Money-saving guru Martin Lewis has issued a stark warning to UK holidaymakers, urging them to check their passports immediately to avoid potential travel disruptions.
The consumer champion highlighted how post-Brexit rules have changed passport validity requirements for many popular destinations, catching some travellers unaware.
The Passport Validity Problem
Lewis explained that many European countries now require UK passports to be:
- Less than 10 years old on the day of travel
- Have at least three months remaining after your planned return date
"These rules have been in place since Brexit, but many people still don't realise their passport might not be valid," Lewis warned.
Why You Need to Act Now
The financial expert emphasised that passport renewals can take several weeks, meaning last-minute applications could ruin summer holiday plans.
"I'm hearing from people who've had holidays cancelled because they left passport checks too late," Lewis said. "Don't let that be you."
Key Checks for Travellers
- Check your passport's issue date - not just the expiry
- Count forward 10 years from issue date
- Ensure at least 3 months validity beyond return date
With summer holidays approaching, Lewis advised: "Do this check today - it takes two minutes but could save your holiday."