If you're planning a summer getaway to popular European destinations like Spain, France, Italy, Greece or Portugal, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with the latest travel advice from the Foreign Office. The Foreign Office regularly updates its guidance for British tourists, including important information about passport requirements.

Passports

For all of these destinations, the passport rules are largely the same. Before you jet off, make sure your passport meets the following criteria:

  • issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

You need to make sure your passport meets these. If your passport was issued before October 1, 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

This advice is based on the UK government's understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel. The authorities in the country you are visiting set and enforce entry rules, reports the Liverpool Echo. If you're unsure how these requirements apply to you, contact the local embassy or consulate in the UK.

Do I need a visa?

Travel to popular holiday destinations such as Spain, Portugal, France, Italy and Greece is usually possible without a visa. These nations belong to the 'Schengen area' of the EU, which permits travel for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa - be it for tourism, visiting loved ones, business meetings, cultural or sports events, or short-term education or training.

A total of 26 countries fall under this category. All are detailed on the GOV. UK website.

Vaccinations

In terms of vaccination requirements, Italy currently does not mandate any Covid-19 tests or vaccinations for incoming visitors. However, the advice for Spain, Portugal, France and Greece is somewhat open-ended: "Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel provider for changes."