British holidaymakers have been warned they could face hold-ups at border control if they fail to carry out one simple task before jetting off this summer. His Majesty’s Passport Office issued the reminder in a social media post as millions prepare to head overseas during the peak getaway season.
Passport Signing Rule
The official account said: "Travel tip: Sign your passport before you go - unsigned passports can cause delays at border control." The warning has sparked renewed attention on a little-known passport rule that can catch travellers out just as they are heading through airport security or arriving overseas.
According to official Government guidance, Brits must sign their new passport "as soon as you get it" because "you can’t use it until you do". The guidance states that passport holders should sign on the ‘holder’s signature’ line using a black ballpoint pen. HM Passport Office also warns internally that a "sign after receipt passport is not a valid travel document until the holder has signed it".
Exemptions and Additional Advice
Travellers who are exempt include children aged 11 or under, as well as people who cannot sign because of a disability. In those cases, the passport will state that ‘the holder is not required to sign’. The full Government advice can be found on GOV.UK passport signing guidance.
The latest alert comes as holidaymakers are already being urged to double-check expiry dates and entry requirements before travelling, particularly for trips to the EU where stricter passport validity rules continue to apply. His Majesty’s Passport Office shared the reminder with the hashtag ‘#TravelReady’ as it encouraged Britons to check documents well ahead of departure.
