Little-Known Passport Rule Could See You Turned Away at the Airport
A number of changes have been made to passport rules since Brexit, and while most of us have got to grips with the basics, there are still things that catch holidaymakers out year after year. From ensuring your passport was issued within the last ten years to verifying you have at least three months validity on your passport when entering the EU, there are several passport checks you should carry out before booking your getaway.
Why Blank Pages Matter More Than You Think
Now is the prime time to scrutinise your passport, as renewing it at this point in the year helps you dodge the summer rush. Whilst you may have double-checked details such as the dates and confirmed there's no physical damage to your passport, one aspect many people overlook is the number of blank pages they have left, particularly given today's digital age.
A standard UK passport contains 34 pages, and typically, you receive an entry and exit stamp when you go through passport control. This practice is likely to be phased out soon for holidaymakers visiting Europe due to the introduction of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES), but for the time being, you can assume most countries will continue adding their stamps.
Country-Specific Requirements for Blank Pages
Numerous countries have precise requirements regarding the number of blank pages needed for passport stamps. For EU nations, one to two pages is typically adequate, whilst destinations such as South Africa demand two, reports the Express. Certain countries will also insist that the two blank pages are consecutive, as one page is used for the entry stamp, followed by one for departure.
Some nations that require visas for entry still utilise stickers, which are attached to blank pages, though these are generally being replaced by e-visas. There are places that demand four pages, but the record belongs to Namibia, with reports that travellers can be required to present six blank pages upon arrival. Brits ought to verify requirements for their destination when organising their travels.
What Pages Cannot Be Stamped?
It's important to note that not all pages can receive stamps. British passports contain an 'observation page' at the back reserved for official notes. This may feature information about the holder's dual nationalities or alternative names, but most often it remains empty. However, it doesn't qualify as a blank page as it cannot be stamped.
Solutions for Insufficient Passport Pages
So, what should holidaymakers do if they lack sufficient pages? You'll need to renew your current passport prior to your journey, as extra pages cannot be added. This means paying the standard passport renewal fee, which for an adult passport is £94.50 according to the UK government website.
If you're a regular globetrotter, it's worth considering a 54-page frequent traveller passport when you next apply. Whilst it costs slightly more at £107.50, it can prove more economical than renewing your passport in a couple of years simply because you've exhausted all the pages. Children under 16 can also obtain a frequent traveller passport for the reduced price of £74.50.
Frequent traveller passports for adults are additionally available through the one-day premium or one-week fast track services, though these cost £235 or £191 respectively. Ensure you check all these details to avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport.
