Holidaymakers heading abroad this Easter are being urged to check their passports now before it’s too late
Brits planning trips abroad this spring are being urged to check their passports now to avoid travel disruption. The warning comes as millions prepare to travel during the busy Easter holiday period.
The reminder was issued by HM Passport Office in a social media post on Tuesday. Officials wrote: “Planning spring or Easter travel? Check your passport now.”
The post also directed travellers to the official government website to start the process if they need a new passport. It added: “If you need to renew, go to: https://www.gov.uk/apply-renew-passport.”
According to the UK Government, travellers should always ensure their passport is valid before booking trips abroad. Officials warn people not to book travel until they have a valid passport in their possession.
This is because your new passport will not have the same passport number as your old one. That could cause issues if travel bookings are made before the document arrives.
Brits who still have a burgundy passport with “European Union” on the cover can continue to use it until it expires. The design change following Brexit does not affect whether the passport is valid.
Holidaymakers can apply for, renew, replace or update their passport online through the official government service. Applying online is also £12.50 cheaper than applying by post.
According to HM Passport Office, applicants will need a debit or credit card to complete the process online. Travellers are also advised to check the current processing times before submitting their application.
For those who need a passport urgently, faster services are available. These include the Online Premium service and the one-week Fast Track option.
People who need help completing an online application can visit a Post Office branch. Staff can take a digital photo and help fill in the application through the digital Check and Send service, although it costs extra.
Paper passport application forms are also available from Post Office branches. However, the government says applying by post typically takes longer than applying online.
Officials say checking your passport now could save travellers stress closer to departure. With the Easter getaway approaching, making sure documents are valid could prevent last-minute travel headaches.
