Little-known passport mistake could mean you're not allowed to board a flight
There are a number of things that could prevent you from being able to travel - and some are not as well known as others
Travellers heading for an overseas trip have several documents that must be double-checked. From airline tickets to driving licences, it is essential they are in order to ensure everything is ready to go.
It's common knowledge that a valid passport is crucial for travel, but lesser-known factors could play havoc with your departure plans. One such issue that even seasoned holidaymakers might not be aware of is water damage to your passport.
Specialists at Tiger.co.uk highlight the potential severity of this issue, cautioning: "If your passport has sustained water damage, you likely won't be able to use it as a valid travel document."
This warning is part of a list of seven critical passport checks that Tiger.co.uk advise tourists to perform before jetting off. With some changes coming into force over the coming months there is already potential for problems at borders so it is vital you do all you can to make sure there are no avoidable issues.
This year marks the launch of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES), set to phase out passport stamping in favour of digital facial and fingerprint recording, which could mean lengthy queues and hold-ups at security checkpoints. For visits to European destinations, UK citizens should verify that their passports were issued within the last 10 years from their intended entry date into the EU and ensure that their passports are valid for a minimum of three months beyond their planned exit date from the EU, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Travellers should take note of new regulations as previously, UK passports could have up to 10 years and nine months of validity, but post-Brexit, EU rules only acknowledge a 10-year limit from the date of issue. Although no visa is required for short stays of up to 90 days in Europe, those planning longer visits must confirm the entry requirements and secure any necessary permits.
Ian Wilson, travel insurance specialist and Managing Director at Tiger.co.uk, warns: "With passport fees increasing and queues likely getting longer this summer due to the introduction of the EU's new Entry/Exit System, we urge holidaymakers to carry out essential passport checks now to avoid last-minute hassle and potentially being turned away at the airport. Post-Brexit travel changes are still confusing for many of us, so it's important for Brits to familiarise themselves with the validity requirements before jetting off to Europe."
He also highlighted that "Travellers also need to ensure their passports are in good physical condition, as things like damage from water or ink, rips in pages and laminate peeling from the personal details page can mean that your passport may not be accepted as a valid travel document. If you're denied access to your flight for issues such as an invalid passport, your travel insurance is unlikely to protect you.
"That's why it's so important to double-check these things well in advance of your departure date." The firm says these are the seven crucial passport checks to make prior to travel:
Water damage
In the event that your passport has been damaged by water, it's likely invalid for use when travelling. Minor splashes resulting in slightly wavy page edges shouldn't be a problem, but damage like smudged ink or stains could cause issues including delays or refusals at border control.
Available blank pages
Since Brits are now subject to passport stamps upon entry and exit in the EU, frequent travellers for business or leisure may risk running low on passport pages. At least two blank pages are necessary to ensure the passport remains a valid document. For frequent flyers, there's also the option of a jumbo passport, boasting 54 pages instead of the standard 34.
Passport expiry
Certain countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months from the point of entry. For European travel, passports need to be valid for a minimum of three months from departure and must have been issued within the last 10 years.
This is particularly important to remember given that, whereas previously British passports could remain valid for up to 10 years and 9 months, new EU regulations dictate they're valid for only 10 years from issue.
Page tears or rips
If your passport has any torn or missing pages, it's deemed as damaged and likely won't be accepted at the border. This is particularly true if the damage affects the personal details page or any visa stamps.
Laminate peeling
Should the laminate on your personal details page start to peel or lift, it could suggest tampering. This is a common cause for passports being flagged or rejected. So, even if all the information is still legible, it's wise to replace your passport to avoid any potential issues.
Visa
It's crucial for holidaymakers to understand the entry requirements of their destination country, especially if it's outside Europe, and secure a travel visa if necessary. For trips to Europe that last less than 90 days, you don't need a visa.
Child passport
A child's passport only lasts for five years and often expires before parents realise. It's recommended that parents check the expiry dates early and renew them promptly to prevent any delays or disruptions to travel plans.
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