson clause is good news if you’ve had your eye on that luxury lodge in Spain or you’re thinking of ultimately relocating abroad but want to dip your toe in the property market first. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking of making that holiday homes purchase.

Can I travel to view potential holiday homes?

The new rules mean that you can start thinking about booking a flight to go property shopping. However, it’s worth knowing the situation in the main hotspots so your trip is a success.

Spain

Although the UK has made buying or visiting holiday homes a ‘reasonable excuse’ for travel, Spain hasn’t specified buying property as a reason to enter the country. If you can prove residency or are travelling to complete a property purchase, you may be able to travel.

Spain is working on a digital vaccine passport that should be ready in June, but a negative PCR test can be used as an alternative.

France

France is currently under a partial lockdown until the beginning of May, and if you choose to travel you’ll be expected to present a negative PCR test carried out in the previous 72 hours. You’ll also sign a declaration of honours and quarantine for seven days before taking another test.

On your return, you’ll need to quarantine for 10 days, which could make travel tricky at the moment.

Portugal

If you’re buying or inspecting a holiday home in Portugal, the country is hoping to be open to visitors from 17 May. Social distancing and mask-wearing is compulsory in all enclosed spaces.

However, flights to Portugal and the Azores are currently suspended until 16 April. Which gives you plenty of time to browse our caravans and luxury lodges before you head off on a viewing trip.

Italy

If you’re travelling to Italy there are a few rules to remember. You’ll either need to take a private Covid test 72 hours before travelling, or you can get tested at the airport at your destination. Italy has excellent on-site testing facilities.

You’ll need to keep an eye on the regulations in the region you’re travelling to and you’ll need to carry a mask with you at all times.

Greece

You’ll need a negative PCR test and to self-quarantine for seven days. On your return to the UK you’ll be required to fill out a Passenger Locator Form and self-isolate for 10 days.

Whether you’re looking forward to buying a place or you’re getting your holiday home ready to rent when travel restrictions are finally eased, the situation is fluid and ever-changing. If you want to make viewing appointments, browse online then contact us at Caravans In The Sun. We’ll be happy to help you take the next step towards buying your dream holiday home.

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