Is it cheaper to get temporary insurance or add a visitor to a UK policy?

Can You Add a Foreign Visitor to a UK Insurance Policy?

Many UK insurers might not allow policyholders to add foreign visitors as named drivers, especially if the visitor does not have a UK, EU, or certain recognised overseas driving licences. Even if an insurer does permit it, the process could be lengthy, involve additional checks, and may increase the cost of the policy.

Some key reasons why insurers may not allow foreign drivers to be added include:

• The difficulty in verifying an overseas driving history.
• The increased risk associated with unfamiliarity with UK road rules.
• The complexity of handling claims involving non-UK licence holders.

If an insurer does allow a visitor to be added, it may come with restrictions, additional fees, or higher excess costs in the event of a claim. The process may also take time, making it less than ideal for short-term visits.

How Does Temporary Insurance Work?

Temporary car insurance provides cover for a limited period - anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. This makes it an attractive option for foreign visitors who need to drive a borrowed car in the UK.

Some advantages of temporary insurance might include:

• Quick and flexible cover for short-term use.
• Cover for visitors with certain overseas licences.
• No impact on the car owner’s existing insurance policy.
• Immediate activation, which may be useful for last-minute trips.

Since most UK insurers do not allow foreign visitors to be added to policies, temporary cover may be one of the few options available for those needing short-term insurance.

Comparing Temporary Insurance to Adding a Named Driver

For visitors planning to drive in the UK, the main options are:

• Adding a named driver (if possible): This may be feasible for certain visitors, but it’s rarely an option for those without a UK or certain recognised overseas licences.
• Taking out temporary insurance: This could provide more flexibility and may be easier to arrange.

To help compare the two, here’s a breakdown of potential pros and cons:

Adding a Named Driver

• Pros: If allowed, it may be an option for longer stays and could provide continuous cover.
• Cons: Might not be available for foreign visitors, could take time to arrange, and may increase the cost of the existing policy.

Temporary Insurance

• Pros: May offer flexibility, could be arranged quickly, and wouldn’t impact the car owner’s policy.
• Cons: Not all foreign licences are accepted, and the length of cover may be limited.

For most short-term visitors, temporary insurance may be the more practical and available solution.

What Are the Alternatives?

If neither option is suitable, there may be alternatives, including:

• Hiring a car: Rental companies often provide insurance for international drivers, though it’s worth checking for high excess charges.
• Using public transport: The UK has an extensive train and bus network, which may be a viable alternative for short visits.

Ultimately, the best choice may depend on how long the visitor intends to drive and whether they meet the eligibility criteria for insurance.

Thoughts at the End:

For most foreign visitors, adding them to an existing UK car insurance policy may not be an option, as many insurers won’t allow it. Temporary insurance may be a more viable choice, offering short-term cover without affecting the car owner’s policy.

However, every situation is different, so exploring all available options before deciding makes all the difference.

Need Temporary Cover for a Foreign Visitor?

If you’re looking for insurance to allow a visitor to drive in the UK, click the button below for more information and to get a quote.