Passport quiz: the two EU dates people miss

The EU's Your Europe site gives two tests for people from outside the EU. Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave, and it must have been issued within the last 10 years.

Check yourself

Case 1. Issued 11 years ago, valid for 2 more years. Answer: it fails the 10-year test on the day you enter.

Case 2. Issued 6 years ago, valid to 1 August. You plan to leave on 10 June. Answer: it fails too. 3 months after 10 June is 10 September.

Case 3. Issued 6 years ago, valid to 1 November, leaving on 10 June. Answer: both tests are met.

Important

Children and minors need their own passport, and a visa if required. Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you're visiting, as extra documents may be asked for.

Passport check

• ☐ Read the issue date
• ☐ Read the expiry date
• ☐ Add 3 months to your leaving date
• ☐ Check each child's passport

Travel budget template — add renewal costs if you need them →

Source: europa.eu, Your Europe: Travel documents for non-EU nationals. This isn't legal advice; the decision is the authority's.