Hundreds of UK travellers are facing strict EU passport regulations daily, leading to flight refusals as reported by Wales Online. Following Brexit, UK citizens must adhere to new guidelines for entry into the EU, which include owning passports issued within the last decade and valid for at least three months beyond their return date. Travellers with older burgundy passports are at risk due to discrepancies in issue dates, with some passports extending beyond the permissible ten-year duration. Despite appearing valid, these passports are not recognised by certain countries, including EU member states.
Travel expert Simon Calder from The Independent has emphasised that approximately 200 passengers are being denied boarding each day due to non-compliance with these rules. He estimates that over 100,000 holidays could be affected annually. Calder urges airlines to provide clearer information during online check-in processes to prevent such disruptions well in advance of departure dates. It was emphasised that failure to meet these regulations could result in passengers being turned away at the airport without refunds or coverage.
On the Government website, it is stated that new passports typically take three weeks to arrive, with a one-week fast-track option available for urgent cases. All British passports issued since mid-2020 are now dark blue, and renewal applications can be made via post or online. It is crucial for travellers to ensure their compliance with EU passport regulations to avoid unexpected travel complications.