Holidaymakers travelling overseas this Easter are being urged to do one thing before jetting off
Brits planning holidays this spring are being urged to check their passports immediately to avoid potential travel disruption. The warning comes as millions of families across the country prepare for travel during the busy Easter period.
The alert was issued by HM Passport Office in a social media post on Tuesday. Officials stated: “Planning spring or Easter travel? Check your passport now.”
They also directed travellers to the official government website to begin the process if they require a new passport, adding: “If you need to renew, go to: “https://www.gov.uk/apply-renew-passport.”
The UK Government advises holidaymakers to regularly ensure their passport is valid before making international travel plans. Officials warn against making any bookings until a valid passport is physically in hand.
This is due to the fact that a new passport will not have the same number as the old one, which could cause problems if travel arrangements are made prior to receiving the document.
Those still holding a burgundy passport with “European Union” on the cover can continue to use it until its expiry date. The design change following Brexit does not affect the validity of the passport.
Travellers can apply for, renew, replace or update their passport online via the official government service. Applying online is also £12.50 cheaper than applying by post.
According to the HM Passport Office, applicants will need a debit or credit card to complete the process online. It’s also recommended for travellers to check the current processing times before submitting their application.
For those urgently needing a passport, expedited services are available. These include the Online Premium service and the one-week Fast Track option.
Holiday hopefuls needing help with an online application can visit a Post Office branch. Staff there can take a digital photo and assist in filling out the application via the digital Check and Send service, although this does come with an extra fee.
Paper passport application forms can also be picked up from Post Office branches. However, the government notes that applying by post usually takes longer than applying online.
Officials advise that checking your passport now could save travellers stress closer to departure. With the Easter break approaching, making sure documents are valid could avoid last-minute travel headaches.