British citizens who hold an older burgundy red passport will need to double check their passport’s validity in the country they are travelling to before they fly. EU countries have joined tens of other nations by introducing restrictions on British passports.
UK passports must be valid for at least three months after you plan to leave and need to have been issued less than 10 years before the date you arrive. This is because the UK is now classed as a third country by the EU following Brexit.
There are two new criteria for British citizens entering the EU, however, be sure to check the individual requirements for the country you’re visiting on the FCDO. Here’s the general rules you need to know.
Read More: Warning issued for anyone in the UK with a red passport
What are the rules for British passport holders entering the EU?
1. Your passport must have been issued less than ten years before the time of entry. Check the issue date.
2. Your passport must be valid for at least three months after you plan to leave. Check the expiry date.
But it’s not only the EU that requires three months of validity on UK passports to enter. In fact, up to 70 countries apply a six-month passport rule, according to VisaGuide.World.
These rules are designed to stop citizens of other countries from outstaying the validity of their passport. When this happens emergency travel documents are required.
Do British citizens need a visa to travel to the EU?
British nationals can visit Schengen countries, which includes most EU countries, for a maximum of 90 days within a period of 180 days. However, they will need to apply for a visa if they want to stay longer.
Do non-EU countries have travel restrictions?
Many other countries outside of the EU also have restrictions on UK travellers planning to visit their country. It is important to check the country's passport rules before you travel.
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