Essential British Passport Checks for Your Christmas Trips
Planning a trip to the EU this Christmas? Ensure your passport meets post-Brexit requirements to avoid travel disruptions.
More than 32 million UK passports were issued before the post-Brexit rules were enacted. While it’s unclear how many travelers are impacted, these new checks are causing holiday chaos for those unaware of the requirements.
Here’s what you need to do before your trip:
1. Check the Issue Date
Post-Brexit rules require your passport to be:
- Issued less than 10 years before your departure date.
- Valid for at least three months beyond your planned return date if traveling within the EU (excluding Ireland).
This applies to all Schengen countries, as well as Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.
2. Ensure Your Passport Has Blank Pages
British passports must have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. Without them, your passport may be considered invalid, potentially disrupting your travel plans.
3. Inspect for Damage
A slightly damaged passport could be refused. According to the UK Passport Office, your passport is considered damaged if:
- Details are unreadable.
- Pages are ripped, cut, missing, or stained.
- The cover is torn, coming loose, or has visible holes or cuts.
To avoid issues, thoroughly inspect your passport for any damage well in advance.
What to Do If Your Passport Is Invalid
If you discover your passport doesn’t meet the requirements, act quickly:
- Emergency Appointments: Book a fast-track service (one day or one week) through the Passport Office for urgent renewals.
- Regular Renewals: Apply online through the HM Passport Office or pick up a paper application at select Post Offices.
By reviewing your passport now, you can ensure a stress-free journey and avoid being turned away at the airport.
If you need assistance renewing or replacing your British passport, do not hesitate to contact IaM.
Do you need to renew your passport? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
Check out the deals we have found below and tell us your travel plans.
Check out the offers and discounts from:
And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance, which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters.
IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries
If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.
Some of our posts include affiliate links. If you choose to purchase any of these products, we might get a small commission. For more information, check out our TOS.
- UK To Simplify Visa Rules To Lure AI Experts - 18 January 2025
- Cuba Off US Terror List: Changes Ahead for ESTA and Travel - 17 January 2025
- UK Exempts ETA Requirement for Transit Passengers - 16 January 2025
