Guernsey set to extend French day-tripper scheme

Travellers are permitted to explore the Bailiwick of Guernsey, but they must return on the same day's sailing

A scheme that allows French day trippers to visit Guernsey using their national ID cards instead of a passport is planned to continue next year.

The arrangement was introduced earlier this year, and is credited by a ferry operator with boosting visitor numbers this summer.

It was due to expire in September, but French and island authorities want the deal extended until the end of 2024.

The Committee for Home Affairs said it was eager to maximize travel opportunities for French nationals before the anticipated launch of the UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system in late 2024.

'Pilot scheme success'

Once the UK implements the ETA scheme, it is expected that French citizens will be required to possess a passport to enter the Common Travel Area.

Deputy Rob Prow, President of the Committee for Home Affairs, said: "The success of the pilot scheme this summer has prompted us to seek an additional year for its operation.

"We intend to introduce a similar extension, but we have some further discussions to undertake with the UK.

"We will provide an update as soon as possible."

The day-tripper scheme is applicable only to direct sailings originating from Normandy or Brittany to St Peter Port Harbour in Guernsey or Braye Harbour in Alderney.

Travellers are permitted to explore the Bailiwick of Guernsey, but they must return on the same day's sailing.