EastEnders star Tracy-Ann Oberman has warned travellers about new European passport rules after she was refused boarding on a Ryanair flight to Spain. The 59-year-old actress, known for playing Chrissie Watts, said her passport had a year remaining but was deemed invalid under post-Brexit regulations.
What Happened at the Airport?
Oberman took to X earlier this month to share her ordeal: "Just tried boarding a flight to Spain. My passport runs out June 2027. Was refused boarding because apparently it ran out in 2026 according to new European rules. Can anyone explain this to me? I'm now stuck." She added: "I had a whole year [on my passport] but they said it didn't count." According to Oberman, Ryanair staff claimed they face fines for passengers travelling with the extra year on their passport and do not want to pay the penalty.
Why Was She Refused?
The issue stems from UK passports renewed early before September 2018. The UK Passport Office used to add up to nine months of unused validity from the old passport onto the new one. However, EU rules require the passport to be less than 10 years old from its issue date on the day of entry. Oberman's passport, issued in 2017, exceeded the 10-year limit despite showing a later expiry date. One social media user explained: "It doesn't matter what date is expiring, it's only valid for 10 years from issue." Oberman replied: "I wasn't aware of this. It doesn't flag it up massively when you book the ticket."
What Are the New EU Passport Rules?
For travel to the EU and Schengen Area, passports must meet two conditions. First, the date of issue must be less than 10 years ago on the day you arrive. Second, the passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the EU, based on its official expiry date. Any "bonus months" from early renewal are not recognised. Ryanair has been approached for comment.
