Passport rules by destination

Spain

The UK's favourite holiday destination — and where the 10-year rule catches out the most families at the gate.

Greece

From Crete to Corfu, Greek border officers apply the EU issue-date and 3-month rules strictly.

Turkey

Turkey is not in the EU, and has its own rule: 150 days of validity from the day you arrive.

France

Including Paris breaks, ski trips and Eurostar travel — the EU rules apply from the moment you pass French border control.

Italy

City breaks to Rome, lakes, and Amalfi — check your passport against the Schengen issue and expiry rules first.

Portugal

The Algarve, Lisbon and Madeira all follow Schengen passport rules for British visitors.

United States

The UK is in the US 'Six-Month Club', so your passport only needs to be valid for the length of your stay.

Cyprus

Cyprus is in the EU but not Schengen — yet it applies the same 10-year and 3-month passport rules.

Egypt

Egypt requires 6 months' passport validity from the date you arrive, plus a visa.

Thailand

Thailand requires 6 months' validity on arrival and checks it at check-in.

United Arab Emirates

Dubai and Abu Dhabi require 6 months' passport validity on arrival.

Croatia

Croatia joined Schengen in 2023, so the 10-year issue rule now applies on the Dalmatian coast too.

Netherlands

Amsterdam city breaks and ferry trips all follow the Schengen passport rules.

Morocco

Morocco requires your passport to be valid for the duration of your stay.

Malta

English-speaking but firmly in Schengen — the 10-year and 3-month rules apply in full.