How long does the permission take to get, and how long does it last for?

One surprising factor is that the C of A renewal fee for an aircraft in Annex 2 on a CAA C of A is much less than a LAA permit renewal. This makes a difference if you were to have the maintenence done by a third party in either case..

IO540 -

For Spain and Portugal it seems to take until just before you leave to arrive (even if you applied 2 months in advance) and lasts for as long as a piece of string. I've had permissions for the remaining period of the permit from the CI, though the last one was for just a month. I suspect that if you ask for a month you'll get it. Be careful about stating the intended dates of your trip, as they may just issue it for that period, leaving you stuck up the .... if you're delayed.

And, has anyone mentioned the 80 Euros that the Belgians want deposited with them before they look at your application?

Hopefully, a move to EASA permits will remove the silly restrictions, but I'm not holding my breath.

Thanks for the input. Sounds like I wouldn't have a choice when the decision is made for the type. Doesn't sound too restrictive going on a permit though. No commercial ops planned, so not too much would change.