His Majesty’s (HM) Passport Office has urged UK passport holders to check their documents today if they plan on travelling abroad this summer. A fresh warning has been shared on the office’s official X account to ensure that Brits aren’t turned away from their favourite holiday destinations this summer, with some countries having strict rules on which passports can enter. Millions of Brits will jet off to sunnier destinations around Europe and further afield this year – but they need to make sure their passports are up to scratch.
Some countries across the world, including ones that are popular destinations for Brits, need a passport to be valid for a considerable amount of time even after your visit there. It typically takes three weeks for passports to be renewed by the Passport Office. However, this can take longer if more documents are required, so Brits need to be proactive in making sure their passport is up to standard when travelling to certain countries.
His Majesty’s (HM) Passport Office posted on X: “Did you know that some countries require your passport to be valid for several months after your scheduled return date? Check your passport expiry date today.”
Turkey, which is popular with many Brits over the summer months, requires travellers to have at least 150 days left on their passports when they arrive in the country, as well as at least one blank page for stamps.
Meanwhile, those heading to Dubai and other parts of the United Arab Emirates must have six months left on their passports when they get to border control in the country.
UK passport holders can apply for their new passport online or use a form obtained at their local post office, but this costs £16 more. There is also an online fast-track service that people can use if they need their passport urgently.
When it comes to travelling to countries within the EU and Schengen Area, Brits must have a passport that was issued less than 10 years before their departure date and valid for at least three months after their planned return date, the Post Office says.
The Passport Office has a list of 226 countries where passport holders can check specific entry requirements.
For those who have applied for a new passport, the processing time starts when the Passport Office receives your documents. However, there are different turnaround times if you are applying for a new passport from a different country.