Travel experts have warned holidaymakers that even minor damage to a passport can lead to rejection at airport check-in desks, potentially ruining travel plans. Gavin Lapidus, director of travel site eShores, said: “A passport is your gateway to the world, and even a little damage can result in complications.” The HM Passport Office considers passports with stains, water damage, lifted laminate, or torn pages as damaged and potentially invalid for travel.
Common issues include water stains, ink marks, and detached covers or bindings. Lapidus noted that passports with significant water damage are often deemed invalid, especially if information is obscured or the laminate has lifted. He advised using a watertight plastic bag to prevent such damage. Even if all information is visible, a lifted laminate on the personal details page can cause rejection.
Holidaymakers are also urged to check passport validity. Citizens Advice states that a passport must be renewed if there are less than three months left at any time while travelling, or if it is ten years old or more on the day of entry into an EU country. Some destinations, such as Bali, Vietnam, Qatar, Australia, and the United States, have particularly strict rules on passport condition.
Lapidus warned against assuming a previously accepted damaged passport will be accepted again, as regulations vary by country and airport. He recommended keeping passports in pristine condition and using an external cover to protect against wear and tear. The Foreign Office website provides country-specific travel advice.
