10-year passport rule: What you need to know

Understand the 10-year passport rule to avoid any unexpected surprises at the airport.

Yes, you might leave your trusty passport in a drawer at home until the next time you head abroad on a spontaneous trip or pre-planned excursion. But not checking the date and being aware of the 10-year passport rule for EU destinations can cause havoc with your trip.

What is the 10-year passport rule?

Understanding passport validity requirements for travel


Countries in the European Union do not allow travellers from outside the EU to enter their borders if their passport was issued more than 10 years ago from the date of travel. When the UK was part of the EU it was possible to have a longer-dated passport, but that’s no longer the case.


To be in line with the rules and not face any problems the next time you try to fly, your passport must be less than 10 years old from its issue date and have at least three months left on it after your intended departure date.


In our helpful guide, you’ll discover essential tips and advice to make sure your passport is always travel ready.

How long do you need on your passport to travel?

EU passport rules explained

A close up image of a British passport

To enter the EU under the new rules, your passport must:

• have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the EU country

• be valid for at least three months after the day you leave the EU country


If your passport does not meet these minimum requirements, you will be refused entry to the country. The one exception for British travellers is Ireland, who are honouring the previous agreement.


If your passport was issued before September 2018 (when the rules changed), it’s super important to take note. Basically, under old regulations, up to nine months could be carried over from an old passport. This stopped in September 2018.


So if your passport was issued before then, it may appear valid for longer than a decade. This is still OK for travel outside the EU, but it will prevent travel to much of Europe as you approach the 10-year mark.


If your passport has been issued after September 2018, it will have a cap of 10 years which means you won’t face any issues.


You can check entry requirements for individual EU countries on the government’s website.

Top tip

•Renew passports at least six months before they expire.


•Check passport rules for each destination before booking flights.


•Use online tools to verify passport validity for EU trips.

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FAQs about the 10-year passport rule

If your passport doesn’t meet the 10-year rule or other passport validity requirements, you may be stopped from boarding your flight or be denied entry when you land. Airlines and border officials strictly enforce these rules, so double-check your passport details well in advance. Renewing early helps you get your new passport in your hands in plenty of time for your next trip.

No, the 10-year passport rule is specific to EU travel for British citizens. Other countries may have their own validity requirements. For example, if you’re travelling to the USA, your passport must be valid for the length of your stay, while many other countries want at least six months remaining on your passport. Always research the passport rules at your chosen destination to avoid any potential travel disruptions.

Your passport’s issue date is printed on the information page, usually near your photo. Check this date against your planned travel dates in the EU to ensure it complies with the 10-year rule. If you’re unsure, simply use the UK government’s passport checker tool.

It’s best to renew your passport at least six months before it expires, especially if you’re planning on travelling internationally. This means you’ll meet the validity requirements for most destinations and avoids any last-minute delays to your holiday plans. Always start the renewal process early to allow for processing times and to make sure you get your passport in your hands in plenty of time for your trip.

Passports issued before September 2018 may have extra months added beyond 10 years. But these additional months don’t count toward the 10-year rule for EU travel. Only the original issue date matters, so double-check your passport to avoid any problems the next time you travel.

You can renew your passport online via the UK government website or by post. The process typically takes up to three weeks, but you can get it quicker if you need it urgently. Make sure you have all the documents you need and a recent photo to avoid any problems with your application. Even things like your signature going outside the box on the application form can cause it to be rejected, so always do it carefully.

Now you know the essentials about passport validity when travelling to the EU, you’ll be ready for smooth flying and no surprises when you get to the airport.

Thinking of travelling soon? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels and car hire deals for your next trip.

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