Passports

You have to have a valid 10-year passport for any trip abroad, even if it’s only a day. If you’ve let your passport lapse or haven’t got one, make sure you leave plenty of time to arrange to get a new one from the Passport Office.

Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your trip. Many countries (especially long-haul) require your passport to be valid for six months from the date of arrival. 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. Passport tips:

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• Make a note of your passport number, date and place of issue and keep it separately from your passport. It’s also a good idea to leave the same details with someone at home.
  
• Make sure your passport is valid according to the rules laid down by the country you are travelling to.
  
• Fill out all relevant info within your passport, such as “next of kin”.
  
• Don’t forget to bring a second type of photo ID with you incase something happens to your passport.
  
• If possible, keep your passport in a safe at the hotel (assuming it’s a reputable hotel) or hidden on your person at all times.
  
• If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, contact the nearest British Consulate or Embassy immediately for advice. Click here for a list of British diplomats overseas.

For crucial travel advice on passport and visa requirements for different countries, updated medical information, how to prepare for your travels, a list of consulates and embassies and what to do if something goes wrong while you’re on holiday, check out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice.