Passport rules for EU travel

I’ve had quite a few chats recently with customers who still aren’t aware of the updated passport rules for EU travel since Brexit - so here’s a clear reminder to help you avoid any holiday hiccups.

These rules apply to travel to the EU, as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City.

They don’t apply to Ireland, which still has a separate agreement with the UK.

So what do you need to check?

1) Your passport must be less than 10 years old on the date you enter the EU

Before 2018, if you renewed your passport early, you could carry over up to 9 months. Some passports were issued for up to 10 years and 9 months - but that extra time no longer counts for EU travel.

Even if your passport looks valid, if it was issued more than 10 years before your arrival date, you could be refused entry.

Children’s passports aren’t affected by this rule, as they’re only valid for 5 years.

2) Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after you leave the EU

This is separate from the 10-year rule. Even if your passport is within the 10-year limit, you’ll still need to make sure there are at least 3 months left from the date you plan to leave the EU.

Some EU countries require 6 months’ validity, so always double-check if you’re unsure - or just ask me.

Don’t risk it - here’s why this matters

According to research by Go.Compare:

• 14 million Brits could risk losing their holidays due to these simple mistakes

• 31% knew about the 3-month rule

• Only half of recent EU travellers knew about the 10-year rule

• 41% of UK adults didn’t realise travel insurance won’t cover you if you’re refused travel due to an invalid passport

• 13% didn’t know any of the rules at all - including the fact that a damaged passport (torn cover, water damage, loose pages) could also get you turned away

What to do now

✔️ Check the issue date (page 2 of your passport) – must be less than 10 years before your arrival in the EU

✔️ Check the expiry date – must have at least 3 months remaining when you leave the EU

✔️ Make sure it’s in good condition – no loose pages, water damage, or ripped covers

And if in doubt? Just send me your passport issue and expiry dates, and I’ll check it for you. No stress, no hassle - just peace of mind before you travel.