Are you jetting off on holiday this summer? If you’ve planned a trip abroad, you might be wondering if your passport is still valid and how long it lasts before you’ll need a new one. Here’s a quick guide to ensure your travel plans go smoothly.
Check Your Passport Well in Advance
It’s crucial to check your passport well in advance of your trip to avoid any last-minute disappointments. If you need a new passport, you can check the processing times and apply via the government website.
How Long Does a Passport Last?
- Adult Passport: Lasts for 10 years.
- Child’s Passport: Needs renewing after five years.
UK passports have the issue and expiry dates printed on the main page (the page with your photo and details), which are shown to the border forces when leaving and entering countries.
Passport Expiration Rules
Countries with No Extended Validity Requirement
Most countries, including Australia, Canada, and the US, require your passport to be valid for the duration of your stay. Always double-check these details on the Post Office website or the respective country’s embassy website.
Countries with a Six-Month Validity Requirement
If you’re travelling to countries like China, Thailand, Egypt, and Turkey, your passport needs to be valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
Travelling to the EU
For trips to the EU, ensure your passport’s issue date is less than 10 years before the day you arrive in the EU, and that its expiry date is at least three months after the day you intend to leave the EU.
Countries Requiring a Visa
Generally, countries which require a visa will need your passport to be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
Liquid Rules at Airports
Familiarise yourself with the liquid rules at airports to avoid any inconvenience during security checks. Most airports follow strict regulations on the amount of liquid you can carry in your hand luggage.
In Summary
Before you plan your trip, check the expiration date on your passport. Ensure it meets the validity requirements of your destination to prevent any travel disruptions. For more detailed information on renewing or obtaining a passport, visit the government website.
Safe travels and enjoy your holiday!
