Latest news with #Iturmendi
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Daily Mirror
Spain rule change all UK passport holders should know about
Travel experts are warning Brits to check their passports now Holidaymakers planning getaways to Spain, among other destinations, are being urged to check their passports now. This is because of a lesser-known travel rule introduced after Brexit, which has been known to catch some people out. All UK residents require a valid passport for international travel. British passports can be obtained by British citizens, British overseas territories citizens, British overseas citizens, British subjects, British nationals (overseas), or British protected persons, according to HM Passport Office. And with the final weeks of summer holidays approaching, travel specialists at are warning travellers to check their documents now. Expert Alvaro Iturmendi said: "Nothing ruins the end-of-summer buzz faster than being turned away at the airport because your passport is not valid. "It is easier to get caught out than you might think. Our research found that less than half (43%) holidaygoers, know that if you are heading to the EU, your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before your departure date." As Mr Iturmendi clarified, UK passport holders visiting the Schengen zone - including Spain, France, Greece and many other European counties - must ensure their passport's "date of issue" falls within 10 years of their arrival date. Additionally, the passport's "expiry date" must extend at least three months beyond their intended departure from the Schengen zone. If your passport fails to meet entry requirements, you'll probably be turned away at your departure airport. So it's definitely worth double-checking yours right now. And if you're after a speedy replacement passport, it could set you back as much as £222 for the one-day premium service. The current estimated waiting period is a maximum of three weeks, though government officials warn it can occasionally drag on longer "if we need more information, or we need to interview you". Those affected will be contacted during the three-week timeframe. A standard adult passport for anyone aged 16 and above costs £94.50 when you apply online, or £107 if you use the paper application form.
Yahoo
27-02-2025
- Yahoo
M25 delays could cause 'major disruptions' to Brits going abroad in coming weeks
Brits who are going away in March are being urged to review their travel plans, with roadworks on the M25 potentially causing traffic chaos. March will see two major closures of the UK's busiest motorway as a number of old bridges are removed. They will be replaced by new structures, including the UK's first 'heathland' bridge, a passage with bushes and grasses alongside a path. The closures will include the weekend of Friday, March 7-10. But there are concerns that these works could cause massive disruption to travellers heading to both Heathrow and Gatwick airports. The same closures will happen again between Friday, March 21-24. READ MORE: Gene Hackman, wife and dog found dead with 'no signs of foul play' READ MORE: Met Police issue new rules for stop and search in London Alvaro Iturmendi, travel insurance expert at said that travellers need to be aware as it is unlikely compensation will be offered to be people who are late for their flights due to the roadworks. Airlines are unlikely to take responsibility for the disruptions, so travellers should plan ahead, he said. 'Road works affecting the M25 could have major disruptions to those flying in and out of London's busiest airports next week," Mr Iturmendi said. "So those who need to travel to Gatwick and Heathrow are being urged to plan ahead. That's especially as our research found that UK holiday goers tends to only arrive at the airport 1.5hrs before a short haul flight, and three hours for long haul. "As motorists are being encouraged to consider alternative routes during this time, this could mean that these also become heavily congested as a result, so finding other means of transport, such as train services which go direct into the airport terminal, could be the best option. But travellers should still allow themselves plenty of time to get to airports, as it's likely that the whole transport network will face major delays. "As the disruptions aren't anything to do with airlines or airports themselves, it's unlikely that compensation will be offered to those who miss their flights. If you're unsure, our guide to whether travel insurance will cover missed flights might help.' Shaun Jones, at The AA, echoed Mr Iturmendi's thoughts, urging people to avoid the whole west side of the M25 if possible. He said: "'We advise drivers to avoid the west side of the M25 if possible, but if unavoidable to expect delays and stick to the detour routes. 'Prepare your vehicle before setting off by checking oil and coolant levels, tyres and make sure you have enough fuel or electric charge to cover the planned diversions.'
