Since the UK's departure from the European Union, British travellers have encountered new passport regulations when visiting EU countries. These changes, often overlooked, could lead to unexpected delays or even denied entry if not properly followed.
Key Changes to Passport Rules
Under the new post-Brexit rules, UK passports must meet two critical requirements:
- Validity Period: Your passport must be less than 10 years old on the day of travel.
- Remaining Validity: It must have at least three months left before expiry from your planned date of departure from the EU.
Previously, British travellers could carry over unused validity from an old passport when renewing. However, this is no longer permitted under EU rules.
Why These Rules Matter
Border officials in EU nations are strictly enforcing these regulations. Travellers with passports that don't comply may be turned away, potentially disrupting holiday plans and causing significant inconvenience.
The UK government has issued warnings about these requirements, but many British citizens remain unaware of the changes. With summer holidays approaching, it's crucial to check your passport's details well in advance.
Checking Your Passport Status
To avoid last-minute surprises:
- Examine the issue and expiry dates carefully
- Remember that child passports (for those under 16) are only valid for five years
- Allow sufficient time for renewal if needed - processing can take several weeks
These rules apply to all EU countries except Ireland, where the Common Travel Area arrangement remains in place. They also affect travel to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
