Summer time is here, and many of us are preparing to spray in warm, sunny places in the coming months. And while the holidays are amazing when you're there, the planning process is quite stressful and needless to say it's not expensive.
The last thing you want is to go to all the problems of planning your trip just to turn your back at the airport gates. However, if you haven't properly checked your passport before you leave, this nightmare can become a reality. This is warning about three important checks that all holiday makers must perform, according to experts from the Travel Republic.
Three important passport checks to do this summer
Please make sure your passport was issued within 10 years of departure date
Anyone traveling to the EU, or any country in the Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, must ensure that their passport is issued within 10 years of departure date.
For example, if you were flying on July 10, 2025, your passport must have been issued after July 10, 2015. This rule applies regardless of the passport expiration date.
Make sure it is valid for at least 3 months from the date of return
Your passport must also be valid at least three months after the intended return date when traveling to the Europe or Schengen region.
For example, if you return to Japan on August 1, 2025, your passport must be valid until at least November 1, 2025.
Make sure your passport is not damaged and easy to read
Your passport must be in good health to be accepted. Even minor damage can cause problems during check-in or border control.
What happens if my passport gets old?
With thousands of UK travelers experiencing airport heartbreak last year due to non-compliant passports, it is essential to check documents ahead of their summer travel plans.
If your passport does not meet the renewed rules and outlined conditions, renewing your long-awaited trip early can be key to a stress-free holiday.
Gemma Brown of Travel Republic said: “Travel insurance providers are on the traveler to triple check the documents, which means that the travel insurance provider will not cover the costs associated with invalid or expired passports.
“Our advice is to ensure that your passport is within 10 years' issuance date and is valid for at least six months from the date of departure. We guarantee that it will be accepted by most countries. Regardless of the passport rules, it is important that all travelers study the country they plan to visit and ensure that travel documents are required upon entry.
