Expats returning to the UK to visit friends and family often find themselves with a packed itinerary. From cross-country catch-ups to last-minute plans, getting around without your own transport can be tricky. Relying on lifts or public transport isn’t always convenient, and rental cars can be costly. That’s where expat car insurance comes in. It’s a type of temporary car insurance designed for UK citizens who currently live abroad but are back visiting the UK. It provides the flexibility you need to get behind the wheel during your visit. Whether you’re borrowing a friend’s car or using one you’ve left in the UK, here’s everything you need to know.
What is Expat Car Insurance?
Expats – people living outside their country of citizenship – often return home to see friends and family. If that’s the UK, you’ll need insurance to legally drive. Expat insurance (also known as temporary car insurance for non-UK residents) is tailored to help expats drive while visiting the UK without the hassle or high cost of traditional insurance or car rental.
It’s a simple and affordable way to stay mobile while you’re back on home turf. With a valid UK licence, you can take out cover for exactly the time you need – whether that’s an afternoon of errands, a weekend trip, or a longer stay.

How Can You Drive When Visiting the UK as an Expat?
There are a few options when it comes to getting around while you’re home:
Rent a car
Daily car hire in the UK can start at between £20 and £40, expect to pay more depending on the car you’re after – and those costs quickly add up for longer visits. Some rentals also come with mileage limits or expensive excesses.
Bring your own car from abroad
Driving your own vehicle back to the UK might sound straightforward, but there are a few things to bear in mind. You’ll need to:
- Check whether your policy covers driving in the UK and whether it offers comprehensive or third-party cover only.
- Consider the time, fuel costs, and ferry expenses.
- Be aware of additional rules for foreign vehicles driving in the UK long-term.
Borrow a car and insure yourself with expat insurance
This is often the most flexible and cost-effective option. If you’re staying with friends or family and they’re happy for you to drive their vehicle, you can simply buy a temporary insurance policy that covers you for that exact car, without affecting the owner’s no claims bonus – even in the event of an accident. It takes minutes to arrange and gives you complete independence while you’re home.

What Does Our UK Expat Insurance Cover?
At GoShorty, we offer temporary car insurance for returning expats with a valid UK or EU driving licence
- UK licence holders: You can take out temporary insurance straight away.
- EU licence holders: Once you’ve lived in the UK for 12 months, you can purchase temporary cover.
Our expat insurance includes:
- Comprehensive cover for cars worth up to £65,000.
- Ages 19 to 75 covered.
- Protection of the car owner’s no claims bonus.
It’s designed to give expats a simple, flexible option for driving while visiting. Whether you need cover for a few hours or a few weeks, you can avoid the hassle of arranging lifts, navigating train strikes, or paying inflated rental fees.
If you’re returning to the UK and want the freedom to travel on your terms, expat insurance offers a fast and reliable solution. You can get a quote in under two minutes and be covered to drive someone else’s car with complete peace of mind.
Whether you’re visiting family or preparing to host someone home from abroad, temporary insurance is a smart, flexible way to stay mobile. Get cover today and hit the road with confidence.