EU rules
The 10-year passport rule
Since Brexit, the issue date on your passport matters as much as the expiry date.
Calculated in your browser — nothing is stored or sent.
Enter travel dates and the passport expiry date to see the result.
What is the rule?
To enter an EU or Schengen country, your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before the day you arrive and be valid for at least 3 months after the day you leave.
Why it catches people out
Before September 2018, HMPO added up to 9 extra months to renewed passports. Those passports can show an expiry date over 10 years after issue — but the EU ignores the extra months.
- Check the issue date, not just the expiry date.
- It applies to adults only in practice — child passports last 5 years.
- Cyprus, Monaco, Andorra, San Marino and Vatican City apply the same rule.
Frequently asked questions
This tool gives guidance based on published FCDO entry requirements. Rules can change at short notice. Always check the official GOV.UK foreign travel advice before you travel.