travel to the uk passport validity

Update April 12, 2024

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United Kingdom

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

United kingdom - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

There is also a risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Kingdom.

If you decide to travel to the United Kingdom:

Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
Follow the instructions of local authorities.
Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and Twitter.com/Travelgov
Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Kingdom.
Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Quick Facts

Must be valid for the duration of your stay in the United Kingdom (If you have onward travel to countries outside the United Kingdom, you should check the passport validity requirements for each additional country on their respective information pages.)

Must have at least one page

Not required for stays less than six months.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy london.

33 Nine Elms Lane London, SW11 7US United Kingdom Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: +(44) (20) 7891-3845 Email: [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh, Scotland 3 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BW Scotland Telephone: 013-1556-8315 / from the United States: 011 (44)(13) 1556-8315 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 020-7499-9000 / from the United States: 011 (44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: 0131-557-6023 /from the United States: 011 (44) 131-557-6023 Email: [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Belfast, Northern Ireland Danesfort House, 223 Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5GR Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Telephone: 028-9038-6100 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9038-6100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 01253-501106 / from the United States: 011 (44) 1253-501106 Fax: 028-9068-1301 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9068-1301 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

To enter the United Kingdom, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay.
Starting June 2019, U.S. passport holders will be able to use the ePassport Gates upon arrival in the United Kingdom. U.S. citizens who had previously registered for the UK’s Registered Traveller Service (RTS) should now also use the ePassport Gates on arrival in the UK.
If you are planning onward travel after departing the UK, note that many other countries require at least six months’ remaining validity on your passport to enter. If you are bound for Continental Europe, please see our U.S. travelers in Europe page for additional details.
Visas for specific categories of visitors must be obtained prior to travel. Visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website to determine if you need a visa to enter the United Kingdom. We cannot intervene on your behalf when you apply for a UK visa, nor can we advocate for your admission into the UK if you are denied entry.
Students and prospective students should visit the UKVI website to determine if they need a visa.
For some U.S. travelers, especially students, an entry stamp is required. Please consult this website for more information.
Unpaid and paid workers, interns, volunteers, charity workers, and temporary workers can find information about obtaining a visa on the UKVI website .
Visitors traveling to the United Kingdom to get married, even if they do not plan to reside there, must obtain a visa in advance. See the UKVI website for visa information.
Surcharges apply to certain categories of visas, generally those involving work, study, or residency for more than six months. More information is available on the UKVI website and in our Health section below.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the United Kingdom.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. The UK Security Service publishes specific reasons for any changes in the threat level and recommended actions for the public via its UK threat levels website .

There is the potential for isolated violence related to the political situation in Northern Ireland. The Police Service of Northern Ireland assesses there is a continued threat of violence from dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets, and may involve the use of firearms and explosives . Tensions may be heightened during the summer marching season (April to August), particularly on and around the July 12 public holiday.

Avoid areas of demonstrations if possible, and be careful within the vicinity of demonstrations. Demonstrations occur frequently in and around city centers and areas where tourists frequent. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate to violence.

The phone number for police/fire/ambulance emergency services is 999 in the United Kingdom and 112 in Gibraltar. You should also use these numbers to report security threats or suspicious packages. Also see information for contacting police from abroad .

Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
Be vigilant, as pickpocketing , mugging, and “snatch and grab” theft of mobile phones, watches and jewelry can occur.
Do not leave bags unattended in restaurants, pubs, hotel lobbies, and parked cars.
Be alert to other criminal schemes, such as impostors posing as undercover police officers and “fining” tourists for bogus minor offenses. A legitimate Metropolitan Police Services officer will never demand an immediate cash payment.
Use only licensed Black Cabs or pre-ordered car services (minicabs) . Unlicensed taxis or private cars posing as taxis may offer low fares, but in some instances, travelers have been robbed or sexually assaulted while using these cars. See Transport for London for additional information on cabs and car services .
Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location or are located in isolated areas – they may not be legitimate. Use ATMs located inside a bank branch.

Scams : Before sending any money to individuals you have never met in person, visit the Embassy London website for more information about internet financial scams and how to protect yourself.

See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime : Report crimes to the local police at 999 (United Kingdom) or 112 (Gibraltar) and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(44) (20) 7499-9000.

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

help you find appropriate medical care
assist you in reporting a crime to the police
contact relatives or friends with your written consent
explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
provide a list of local attorneys
provide our information on victim compensation programs in the United States
The Victim Support website is maintained by an independent UK charity to help people cope with the effects of crime
A Northern Ireland-based independent charity maintains a similar victim support website
In Scotland, victims of crime should contact Victim Support Scotland
provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support if you are destitute
help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

You will be arrested if you bring pocket knives, blades, mace or pepper spray canisters, or any part of a gun into the United Kingdom . Please refer to the UK government publication Travelling to the UK , which details the items visitors are prohibited from bringing into the United Kingdom.
Penalties against alcohol-related and other in-flight crimes committed aboard aircraft to and from the United Kingdom are stiff and are enforced with prison sentences . Please also see our information on U.S. customs regulations covering your return to the United States.
Controlled Substances: UK law prohibits possession and trafficking of controlled substances and narcotics, including some substances that may be legal to possess under the law of certain U.S. states. More information on controlled substances is available here . Individuals who violate UK drug laws may face penalties including fines or prison sentences.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained in the United Kingdom, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Special Circumstances:

The legal drinking age in the United Kingdom is 18. Parents and organizers of school trips should read our Students Abroad website to help plan a safe and enjoyable experience.
Scotland’s “drink drive limit” law was amended to a lower level (roughly .05 BAC) and is stricter than the rest of the United Kingdom (roughly .08 BAC). This means that driving after even one drink can result in a charge of driving under the influence.
The United Kingdom has very strict gun control laws, and importing firearms is extremely complicated. Information on applying for a firearm and/or shotgun certificate can be found on the London Metropolitan Police Firearms licensing webpage . Licenses from England or Wales may not be valid in Scotland; please check with the appropriate authorities. For firearms certificates for Scotland, please check with Police Scotland .

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the United Kingdom.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:

UK law requires that all public service providers (except in the transportation sector) make “reasonable adjustments” to ensure their services are available to persons with disabilities. Nevertheless, code exemptions permit many older buildings to have steps up from the street.
Getting around in cities may be difficult at times because sidewalks can be narrow and uneven.
Most London Underground and UK National Rail System stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities. Many stations do not have elevators, and have stairways and long corridors for changing trains or exiting to the street. Many UK buses are equipped with lowering platforms for limited-mobility or sight- or hearing-disabled travelers.
Many taxis have swivel-entry seats or retractable ramps to ease entry.
Disabled parking permits (known as “blue badges”) are issued by local government councils throughout the country. Visit the UK government website for contact information. Some councils may not offer permits to temporary visitors.

The Transport for London and National Rail websites provide information for passengers with disabilities.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers .

While medical services are widely available, free medical care under the National Health System (NHS) is allowed only for UK residents, certain EU nationals, and some visa holders.

An NHS surcharge is assessed on certain visa applicants at the time of application. Tourists and short-term visitors will not be assessed the surcharge, but will be charged 150 percent of the cost of any medical treatment they receive from the NHS. Unpaid balances of £1,000 or more can result in being barred from return to the United Kingdom.

The U.S. government does not pay medical bills, and U.S. Medicare is not valid overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas . Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments . See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Traveling with sufficient supplies to last the duration of your trip is recommended. Mailing prescriptions is prohibitive and may be delayed or rejected by British customs.

Certain prescriptions available in the United States are classified as a "controlled drug" in the United Kingdom and cannot be brought into the country without applying for and obtaining a prior license. This includes prescriptions for medical marijuana or products containing CBD and THC. Please visit the https://www.gov.uk/travelling-controlled-drugs for additional information.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended for international travel by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Road conditions in the United Kingdom can differ significantly from those in the United States.

In contrast to the United States, UK traffic drives on the left. Read the Highway Code before driving.
Emergency call boxes (orange telephone booths with “SOS” printed on them) are found at half-mile intervals along motorways. White and blue poles point in the direction of the nearest call box. Call boxes dial directly to a motorway center. Use these phones rather than a personal cell phone, because motorway center personnel will immediately know your exact location.
Generally, pedestrians do not have the right of way and should not expect vehicles to stop for them.

Many U.S. citizen pedestrians are injured, some fatally, every year in the United Kingdom, because they forget that oncoming traffic approaches from the opposite direction than in the United States. Exercise extra care when crossing streets; remain alert and look both ways before stepping into the street.

Traffic Laws:

UK penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are strict and often result in prison sentences .
Using a hand-held cell phone or similar device while driving is illegal in the United Kingdom. Only hands-free phones may be used. You will be fined , or in the case of an accident, arrested and serve time in prison .
The speed limit on highways/motorways in the United Kingdom is 70 mph, or lower when posted.
You will be detained and arrested if you cannot provide a UK address to receive a subpoena or are about to depart the United Kingdom and have to be brought to court quickly for a motoring offense.
In Central London, a congestion charge is levied on all drivers who pass through the congestion zone. You will be fined or arrested if you do not pay the charge. See Transport for London for more information about driving in London.

Public Transportation: Public transport in the United Kingdom is extensive.

Information on disruptions to London transportation services can be found on the Transport for London website.
Information about the status of National Rail Services can be found on the National Rail Enquiries website.
Bus and train service information in Northern Ireland can be found on the Translink website.
Bus and train service information in Scotland can be found on the Traveline Scotland website.

See our Road Safety page for more information. For specific information concerning UK driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to the UK Department for Transport website or the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency website.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of United Kingdom’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the United Kingdom should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings website (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in the United Kingdom . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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What is the Minimum Passport Validity to Enter UK?

Anne morris.

28 June 2023

IN THIS SECTION

For a non-UK national planing to visit the UK, in most cases you’ll need to have a valid passport on arrival at the UK port of entry.

Where someone is travelling with a passport, they must also ensure that their passport is not due to expire, as they may be refused entry to UK , even if their passport is valid on arrival. This is because there are rules around minimum passport validity to enter Britain.

The following guide for non-UK nationals looks at the rules on both passport validity and expiry issues to avoid any delay or disappointment when passing through border control.

What is the minimum passport validity to enter UK?

Any traveler who is a national from outside the EEA or Switzerland, you must have a valid passport to enter the UK. On arrival in the UK, your passport will be checked to ensure that you are allowed to enter the country, where this should be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay.

EEA and Swiss nationals may be eligible to travel to the UK with a national identity card instead of a passport.

However, other countries have their own rules concerning passport validity and expiration rules. Some countries have in place a comparable rule to the UK, where a passport must be valid for the duration of the stay, while others have what is commonly referred to as the 6-month passport rule, which states that a person’s passport must be valid for another 6 months before they depart for international travel. The 6-month travel period may also commence from either the date of departure or arrival, depending on the country.

For example, for travel from the UK to India, a passport must be valid for a minimum of 180 days at the time of entry, while for travel from the UK to New Zealand, a passport should be valid for a minimum of one month from the date of exit.

Even where other countries do not follow the 6-month passport rule, they may still require that a passport is valid for 3 months. For example, for most European countries, it is recommended that the passport expiry date is at least 3 months after the intended day of departure from the EU, although for Northern Cyprus this is 6 months.

As such, it is important for anyone to check the validity of their passport before travelling. Equally, if an individual plans to travel to another country after leaving the UK, before returning to their home country, they should check the passport rules for that destination. At least 6 months remaining validity may be required for onward travel to many other countries. If an individual does not have the required time left remaining on their passport where they are bound for continental Europe or other destinations, at the very least, it may take longer to pass through immigration control, although they may also be refused entry.

Further, in addition to having sufficient time remaining on a passport, to be able to travel to the UK and other countries, a traveller may also need to have blank pages for any entry and exit stamps, where the UK itself requires at least one page. However, where a person wants to travel on, other countries may require more than one page. For example, to travel from the UK to India, a passport must be machine readable, with two blank pages for a visa.

What happens if someone’s passport will expire while in the UK?

If an individual’s passport is due to expire while they are in the UK, where a passport must be valid for the full length of a person’s stay, that person is likely to be denied boarding. If they are able to travel to the UK, it is also likely that they will be refused entry on arrival, where the rules on travelling with a soon-to-be expired passport are strict.

If someone is refused entry to the UK, they will be notified in writing of the reasons for this and whether they can appeal against this decision. They will also be told when they will be removed from the UK, although this will usually be with immediate effect. In some cases, a person may be allowed entry into the UK, for up to one week, although their passport will be taken from them and they must report to immigration officers at prescribed intervals.

What are the requirements for non-UK nationals when entering the UK?

In addition to having a minimum passport validity to enter UK soil, there are various other requirements that must be met, including having a visa where they do not otherwise have the lawful immigration status to enter the UK without one. There is a useful online tool at GOV.UK that can be used to check if someone needs a UK visa and, if so, what type.

An non-UK national may need a visa to come to the UK to either visit, study or work. They may also need a visa to come into or transit through the UK, depending on their nationality. There are two types of transiting: airside and landside. With airside transiting, the person does not pass through UK border control before they leave on their connecting journey, whereas with landside transiting, they do pass through UK border control, but come back through it and leave the UK within a short amount of time, typically 24 hours. A person will always pass through border control if they leave the main airport building for any reason or even if they need to collect their bags and check them in to their onward flight. Depending on the individual’s nationality, they may need a visa for both types of transiting.

If a person needs a visa to come to the UK, this must have been issued before they travel. They will also need a valid passport or other travel document to be able to successfully apply for a visa, ensuring that they have a blank page in their passport for this purpose.

Even for overseas nationals who do not need a visa in advance of travel to come to the UK, ie; non-visa nationals who are visiting the UK for less than 6 months, they may still need in their possession sufficient documentation to satisfy border officials that they are a genuine visitor who will not be undertaking any activities in the UK not permitted under the visitor rules, including paid employment, and that they intend to leave at the end of their stay.

What are the passport requirements for EEA or Swiss citizens?

If a person is from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, they can enter the UK using either a passport, an Irish passport card or an EEA or Swiss-issued national identity card, provided they are eligible to use one. As with other non-UK nationals, their passport or identity card must be valid for the whole stay in the UK. They can travel with a national identity card from an EEA country or Switzerland in the following circumstances:

they have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) — introduced post-Brexit to enable EEA and Swiss citizens
already living in the UK to apply for lawful immigration status — or Jersey, Guernsey or Isle of Man’s settlement schemes
they have an EUSS family permit, or the equivalent from Jersey, Guernsey or Isle of Man
they have a Frontier Worker permit
they are an S2 Healthcare Visitor
they are a Swiss national and have a ‘Service Provider from Switzerland’ visa.

If someone has either settled or pre-settled status under the EUSS, the passport or national identity card they are travelling with must be registered on their account with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). The same rule in relation to registering their passport or travel document on their UKVI account also applies if they used the ‘ UK Immigration: ID Check ’ app to scan their identity document when applying for a visa to enable them to come to the UK in circumstances where they do not otherwise have lawful immigration status.

Importantly, a person may be delayed at the UK border if their current passport or national identity card is not registered on their UKVI account. They should update their UKVI account if they have changed their passport or national identity card. They should also update their account if they have recently changed their name, address, postal or email address, as well as their mobile phone number. This is so that UKVI has up-to-date contact details if they need to get in touch, for example, in respect of a pending visa application.

It is worth noting that someone cannot change their identity document on their UKVI account if they are waiting for a decision from UKVI on a visa application, although they will need to wait for any visa decision before travelling in and out of the UK in any event.

What are the passport requirements for British citizens?

For British citizens, they can enter the UK with their passport, although if they are travelling from Ireland to Northern Ireland, they will not need any documents to enter.

If a British national is travelling from Ireland to England, Scotland or Wales, a Border Force officer may ask to see proof of that person’s identity and nationality, where they can use any documents that prove this, including a current or expired passport, a copy of their passport, provided this clearly shows their identity and nationality, or documentary proof that they have been given British citizenship, such as a UK citizenship certificate. If they are using an expired passport, it must be recent enough that it is clear that this is theirs.

What can a person expect on arrival at a UK port or airport?

As everyone will need to show a passport or national identity document on arrival in the UK, they must remove this from any holder or wallet and have this ready. They must also remove any face covering or sunglasses. If a person is with their family, they should move through passport control together and have all their passports ready to be checked.

If a person has a British passport, they can use the UK/EEA channel to get their passport checked, as this is often faster than the other channels. At some airports, they can also use automatic ePassport gates if their passport has a chip in it and they are aged 12 or over, where these gates use facial recognition technology to check someone’s identity against the photo in their passport. For travellers aged 12-17, they must be accompanied by an adult.

Equally, if a person is from the EEA or Switzerland, they can use the UK/EEA channel to get their passport or national identity card checked, or use the automatic ePassport gates where available at an airport and they have a passport with a chip. In contrast, if someone is from outside the EEA or Switzerland, their passport, and visa if they have one, will be manually checked at border control. They will also usually be asked why they are coming to the UK.

If a person is from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea or the USA, they can use the UK/EEA immigration lanes and the automatic ePassport gates. However, they must still see a border control officer and get a stamp in their passport if they are entering the UK on a permitted paid engagement or with a Tier 5 Creative or Sporting certificate of sponsorship for up to 3 months and they want to enter without a visa. They cannot get a stamp if they use the ePassport gates where, without a stamp, they will not be allowed to carry out the activities that they came to the UK to do.

In all cases, regardless of nationality, and even if British, those entering the UK should abide by the rules relating to what they bring with them into the UK. What someone can bring will depend on where they are travelling from, where they must declare to customs:

anything over their duty-free allowance
banned or restricted goods in the UK
goods that they plan to sell in the UK
more than €10,000 in cash, or its equivalent, if they are coming from outside the EU.

Both the individual and their baggage may be checked by customs for anything that must be declared. If someone is stopped and asked about their baggage, they must co-operate. If they are found to be breaking the rules for bringing goods into the UK, those goods may be seized by customs. They may also receive a penalty or, in the case of tobacco or alcohol, where someone has gone over their personal allowance, they may have to pay tax and duty.

Minimum passport validity to enter UK FAQs

Can i leave the uk with 3 months on my passport.

You must check the passport validity period for the country you plan to travel to from the UK. This could be 3 or 6 months from either the date of arrival or departure, or for the duration of your trip.

Can I travel with less than 6 months on my passport?

It is possible to travel with less than 6 months on your passport, depending on which country you are travelling to. To travel to the UK, your passport will need to be valid for the entire duration of your trip.

Last updated: 28 June 2023

Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.

She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.

Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator , and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals

Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Family Visa UK: Explore Ways to Apply
Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Ukraine Refugee Aid in UK
Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Understanding British Values
Anne Morris https://www.davidsonmorris.com/author/anne/ Family Reunion and Immigration

About DavidsonMorris

As employer solutions lawyers, DavidsonMorris offers a complete and cost-effective capability to meet employers’ needs across UK immigration and employment law, HR and global mobility .

Led by Anne Morris, one of the UK’s preeminent immigration lawyers, and with rankings in The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners , we’re a multi-disciplinary team helping organisations to meet their people objectives, while reducing legal risk and nurturing workforce relations.

Contact DavidsonMorris

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Last updated: April 26, 2024 15:39 ET

The Government of the United Kingdom maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates terrorism and national emergency threat level changes online and through local media. The national terrorism and national emergency threat level is currently 3 (“substantial”) on a scale of 5. A separate threat level for Northern Ireland is currently 4 (“severe”) on a scale of 5.

National threat level - British Home Office

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. Cellphone theft is common in certain tourist areas of London. Vehicle theft and theft from parked vehicles also occurs, particularly in tourist areas and roadside rest areas. Theft is common in restaurants, pubs and bars. Never leave bags or purses hanging on the back of your chair.

Thieves work alone and in groups. They may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings.

They are especially active in crowded areas, such as:

tourist attractions and busy areas, including Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square
airports and public transportation
patios and outdoor cafés
hotel lobbies
underground pedestrian walkways
roadside stops

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as mugging, knife crime and sexual assault occurs, particularly in larger cities. There have been incidents of passengers being sexually assaulted and robbed when riding in unlicensed taxis.

If you are the victim of a crime on the transportation system, including in a taxi, consult Transport for London to learn how to report it.

Report a crime or incident on the transportation system - Transport for London

During your trip:

ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
don’t keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
avoid showing signs of affluence
avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers
be vigilant in urban areas, particularly after dark
never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
use secure parking facilities, especially overnight

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Fraud can range from simple to sophisticated, and sometimes involve hidden electronic devices that obtain account information and personal identification numbers.

When using debit or credit cards:

pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks
Avoid making purchases on unsecured websites
Use judgment when posting information on social media
Be especially careful if you are meeting people you have met online
Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

Useful links

More about overseas fraud
Cybercrime - National Crime Agency

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Strikes and pressure tactics occur from time to time, in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Northern Ireland

Inter-communal tensions can arise from April to August during the summer marching season. This is particularly common during the weeks leading up to July 12.

During the summer marching season:

expect possible delays and disruptions in some areas
exercise caution
follow the advice of local authorities

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, may lead to safety concerns if they are not well-organized. Weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

Avalanches can occur in Scotland, especially in the Cairngorms area between December and April. Check local avalanche forecasts before you go.

If you intend to go walking, biking or hiking in remote areas:

never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
avoid venturing off marked trails
ensure that you’re adequately equipped
stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
Weather conditions - Met Office
Avalanche Forecasts - Scottish Avalanche Information Service

Road safety

Vehicles drive on the left.

Pedestrians should use caution when crossing streets and be mindful that traffic comes from the opposite direction than it does in Canada. There are many one-way streets in London and other cities. Always confirm the direction of traffic before you cross the street.

Road conditions

Roads are excellent but are often narrow and congested, especially in urban areas. Use caution when entering a traffic circle (roundabout). Rural roads may become hazardous during severe weather conditions. You should be especially careful when driving in the countryside during periods bad weather or freezing temperature. You should always slow down before approaching turns on narrow roads as curves may hide oncoming traffic.

Public transportation

Public transportation is extensive. Train and bus services connect most cities and areas of the country.

Taxis are widely available. Only use officially licensed and marked taxis or private hire vehicles.

Getting around Britain - Visit Britain
Train schedules and service alerts - National Rail
Taxis and minicabs – Transport for London

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the British authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

electronic_travel_authorisation_(eta)

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

The United Kingdom has started to unroll a new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) program. Canadians are not currently able to apply for an ETA.

Once the program goes into effect, you will need to apply for your ETA before you travel to or transit through the UK. You must travel on the passport used for your ETA application.

Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) – UK Visas and Immigration

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least the expected duration of your stay in the United Kingdom. This requirement may also apply when travelling to Northern Ireland from other parts of the United Kingdom, and vice versa.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other entry requirements

UK Border officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay.

If you are unable to do so, or if you seek entry as a visitor but are found with items indicating that you intend to seek any type of employment (such as curriculum vitae or educational certificates), you may be denied entry and expelled from the country.

Similarly, if you seek entry as a visitor and are suspected of planning to reside in the UK for any reason, including having a UK-based partner, you may be denied entry.

If you have previously been refused entry, contact the British High Commission in Ottawa to enquire about entry clearance before making plans to visit the UK, even if a visa is normally not required.

Transiting through a United Kingdom airport

If you plan to transit through a United Kingdom airport, make sure you comply with the entry requirements of your final destination. If you don’t meet the entry requirements of your final destination, you may be denied boarding or forced to wait in the UK to apply for a new passport, which can take several days.

Unplanned layovers could lead to substantial travel costs and delays. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife.

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those:

visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country.

You must pay for medical services provided by the National Health Service (NHS) unless:

you are ordinarily a resident of the United Kingdom
you are accessing emergency services exempted from fees

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Accessing NHS services as a visitor - National Health Service (NHS)
Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and the United Kingdom are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in the United Kingdom to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and the United Kingdom authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Laws on knives

It is illegal to carry, purchase, sell or enter the country with certain types of knives. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and jail sentences.

Selling, buying and carrying knives - UK Government

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the United Kingdom.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the United Kingdom, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the United Kingdom.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the United Kingdom, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the British court.

If you are in this situation:

act as quickly as you can
contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
consult a lawyer in Canada and in the United Kingdom to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
Travelling with children
The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Traffic drives on the left.

Parking in London and other major city centres is limited and expensive.

Driver's licence

You can drive with a valid Canadian licence for up to 12 months from your date of entry.

Car rental companies may require an international driving permit, especially if your licence is not in English. Check with your car rental agency in advance.

Congestion Charge

If you drive into central London, you will be required to pay a daily congestion charge. The Congestion Charge zone is indicated by a large “C” painted on the roads and by signs.

You can pay the fee by phone, online or at selected shops and gas stations.

Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)

All boroughs in London are part of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). If you drive in London, your vehicle must meet the ULEZ emission standards. If it does not, you must pay a daily charge to drive within the ULEZ.

More about the International Driving Permit
Congestion Charge - Transport for London
Ultra Low Emission Zone – Transport for London

The currency of the United Kingdom is the pound sterling (GBP).

If you are carrying £10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the United Kingdom.

It includes sums in:

banknotes and coins
bearer bonds
travellers’ cheques
cheques that are signed but not made out to a person or organization
money orders (Northern Ireland only)
gold coins, bullion or nuggets (Northern Ireland only)
prepaid cards (Northern Ireland only)

Take cash in and out of the UK - Government of the United Kingdom

Climate change

Climate change is affecting the United Kingdom. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

Severe weather

The United Kingdom is subject to severe storms that can cause death and injury and severely damage commercial, residential and natural areas.

High winds, fog, and snow can also have widespread impacts, including transportation disruptions.

Keep informed of regional weather forecasts
Stay away from disaster-affected areas
Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Storm forecast - Met Office

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains can cause severe flooding, mudslides and landslides, particularly in certain coastal and riverside areas. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

Exercise caution, particularly in coastal areas and around major rivers
Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Flooding risks in England - UK Government
Flood forecasting - Scottish Environment Protection Agency

Heat waves are becoming more common in the United Kingdom, and most houses and public places are not designed or equipped to provide shelter from high heat.

High temperatures can be dangerous. Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

If you are in the United Kingdom during a summer heat wave:

stay indoors or in the shade during midday hours
stay hydrated and carry a sufficient water supply
monitor local media for information on heat warnings

Local services

Dial 999 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

The Falkland Islands and Gibraltar

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom, in London, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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UK Passport checker – How to Check if Your UK Passport is Valid for Travel to the EU

Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by MyBritishPassport

UK passport checker: Are you wondering if your UK passport is valid for travel to the EU? Wonder no more! In this blog post, we will show you how to check the validity of your UK passport quickly and easily.

MyBritishPassport will also provide some tips on what to do if it is not valid. So don’t wait any longer – read on to find out everything you need to know about UK passports and travel to the EU!

Need to renew your British Passport? CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE.

Travel to the EU after Brexit

The EU has agreed to include the United Kingdom on the EU’s list of visa-exempt countries, which currently numbers 61 nations. This gives UK residents the freedom to travel to the EU for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa.

MyBritishPassport has developed a tool that enables every British passport holder to check whether his or her passport is valid for travel to the EU.

UK Passport Checker

Click here to access this useful tool (we have included a screenshot of the tool below).

How to use the passport validity checker for EU travel

Simply answer the following questions and submit your response.

Where are you traveling to
When does your passport expire
When do you plan on travelling to Europe
When do you plan on leaving Europe

You will immediately get a result – either stating that you need to renew your passport before you travel, or that your passport is valid.

Passport rules for travel to Europe

Understanding the rules for UK passport validity, especially in the context of traveling to the EU, is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

Passport Validity Duration : UK passports for adults are valid for ten years and for children for five years.
EU Travel Restrictions : For travel within the EU, passports must not be older than ten years. Even if a UK passport is still valid, if it exceeds ten years from the issue date, entry into the EU may be denied. Read more about this rule here.
The Nine Years and Nine Months Rule : Some EU borders enforce a stricter rule, not allowing entry if the passport is older than nine years and nine months. This policy accounts for the three-month period allowed for EU travel, ensuring the passport doesn’t exceed the ten-year limit at the point of exit.
Extension to Six Months : Some countries have extended the rule to six months instead of nine years and nine months. Consequently, both the European Commission and the UK Government advise having at least six months left on your passport.
Renewal Recommendation : If your passport is nine and a half years old, it’s advisable to renew it before traveling to avoid any issues at the border.

Why Checking your passport validity is important

If you’re planning to travel soon, it’s essential that you check your passport validity in good time – preferably a few months before your trip.

This will give you enough time to renew your passport if it is not valid for travel to the EU.

Border officials of various EU nations frequently request that passport holders have at least six months of remaining validity on their passports.

This is to ensure that travellers will not overstay their welcome in the Schengen Area .

What to do if your UK passport is not valid for travel to the EU

If your UK passport is not valid for travel to the EU, don’t panic! You can renew your passport by following these simple steps.

How to renew your UK passport

Renewing your UK passport from abroad with MyBritishPassport is simple.

Simply complete our easy, online British Passport renewal or application form and make payment on our safe and secure platform. Click here.
Once you have submitted your application and paid, you will be contacted by one of our British passport specialists with clear instructions regarding digital passport photo and any additional documents that are required.
Our expert team will check your documents and forms, ensure that your passport photos are compliant, and submit your application to the passport office. Your documents are sent to HM Passport Office using our reliable, registered courier service.
Wait for your new passport to be delivered to your doorstep via our registered, reliable courier service.

Renewing your British passport from Australia? Click here to find out more.

Check my passport expiry date UK

As mentioned above, checking your passport expiry date is always important because it is a crucial document that verifies your identity and citizenship, and it is required for international travel.

If your passport has expired, you may be denied entry into a foreign country, causing significant inconvenience and potentially ruining your travel plans.

Furthermore, renewing a passport can take several weeks, so it is wise to check the expiry date well in advance of your trip to ensure you have enough time to renew it if necessary. In short, checking your passport expiry date is a simple step that can help prevent issues and ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

About MyBritishPassport

MyBritishPassport is the leading provider of British passport services, specialising in applications, renewals and replacements from abroad. We are a team of experts who are passionate about helping people obtain their British passports as quickly and easily as possible.

We have a wealth of experience in dealing with UK passports, and we are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to find out more about our services.

How do I check if my passport is valid UK?

You can check the validity of your UK passport for EU travel by using the UK passport checker tool on the MyBritishPassport website.

Another way to check the validity of your passport is by contacting your nearest British embassy or consulate. They will be able to tell you if your passport is still valid and when it expires.

You can also check your passport’s expiry date on the data page of your passport. Please note that the passport expiry date is printed on the front page of your passport under ‘Passport Issued’.

An adult passport validity is 10 years from the date it is issued.

Wondering how far in advance you can renew your British passport? Read more here.

Conclusion:

It’s important to check the validity of your UK passport before travelling to the EU. You can do this by using the UK passport checker tool on the MyBritishPassport website. If your passport is not valid, you can renew it by following the steps outlined in this blog post. MyBritishPassport can help you with this process. Contact us today to find out more.

Topic: check my passport expiry date UK

Find out more about British Passport renewal requirements here.

Other Helpful Guides:

Renewing your UK passport from South Africa
How to renew your British Passport from Australia
Renewing your British passport in the USA
UK Passport Renewals from Canada
Renew UK Passport in NZ

Contact MyBritishPassport

Unsure whether your UK passport is valid? Reach out to our team of experts, we will be happy to assist.

Topic: UK Passport Validity Checker

Renew British Passport from South Africa
Renew UK Passport from Australia
British Passports in the USA
UK Passport Renewals Canada
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How long do I need on a UK passport to travel to Europe? Post-Brexit rules and entry requirements explained

What you need to know about your passport's issue and expiry date when travelling to the eu.

brexit passports travel eu requirements rules

Tens of thousands of UK travellers have faced delays in applications for a new passport this summer. Meanwhile, stricter passport requirements for travel to the European Union have applied since the UK became a third country after Brexit.

In fact, passport requirements for entry to the EU is the most common topic among the questions sent to us by i Travel readers. Confusion was inevitable when some travel providers gave incorrect advice on passport validity.

The most common misconception is that the EU has a six-month rule for UK passport expiry dates. No such rule exists for entry to, or exit from, the Bloc.

Additionally, some UK passports have extra time added as the passport holder renewed the document before it expired. There has been uncertainty among travellers as to whether this additional time can be used when visiting EU countries.

The rules post- Brexit mean that your UK passport must be issued within the last 10 years for entry to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City. UK passport holders can travel to Ireland in the same way as they did before Brexit.

The passport rules for travel to EU or Schengen Area countries

If you are planning a trip to a country within the EU or the Schengen Area, you should keep note of the following rules. Your passport must be:

issued within the 10 years before the date you enter the country
valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave.

The two conditions are independent of one another. For example, if your passport was issued on 30 September 2012, but has an expiry date of 30 December 2022, and you planned to take a week-long break to Spain on 23 September 2022, you would meet the EU’s rules.

It does not matter, according to the rules, that when you leave the EU the issue date of your passport will be more than 10 years ago.

Are travel companies following the rules correctly?

Most major travel providers are now providing the correct advice on passport validity for travel to the EU.

It is still possible that an operator or airline could ask that you have six months on your passport for travel to a country within the EU or the Schengen Area.

If you think an operator has incorrectly interpreted the EU rules and turned you away from the airport, you could claim compensation, if you can prove this to be the case.

Are there any other rules?

Yes, as UK passport holders are considered third country nationals following Brexit, they can no longer stay in the EU for an unlimited period. Instead, UK travellers can remain in the EU or the Schengen area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Your passport should be stamped on entry and exit from an EU or Schengen Area country. The stamps are used to check you are complying with the 90/180 day rule.

More from Travel

What else should I know?

At some point in 2023 – expected to be May – passport stamping will be replaced by the Entry/Exit System (EES) .

This automated IT system will register travellers from third countries each time they cross an EU external border.

The system will register the person’s name, the type of travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and captured facial images), and the date and place of entry and exit

Additionally, in November 2023, the EU is set to launch Etias for all non-EU visa-exempt visitors travelling to the Schengen Area. Since Brexit, this will include UK passport holders.

Travellers will need to apply through the Etias system (similar to the US Esta) and an Etias will be valid for three years.

There will be a €7 (£6) charge for applicants aged 18–70. People aged under 18 or over 70 will still need to apply but will not have to pay a fee.

Guide to the 6-month passport rule — what is it?

Editor's Note

It may sound trivial, but one of the best rules you can follow as an international traveler is to remember to check your passport validity before you book flights and hotels.

Why? Because the requirements for entry differ from country to country. In the midst of planning my 2024 travel, I realized my U.S. passport expires in April, which could mess with my plans abroad.

Thankfully, I use a travel checklist to avoid disruptions to my travel itinerary.

I immediately started the passport renewal process online and had my photo taken at my local Walgreens — although you can DIY your passport photo if you prefer — so I could send out my application as quickly as possible. I also opted to expedite the processing time for an additional $60 fee and sent my application on its way.

If you're also in the middle of planning 2024 travel or simply want to know the ideal time to begin getting ready to renew your passport, the TPG team has you covered.

We collected information from the U.S. Department of State website and the United Kingdom's government website to create a one-stop cheat sheet examining a range of nations that typically require you to have a passport that lasts longer than your trip — whether by one, three or six months.

Note that certain countries deviate from the standard six-month requirement. These findings are also only related to passport validity dates — we're not covering visa requirements here. Those can vary depending on where you're going and where you're coming from.

Schengen countries in Europe

Many European countries are signers of the Schengen Agreement . As a result, they follow the 3+3 Rule, meaning your passport must be valid for three months beyond your three-month entry visa or for a total of six months, regardless of the duration of your initial stay.

While some Schengen countries only require passports to be valid for three months beyond your intended stay, others assume you may stay the full 90 days of your visa validity — thus the six-month time period.

The signers of the Schengen Agreement are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Bulgaria and Romania will join the group March 31, 2024.

The countries listed below abide by the usual six months of passport validity unless otherwise noted.

Non-Schengen countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East

Abide by the usual 6 months of passport validity.

Bosnia-Herzegovina
New Caledonia
North Korea
Saudi Arabia
Turkmenistan
Turkey (British passports must be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive in the country)
United Arab Emirates
West Bank/Gaza Strip

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond the scheduled departure date

Passport must be valid 1 month beyond the date of your intended stay, passport only needs to be valid for the proposed duration of your stay.

Central African Republic
Cote d'Ivoire
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Equatorial Guinea
Morocco (British passports must be valid for at least three months on the date of entry)
Sao Tome and Principe
South Africa (passports must also have 30 days beyond your intended date of exit from the country)
South Sudan

Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean

Antigua and Barbuda
Dominican Republic
Trinidad and Tobago

Central and South America

El Salvador

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond arrival

Brazil (British passports need to be valid six months beyond arrival)

South Pacific

American Samoa
French Polynesia
Marshall Islands
Papua New Guinea
New Zealand

Bottom line

When examining the rules, note that some countries have a slight distinction: They may require validity to be either six months from the date of entry or six months from the date of intended departure . For simplicity, we've taken the conservative approach and assumed that for any country with a six-month rule, like most of the ones above, you should ensure your passport is valid six months past the date of intended departure just in case.

Of course, the list above only includes just a few popular destinations worldwide. If your intended destination isn't on the list, it's always best to check with your relevant passport issuer.

Accessibility Links

10-year passport rule: are your documents valid for EU travel?

Travellers are being caught out by post-brexit document checks. here’s what you need to know.

I f your passport is more than ten years old or it has less than three months to run, you will not be able to travel to the EU. The rules came into effect after Brexit , with Ireland (in the Common Travel Area) being the only exception.

Before Brexit, UK travellers were able to carry up to nine months of unexpired time from an old passport to a new one, but EU countries no longer accept passports issued more than ten years ago.

The UK Passport Office stopped this practice in September 2018 — all passports issued after this date are valid for the required ten years. However, Home Office data obtained by the BBC suggests 32 million people had applied for passports between March 2014 and September 2018 that, if approved, have a validity period of more than ten years.

If you are planning a trip to the EU, here’s what you need to know.

What is the ten-year passport rule?

EU rules prohibit travellers from entering the zone if their passport was issued more than 10 years ago. Your passport must also be valid for three months the day after you leave.

Before Brexit, UK travellers were able to carry up to nine months from an old passport to a new one. However, post-Brexit regulations mean that EU countries — including popular holiday destinations Spain, France and Greece — will not accept passports issued more than ten years ago, even with months left before the expiration date.

Travellers with a passport issued before September 2018 should double check its issue date to avoid problems at the airport.

The rule applies across the EU, but British citizens do not need a passport to enter Ireland, which only requires travellers to bring proof of identification. You should still take your passport with you.

What documents do I need to travel from the UK?

A valid passport is essential for travelling outside the UK. For travel to the EU and EFTA countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland), it needs to be less than ten years old when you enter the country and have at least three months left on it the day after you leave. The only exception is if you are travelling to Ireland — which is part of the Common Travel Area with the UK — where you can travel up to the day your passport expires.

Depending on where you are travelling to, for what purpose and for how long, you may also need to get a visa. After Brexit, UK nationals are only permitted to stay in EU countries for a maximum of 90 days out of 180, after which a visa or other entry permit may be needed. You will need to check the entry requirements for each individual country you are visiting.

If you are planning to drive or hire a car, you will need to take your driving licence. Those taking their own cars across the border will also need relevant insurance and vehicle registration details as well as a UK sticker on the vehicle.

When travelling to EU countries, you may also want to apply for and take your UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC). This free benefit replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for most UK nationals after Brexit. It entitles you to the same access to public medical care as residents, which will either be free or heavily subsidised. In some cases, having the card with you is a requisite of ensuring your travel insurance is valid.

Can you travel to Europe without a passport from the UK?

In most cases, you will need your passport to travel to Europe. Ireland is the only exception, although the government still advises taking your passport with you, and airlines will typically insist on it.

What if I lose my passport?

If you have lost your passport, or you do not have time to get a new one before you travel, you may be able to apply for an emergency travel document. These cost £100 and you will need to attend a British embassy in person after you have applied online. The document contains your exact itinerary, and if you decide to change your plans at the last minute you will need a new document.

Can you travel with an expired passport within Europe?

In theory, yes, because land borders within the Schengen area are open and ID checks are only carried out in exceptional circumstances. For example, the Spanish government has said that its citizens may enter the country on an expired passport or ID after its authenticity has been checked; however, a valid travel document is still required to leave the country. In the case of the UK, your passport will be checked at all border controls and you will need to make sure it’s valid for travel.

How long do you need on your passport to travel to Spain?

Like most countries in the EU, Spain requires those travelling on a British passport to have at least three months remaining after the day you plan to leave. You also need to check that it is less than ten years old when you enter Spain.

How long do you need on your passport to travel to Greece?

For Greece , the usual EU passport validity rules apply. This means it needs to be less than ten years old when you enter the country and have at least three months left on it the day after you leave.

How long do you need on your passport to travel to Portugal?

EU passport validity rules also apply in Portugal . So your passport needs to be less than ten years old when you enter the country and have at least three months left on it the day after you leave.

How long do you need on your passport to travel to the US?

For entry into the US , your passport needs to be valid for the duration of your stay although it doesn’t need to have any additional validity on it. However, you may need an Esta or visa for entry.

How long do you need on your passport to travel to Turkey?

Turkey requires UK passport holders to have at least six months remaining on their passports from the day they arrive. It also needs to have a full blank page for the entry and exit stamps.

• What is the EU’s new entry system and what will it mean for my holiday? • Are there roaming charges in Europe? • Most powerful passports in the world

Travelling to Europe after Brexit: how will it affect holidays?

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‘I was in tears’: Briton with valid passport barred from flight over Brexit rules

Experts say it is vital to check you meet EU requirements, or you could risk losing your holiday

Why did I have to fly to Belfast to get a new UK passport?

Travellers who have not used their passport for a while were this week being urged to dig it out and check it conforms to the post-Brexit rules for entering the EU – because if it doesn’t, you will almost certainly be denied boarding this summer.

Despite previous warnings in Guardian Money and some other publicity, UK travellers trying to enter the Schengen zone are being turned away on a daily basis by airline staff at boarding gates – in most cases because their UK passport was issued more than 10 years ago.

Rosi Simpson, a teacher from Brighton, is one of the latest to be caught up in the confusion. She says she was left “mortified and in tears” after easyJet staff refused to allow her to board a flight to Paris to see her son, who is studying there, because her UK passport had been issued 10 years and one day previously.

“I had no idea of the 10-year rule,” she says. “I’d checked the expiry date, and my passport had eight months remaining. What happened at the boarding gate was absolutely awful. I lost the cost of the flight and the accommodation I’d booked – I’d been so looking forward to seeing my son. What I don’t understand is why this [rule change] hasn’t had more publicity – an information campaign. I wasn’t the only one who this had happened to at the airport that day,” she says.

Eiffel Tower and River Seine at sunrise, Paris, France

In terms of flights and ferries to mainland Europe, passengers will also be denied boarding if their passport expires less than three months after their return date. Previously, it was thought that UK travellers needed at least six months left, although the EU has since clarified the three-month requirement.

Prior to Brexit, UK passport holders could travel in and out of the EU as long as they held a valid passport, even one that expired the day after their return.

The more onerous rules, which came into effect in 2021, apply to UK passport holders travelling to any EU country (except Ireland), plus the others in the Schengen zone: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, the Vatican and Switzerland.

The “over 10-year” problem came about because, for many years, those renewing their passport before the previous one expired were able to add any remaining time left. Prior to September 2018, you could have up to nine months added to the replacement’s 10-year length – meaning their passport could be valid for as long as 10 years and nine months.

Passengers may look at their passport, see that it does not expire until well after their return, and conclude that all is well. However, they need to check the date of issue. If the passport will be more than 10 years old on the day of entry, they will not be allowed in.

The change has caught out a great many passengers who were unaware of the change. Last year, Guardian Money featured the case of Pat Cerely and her husband, Peter, who were refused permission to board their plane to Madeira on the grounds that Pat’s passport was not valid – even though it had another nine months remaining.

Every day, others are falling foul of the rule – and if it happens to you, it can be a financial disaster. Travel insurers will not pay out for a lost holiday if you tried to travel with an invalid passport.

Jo Rhodes, the deputy travel editor at Which?, says: “Recently, some travellers have been caught out by EU passport rules, meaning they haven’t been able to go on holiday as planned.

“Your passport must have been issued in the past 10 years at the time of entering the EU. Legally, you’re also required to have at least three months left on your passport at the time you plan on exiting the EU. If you have a holiday planned this summer, check your passport now to make sure it meets all the requirements for your destination, so you don’t risk being turned away at the airport.”

She says Which? advises travelling with at least six months’ validity “to be on the safe side”.

She adds: “Despite the legal requirement being three months, UK travellers are strongly advised by the European Commission and the UK government to have no less than six months on the end of their passports. This is because some border guards believe that people tend to stay in the EU for longer than they say and so they’re reluctant to grant you entry if you have less than six months.”

Countries such as Romania, which is in Europe but outside the Schengen zone, stipulate that UK passport holders are required to have at least six months on their passports to enter the country. It is by no means alone.

To add extra excitement to the story, Passport Office workers, who process applications, are approaching the end of a five-week strike. It is thought that up to a quarter of the agency’s 4,000 employees are not in work as normal.

However, while the Passport Office says users should currently allow 10 weeks for their application to be processed , most applications are being sorted out a lot more quickly than that. The 10-week advice includes every kind of application, including those for new passports or where the renewal requires a change of name after a marriage or similar.

If you have a straightforward renewal of an existing passport and your details are all the same – name and address and so on – then people are reporting getting their replacements in days rather than weeks.

The most recent postings on the Passportwaitingtime.co.uk website – which tells you how long it is likely to take to get your UK passport – suggested that simple adult renewals were being processed in an average of 12 days, and often more quickly than that. Adult first passport applications were typically being processed in 17 days (29 days with an interview) while one-week fast-track applications were being dealt with in 5.7 days, it said this week.

Guardian Money has heard similar reports. The online process is the quickest and cheapest way to apply.

A Passport Office spokesperson told us it “remains well positioned to deal with this industrial action, and there is no change in our guidance … People are receiving their passports in good time, with 99.7% of applications processed within the published 10-week timeframe.”

The final sting in the tail is that the passport fees all rose for the first time in five years in February. The fee for a standard online application made from within the UK rose from £75.50 to £82.50 for adults, and from £49 to £53.50 for children. Postal applications went up from £85 to £93 for adults and from £58.50 to £64 for children. If you were born on or before 2 September 1929, it is free.

Consumer affairs
Passport Office
European Union

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Repeat of Passport Office delays looms after failure to address issues, say MPs

Passport Office workers across UK to strike for five weeks over pay

Tory failures blamed as Passport Office pays out record sums for delays

Britons warned of 'delays' getting home in the wake of 'nationwide issue' at UK airports

Britons going abroad have been urged to check travel advice

By Anna Barry

Published: 26/04/2024

Updated: 26/04/2024

All E-Gates at Passport Control in airports across the UK were affected

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Holidaymakers heading back to UK airports today may face delays, as easyJet issues a warning to travellers.

Britons flying home have been warned that the process of getting out of the airport may be more laborious than usual.

On easyJet's official website, the airline said: "We have been informed of a nationwide issue that is currently affecting all E-Gates at Passport Control in UK airports.

"UK Border Force is deploying all available resources to minimize queue times, however, there may be a delay between disembarking your plane and clearing passport control."

Britons were warned to expect delays

Queueing at airport

Electronic gates used to scan passports at UK airports were hit with a glitch on Thursday, April 25.

As a result, thousands of passengers were affected.

Early evening on April 25, Birmingham Airport said on X: "Arriving into #BHX, the @ukhomeoffice e-Gates are currently out of service due to a technical issue across the country. Please use the desks within the Immigration Hall only."

A few hours later, BHX reassured travellers: "We can now confirm that the below issue is resolved."

London Stansted also shared a similar message and later confirmed that the problem was fixed.

Last night, a disgruntled passenger at Heathrow Airport took to X: " Huge queue at @HeathrowAirport for @UKBorder. Apparently, E-gates have failed again UK-wide. #brokenbritain."

One X user agreed: "Dislike! I always dread something like this happening, especially after a long-haul flight."

easyJet offered some advice to a passenger concerned about the delays.

One holidaymaker asked on X: "@easyJet hey. I fly from Birmingham airport on Monday morning. I’ve heard about the security delays. Will bag check-in be extended to three hours before flight time or will it stay at two?"

A spokesperson from the airline responded: "Bag drop will still open two hours to departure.

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"I recommend you check the flight information and status on our flight tracker."

In recent travel news, Heathrow Airport has issued an alert to holidaymakers .

The major travel hub warned Britons: "Border Force officers at Heathrow plan to strike from Monday, April 29 to Thursday, May 2."

While most journeys should be "unaffected", Britons may experience longer queue times.

The Key Differences Between A Passport Card & A Passport Book

Choose a passport card if you frequently travel by land and sea within Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
Passport cards are cheaper than a passport book.
Get both a passport book and a card if you travel by air and land equally.

The US passport book, expressly designed for international travel, accommodates air, sea, or land journeys. This compact, easily portable booklet starts with a page dedicated to the traveler's personal details, such as name, date of birth, and photograph.

Pages are allocated for immigration stamps and visas, which serve as official entry and exit records from different countries. Modern versions of the passport book include an electronic chip to enhance security and facilitate quick processing at borders. This chip contains a digital replica of the information displayed on the personal details page.

The US also offers a passport card for individuals who primarily travel by land or sea to nearby countries, such as Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. This wallet-sized card is a convenient, more compact alternative to the traditional passport book. It's important to note that the passport card cannot be used for air travel; it is specifically designed for land and sea travel.

Both the passport book and the passport card have a validity period of ten years for adults, ensuring travelers can use their documents for numerous trips, making international travel smooth and efficient. Additionally, choosing between a passport book and a passport card—or to obtain both—allows travelers to select the document that best suits their travel needs, preferences, and habits.

5 Exotic Destinations Americans Can Fly To Without A Passport

Which passport should you get: book or card.

Consider your travel habits when deciding between a passport book and a passport card . If you frequently travel by air or have plans to visit countries beyond Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, a passport book is preferable. However, a passport card might be sufficient for your needs if you primarily travel by land or sea to nearby destinations.

Passport books are more expensive than cards. First-time applicants must pay an application fee and an acceptance fee. The acceptance fee goes to the facility that takes your application, and the application fee goes to the US Department of State.

Passport book cost for first-time applicants

For adults (16 and older): $165
For children (15 and under): $135

Passport card cost for first-time applicants

For adults (16 and older): $65
For children (15 and under): $50

Acceptance fees are dropped for renewal of both the passport book and card. Travelers can expect to pay $130 to renew an adult passport book and just $30 to renew an adult passport card.

When to get both a passport book and passport card

The passport book is the all-encompassing identifier to carry regardless of where you travel. Having both passport types might be convenient, like if you travel equally by air and land. If you’re visiting Canada or Mexico by car, you might prefer a more compact document for traveling across the border. A passport card for regular land-based trips would be helpful.

Validity and renewal

Both documents are valid for ten years for adults and five years for children. If you already have a passport, you may be eligible to renew it . You can also correct incorrect information or report your lost or stolen passport . The routine processing time for a passport is six to eight weeks.

You can expedite the process, which takes two to three weeks and costs an extra $60. It is essential to consider the time to get a passport when booking travel. It may take up to two weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center, and it may take up to two weeks for you to receive a completed passport after printing.

Requirements for renewing your passport

Your passport is not damaged.
You have never reported your passport lost or stolen
It was issued within the last 15 years.
It was issued when you were 16 years or older.
It was published under your current name.

Renew by mail

Confirm you meet the requirements
Fill out your renewal form online
Submit your most recent passport
Provide a photo
Calculate fees
Submit application
Enroll in email updates for tracking details

Using a passport card for domestic travel:

On May 7, 2025, US travelers must have a REAL ID to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. US passport books and cards are valid forms of ID for domestic air travel, but the card is more convenient to carry. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts the passport card as ID for domestic flights in the United States.

Department Of Homeland Security Extends REAL ID Deadline Another Two Years

When deciding on the best option for your travel documentation, consider the nature of your travel. A passport book is likely the most versatile and universally accepted form of identification and travel document. On the other hand, a passport card could be a more convenient and cost-effective choice if your travels mainly involve crossing borders by land or sea, especially to destinations like Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The passport card is smaller and easier to carry for day trips or frequent land and sea crossings, but it's important to note that it cannot be used for international air travel.

The Key Differences Between A Passport Card & A Passport Book

European Union adopts more favourable Schengen visa rules for Indians

Indian Nationals can now apply for a multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity

On 18 April 2024, the European Commission adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to Indian nationals, which are more favourable than the standard rules of the Visa Code that applied to date. This new visa ‘cascade’ regime for Indian nationals residing in India who apply for Schengen (short-stay) visas in India will provide easier access to visas with multi-year validity for travellers with an established travel history, if the passport validity allows.

According to the newly adopted visa “cascade” regime for India, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.

This decision comes in the context of strengthened relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India, with facilitation of people-to-people contacts being of key aspect due to the importance of India as a partner for the EU.

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work. The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

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Hundreds of UK Border Force officers at Heathrow airport plan to strike for four days over what their union calls “an unworkable new roster system”.

The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union has called the walk-out of members working for UK Border Force over new rosters that it claims “would see around 250 of them forced out of their jobs at passport control”.

Members voted by a margin of 9-1 in favour of industrial action over the issue.

The stoppage, involving more than 300 PCS members, is scheduled for 29 April to 2 May . It will involve UK Border Force offices working on passport control in all four Heathrow terminals.

These are the key questions and answers.

What is the dispute about?

At the root of the dispute is a controversial new rostering system.

The PCS union says planned alterations to shift patterns “would have a detrimental effect on all the current staff and leave nearly 250 without a job on passport control, including many with disabilities or caring responsibilities”.

The union says: “If they refuse to accept the new contracts, they would be forced to seek jobs elsewhere in the Home Office .”

Wasn’t a similar strike called off?

Yes. In late March the PCS union told the Home Office it had called a strike from 11 to 14 April, at the end of the school holidays for many families. But in what the union called “a spirit of collaboration”, the PCS called off the walk-out a week before it was due to start .

At the time the union’s general secretary, Fran Heathcote, warned: “This does not end the dispute. It is an opportunity for the Home Office to demonstrate they are genuinely seeking a resolution.”

But she later called the new strike, saying: “The Home Office should be doing all it can to retain experienced, trained staff – not lose them by introducing an unworkable new roster system.”

What are the possible effects?

Since UK Border Force staff routinely check only arrivals at airports, rather than departures, the initial impact of the walk-out will be on people landing from abroad at Britain’s busiest airport.

But no one can predict exactly what will happen – especially when flights arrive containing a substantial proportion of passengers who need to be examined by officials.

Were large numbers to build up in the immigration hall of one or more terminals, it is conceivable that airlines would be ordered to delay disembarking new flights to avoid overcrowding.

Such an instruction could feed through to delays, with departing passengers unable board those planes on schedule. There could conceivably be cancellations of some departures.

But the strikes in December 2022 did not have a significant effect.

What does the government say?

A Home Office spokesperson said: “We are disappointed with the union’s decision to strike but remain open to discussing a resolution with PCS union.

“The changes we are implementing will bring the working arrangements for Border Force Heathrow staff in line with the way staff work at other ports, provide them with more certainty on working patterns, and improve the service to the travelling public.

“Keeping our borders secure remains our top priority and we have robust plans in place to minimise any potential disruption.”

What mitigation plans does UK Border Force have?

The Home Office may use techniques as deployed during the last walk-out by UK Border Force in December 2022.

Military personnel and civil servant volunteers were trained to replace the staff who normally check the passports of arriving passengers.

They were not able to provide the same level of service. But the hope among ministers and managers is that with many arrivals able to use eGates, excessive waits can be avoided.

In addition, it is possible that new Minimum Service Level legislation could be used to require a certain proportion of union members to work.

The Independent has asked the Home Office for a response.

What are my rights if my flight is disrupted?

Cash compensation will not be payable, because the issue is beyond the airlines’ control. But they have a duty of care to provide an alternative flight as soon as possible, as well as meals and, if necessary, accommodation while you wait.

Are other strikes threatened at Heathrow?

Yes: 50 aircraft refuellers working at Heathrow airport will walk out for 72 hours from 4 May in a dispute over terms and conditions for new staff. They work for AFS Aviation, which refuels aircraft for Virgin Atlantic , Emirates and Singapore Airlines.

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