ABTA Reminds Travelers to Ensure Their Passports Meet Validity Criteria for European Travel
As the Easter holidays approach, ABTA advises travelers to verify their passport's validity to avoid travel disruptions.
With the Easter holidays fast approaching, ABTA – The Travel Association is advising travelers to confirm their passport validity for European trips.
This reminder comes as some travelers continue to experience complications due to a rule change affecting British passport holders that has been enforced for over four years.
If a passport does not meet the validity criteria, entry to the country will be denied, leading to potential financial loss and missed holidays.
For British citizens traveling to the Schengen area—which includes most EU countries and other nations like Switzerland and Norway—there are two main requirements for passport validity:
- The passport must have been issued less than 10 years before the date of entry.
- The passport must be valid for at least three months after the planned departure date.
To ensure your passport is compliant, check both the date of issue to confirm it is less than 10 years old, and the date of expiry to ensure it remains valid for at least three months after leaving for the UK.
ABTA’s Four-Step Guide for Passport Validity Verification:
- Visit FCDO travel advice to learn the passport rules specific to your destination.
- Ensure your passport is issued within the last ten years.
- Verify that it maintains at least three months’ validity upon your return.
- If a renewal is necessary, apply online at Gov.UK for the most economical service.
Graeme Buck, ABTA’s Director of Communications, stated:
“Following our four steps to check passport validity is quick and straightforward and will prevent any travel disruptions, especially if your passport is due to expire in the near future.”
For additional security regarding your travel arrangements, consider booking through an ABTA member travel agent or tour operator for guidance on requirements and expert assistance.
