Simon Calder warns Britons to check passport validity for EU travel
- British travellers must ensure their passports are valid according to new post-Brexit rules visiting EU countries.
- Passports must not be over 10 years old and need a minimum of three months validity before leaving the EU.
- Ensuring passport validity is crucial to avoid denied boarding on flights to holiday destinations.
As of June 29, 2025, British travellers are being advised by travel correspondent Simon Calder to check the validity of their passports to ensure they meet the new post-Brexit entry requirements for the European Union. Since Brexit, there have been changes that affect the way UK passport holders can enter EU countries. It is crucial for travellers to be aware of specific rules, especially regarding passport expiration dates. The common stipulation is that passports must not be older than 10 years and must have at least three months of validity remaining from the intended date of departure from the EU. This nuance has become essential to avoid being denied boarding on flights to EU destinations. Additionally, there are exceptions and variations for certain countries related to passport validity. For instance, while countries like Australia and the United States accept passports valid until their expiration date, entering Turkey and Morocco requires passports to have additional validity beyond the arrival date. Travellers are also reminded that Denmark, although part of the EU, has its own set of rules making it crucial to verify requirements beforehand. In light of these complexities, Simon Calder has developed resources such as a passport validity checker aimed at helping travellers prepare for their journeys and ensure compliance with the various travel regulations.