PASSPORT RULES

There are so many things to consider post-Brexit when it comes to booking a holiday abroad, so the first thing you need to do is check the passport rules to avoid being refused boarding at UK airports or being denied entry on arrival.

Post-Brexit, UK passport holders are treated as ‘third-country nationals’ by EU and Schengen countries, and you can only stay a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. The 180-day period keeps rolling, so it can be tricky to keep track of how many days you have left at any one time if you’re a frequent traveller around Europe.

You can check the UK Government website – gov.uk/travel-to-eu-schengen-area – for more details on how this works, and there’s a handy app called 90 Days Schengen you can download to your phone which does it all for you.

EU/Schengen countries are set to introduce an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) later this year for third-country nationals including the UK for visits up to 90 days, which you will need to apply for online.

The system aims to strengthen security measures across Europe. Although it’s not a visa, you ought to treat it as one as you will be denied entry without it. It should be straightforward and is expected to cost around €7 per person. It will be valid for up to three years or when your passport expires, whichever comes first. To find out more go to etias.com/what-is-etias.

Passport rules vary depending on if you are travelling within the EU/Schengen area and outside the EU, so the best way to check entry requirements, safety and security advice and health risks is to go to the UK Government foreign travel advice website gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice 

Passport validity rules

EU/Schengen area

Passports must be issued less than 10 years before departure and valid for at least three months after the planned return date.

United States

Passports must be valid for the entire stay, but it’s recommended to have six months’ extra validity to avoid any issues.

Canada

The rules mirror the US.

Australia

Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country.

In summary:

• Check your passport issue and expiry date
• Check the Foreign Office website for the passport and visa entry requirements before you book
• Give yourself plenty of time to renew your passport
• Check visa and entry requirements