Passports and Visas
If you wish to travel abroad you must hold a full ten-year passport, even for a day trip. Apply in good time. In the UK, you can get advice from the Identity & Passport Service website or call them on 0870 521 0410 (lines are open 24 hours a day and calls are charged at the national rate).
Some countries have an immigration requirement for a passport to remain valid for a minimum period (usually at least six months) beyond the date of entry to the country. Therefore, ensure your passport is in good condition and valid for at least 6 months at the date of your return. This is a requirement of the country concerned, not the UK Passport Service. Any questions should be addressed to the Consulate or Embassy of the country to which you are travelling. Outside the UK, you should get advice from the nearest British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. Our staff can issue standard replacement passports in most places. However all missions are able to issue emergency passports if more appropriate.
Visas
If you plan to travel outside British territories you may require a visa to enter the country you are going to. Check visa requirements with your travel agent or contact the Consulate or Embassy of the country you plan to visit. If you are a British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Overseas Citizen, British Subject, British National Overseas, or a British Protected Person, you may need a visa that is not required by British Citizens.
General Tips
• Make a note of the passport number, date and place of issue (or take a photocopy), and keep separately in a safe place.
• Check the passport expiry date.
• Write the full details of your next of kin in your passport.
• Leave a photocopy with a friend or relative at home.
• Take a second means of photo-identification with you.
• Keep your passport in the hotel safe and carry a photocopy with you.
• If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, contact the nearest British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate immediately for advice.