More than 100,000 British Tourists Are Denied Entry at EU Airports Every Year, says Simon Calder
Renowned travel correspondent Simon Calder, reporting for The Independent, has highlighted a concerning trend: approximately 200 British nationals are being turned away from European Union airports daily due to EU travel regulations. Calder’s analysis indicates that this results in roughly 100,000 UK citizens annually missing out on their planned vacations.
The freelance UK travel journalist and broadcaster emphasized the crucial need for increased awareness among British travellers regarding post-Brexit EU travel protocols. Despite efforts by airlines to provide reminders and guidance, there remains a significant risk of passengers unknowingly falling afoul of passport validity requirements.
Since the UK’s departure from the EU in December 2020, British citizens are classified as third-country nationals, subject to stringent entry criteria. Crucially, passports must remain valid for three to six months beyond the planned departure date and not exceed ten years in age.
Despite the passage of four years post-Brexit, many UK nationals remain unaware of these regulations, resulting in substantial financial losses and dashed travel plans. Instances like a couple missing out on a performance in Sofia due to an outdated passport underscore the real-world implications of this issue, with losses totaling £3,000.
Calder stresses that travellers are ultimately responsible for ensuring their passport compliance, with no recourse to travel insurance or airline refunds in cases of non-compliance.
In light of the upcoming 2024 summer travel season, both the UK Home Office and travel experts advocate for proactive passport checks and renewal. With passport renewal fees set to rise, travelers are urged to act swiftly to avoid disruptions to their holiday plans.
Popular destinations such as Portugal, Spain, and Greece continue to attract millions of British tourists annually, underscoring the importance of timely passport checks and compliance with EU entry regulations.
These rules have caught many travellers by surprise, and it’s essential for British holidaymakers to stay informed.
One critical aspect to be aware of is the “10-year passport rule.” If you’re planning to travel to the EU, here’s what you need to know:
- Passport Validity:
- The EU has implemented a stricter requirement for passport validity.
- Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining from your planned date of departure.
- If your passport falls short of this requirement, you may be denied entry at EU airports.
- EU Entry/Exit System (EES):
- The EU is launching the Entry/Exit System (EES) later this year.
- Many UK adults are unaware of this new system, as revealed by recent Co-op research3.
- The EES will track the entry and exit of travelers within the Schengen Area.
- It aims to enhance security and improve border management.
- Make sure to stay informed about the EES and any related travel requirements.
Remember to check your passport’s expiration date and stay informed about any changes in travel regulations to avoid any unpleasant surprises at EU airports. Safe travels! 🌍✈️
Read more: Lucky-Lucky Men Face New Entry Barrier Into Spain
