The Green Card System Explained

What is the Green Card System?

If you're planning to drive across borders in Europe, you've likely heard of the Green Card system. But what exactly is it, and when do you need one? This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about the Green Card system, with a particular focus on how it applies to Swedish drivers traveling throughout Europe.

The Green Card—officially known as the International Motor Insurance Certificate—is a document that proves you have the minimum required motor insurance coverage for the countries you're visiting. Despite its name, the card is not always green anymore, as many countries now issue them on white paper, but the name has stuck through tradition.

Historical Background and Purpose

The Green Card system was established in 1949 under the recommendation of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. Its primary purpose was to facilitate cross-border vehicle movement by ensuring that victims of accidents involving foreign vehicles would be compensated according to the national laws of the country where the accident occurred.

Before this system, drivers crossing borders often had to purchase separate insurance policies at each border they crossed, which was both costly and inconvenient. The Green Card simplified this process by creating a standardized document recognized across participating countries.

Countries Participating in the Green Card System

The Green Card system currently covers 48 countries, spanning Europe, parts of the Middle East, and North Africa. These countries are organized under the Council of Bureaux (CoB), which manages the system.

Participating countries include:

• All 27 European Union (EU) member states, including Sweden
• European Economic Area (EEA) countries outside the EU (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway)
• Other European countries like the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Serbia, and Turkey
• Non-European countries like Morocco, Tunisia, Iran, and Israel

It's important to note that while the EU and EEA countries plus the UK, Serbia, Switzerland, and Andorra form the "Free Circulation Area" (where Green Cards are not required but still recommended), other participating countries do require the physical Green Card document when you enter their territory.

When Do Swedish Drivers Need a Green Card?

If you're a Swedish driver with Swedish vehicle registration and insurance, here's when you would need a Green Card:

Within the EU/EEA and Free Circulation Area

As of May 2021, Green Cards are no longer legally required for vehicles registered in EU/EEA countries (including Sweden) when traveling within other EU/EEA countries, the UK, Switzerland, Serbia, and Andorra. Your Swedish registration plates and insurance policy are sufficient evidence of minimum coverage.

However, many insurance experts still recommend carrying a Green Card even when traveling within these areas because:

• It facilitates faster processing in case of an accident
• It clearly shows your insurance details and coverage periods
• Some local authorities or police officers in remote areas might not be fully updated on the latest requirements

Outside the Free Circulation Area

When traveling to other countries within the Green Card system (such as Turkey, Russia, Ukraine, Morocco, or Tunisia), you must carry a physical Green Card document. Failure to present a valid Green Card at the border may result in:

• Being denied entry to the country
• Being required to purchase expensive temporary border insurance
• Potential fines or penalties

How to Obtain a Green Card in Sweden

Obtaining a Green Card as a Swedish resident is straightforward:

1. Contact your insurance provider: Most Swedish insurance companies like Folksam, If, Länsförsäkringar, or Trygg-Hansa can issue Green Cards upon request
2. Request timing: Apply at least two weeks before your planned departure to allow for processing and delivery time
3. Cost: Green Cards are typically issued free of charge to existing policyholders in Sweden
4. Validity period: Green Cards are usually issued with the same validity period as your existing insurance policy, but you should verify this

Many Swedish insurance companies now offer digital services where you can request and download your Green Card through their website or mobile app, making the process even more convenient.

Information Included on a Green Card

A standard Green Card contains the following information:

• The title "International Motor Insurance Card" or "International Insurance Certificate"
• Name and address of the issuing insurance company
• Policy number
• Validity period (start and end dates)
• Vehicle registration number, type, make, and model
• Country code boxes showing where the card is valid
• Name and address of the policyholder
• Signature of the insurer and sometimes the policyholder

It's crucial to check that all information on your Green Card is accurate and that the validity dates cover your entire trip. Also, ensure the country codes for all nations you plan to visit or transit through are included.

Coverage Provided by the Green Card

A common misconception is that the Green Card provides additional insurance coverage. In reality, it only serves as proof of your existing insurance coverage. The actual coverage you have while driving abroad depends on your insurance policy terms.

The Green Card guarantees only the minimum legally required insurance coverage (typically third-party liability) in the country you're visiting. This minimum coverage can vary significantly between countries.

For Swedish drivers, it's important to understand that while your Swedish insurance will meet the minimum requirements in other countries, these minimums might be lower than what you're accustomed to in Sweden. For example:

• Swedish third-party liability insurance (Trafikförsäkring) has very high coverage limits for personal injury (approximately 300 million SEK)
• Some Eastern European countries have significantly lower minimum coverage requirements

Therefore, before traveling, you should:

• Contact your Swedish insurer to understand exactly what coverage your policy provides when driving abroad
• Consider purchasing additional international coverage if your standard policy has limitations
• Check if your comprehensive coverage (if you have it) extends to foreign countries, as policies vary

What to Do in Case of an Accident Abroad

If you're involved in an accident while driving abroad with your Green Card, follow these steps:

1. Ensure safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check if anyone needs medical attention
2. Contact local authorities: Call the police to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant damage
3. Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles, damage, and surrounding area
4. Exchange information: Share your details with the other party, including your Green Card information
5. Complete the European Accident Statement: If available, fill out this standardized form with the other driver
6. Contact your Swedish insurer: Report the accident as soon as possible, using their emergency assistance number
7. Don't sign documents: Avoid signing any documents you don't fully understand or that aren't in a language you're fluent in

Most Swedish insurance companies provide 24/7 emergency assistance hotlines for policyholders traveling abroad. These services can offer invaluable help in navigating the local procedures and language barriers.

Common Questions About the Green Card System

Can I use a digital copy of my Green Card?

While the insurance industry is moving toward digitalization, most countries outside the EU/EEA still require a physical copy of the Green Card. Within the EU/EEA, digital copies are increasingly accepted, but having a physical copy is safer, especially in remote areas.

What happens if I forget my Green Card?

Within the EU/EEA and the Free Circulation Area, you can drive without a physical Green Card. In other participating countries, you'll typically need to purchase expensive temporary border insurance.

Does my Green Card cover trailer or caravan?

This depends on your specific Green Card and insurance policy. Some Green Cards cover attached trailers automatically, while others require separate listing. Check with your insurer before traveling with a trailer.

What if I'm driving a rental car?

Rental companies within the EU/EEA typically provide the minimum required insurance coverage. If you plan to drive to countries outside the Free Circulation Area, inform the rental company in advance as they may need to provide a Green Card or might charge additional fees.

The Future of the Green Card System

The Green Card system continues to evolve in response to technological advancements and changing political landscapes. Recent developments include:

• Digitalization: Movement toward electronic Green Cards and digital verification systems
• Brexit implications: Despite Brexit, the UK remains part of the Free Circulation Area
• Expansion: Ongoing discussions about expanding the system to include more countries

For Swedish drivers, staying informed about these changes is important, especially if you frequently travel outside Sweden. Your insurance provider should communicate any significant changes to the system that might affect your international driving plans.

Conclusion: Ensuring a Smooth European Driving Experience

The Green Card system, despite some recent simplifications within the EU/EEA, remains an important aspect of international driving for Swedish motorists planning to travel beyond neighboring countries. While it may seem like just another piece of documentation, it represents a crucial international agreement that helps protect road users across Europe and beyond.

To summarize the key takeaways:

• Green Cards are no longer legally required within the EU/EEA plus UK, Switzerland, Serbia, and Andorra, but carrying one is still recommended
• They are mandatory when traveling to other participating countries outside this Free Circulation Area
• The Green Card itself doesn't provide additional coverage—it simply proves you have the minimum required insurance
• Obtaining a Green Card from your Swedish insurer is typically free and straightforward
• Always check your actual policy coverage for international travel, as minimum requirements vary between countries

By understanding and properly preparing for the insurance requirements of international driving, Swedish motorists can enjoy their European road trips with confidence and peace of mind, knowing they're properly covered wherever their journey takes them.