International flights with an EU drone licence

EU certificate validity abroad

EASA Open-category certificates are valid in all EU member states without additional recognition or re-sitting. A TKA-issued certificate works in Germany, France, Poland and every other EU country.

However, your operator registration number must be marked on your aircraft — this requirement applies in every EU country, not only Lithuania. Individual member states may also add operational requirements.

Local rules and geo-zones abroad

Each EU country maintains its own geo-zone map and local restrictions. Germany uses droniq.eu, France uses geoportail.gouv.fr, Italy uses d-flight.it. Always check the local map before flying.

Some countries' special zones (national parks, military areas) may be more restrictive than the general EASA baseline. Never rely on the Lithuanian geo-zone map when flying abroad.

Non-EU countries and certificate validity

EU certificates are not automatically valid outside the EU: in the UK (post-Brexit), Norway (EASA member but not EU), Switzerland or Turkey — each has its own system.

When flying outside the EU, research the destination country's requirements in advance. Some accept an EU certificate as a basis; others require a separate permit or local test.

Travel planning with a drone

Before every international trip: 1) check local geo-zones, 2) verify whether a special permit is needed, 3) confirm your insurance covers the destination country.

For an overview of European drone maps, see /blog/europe-drone-airspace-maps. Consider multi-country insurance policies if you travel frequently with your drone.

Frequently asked questions

Must I mark my Lithuanian operator ID on my drone when flying in Germany?

Yes. Your Lithuanian operator registration number must be on the aircraft — this requirement applies in every EU member state.

Does an EU certificate work in Norway?

Norway is an EASA member but not an EU state. EASA regulations apply in Norway, but check the Norwegian CAA's specific requirements for operator registration.