UK travellers are being urged to carry out three vital checks on their passport ahead of the summer holidays. This is because you could be denied boarding or turned away if your travel document doesn't meet regulations.
If there's a problem with your passport, you still have time to get a replacement. Passport applications can usually be processed within three weeks, though there are also more expensive fast-track alternatives available.
Certain problems trip up British tourists year after year. Below we have outlined some checks to carry out now so you have enough time to get a new one if needed.
When Your Passport Expires
The expiry date might seem like a straightforward matter, but it's important to recognise that different countries impose different regulations. Holiday destinations have their own requirements regarding passport expiry dates.
For the most visited EU destinations including Spain, France, or Greece, your passport must have three months' validity remaining on the day you intend to leave the EU. Holidaymakers therefore need to calculate those three months from the day they leave, not the date they jet off.
Certain countries such as Thailand and Indonesia require up to six months' validity beyond your arrival date, while those visiting Australia from the UK need only ensure their passport remains valid throughout their stay.
The Date of Issue
Most travellers check their passport's expiry date but overlook the issue date. This problem arose for Britons holding burgundy passports, as in the past some validity could be transferred with a new passport.
As a result, some passports became valid for up to ten years and nine months, but this practice ended with Brexit. All visitors entering the EU require a passport issued within the last ten years, so if you possess an older-style passport ensure you haven't exceeded this timeframe.
Is There Any Damage?
If your passport is damaged you must replace it. You may not be able to travel with it. HM Passport Office will consider your passport damaged if you cannot read any of your details, any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing, there are holes, cuts or rips in the cover, the cover is coming away or there are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage).
If you need to renew your passport, more details are available from the official government website.
