Guide to the 6-month passport rule — what is it?

Daisy Hernandez

Editor's Note

It may sound trivial, but one of the best rules you can follow as an international traveler is to remember to check your passport validity before you book flights and hotels.

Why? Because the requirements for entry differ from country to country. In the midst of planning my 2024 travel, I realized my U.S. passport expires in April, which could mess with my plans abroad.

Thankfully, I use a travel checklist to avoid disruptions to my travel itinerary.

I immediately started the passport renewal process online and had my photo taken at my local Walgreens — although you can DIY your passport photo if you prefer — so I could send out my application as quickly as possible. I also opted to expedite the processing time for an additional $60 fee and sent my application on its way.

If you're also in the middle of planning 2024 travel or simply want to know the ideal time to begin getting ready to renew your passport, the TPG team has you covered.

We collected information from the U.S. Department of State website and the United Kingdom's government website to create a one-stop cheat sheet examining a range of nations that typically require you to have a passport that lasts longer than your trip — whether by one, three or six months.

Note that certain countries deviate from the standard six-month requirement. These findings are also only related to passport validity dates — we're not covering visa requirements here. Those can vary depending on where you're going and where you're coming from.

Schengen countries in Europe

Many European countries are signers of the Schengen Agreement . As a result, they follow the 3+3 Rule, meaning your passport must be valid for three months beyond your three-month entry visa or for a total of six months, regardless of the duration of your initial stay.

While some Schengen countries only require passports to be valid for three months beyond your intended stay, others assume you may stay the full 90 days of your visa validity — thus the six-month time period.

The signers of the Schengen Agreement are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Bulgaria and Romania will join the group March 31, 2024.

travel to france time left on passport

The countries listed below abide by the usual six months of passport validity unless otherwise noted.

Non-Schengen countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East

Abide by the usual 6 months of passport validity.

  • Bosnia-Herzegovina
  • New Caledonia
  • North Korea
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Turkmenistan
  • Turkey (British passports must be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive in the country)
  • United Arab Emirates
  • West Bank/Gaza Strip

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond the scheduled departure date

Passport must be valid 1 month beyond the date of your intended stay, passport only needs to be valid for the proposed duration of your stay.

  • Central African Republic
  • Cote d'Ivoire
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Equatorial Guinea
  • Morocco (British passports must be valid for at least three months on the date of entry)
  • Sao Tome and Principe
  • South Africa (passports must also have 30 days beyond your intended date of exit from the country)
  • South Sudan

Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Dominican Republic
  • Trinidad and Tobago

Central and South America

  • El Salvador

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond arrival

  • Brazil (British passports need to be valid six months beyond arrival)

South Pacific

  • American Samoa
  • French Polynesia
  • Marshall Islands
  • Papua New Guinea
  • New Zealand

Bottom line

When examining the rules, note that some countries have a slight distinction: They may require validity to be either six months from the date of entry or six months from the date of intended departure . For simplicity, we've taken the conservative approach and assumed that for any country with a six-month rule, like most of the ones above, you should ensure your passport is valid six months past the date of intended departure just in case.

Of course, the list above only includes just a few popular destinations worldwide. If your intended destination isn't on the list, it's always best to check with your relevant passport issuer.

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Entry Requirements for American Travelers to France

Passports and visas.

All U.S. and Canadian citizens, including infants, need a valid passport to enter France. Visas are not required for American and Canadian visitors staying in France for up to 90 days. For more information, contact your nearest French Consulate. See a list of local French consulates in the U.S. (External link)

It is mandatory in France to carry some form of identification at all times. If you lose your passport, the nearest U.S. Consulate will issue Americans a limited-validity replacement if travel is imminent, or a full-validity passport if further travel is not within two weeks. When in France, please carry a photocopy of your passport separately from your passport. The copy will facilitate issuance of a replacement ($75 fee for adults, $85 for children). The American Embassy in Paris is at 2, avenue Gabriel, tel. 01 43 12 22 22. The Passport Section is nearby at 4, avenue Gabriel (open 9a.m.-noon, Monday- Friday). There are other Consular Offices in Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Rennes, Strasbourg and Toulouse that provide assistance to American citizens.

Entering France : Travelers from countries outside the European Union (EU) must declare certain articles when entering France. Duty and import taxes are levied on items not for personal use that individually or collectively exceed 175€ in value. Certain categories of items for personal use (tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, perfumes, coffee and tea, etc.) may be brought in untaxed up to certain authorized amounts. The following are forbidden or subject to strict control: drugs, radioactive materials, firearms, endangered species, plants, ivory and food, meat and dairy products. Carry prescriptions to authenticate any controlled substances. “Monetary instruments” equal to more than 10,000€ (whether brought into or taken out of France) must be declared. When in doubt, consult the French Embassy (External link) , a French Consulate or the French Customs and Excise Service's “ Info Douanes Service (External link) ” in Paris at tel. 08 20 02 44 44 (8:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday to Friday)

Re-entering the U.S. : Returning U.S. citizens who have been away for 48 hours or more are allowed to bring back, once every 30 days, $800 worth of merchandise duty-free. You're charged a flat rate of duty on the next $1,000 worth of purchases, and any dollar amount beyond that is subject to duty at whatever rates apply. On mailed gifts, the duty-free limit is $200. Have your receipts or purchases handy to expedite the declaration process. Note: If you owe duty, you are required to pay upon your arrival in the United States, using cash, personal check, government or traveler's check, or money order; some locations also accept Visa or MasterCard.

BRINGING YOUR PETS TO FRANCE

Travelers may bring dogs, cats and ferrets into France. Each family is limited to five animals, which must have valid rabies vaccination certificates and be identifiable by a microchip or tattoo. For more information, including details about travel with pet rodents, reptiles, birds or other species, visit www.ambafrance-us.org or contact the French Embassy.

  • FACEBOOK - France in the US on Facebook (External link)
  • TWITTER - Follow the Embassy on Twitter (External link)

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Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

France - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in France due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in France. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Incidents such as pickpocketing and phone snatchings occur frequently and can happen anywhere, especially in crowded areas such as airports, train stations, subway and train cars, and near tourist attractions.

Peaceful demonstrations and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France occur regularly and can disrupt transportation. On rare occasions, demonstrations have included violence and property damage and police have responded with water cannons and tear gas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to France.

If you decide to travel to France:

  • Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and large crowded public venues.
  • Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
  • Find a safe location and shelter in place if unable to leave the vicinity of a demonstration.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for France.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

At least three months beyond date of departure from the Schengen area. The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not valid for visa-free entry into France.

Must have at least one blank page for stamps

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros Max

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Paris 2 Avenue Gabriel 75008 Paris, France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22, enter zero “0” after the automated greeting Fax:  +(33)(1) 42-61-61-40 (Special Consular Services) [email protected]

Only the consular sections in Paris and Marseille are authorized to issue passports. The other offices provide limited services to U.S. citizens.

U.S. Consulate General Marseille Place Varian Fry 13286 Marseille Cedex 6 France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-47-54 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg 15, Avenue d'Alsace 67082 Strasbourg Cedex France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-48-80 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 Fax: (33)(3) 88-24-06-95 [email protected]

When calling from within France, drop the country code and add a zero. For example: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 becomes 01-43-12-22-22.

Please note that the emergency after-hours telephone number for all U.S. posts in France is: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 . Ask to speak to the duty officer if you need emergency assistance after business hours.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Embassy of France  website for the most current visa and entry requirement information.

The Government of France does not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into France. If traveling on this emergency passport, you may be refused boarding and/or entry by immigration officials and/or held at the airport until a return flight to the U.S. is available. Direct transit through France for another destination accepting an emergency passport may be permitted. You should check entry requirements of any other country of destination to make sure the emergency passport is accepted for entry.

You may enter the Schengen area, including France, for up to 90 days for tourist and business purposes without a visa.

Immigration officers may also request you show sufficient funds for your intended stay and a return airline ticket.

If you are traveling to France or Monaco for reasons other than business or tourism, such as employment (including diplomatic or official travel), study, or internship, you must obtain the appropriate French or Monegasque (Monaco) visa for that purpose before you leave the United States. You should be aware that it is nearly impossible to obtain or change visa status while in France.

All minors (under age 18) traveling without a parent or legal guardian and who are residents in France must have the written consent of at least one parent or legal guardian to leave France. The minor must travel with his or her own I.D., a copy of the parent/guardian’s I.D., and form number 15646*01, executed by the parent/guardian and available  here .

If you are transiting through France to South Africa, there are special requirements for minors. See  Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements for South Africa  for additional information.

Contact the  French Embassy  in Washington at 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, tel. (202) 944 6000, or one of the  French Consulates General  in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, or San Francisco for the most current visa information.

Special Note:  Overseas departments and territories of France (i.e. those not located in Europe) are not included in the Schengen Agreement. Please see Country Specific Information on  French Guiana ,  French Polynesia , and the  French West Indies  for entry and exit requirements. For other departments and territories, visit the  Embassy of France  website for the most current visa and entry requirement information for those areas.

Monaco:  For further information on entry requirements to Monaco, travelers may contact the  Embassy of the Principality of Monaco , 888 17th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington D.C. 20006, Tel: (202) 234-1530, Email:  [email protected] ; or the Consulate General of Monaco, 565 Fifth Avenue – 23rd floor, New York, NY 10017, Tel: (212) 286-0500, Email:  [email protected] .

Traveling Through Europe :  If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

  • Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page.  We recommend that your passport have at least six months’ validity remaining.
  • You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket . 
  • For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of France.

Find information about  dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

  • High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
  • Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
  • Places of worship
  • Shopping malls and markets
  • Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

For more information, see our Terrorism page. 

French authorities have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions for terrorist attacks in Europe.

A counterterrorism law enacted in 2017 allows the government to prevent the circulation of individuals and to create zones of protection and security.

The French government has temporarily reestablished border controls at its borders with its Schengen neighbors and movement may be restricted in some areas. Border controls with the United Kingdom, including the Channel Tunnel crossing, have also been reestablished following Brexit.

The Government of France routinely conducts security and crisis management drills involving deployment of security forces, emergency services, and police to high profile areas that may be near popular tourist sites. U.S. citizens should be aware of the possibility of drills and should heed instructions of local authorities should they encounter them.

French police and military routinely patrol public spaces. You should expect security inspections (to include purses, bags, and backpacks) at the entrance to large public venues and businesses.

When traveling or living in France, you should:

  • Be aware of your local security situation and take appropriate steps to bolster your personal security.
  • Monitor media and local information sources like  France24 , Radio France International , The Local , and the Paris Travel Information webpage and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities. 
  • Address specific safety concerns to French law enforcement authorities who have responsibility for the safety and security of all residents and visitors to France.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Crime:  The majority of crimes directed against foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, involve pick-pocketing (passports, phones, cash, credit cards), vehicle and residential break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of theft.

Visitors to congested and popular tourist areas (e.g., museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and subways) should be particularly attentive to their surroundings. Rental cars are frequently targeted for break-ins when visitors exit their vehicles and leave valuables behind.

Crimes of opportunity are more likely to involve violence on the street late at night or when the victim resists. 

Exercise extra caution when out alone at night and/or consider traveling out at night with trusted companions.

While the incidence of sexual assault is statistically low, attacks do occur.

Be aware of “date-rape” drugs, which are present in France. The Embassy has assisted multiple victims who appear to have been targeted using these drugs.

Be cautious in bars and clubs where alcohol is served, and do not leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from strangers, as they may have slipped drugs into the drink.  

There are high incidences of “smash and grab” robberies in economically depressed areas or on highly traveled thoroughfares such as roads to and from the airport. Thieves on foot or motorcycle will approach a vehicle that is stopped in traffic, smash a window, reach into the vehicle to grab a purse or other valuable item, and then flee. Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

  • Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
  • Past demonstrations have turned violent.
  • Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 
  • Strikes can interfere with travel plans and increase expenses of traveling to France.

Demonstration organizers must obtain prior police approval, and police routinely oversee participants. In case of violence or property damage, French authorities may use chemical agents and water cannons to disperse crowds.

Alerts issued regarding demonstrations are posted on the  U.S. Mission’s website .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 (the European emergency number which has some English-speaking staff)  or 17 from a landline or cell phone and contact the U.S. Embassy Paris at +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22. French authorities do not generally speak English and communication may be difficult.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

  • help you find appropriate medical care
  • assist you in reporting a crime to the police
  • contact relatives or friends with your written consent
  • provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
  • provide a  list of local attorneys
  • provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
  • provide the Paris Police Prefecture pamphlet in English
  • provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
  • help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
  • replace a stolen or lost passport .
  • provide you with information regarding victims’ assistance groups in France

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact  the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. French authorities will not routinely notify the Embassy unless you request them to do so. See our  webpage  for further information.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in France are severe.

Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. 

In France and Monaco, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol could land you immediately in jail.

Flying Drones:  The use of drones and drone footage in France is highly regulated. It is against the law in France to operate drones over public spaces (including museums, parks, streets) in urban areas and near airports, military bases, prisons, nuclear plants, and large gatherings such as outdoor concerts and parades. The privacy of individuals captured in drone footage is paramount. Violators can be arrested and subject to fines of up to 75,000 euros and/or one-year imprisonment. Review the  information sheet  provided by the French government concerning hobbyist drone flights.

You should contact the  Embassy of France  or one of  France's consulates  in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. Please see our  Customs Information .

There are strict regulations concerning temporary importation or exportation from France of items such as firearms, antiquities, medications, business equipment, merchandise samples, and other items.

French Foreign Legion:  U.S. citizens interested in joining the French Foreign Legion (FFL) should be aware that the cognitive and physical tests for acceptance are extremely challenging.

Ensure you have access to sufficient funds to return home should your candidature be refused.

Successful candidates report that the FFL provides a new identity and retains their U.S. passport during a long probation period. Lack of access to your passport can complicate routine or emergency travel.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information

International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports

Human Rights Report  – see country reports

Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in France.

See our  LGBTQI+ travel information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in France prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation and general infrastructure.

Visitors to France should expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation (subway, specifically), lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Getting around French cities can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and cobblestone streets make access difficult, though major tourist sites generally have better facilities.

Although the Paris Metro is a very efficient method for traveling throughout central Paris, most stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities. However, many Parisian buses and tramways are equipped with lowering platforms for travelers with limited-mobility, or sight- or hearing-disabled. Taxis are also a good mode of transportation.

The English-language  Paris Visitors Bureau and Explore France websites contains additional information specifically designed for travelers with special mobility needs. For further information, e-mail  U.S. Embassy Paris , U.S. Consulate General Marseille , or U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg .

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Dial 15 to connect to emergency medical services or dial 112 to reach an operator.

Ambulance services are widely available, though English is not widely spoken.

Medical care is comparable to that found in the United States.

Except for emergency services, you may be required to pay for service prior to receiving treatment in France. Be sure to obtain a “Feuille de Soins” for later reimbursement from your health care provider.

You may be refused routine care under local law if you lack the ability to pay.

Foreigners with terminal illnesses may be denied treatment if treatment is available in their home country.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Hospital bills are not itemized.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  government of France  to ensure the medication is legal in France.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are generally comparable to those in the United States, but traffic engineering and driving habits pose special dangers.

Lane markings and sign placements may not be clear. Drivers should be prepared to make last-minute maneuvers.

Right-of-way rules differ from those in the United States. Unless specifically indicated otherwise, drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left, even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets.

Bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, and electric skateboards are prevalent on streets, crosswalks and sometimes sidewalks. They have legal priority and often do not respect traffic signals.

On major highways, there are service stations at least every 25 miles. Service stations are not as common on secondary roads in France as they are in the United States.

Highway toll stations may not accept U.S. credit cards. For non-residents, the simplest way to pay is with cash euros at the toll lane marked for that purpose. Do not attempt to use a credit card if it is the only one you have in your possession in case the machine does not return your card.

Traffic Laws:  While French cities actively encourage bicycle rentals through widely available city-sponsored systems, you should be cautious, especially in a busy and unfamiliar urban environment. Helmets are neither required nor readily available near rental stations. If you plan to ride a bicycle in France, you should bring your own helmet. Though bicycles, scooters and electric skateboards must follow local traffic laws, or risk fines, they often do not do so and can pose a danger to drivers and pedestrians.  Many paths are clearly marked for this form of transportation in  larger cities.

Pedestrian accidents occur when a pedestrian steps out into the street, often when a car or motorcycle is making a turn through a pedestrian crosswalk. Pedestrians should be cautious and aware of traffic even when they have a green walking signal since this is no guarantee against aggressive drivers. Do not assume cars will stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk.

Public Transportation:  Paris has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The interconnecting system of buses, subways, and commuter rails is comparable to or better than that found in major U.S. cities. Similar transportation systems are found in all major French cities.

If you use any of France’s public transportation services, take particular care to retain your used or “validated” ticket until you exit the bus, subway, or train station completely, as it may be checked or required for exit. Children over four years of age must have a ticket.

Inspectors conduct intermittent, random checks and passengers who fail to present the correct validated ticket are subject to stiff and immediate fines.  Failing to sign and date or enclose photo (when required) on a tourist pass (Paris Visite) makes the pass invalid and the holder subject to a fine.

Inspectors may show no interest in explanations and no sympathy for an honest mistake. Failure to cooperate with inspectors may result in arrest.

Between cities, France has extensive rail service, which is safe and reliable. High-speed rail connects the major cities in France. Many cities are also served by frequent air service. Traveling by train is safer than driving.

See our  road safety page  for more information. Visit the website of the  French National Tourist Office  for specific information on French driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance. See Embassy of France’s  driving in France  webpage for information on using U.S. driver’s licenses in France.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of France’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of France’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to France should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  (select “broadcast warnings.”)

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in France .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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Bosnia and Herzegovina

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Cote d Ivoire

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Czech Republic

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Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

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Paris France

France Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to France?

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Kate H. Knapp

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Once you’ve decided to visit France, your mind is already in a small café on a cobblestoned street sipping a café au lait—but you need to get a few things in order before the rest of your body can join you.

According to France passport requirements, the expiration date on your passport must exceed your return travel date by at least three months. And, your passport must have at least one blank page for an entry stamp. Upon arrival, you may also be asked to provide an onward or return ticket, as well as evidence of funds to cover the cost of your time in the country.

France Passport Requirements

France passport requirements state that a valid U.S. passport is necessary to enter the country, and it must have one blank page for an entry stamp and three month’s validity beyond the departure date. Check these two things on your passport when you book your ticket to allow for plenty of time for a renewal, if needed. Upon arrival, you may also be asked to show an onward or return ticket and evidence of funds to cover the cost of your stay.

France (along with 25 other European countries) is a party to the Schengen Agreement , and, therefore, requires passports to be valid for at least three months (though six months is recommended) beyond your date of departure. You can travel between the countries within the Schengen area without having to show a passport, but will need to have one when returning home or crossing into another European country not part of the Schengen agreement.

Countries party to the Schengen agreement include: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

How to Get a Passport Book for Travel to France

Apply for a passport as soon as international travel is confirmed. The cost will be greater if applying for a passport within two weeks of travel time, because you will need an expedited application. You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport here .

What to Do if You Lose Your Passport in France

Take every precaution to keep your passport secure, such as carrying it in a hidden passport holder, keeping it locked in a safe, and emailing copies to yourself or a loved one before traveling.

If you do lose your passport, report the loss immediately to the U.S. Embassy Paris .

Other France Travel Requirements

Visa : No for U.S. citizens, up to 90 days

Vaccinations : No

So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit France?

In summary: Yes. France passport requirements state that you must have a U.S. passport that will remain valid for at least three months after your travel dates and contains at least one blank page for an entry stamp. You must also need to show proof of return or onward travel, along with sufficient funds for your trip.

More Information When Visiting France

The  U.S. Department of State  provides detailed information, including travel advisories and passport validity requirements, to your destination.

For information on how to apply or renew a passport,  visit  here .

France Tourism is a great resource for things to do and places to stay, as well as everything you need to know before you go when planning a trip to France.

Protect Your Passport

We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection. 

On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once you arrive at your destination, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the hotel front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the hotel or vacation rental but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock .

Zoppen Passport Wallet

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

More from SmarterTravel:

  • 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport
  • How to Renew a Passport, Global Entry, and TSA PreCheck—The Ultimate Guide
  • How to Take Your Own Passport Photo

Dress Up Your Passport

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects 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 France set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact France’s Embassy in the UK .

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel company or airline for changes.

Visit TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre) for general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Public spaces

You’re strongly recommended to wear a face mask in health settings. In some areas, people aged 6 and above may need to wear a face mask.

Passport validity requirements

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

Your passport must be:

  • 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’)

Check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Contact the French Embassy in the UK if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

Passport stamping

At French border control, you may need to:

  • show proof of where you intend to stay, for example, a hotel booking or proof of address if visiting your own property
  • show proof of insurance for your trip – check FCDO’s travel insurance guidance
  • show a return or onward ticket
  • prove that you have enough money for your whole stay

Check your passport is stamped if you enter or exit the Schengen area through France as a visitor. Border guards will use passport stamps to check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If relevant entry or exit stamps are not in your passport, border guards will presume that you have overstayed your visa-free limit.

You can show evidence of when and where you entered or exited the Schengen area, and ask the border guards to add this date and location in your passport. Examples of acceptable evidence include boarding passes and tickets.

If you live in France, read our Living in France guide for passport stamping information.

Proof of accommodation and funds

You may need to show proof of where you intend to stay. Read about documents you may need for short stays on the French government website . This will differ depending on where you are staying.

Staying with family, friends or a third party

You may be asked to provide an ‘attestation d’accueil’ (welcome invitation) from your host. The French resident hosting you must get the ‘attestation d’accueil’ from their local mayor’s office, and send the original ‘attestation’ before you enter France. Be prepared to show proof that you have at least €32.50 euros a day for the duration of your stay.

Second homes in France

You will need to be able to prove ownership or tenancy of your property, such as a tax or utility bill.

Staying in a hotel or other commercial accommodation

You may be asked for confirmation of your reservation when entering France. Be prepared to show proof that you have at least €65 euros a day for the duration of your stay.

Other circumstances

If you do not have an ‘attestation d’accueil’ (welcome invitation) or any pre-booked accommodation, you may be asked to prove you have at least €120 euros a day for the duration of your stay.

For more information on these requirements, visit the French government’s website on travel conditions for British citizens.

Visa requirements

You can travel to countries in the Schengen area, which France is part of, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel:

  • as a tourist
  • to visit family or friends
  • to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
  • for short-term studies or training

If you are travelling to France and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you will need to meet the French government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa you may need on the France Visas website .

If you are travelling to France for work , read the guidance on visas and permits.

If you stay in France with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

British citizens who cannot return to the UK before their visa, permit or visa-free limit expires should contact their local prefecture in France .

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of France. Check the French Directorate General of Customs and Excise website . Declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food required for medical reasons. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

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Passport Validity Period for Travel to Europe

Many European countries ("the Schengen states") require that your passport be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.  For more information see the Department of State's Schengen web page at http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/schengen-fact-sheet.html .

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  • Two months left o...

Two months left on passport

I was checking our family in for our flights online and I realized that my husbands passport expires in less than 3 months. I tried desperately to get him an emergency passport but it’s Friday evening and we’re supposed to leave on Saturday. I don’t know why I let this slip through the cracks. I’m trying to figure out if he should try to get into France or if they absolutely will not let him in. Does anyone have any experience with this?

He'll almost certainly be stopped at the US outbound airport.

Unfortunately I don’t think he will even be allowed to board flight to France Not a matter of “trying to get in”

Not sure how accurate or up to date but a quick search brings this up Indicates France requires 3 months https://visaguide.world/tips/passport-6-month-rule/

Have you called the airlines? Doubtful if you’ll get the answer you want but it can’t hurt to try.

Travel.state.gov says your passport must be valid a minimum of three months beyond your date of departure: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html . Airlines have their own passport rules too.

Call the airline. They probably won't let you on although sometimes they don't check. What they will probably have husband. do is go to the nearest passport office and get an emergency passport and charge you to change his tickets.

Here is an article from the Washington Post about traveling with a expiring passport.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/passport-rules-regulations-invalid-expired/2021/03/31/2e5c7d80-8bd6-11eb-a730-1b4ed9656258_story.html

Is it really your fault that your husband's passport has only 2 months validity?

So mad at myself. I can't figure out if it's discretionary or not. I have spoken to a few passport people who seems to think it's possible to get in but it's hard to know for sure. This happened to my sister in law when she was visiting Abu Dhabi and she got in but needed an emergency passport of the embassy. Not sure if they would do that in France.

You must just feel sick right now. And I'm sorry to be the bearer of news that will not improve the outlook.

This is from the US Department of State website in the Visa requirements section:

The Government of France does not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into France. If traveling on this emergency passport, you may be refused boarding and/or entry by immigration officials. Only direct transit through France for a destination in the United States is permitted with an emergency passport.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html

I am so sorry. You have some big decisions ahead. Do you go ahead with the rest of the family and your husband follows with a new passport on Monday or Tuesday? Do you all just wait until you can go together? Neither choice is very attractive.

I wish you the very best.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html

What category he may qualify for is not clear.

So you’re saying that even if he was able to obtain an emergency passport France might still not let him in? Does anyone know if it would even be possible to change the dates of my flight to possible the summer? Or would I likely lose all the money we spent for the ticket? I think I would lose all the money I spent on my air bnb but if I could at least change my booking day it might be worth it. So devastated.

It is possible to get him a regular passport at a passport office if you can get an appointment. It doesn’t have to be an emergency version. The trick is to get the appointment. Have you looked online?

I had one possible other idea and I don’t know that it is a good one. Is there a neighboring country with a two month requirement that he could fly into? Entering France by land wouldn’t face the same passport check as by air.

You will need to contact the airlines to see what they say. There is still the option for the rest of the family to go if lodging and airfare would be lost otherwise.

It is possible to travel to the UK on his passport. It must only be valid for the duration of his stay. I don’t know if you might want to see if airline might let you change destination……..

Only you can determine if his flight is changeable Check with your airlines We have no idea what you’ve booked

United no longer charges change fees Not sure about others

lWhile they don't charge change fees the times we have had to do changes it has been horribly expensive because the 'class of ticket' (not business or coach but the code for the class we bought) is not available on the new flight -- only a MUCH more expensive one is.

I'd go ahead and leave him behind and have him follow once he gets the new passport -- usually when you have a flight booked and a problem like this you can get a new passport in a day or two -- but the people I know who did this, did it a few years ago.

Airlines are not likely to let him board because I think France will send him back and that cost may fall on the airline -- they don't want to transport anyone they may be responsible for.

Such a bummer.

"It is possible to travel to the UK on his passport. It must only be valid for the duration of his stay. I don’t know if you might want to see if airline might let you change destination…….." He still will not be allowed into France because there is passport control between the UK and France. Please note that you are allowed to travel to France and to all other members of the Schengen Area for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa, as long as your U.S. passport is valid for at least 3 months after your planned return to the United States. The UK is not a member of the Schengen Zone so you have passport control when you cross the UK/France border. The Schengen states all require the 3 months. Assuming you do not want to leave him behind ( which is what I would do and what my husband would want pur family to do), best bet is to try and find an appointment at the nearest passport office and get non-emergency passport in 24 to 48 hours or change the trip and put the cost out of your mind. There are 26 regional passport agencies in cities across the United States. If your husband wants to try to get a passport at a regional passport office, he must make an appointment by calling the National Passport Information Center: 877-487-2778. In addition, he must have proof that he needs a passport urgently, such as a flight itinerary showing a departure within the next two weeks. Since his departure is in less than 8 business days, he should be able to pick up his passport at the regional passport agency. This will be a regular passport not an emergency passport. A few years ago, I helped my nephew get his passport that way when if you can believe it, he forgot to renew his passport before a year-long trip. I have also used a passport expediting service and the passport was ready in about 8 hours after dropping off the sealed package from a passport acceptance facility with the expediter. At the time, here in the San Francisco Bay Area, there was a passport acceptance facility in a county clerk's office that did not take appointments so I showed up early and was helped after waiting about 4 hours, including an hour when they closed for lunch. Then I drove the packet to Peninsula Visa in San Jose. This was in 2016 and it possible that COVID has messed up that process. You can find the facilities at https://iafdb.travel.state.gov/ .

Thanks so much everyone for trying to give me some advice. I’m thinking that maybe if they absolutely won’t let him in we could all just fly to the UK and maybe the US embassy there could issue a passport for him. Maybe delta can add a flight from Paris to heathrow and we can just stay in UK. I’ll let you know what happens! Thanks so much everyone.

That last plan is not going to work but good luck!

You don't want to be detained by the UK immigration police. Your husband should get his emergency appointment now and meet you in France. It will not take long if he has his flight reservations.

this wasn't an April Fool's joke, was it?

Well played if it was... it fooled me in the best possible way for a travel forum...pathos and all

Although I wouldn't have minded the outcome so long as the OP still got her vacation in France! She worked for it, April fool's joke or no!!

I wish it was an April fool's joke. I spent all day thinking I would wake up from an anxiety dream. Going to the airport soon to see what they say. No good options. No appointments available at emergency passport. I’ll have to rely on some fluke bit of kindness from a bureaucrat. Wish me luck.

I know everyone here wishes you well. Do let us know how this turns out. Thank you for your willingness to share this here. I expect several people double checked their passport expiration dates thanks to you.

Just in case you decide to go ahead with an urgent travel appointment https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html

Oh drat, I was really hoping it was an April Fool and the joke was on all of us. Now I'm just sad, and hoping for the best.

Good luck We are all hoping for the best outcome!

" I expect several people double checked their passport expiration dates thanks to you. "

This is exactly how your thread is helping others. Doesn't do much for you but yes...I even gave myself a pause and put thought in to when I'd renewed....and yes, right before the pandemic so I'm good until 2030. And yes, I've pulled out the correct one for my upcoming trip.

It’s a good reminder to all of us to check expiration and RENEW well ahead of time

It was my parent's renewing their passports that alerted me. My mom keeps copies of my passport in case something happens. She called me and told me my passport had expired last year. I didn't believe her but sure enough my passport had expired 3 months previously. Luckily it was during the pandemic and I wasn't traveling anywhere. But it can creep up on you.

Keep this in mind......IF the airline lets you onboard, and you get to French immigration, and they deny him entry, it will not be fun for him.

He will be held by the authorities and put on the next available flight back to the USA. If there are no fights that day, or much it is much later in the day, he is not held in a comfy lounge. It is in a holding cell.

Should that happen, the airline has to fly him back. And if its found that the airline was at fault for not following French rules, the airline will be fined and have to eat the cost off flying him back.

I hate to say it, but more than likely, he won't make it on the plane. There is a small chance the gate agent may miss it, but the French won't.

You might want to get in touch with the closest French consulate and ask them.

I'm so sorry this has happened to you. I wouldn't even attempt to go until I had a new passport. I 'm thinking about that Tom Hanks movie where his character gets stuck in an airport, I think for months.

Please let us know how this turns out.

Lufthansa requires entry documentation be provided before you fly. They state it multiple times. Seeing that is what made me double check my passport ( I am good until next year). Otherwise I would have thought I had a couple more and would have been in your shoes. Best wishes for someone to help you get it expedited!

It would be nice if the State department could send a postcard like the DMV does stating that your passport will be expiring soon. Especially if you are like most Americans and don't travel internationally every year.

I KNOW my passport is good until 2026, but like others I double-checked just to be sure. :)

Hoping your situation is resolved with as little pain as possible. Good luck.

It would be nice if the State department could send a postcard like the DMV does stating that your passport will be expiring soon

Great idea! The President issued an executive order late in 2021 mandating various departments improve their customer experience. The Dept of State, and specifically the passport process, was among them. Perhaps they'll make such an improvement, though it's likely to be part of the new paperless process that was mandated by the order.

I recently listened to a podcast that referenced Passportsandvisas.com. It looks like they can get a renewal in 4 business days. The price is really high...but it might be worth checking out.

So I’m sad to report that they could not let him on the flight. When I put the passport in the scanner it picked up on the Jun expiration immediately. I wanted to just have us all stay back and go another time when we could be together but he wanted us to go and he’ll try to meet us. I don’t even know if he’ll be able to get an emergency passport though because he couldn’t get an appointment. The only thing he can do is show up as a walk in and see what happens. It would be so helpful if airlines posted a box you can check saying that you’ve read your country’s passport requirements or maybe just a reminder that says many countries require that you have an extra 6 months left on your passport before you leave. I’ll let you know if he was able to get the emergency passport.

I am so sorry. I hope he gets the passport soon and is able to join you.

I hope you read the website link I posted above. It tells exactly how to get an appointment at the passport office. It requires a phone call as they don't accept online appointments. Your husband should be on the phone first thing Monday am for an appointment. He might also consider trying different passport offices that he could fly to on the way to join you.

I know this is tough and I am very sorry it happened to you. I am glad that you and the kids went ahead and hopefully he will join you soon.

. I don’t even know if he’ll be able to get an emergency passport though

I think someone pointed out above that an emergency passport won't do him any good as far as getting into France, as France won't accept an emergency passport for (visa-free) entry.

I didn't know that but I think it was JHK who posted that and I believe them.

Have your husband go back and carefully read JHK's detailed instructions as to what he needs to do.

I hope you and the rest of your family arrived today and are making the most of your time although you are obviously not having the trip you had hoped for and are missing your husband.

It is all in the language. Her husband is not looking for an emergency passport, although she keeps using that language. He will be looking for an expedited(same day) renewal. If he gets his appointment at the passport office, he will be issued a regular US passport.

Yes that right it’s an expedited passport and not an emergency one. I think they used to have walk-ins but not anymore because things changed with Covid. They did tell me that they don’t allow walk-ins but that’s really the only option because they said that the only appointment I could get was in Hawaii. I think that would be too much as our trip would be almost over.

Make An Appointment at a Passport Agency or Center

We have two types of appointments: Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service. You cannot walk-in . We do not charge a fee to make an appointment. You can only make an appointment by calling 1-877-487-2778. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/passport-agencies.html

If he is unable to get an appointment......

Chictoria, thank you so much for the continuing updates. I hope you and the kiddos have a terrific time in spite of missing Dad. It's a good time to demonstrate flexibility in the face of adversity.

I'm sorry to hear that your husband was denied but now with digital passports it's pretty inevitable. I would have your husband call the passport hotline at 8am sharp tomorrow. I'm not so sure he'll get an appointment seeing as many people probably were like your husband and forgot to look at passport expirations until the last minute.I hope you and the children can at least try to have some fun on this trip and talk daily via zoom or FaceTime with hubby.

As I said before, if the State Department really wanted to reform and streamline for the 21st century, automated passport notifications need to become a reality. It would be interesting to know how this is handled in other countries.

Where is your husband willing to fly to in order to get his expedited passport? Is he willing to use an expediter and pay an additional maybe $200 to $300 for the service? To find an acceptance office that has appointments available on Tuesday, I thought about states where there might nor be a lot of demand for passport services and looked at post offices there using usps.com/scheduler. Well, there are many appointments available on Tuesday in Wheeling, West Virginia. That was the first state that I picked but there are others. I once read an article that listed the states with the most passport holders and the fewest so he would want to look in the closest one with fewer passport holders. Then after he gets the sealed package at the post office, he would have to get it to an expediter. The only expediters who can do the really fast turnover are the ones that are physically located near a regional office. If he wants to go the regional passport route, he needs to call at 7:30 AM tomorrow and be willing to fly to any regional passport office that can see him on Tuesday. The one in Hot Springs, Arkansas and the National Passport Center in New Hampshire might be possibilities. Last year, an acquaintance of mine had to fly to the midwest from California to get his expedited passport.

I'm traveling to Paris for a week with my family. the first week of April

This statement from OP's other post.

Rather than going through a gauntlet of desperate measures to try to join the family, he might as well just send his passport renewal in via the usual process. The current trip is too short to warrant the bother of extreme measures.

Good point.

For a week trip, yeah, he should go home and have a beer. I had a boss years ago who had the same issue; he was able to fly to Miami from Nashville and get a passport in one day to make his work trip, but most of the US government has drastically cut services/budgets for customer service. I would not be surprised if last minute passports are impossible now. You can get 'emergency papers' to get home, but trickier to get a passport for travel out of the country.

So easily could happen to anyone. Sorry it happened to you OP. Sounds like everyone is handing it with grace.

“ As I said before, if the State Department really wanted to reform and streamline for the 21st century, automated passport notifications need to become a reality. It would be interesting to know how this is handled in other countries.”

I can only comment how this is handled in the Netherlands. A few months before my passport or driving license expires, I receive a notification in the online platform used by the government and lots of other official authorities to communicate with citizens in the Netherlands. I can then book an online appointment and get new passport photos taken. On the day and time of the appointment I go to the city hall of the town where I live, hand in my passport photos, pay the fee of €75 and leave. After 6 working days, my new passport will be waiting at city hall for me to collect. Or I can choose to pay €3,50 extra and have it send home to me. An expedited renewal is possible for €50 extra. The new passport will then be ready the next day. For both regular renewal and expedited renewal walk-ins are also possible, but I prefer to make an appointment so I don’t have to wait in line.

Oh, the trip is only for a week. In that case, yeah, I agree completely with Joe32f.

LPT - I presume everyone uses google calendar or something to that effect; go get your passport, put the expiration date in your google calendar, then set a reminder like 6 months out for renewal.

Make sure it's a google account you will use all the time.

except of course that there is no guarantee that folks using google today will be using it in 10 years

skunklette1771, in fact, I'd stretch that to one-year before. It could take 6-months to renew, and six-month's validity could be required some places, or you may need to apply for some complicated visas.

@Nigel - sure, but there's no 2029 Calendar out yet, either, so this is the best I can come up with :)

Just check your passport every year on your birthday. In the year when you have 18 months or fewer, put a reminder in your calendar to renew in nine months. You don't need the government to send you a reminder.

Dutch Traveler, Oh, how I wish it were that easy and straight forward to get a passport renewed here in the US! Your system seems very simplified and workable. But of course, the population of the US is so much more than the Netherlands so I'm not sure it would be that easy here. It sure would be nice though! OP, I hope you and your family can enjoy your trip. I'm sure your husband is upset and disappointed, I know I would be.

Yes it’s a bit difficult to really enjoy anything without feeling guilty that my husband isn’t enjoying it with us. I can’t look at anything without thinking how much he would like it. Plus I’m much more anxious because I’m not traveling alone but with 3 children. But it’s my own fault. I can’t believe I missed it. I suppose I haven’t travelled in such a a long time I forgot. I went to Canada a few years back and it wasn’t an issue with the passport. For some reason k thought it would be really easy to get into the EU. I was also trying to get him into London at the airport but the attendant told us that he would need 3 months on his passport as well. I looked it up and saw many websites that said passports are good for the duration and there was no 3 month requirement. I’m not sure if something changed or if the airline attendant was wrong. We could have stayed at my friends flat in London.

But it’s my own fault. I can’t believe I missed it.

I'm confused about why you're to blame for your husband's passport expiration?

My husband is responsible for his own passport and its renewal. It’s not your fault! It’s his.

You’re right he could have also verified it as well. I usually book and plan everything so I just feel responsible. I think he may have even asked me and I said I thought it was fine.

We just got our three kids new passports as well in January so he did see it . Ah well it’s all water under the bridge now. Now I’m trying to decide if I still want to take the train to Caen and rent a car and drive to Mont St Michel with the kids in the rain. I’m kind of stressed about this. I hear driving in Normandy is not bad but I’m a bit thrown by driving in the rain in a foreign place.. does anyone know if there’s a bus at Caen station that will take you to Mont st Michel?

Kudos to you for making the best of a difficult situation. It shows good strength of character that you stepped up and are making this a positive time for your children. They are not only learning about France but about flexibility and resilience.

By public transportation it would be a long slog from Caen to Mont-St-Michel. I'd guess 3 to 4 hours one-way. I think you'd need to change buses twice, or you could use trains to Pontorson and then (I think) a bus from there. There seems to be just one train per day, at 7:46 AM, requiring two changes and not getting to MSM until 11:23 AM. I don't believe buses are frequent, either. It's really not practical to do the trip by public transportation.

Thanks so much for the info on public transport to Mont Saint Michel. Guess I’ll suck it up and drive in the rain.

Yesterday I had to drive across town after driving my husband to the doctor (he can no longer drive) because he left important paperwork at home and so I had to do the trip twice to fetch it --- annoying BUT we long ago decided to have a 'no fault marriage' and 50 years later now that we are old and make stupid mistakes like forgetting the paperwork it is nice to not have to hear about our failings. Stuff happens. Good to know your partner has your back even when you make a mistake. I am the family trip planner and so when things go sideways it is my fault too -- but I never have to hear about because we have kept our 'no fault' agreement all thee years.

This passport thing was a big deal; but it is a done deal and I hope you can continue to accept that stuff happens and it is part of life's rich pageant. An annoying part, but no one died. And time to plan a Paris trip with him. Maybe Christmas? Maybe his birthday?

You have handled this beautifully so far and hope MSM is as amazing for your kids as it was for us. I'd drive -- MSM has an enormous parking lot and the roads while small are not difficult to drive.

well said, janettravels44

@Chictoria, wishing you a safe drive. You and your husband have handled this well. I can't speak for others but I know that I feel for you and hope that you and your children have a safe and enjoyable trip. I am the planner in my family and when anything goes wrong I blame myself but luckily I am married to someone like janettravels and her husband who just rolls with the punches. We once missed the last ferry on a trip to Greece because I took us to the wrong ferry terminal and we had to spend the night at a hotel. A few week ago I was reminiscing about mistakes that I had made during our many trips and my family had forgotten about the missed ferry and over the years had somehow decided that we voluntarily stayed in Mykonos for the night. In 2019, I was at SFO and a family was trying to check in and it turned out that they had arrived at the airport on a date that was not the date of their tickets. Things happen. Please be easy on yourself.

arrived at the airport on a date that was not the date of their tickets

I once showed up at an airport that wasn't the departure airport for my ticket. Fortunately, a credit card solved that one. And it makes for a laugh with my Dad all these years later.

These things happen to the most meticulous of planners.

No flight mishaps so far, but on my first post-retirement trip (and first European trip in about 20 years), I booked my hotel stay in my first city to start the night of my transatlantic fight. Caught the error just in time to allow cancellation/re-booking with no penalty. There are so many different mistakes one can make.

Thanks so much for the words of encouragement everyone. I’m now up at 3 in the morning here stressing about the return Covid test I have to take. When I looked at the National travel website it said that we need an antigen test. However, I was under the impression that I just needed a PCR test for travel looking at some websites. Also I thought the PCR tests take 24 hrs so how do you know if you can get on the plane before you leave.

You just need an antigen test. You can do it any time the day before your flight. It doesn’t have to be 24 hours. It can be more as long as it’s the day before. It will also just take 15 minutes for results. The pharmacist will print out a copy of your results.

Are you in Paris now?? Just go to the nearest pharmacy the day before your flight and ask if you need an appointment. It’s very easy.

As said above, you need only the antigen test, which is the easier and faster test to get than the PCR test. Just about any pharmacie can do it without an appointment and I feel like there is a pharmacy every two to three blocks in central Paris. I got my test done at Ma Pharmacie Bastille at the corner of Rue des Tournelles and Rue de la Bastille. They were super efficient but the person taking the swab stuck the stick so far up my nose that I passed out. My traveling companion did not pass out so I think it is just me.

Yes I am in Paris now. Thank you so much for clarifying. I was getting worried I would make a mistake!! I’m guessing that you bring your passports and the pharmacist gives you Some kind of form to present at the airport? I’m going to Normandy for a couple of days and will ask on Friday about wether I need an appointment. To do it on Saturday. It sounds like it’s pretty easy and Straight forward from what your saying though.

They were super efficient but the person taking the swab stuck the stick so far up my nose that I passed out. My traveling companion did not pass out so I think it is just me.

During one test I had it prompted a sneezing fit that I thought would never end.

Whose credit card was used for the rental car booking in Caen? If it is your husband's, you might not be able to pick up the car you reserved.

Yes, go in on Friday to check about Saturday. You'll need all your passports and yes, the pharmacist will print out your results. I didn't have to ask, she just handed it to me. BTW, the pharmacies are usually very small so at the one I went to she asked me to go walk around outside for 15 minutes and come back then.

This will be the easiest thing you've done all trip, lol!

Noted above was "It would be nice if the State department could send a postcard like the DMV does stating that your passport will be expiring soon. Great idea! The President issued an executive order late in 2021 mandating various departments improve their customer experience. The Dept of State, and specifically the passport process, was among them. Perhaps they'll make such an improvement, though it's likely to be part of the new paperless process that was mandated by the order."

Your drivers' license requires your address, your passport does not. And you are required to report address changes to your DMV. Mandating that the State Department keep track of the address of every passport holder would add a whole new layer of bureaucracy and expense solely to relieve people of their personal responsibility. How will they obtain the address change in order to contact when expiration is near?

How will they obtain the address change in order to contact when expiration is near?

I think the idea is that they'd contact passport holders via email.

I agree with you though. The thought that anything this easy and convenient could successfully be implemented in the US is comical.

Once you receive the results from the pharmacy, do they provide a written report for you to hand to the airlines?

" Once you receive the results from the pharmacy, do they provide a written report for you to hand to the airlines? "

Yes, the pharmacie I used in Paris did without me even asking. She knew it was an exit test for the US.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

How long do you need on your passport to travel to France? Rules you need to know

Lengthy delays for passport applications have caused consternation for holidaymakers - here's how long you'll need when travelling to France

  • 17:04, 26 MAY 2022
  • Updated 17:06, 26 MAY 2022

France is hugely popular with British holidaymakers - but you'll need to check your passport before travel

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With the summer holiday season very nearly upon us, millions of Brits are gearing up for family getaways to destinations all over Europe and beyond. Whether it's a sunshine break lounging on the beach or by the pool, or a city break full of culture and fine food, the continent is a popular choice because it's within easy reach by plane, ferry or Eurotunnel.

France has long been a huge draw for British holidaymakers. With the country having recently relaxed its coronavirus travel rules, many people will be heading there for their holidays this summer.

But with passport renewals currently subject to lengthy delays, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got enough time left on your passport before your flight from Birmingham Airport . If you don’t, your summer holiday plans could unravel.

READ MORE: Do you need a passenger locator form for France and what are the current entry rules?

With new passports taking several weeks to arrive, a lot of people are wondering how long you need on your passport to travel to France. Here’s what you need to know.

How long do you need on your passport to travel to France?

The UK Foreign Office’s travel guidance states that if you’re travelling to France, your passport will need to be valid for at least another three months after the day you plan to leave France. It must also have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country.

Schengen area passport requirements apply when you are travelling to any European Union country except the Republic of Ireland. The UK government advises travellers to check their passports prior to travel in order to ensure that there’s enough time left on them.

Passport renewals have been subject to lengthy delays in recent months. HM Passport Office has been overwhelmed by demand for new passports as global travel returns to near-normal.

Last month, the Passport Office warned holidaymakers that they’d have to wait up to 10 weeks for their new passports to arrive. The delays caused problems for many holidaymakers travelling abroad over Easter, with some forced to cancel their holidays .

The Passport Office said last month that it was in the process of recruiting another 700 staff to help it cope with the increased demand. People in need of a new passport for the summer holiday season are urged to apply for one as soon as possible.

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Do I need 6 months left on my passport to visit France or Spain 2024 after Brexit?

Here travel journalist Pete Barden  takes a look at how much time you need on your passport - be it 3 or 6 months' validity left - to visit Spain, France and other EU countries.  Here we explain how to make sure you are up to date with the latest rules on how much time you need to have left on your passport for travel to Spain, France and beyond for summer, autumn and winter in 2024. We also look at other documents required to travel.

Why is my passport taking so long to arrive?

If you are waiting for your passport to arrive, it should currently take  three weeks the Home Office Passport Office has warned .

How much time do you need left on your passport for Spain and France

With the Brexit transition period having ended on 31 December 2020, it is essential to understand how important passport validity is for travelling to the likes of France and Spain and other EU countries. Read on to find out what additional validity you may require on your passport.

Time left on your passport should be measured from when it was issued 

Do i need 6 months left on my adult or my child's passport to visit spain.

No - this is not the case, unless you are planning to use the full 90-day period you are permitted to stay in Spain as a non-resident. While many websites claim all people will need 6 months' validity on their British passport when travelling to Spain, official advice from the government states that you will need just 3 months' validity from the time you leave Spain to travel back to the UK or another country.

In addition, child passports should also have at least 3 months’ validity remaining from the date of leaving Spain. Extra months on an adult passport due to early renewal will not count, so some passport holders will need more than 3 months remaining to travel. The 3 months needed when leaving a country must be within 10 years of the passport issue date.

Some rules on passport validity can change at short notice - check  UK Government’s foreign travel website  for information before booking.

Do I need 6 months left on my adult or my child's passport to visit France?

No - you will most likely not need 6 months' left on your British passport when travelling to France - unless you are planning to stay there for more than the full 90-day period allowed for non-resident visitors.  Official advice on entry requirements to France from the government make it clear that you will require just 3 months' validity from the time you leave France to return to the UK or another country.

Both adult and child passports should have at least 3 months’ validity remaining from the date of leaving Spain travel. Extra months on an adult passport due to early renewal will not count, so some passport holders will need more than 3 months remaining to travel. The 3 months needed when leaving a country must be within 10 years of the passport issue date. It is estimated that about five million UK citizens hold passports that are valid for less than 12 months, meaning they should consider renewing now if they plan to travel in the new year.  Some rules on passport validity can change at short notice - check  UK Government’s foreign travel website  for information before booking.

easyJet drops the requirement for 6 months' validity left on passports - and what other airlines say...

  • It must be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to depart from the EU or above countries*
  • It must be no more than 10 years old on the date of travel to the EU or above countries.
  •  is valid for at least three months from the date they will leave the Schengen member country, unless the person has a Schengen-issued residence permit or long-term visa.
  • UK passport should not be older than 10 years.

Ryanair's latest policy on passport validity can be found here . Check your airline's validity requirement before you travel. While requirements from some airlines appear to contradict what the UK Gov.UK website says, travellers are advised to adhere to the requirements stipulated by their airline or face the possibility of being barred from flights - as the carrier has the final say on who boards.  Contact your airline in advance if you have fewer than six months left on your licence and ask them to advise you in writing before you consider renewing your (or a child's passport) as the processing delays could also leave you grounded.  British Airways ' website says 'follow government advice' for passport validity. So three months - with issue date caveat applied - should mean three months from the time you leave the destination for many countries.  Jet2 has clear information on the post-Brexit passport validity you should adhere to when flying with the airline to the likes of France and Spain. The information on the airline's website sets out the following information about document validity:

  • Most EU countries now require UK passports to be less than ten years old and still be valid for at least three months at the time you're due to leave their country.
  • Visit the Gov.uk website for detailed, up-to-date information on passport validity. 

Remember to get your passport stamped - for now anyway

Essential travel news - read here, do i need an international driving permit for france, spain and other eu countries, who can sign my passport photo... can teaching assistants sign for kids, do i need a new passport now i have put on weight, dyed hair, gone bald etc, do i need to wear a mask on my flight, how much are fast-track security lanes at uk airports and how to book them, can i fly with a broken leg or other bone, how much are extra legroom seats on your flight - revealed here, where can i charge an electric car at uk airports, are there any free drop-off points at uk airports, what airlines have defibrillators on their planes, what does ssss on your boarding card mean and should you be worried, what help is there for travellers with autism at uk airports, do i need a v103 certificate to drive my car abroad, do i need to get a new passport if i move home, how long will i need on a child’s passport when travelling to eu countries.

The same advice, as above, applies to a child's passport. Make sure they have at least 3 months' validity.

Is there a passport checker for travel to France or Spain

The official Government tool to check passport validity has now been removed. Use the following page to find information about your destination when travelling to France, Spain and other EU countries.

Use the passport information here to see if you are covered for trips to France, Spain and other EU countries after 1 January 202 1.

Will extra months be added to your passport - because of early renewal - count towards the required validity?

If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to the expiry date. These extra months on your 10-year passport will not count towards the 3-month rule –- meaning you are likely to need more than 3 months of validity. Check it here to see how your passport is impacted .

How long is the processing time for passports at the moment?

Official advice from HM Passport Office states processing times of up to 10 weeks for applications. However, some people are reporting longer or much shorter processing times. Get the latest HM Passport Office processing times here .

Can I get my holiday money back if my passport does not arrive on time?

Do i need 6 months left on my passport when travelling to ireland.

No! You will not need to have 6 months' validity left on your passport when travelling across the Irish Sea to the Republic of Ireland after December 31, 2020. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay, however.

Countries that require 6 months' validity left on a passport

Outside of the UK, there are countries that require 6 months' validity. Here are the countries requiring 6 months to enter. Correct at time of writing.

Will I need a visa to travel to EU countries now we've left the EU?

The EU confirmed that UK travellers won't need a visa now the Brexit transition period has ended (on December 31, 2020) , if travelling on short-term trips of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Will I need to get a new passport without ‘European Union’ on the cover?

No. While the UK will be creating a new Brit-only version of the passport, your current document will be accepted.

Passports issued after January 31st, 2020, will have all references to the European Union removed from the cover and internal pages.

What countries are affected by the new passport rules since Brexit on January 31st, 2020?

The new passport validity advice for No-Deal travel to the EU is likely to affect the following countries...

What can I do if I have less than 3 months left on my, or my child’s passport?

Adults can get a fast-track passport in as little as a day if they apply for an appointment online – even though getting one of these will take at least two days. This costs from £177 and cannot be used for children. Apply for the online premium passport renewal here .

If you’re looking to renew a child’s passport or have a little more time, a one-week online system is available. This costs from £142 for an adult, and £122 for a child. You will be required to attend an appointment at a nearby post office. Find out how to apply for the fast-track passport and other renewal fees here .

How to renew your passport if required

Adult passport replacement:.

People who can apply: • UK resident • Aged 16 or over (or turning 16 in the next 3 weeks) to get an adult passport • If your passport has been lost, stolen or damaged When you will need to apply: Passports must be replaced if suffering has more than reasonable wear and tear. Passport validity: 10 years Cost: • Online: £75.50 • Apply by form: £85 Time to process application: Up to 10 weeks Required Paperwork: Replace online: • Digital photo • Credit or debit card Replace using paper form: • 2 current and identical printed photos. • The application form and 1 of your photos signed by qualifying person to prove your identity. Online premium service: Not available for this service 1 week fast-track service: Adult standard 34-page passport: • £142 Adult 50-page frequent traveller passport: • £152 People who can apply: • Those renewing an adult or child passport that has expired or will soon expire • Those changing personal details on their passport (including the likes of name, place of birth or gender) • To replace a lost, stolen or damaged passport Time to process application: • Delivered to applicant’s home within 1 week of appointment Required document you must bring to the appointment: • 2 identical passport photos • Completed  application form • Required supporting documents Additional stipulations: • A video interview may be required.

Adult passport: Amendments to personal details

Child first passport:, child passport renewals or changes.

DISCLAIMER:  Check the latest passport rules on validity before booking here

Author: Pete Barden :

Twitter: @pete_barden.

Pete Barden is a qualified journalist who has written and produced for publications including The Sun (thesun.co.uk), New Statesman Media Group , Whatcar? (Whatcar.com) Stuff Magazine (Stuff.tv), Fastcar Magazine (Fastcar.co.uk), Maxim Magazine and UK broadcast stations within the Heart network (Formerly GCAP). Pete specialises in motoring and travel content, along with news and production roles. You can find out more about Pete Barden on LinkedIn .

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  • Rules for travelling with a soon-to-be expired passport

People can often forget to check the expiration date on their passports before travelling, assuming that as long as it’s in date then they will be fine. Crucially, a lot of countries still need a certain amount of time on a passport before they allow you in. Find out whether you can travel when your passport is about to expire with our handy guide.

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How long should you have left on your passport?

Many people  pack their bags for a holiday or business trip with just a casual glance at their passport expiration date, but if it’s due to expire you may be refused entry. While most countries such as Australia, Canada and the USA just need your passport to be valid for the length of your stay,

other countries such as China, Thailand, Egypt and Turkey need at least six months. Always check the specific entry requirements for the country you are visiting on the GOV.UK website. You should make sure that your passport meets the following rules:

  • The passport issue date is less than 10 years before day of arrival in the EU
  • The passport expiry date is at least three months after intended day of departure from EU

In general, many countries that require a visa to enter will require at least six months validity on your passport when entering the country, so make sure you find out whether your passport has long enough before it expires before you travel.

It's easy to get your passport application or renewal right first time.

How do i find out how long i need on my passport.

The best way to find out if your passport is valid for travel to certain countries is to check the Travel Advice section of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) website. Choose the country you’re visiting, before clicking on ‘Entry requirements’ and scrolling down to ‘Passport validity’.

Passport rules for different countries

All countries will have their own rules concerning passport validity and expiration rules. Here’s a list of the most common ones:

Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay.

Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay, but if you have less than six months validity it may take longer to pass through immigration control.

Your passport should have at least six months validity.

Male wearing beanie and winter jacket looking up at departures boards at the airport

European Union

For most European countries, HM Passport Office recommend that the passport expiry date is at least three months after intended day of departure from EU. Those countries are:

*However, if you’re travelling to the north of Cyprus, your passport should have at least six months validity.

Czech Republic

Netherlands

Your passport must be machine readable, with two blank pages for your visa and valid for a minimum of 180 days at the time of entry into India.

New Zealand

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of one month from the date of exit.

South Africa

Rules state that your passport should be valid for at least 30 days from the date of exit, but it’s recommended that you have at least six months on your passport before it expires. Your passport should also have at least two blank pages when you enter or leave South Africa.

Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay. However, your passport must be a biometric ePassport with the silver camera symbol on the front. There are also a number of other rules concerning entry to the USA , which you should check before travelling.

What to do if you need a new passport

If you need to renew your passport and have more than four weeks before you travel, pick up an application form from your local Post Office or use our online Passport Check & Send process.

If you need your passport more urgently, then read the Government’s official passport advice to find out more on soon to expire passports.

Want to get your new passport application or renewal right first time?

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France passport validity experiences, 3 months or 6 months - France Forum

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France passport validity experiences, 3 months or 6 months

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66 replies to this topic

' class=

>>>>the rule is that the passport needs 3 months' validity on the intended return date.

This is indeed the rule, and border guards all know this very well. The idea of a 6 month validity date is based upon a 90 days stay (the maximum) and then having the 3 months valid beyond that. However, this is not what you are purposing to do.

What can come into play for some UK passports is this rule:

A valid passport issued less than 10 years before and valid for at least 3 months after the envisaged departure date;

https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US/web/france-visas/your-arrival-in-france

I understand some UK passports may have an extended expiration date but the French only recognized passports with a maximum validity period of 10 years from issue date.

Thank you, we are OK on the 10 year rule as the passport was issued in 2018. From my research on the web it certainly does look like, as you say, they will look at your return ticket date and check it has at least 3 months beyond that. If anyone has successfully travelled with more than 3 but less than 6 months’ validity that would put my mind fully at rest though!

travel to france time left on passport

The rule is 3 months, if the passport has 5 months left on return you will be absolutely fine.

Those are the rules that will be applied,

' class=

We are here now and my daughter's passport expires 3 months 4 days after our departure.

' class=

Thankyou this has been really helpful and reassuring! :)

' class=

This is the same email and panic I just got for husband too. Presume it was ok when you went on eurotunnel? Between 3-6 months validity left ok?

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Travelling to France with exactly 3 months left on passport - France Forum

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Travelling to France with exactly 3 months left on passport

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' class=

Does anyone know if I will be ok to travel still?

' class=

Much better to ask the Embassy involved about this, random internet strangers experiences may not be yours.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

According to the UK gov website:

Make sure your passport is:

less than 10 years old

The 3 months you need when leaving a country must be within 10 years of the passport issue date.

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france/entry-requirements

travel to france time left on passport

you will probably be denied carriage or entry

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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How many months do I need on my passport to travel?

Everything you need to know about passport validity — and which destinations demand what.

travel to france time left on passport

H aving a valid passport is essential for international travel, but countries have different rules around when a passport expires — and it’s not necessarily the date shown on your document. Following Brexit , for example, UK passport holders now need to have a passport that’s less than ten years old when they enter an EU member state, with an expiry date that’s at least three months after the day they leave.

For some destinations, a valid passport isn’t the only requirement — you may also need to have full blank pages for visa and entry and exit stamps. Here’s everything you need to know, including the entry requirements for some of the most popular destinations for British travellers.

Main photo: wherever you’re going, check the passport requirements (Alamy)

Corsica: your passport must be less than ten years old when you enter and valid for at least three months after you leave (Alamy)

Popular destinations

• Spain : passport must be less than ten years old when you enter the country and valid for at least three months after the day you leave

• Greece : less than ten years old when you enter the country and valid for at least three months after the day you leave

Advertisement

• France : less than ten years old when you enter the country and valid for at least three months after the day you leave

• Italy : less than ten years old when you enter the country and valid for at least three months after the day you leave

• US : passport must be valid for duration of stay, no additional validity required

The US: your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay (Getty Images)

Less than three months needed

• Argentina : passport must be valid for duration of stay

• Australia : valid for duration of stay

• Barbados : valid for duration of stay

• Bermuda : valid for duration of stay

• Canada : valid for duration of stay

• Chile : valid for duration of stay

• Cuba : valid for two months after departure

• Japan : valid for duration of stay

• Jamaica : valid for duration of stay

• Mexico : valid for duration of stay.

• Morocco : valid for duration of stay but three additional months is advisable

• Seychelles : valid for duration of stay

• St Lucia : valid for duration of stay

• Tunisia: valid for duration of stay

Tunisia: your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay (Alamy)

Three months needed

• EU countries ( Austria , Belgium , Bulgaria, Croatia , Cyprus , Czech Republic , Denmark , Estonia, Finland , France , Germany, Greece , Hungary , Ireland , Italy , Latvia , Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta , Netherlands , Poland , Portugal , Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia , Spain and Sweden ): passport must be valid from day after departure and less than ten years old

• Iceland : passport must be valid from day after departure and less than ten years old

• New Zealand : from arrival

• Norway : from day after departure and less than ten years old

• Switzerland : from day after departure and less than ten years old

Switzerland: your passport will need to be valid from the day after departure and less than ten years old (Getty Images)

Six months needed

• Anguilla : passport must be valid for six months from arrival

• Antigua and Barbuda: from arrival

• Bahamas : from departure

• Belize : from arrival

• Brazil : from arrival

• Bolivia: from arrival

• China : from arrival

• Colombia : from arrival

• Dominican Republic : from arrival

• Indonesia : from arrival

• Israel : from arrival

• Egypt : from arrival

• Grenada : from arrival

• Jordan : from arrival

• Malaysia : from arrival

• Maldives : from arrival

• Peru : from arrival

• Qatar : from arrival

• Singapore : from arrival

• Sri Lanka : from arrival

• Taiwan: from arrival

• Thailand : from arrival

• UAE : from arrival

• Vietnam : from arrival

India: your passport must be valid 180 days from your visa application and arrival, and contain two blank pages (Alamy)

How much do passports cost?

• Online applications made from within the UK cost £82.50 for adults and £53.50 for children

• Postal applications cost £93 for adults and £64 for children

Which countries require blank pages in your passport?

Some countries require full blank pages for visas on arrival as well as entry and exit stamps. In some cases, these blank pages need to be consecutive. Double check with the embassy before you travel.

• India : passport must be valid 180 days from visa application and arrival, and contain two blank pages

• Kenya : valid six months from arrival, plus two blank pages

• Mauritius : valid for duration of stay, plus a blank page

• Namibia : valid six months from arrival, plus a blank page

• Rwanda: valid six months from arrival, plus a blank page

• Turkey : valid six months from arrival, plus a blank page

• South Africa : valid for six months from arrival and 30 days on departure, plus two blank pages

How do I find out how long I need on my passport?

The Foreign Office has a full list of entry requirements for different countries, including passport validity. It assumes you are travelling on a full, standard British passport. If you have a passport issued from a British Overseas Territory, the entry requirements may be different for some destinations. You should also double check details with the embassy of the country you’re visiting.

What’s the minimum passport validity to enter the UK?

The UK government requires visitors from other countries to have a passport (or other valid ID if from EU countries, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein) that is valid for the duration of their stay. No additional validity is required.

How do I get a new passport if I need one?

You can apply for a new passport online via the government’s website. It costs £82.50 for a standard adult passport (valid 10 years), or £53.50 for a child under 16 (valid five years), and you’ll need a credit or debit card for this. Alternatively you can apply for one through the post; the forms for postal applications are available through the Post Office and it costs £93 for an adult or £64 for a child.

You’ll need to send in certain documents which usually include a birth certificate if it’s your first passport, or your previous passport if you’re renewing. The requirements vary according to your circumstances but the application form will tell you what you need.

• Most powerful passports in the world

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Britons issued passport warning as little known rule may mean you are denied boarding - 32,000 people could be vulnerable

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Britons have been warned to check the validity of their passports

Anna Barry

By Anna Barry

Published: 27/03/2024

Britons must check the issue date and expiry date of their passports if they plan to visit the EU

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Britons have been warned they may not be able to travel if they fail to check an important passport detail.

UK travellers could previously carry up to nine months from an old passport over onto a new one. But post-Brexit, EU countries will not accept passports issued more than 10 years ago. According to data from the Home Office, this could leave 32,000 people vulnerable.

Travel expert Simon Calder shared how UK passport holders can avoid being caught out on their next holiday. He explained that EU countries are concerned with the issue date of passports.

Calder told holidaymakers: "My last EU passport issued in the UK was valid for a total of 10 years and nine months, because you got extra credit.

Your passport 'can't have had its 10th birthday on the day you want to leave for the European Union'

"And that's great - until we left the EU and we said we want to be subject to the rules for third-country nationals."

Consequently, your passport "can't have had its 10th birthday on the day you want to leave for the European Union".

He continued: "And on the day you plan to come back from the European Union, it has to have at least three months before the expiry date."

Calder revealed that many travellers are falling short when it comes to these two tests. Those with plans to travel to EU countries over the Easter weekend have been advised to book an emergency appointment for a quick passport turnaround. Those travelling a bit later in the year have more time on their side.

These rules only apply to those visiting EU countries, but not Ireland.

If you're heading to the US, Australia, or other popular tourist countries, your passport is valid up to and including the expiry date.

But for those heading to the EU, many Britons may be vulnerable. Home Office data shows that 32.1 million people had applied for UK passports that if granted would be over 10 years old.

Norwich man Nathan Barnes was recently caught out by the passport rule, and consequently was refused boarding on a flight to France.

The holidaymaker was hoping to make his way to Limoges with his fiancé to visit family but was stopped at the departure gate, despite checking in for his flight online, and going through security and passport control.

His passport had been issued more than 10 years ago, and for this reason he was not allowed to board the plane.

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Britons may be denied boarding if their passport doesn't meet the requirements

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Simon Calder suggested that across the year you could "easily find that there are over 100,000 people who lose their holidays as a result of these rules".

Travel Editor at Which? Rory Boland said that "the '10-year rule' is a problem that continues to catch people out".

He provided a word of advice for holidaymakers: "What's really important is that you check your passport validity and expiry date when booking your holiday."

He explained that making the check during check-in or on your travels to the airport is too late, as it's often "too expensive and too complicated to save their holiday".

Britons have also been warned of a price hike for passport applications that comes into effect within weeks.

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How many months do I need left on my UK passport before I travel?

Many countries across the world require you to have a few months left on your passport at the time of travel – here are the main holiday destinations to watch out for, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Different countries require one, three or even six months remaining on your passport

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You might think that you can just hop on a plane with an in-date passport and travel the world. In fact, many countries demand that visitors have months left on their passport before it expires.

Some – including Australia , Canada and the US – only require your travel document to be in date for the duration of your trip.

But others give a more restrictive time frame, with no real pattern from region to region – while most of Asia requires six months on your passport, for example, different Caribbean islands demand different time frames.

In some destinations, you can also be caught out for not having enough space left in your passport for new immigration stamps.

Here are the key passport validity rules for British passports for the world’s top holiday destinations.

Valid for the duration of your stay

These countries only ask that your passport is valid until the day you leave the country.

*While this is technically the rule for Canada, if you have six months or less on your passport, it may take longer for you to get through immigration.

Valid for one day

Costa Rica requires Britons to have one day’s validity from the day of their departure.

Valid for three months

All EU countries, plus those in the Schengen Area (excluding Ireland) require you to have three months left on your passport from the day you plan to leave. Your passport must also be less than 10 years old on the day you enter the country. This is true for the following countries:

  • Republic of Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Liechtenstein
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • Vatican City

These non-European countries also require three months’ validity on your day of departure:

  • British Virgin Islands
  • French Polynesia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea

Valid for six months

In most cases, this means valid for six months from the date you arrive in the country, but it’s worth checking the Foreign Office’s individual entry requirements for the country you’re visiting to make sure.

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • The Bahamas
  • Dominican Republic
  • Ecuador (& Galapagos Islands)
  • Madagascar*
  • Philippines
  • South Africa*
  • United Arab Emirates

*South Africa, Madagascar, Kenya also require you to have two blank pages left in your passport; Namibia requires one blank page.

Valid for 180 days

India requires a more specific 180 days of validity from the date you arrive. It also asks visitors to have two blank pages available for their visa.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Hundreds of British tourists with ‘remainer passports’ are getting caught out by a little known 10-year rule

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A woman holding a passport in an airport.

Be warned: if you still own a red ‘remainer’ passport, you’ll want to pay close attention to this post-Brexit rule.

Before the UK left the EU, UK passport holders were able to transfer up to nine months from an old passport over to a new one, including on 10-year passports.

But, if carrying this over has meant that your passport is now over 10 years old, you could find yourself caught out at the border.

What is the 10-year passport rule?

Before Brexit , the UK Passport Office’s policy was that passport holders that had time left on their existing documents could effectively transfer the balance to a new one.

So, if a document had three months remaining, those three months could be added to a new passport.

Under these rules, up to nine months could be carried over to a new passport, bringing the total for updated 10-year passports to 10 years and nine months.

However, as a result of this rule, data from the Home Office suggests that up to 32 million people could have passports that are now over 10 years old – which EU nations do not accept.

These rules also apply in the wider Schengen Area, including in Iceland, Norway and Switzerland, though UK visitors entering Ireland aren’t impacted by this rule.

A smiling woman picking up her passport while at aiprort security.

Are red passports still valid?

The red remainer passports are no longer being issued after Brexit – the UK passport is now blue.

Red passports are still valid, though, as long as they’ve not expired.

Nonetheless, if you do still own a red passport, you’ll need to double check the expiry date.

Many countries require your passport to be valid for another six months before you leave for international travel – another rule that’s been slipping countless Brits up post-Brexit.

Countries and their passport rules...

70 countries that have a six-month passport rule: 

Afghanistan, Algeria, Anguilla, Bahrain, Bhutan, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Curacao, Cote D’Ivoire, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Fiji, Gabon, Guinea Bissau, Guyana., Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Madagascar, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Myanmar, Namibia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Oman, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Saint Lucia, Samoa, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Somalia, Somaliland, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam, Yemen, Zimbabwe

41 countries that have a three-month passport rule: 

Albania, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Iceland, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein., Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Senegal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Countries with other validity rules:

Bermuda (45 days upon entry), Eritrea (three months on arrival), Hong Kong (three months on arrival), Lebanon (three months on arrival), Macau (three months on arrival), Micronesia (four months on arrival), South Africa (three months on arrival), The Maldives (three months on arrival), and Zambia (four months on arrival).

Also known as the  ‘six-month validity rule’ , lots of people using old red passports (issued before  Brexit ) may run a risk of their documents not having long enough left – and being refused entry to certain countries.

According to  VisaGuide.World , there are 70 countries that follow the six-month passport rule, including the likes of  Thailand ,  United Arab Emirates  and many countries in Central America.

While another 41 apply the three-month passport validity rule – including lots of spots in Europe.

How long does it take to renew a passport?

Fear you’ll be caught out by the 10-year passport rule? Don’t worry: there’s plenty of time to renew before the summer holidays.

According to Gov UK, you’ll typically receive your new passport within 3 weeks. Take note: the processing time starts from when your documents are received – not sent off.

If the Passport Office needs more information from you, it could take longer – but they’ll let you know within the 3-week timeframe if they do.

However, if you are heading abroad this summer and need a new passport, you might want to allow extra time just in case. Better safe than sorry.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

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How long will it take to renew my passport? Everything you need to know to before travelling

Your bag is packed, your car hire is booked  – but what about your passport? A last-minute renewal can be extremely stressful, especially as many destinations require three or even six months of validity left on a passport before departure.

Here we run through everything you need to know about applying for a new passport, from costs to waiting times, what to do if you need a new document urgently, plus EU validity rules.

How long will it take to receive my new passport?

According to the Home Office, holidaymakers should allow three weeks to receive their new passports.

However, be aware that it could take longer than this timeframe, especially if more information or an interview is required. The Passport Office will inform you of any delays within three weeks.

Be warned: the situation could change with little warning. Sudden surges in demand can impact processing times, which has led to severe delays in previous years as the summer holidays approached. Check the Home Office website for the most up-to-date timeframes.

How can I get a passport quickly?

If you do need a passport urgently, there are two ways: use the one-week fast-track service or the even faster premium online service .

The fast-track service costs £155 for an adult passport and £126 for a child. It can be used for renewals, changing details such as your name, replacing a lost, damaged or stolen passport or applying for a first passport for a child.

The service cannot be accessed online and you must fill in a paper application form, which can be obtained at the Post Office. Confusingly, once you have the paper form you must book an appointment online, to which you will need to bring two passport photos, your form and supporting documents in order for your passport to be approved.

The online premium service is simpler and more speedy but costs a hefty £193.50 (or £204.50 for a 50-page frequent traveller passport). Furthermore, it can only be used to renew adult passports and not to replace lost or damaged documents.

Applications can be completed online and you will be required to book an appointment at a passport centre where you will receive your new document. The earliest you can get an appointment is two days from when you apply.

It is possible to ring up in an attempt to expedite your document, but for this to be authorised you would have to outline special circumstances such as a sudden bereavement. The number to call is 0300 222 0000.

Is it quicker to renew my passport online?

It is likely quicker, easier and cheaper to renew your passport online. You’ll need to complete the online application form on the Home Office website , upload a digital photo, and pay the fee using a debit or credit card.  To apply by post, ask for a passport renewal form at a Post Office that has a “Check and Send service”, or call the Passport Adviceline on 0300 222 0000.

Do I need to send my old passport back when renewing?

Yes, when renewing your passport, you need to return the old one. This allows the Passport Office to verify your details.  If your passport has been lost, you’ll need to order a replacement rather than a renewed passport. You can apply for a replacement passport on the Home Office website .

How much does a standard passport renewal cost?

The fee for a standard online application for adults made from within the UK is £82.50, while the cost of postal applications is £93. From April 11, the price will increase to £88.50 for online applications, and £100 for postal applications. Expect to pay a higher fee for express renewals and passports with extra pages – find full details on the Home Office website .

What is the EU 10-year passport validity rule?

A new passport, for an adult, is typically valid for 10 years. However, if the passport is renewed with months remaining on the old passport, these are added on – meaning some people have passports valid for over 10 years. Countries in the Schengen area explicitly use the date the passport was first issued as the ‘starting’ point, and so passports might be classed as expired. Put simply: if your passport was issued on November 1 2013, you cannot enter the EU post-November 2 2023, regardless of the expiry date on the document itself.

Rhys Jones, a manager at aviation website Head for Points, believes that holiday companies have a responsibility to remind passengers of these rules. “I think providers have a big opportunity to make life easier for a lot of people,” he says, “especially as people continue to go on their first trips after the pandemic. These people might find themselves getting caught out.”

Is the expiration date the last day I can travel on my passport?

The date of expiry, one might assume, indicates the final day one can travel with a passport. Not so. In many countries, like Canada, Egypt, Kenya, Thailand and Vietnam, there needs to be at least six months of validity left on the passport before departure. All countries in the Schengen agreement – including France, Spain and Italy – require three months validity after leaving. It catches out countless passengers a year and, while it is listed on Foreign Office’s individual country advice pages , remains little-known.

Can I travel if my passport is damaged?

In our well-travelled world, it’s relatively easy to end up with a less-than-pristine passport. Bashed edges might be excused by the more liberal of border guards, but ripped pages, or scuffed sides, could be enough to impact travel. In fact, a Telegraph Travel reader found themselves unable to go on an £8,000 holiday due to a tear in their passport – despite the fact that it was caused, they said, by BA’s self check-in scanners.

According to the Passport Office, the document must be replaced if “it has more than reasonable wear and tear because you may not be allowed to travel with it.” Examples of “damage” include ink spillages, missing or detached pages, or discolouration.

Can stamps make my passport invalid?

Then there are the stamps. Once the pride of the well-travelled holidaymaker , they were then relegated to something only needed in far-flung destinations. Then Brexit came along, and stamps returned, common for both EU countries and those across the world. While the aloof border guard might not seem too interested in your previous travels, they can have a profound impact on the places you can gain entry to.

In fact, having certain stamps in one’s passport can inadvertently invoke the wrath of international diplomatic issues. When President Trump left office, he placed restrictions on travellers who have been to Cuba by adding the island to a list of ‘State Sponsors of Terrorism’ alongside North Korea, Iran and Syria. It means that those who have been to Cuba since the decision can no longer officially travel to the US under the Esta visa-waiver scheme. Instead, they must apply for a B-2 visa in order to visit the States, a much more lengthy – and expensive – process.

Rhys Jones notes that issues can appear regardless of a traveller’s best intentions. “I was in Malaysia recently,” he says. “Somehow, the border guard had written the wrong date on my entry stamp, which caused a huge issue when I was trying to leave the country.” Eventually, immigration officials managed to rectify the problem, but it has made him more vigilant. “It’s easy to be caught out even when it’s not your fault,” he says.

Stamps are not just a matter of border control, however. The momentary glee that comes from getting a novelty stamp – like those from Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwyll, or Machu Picchu – can cause headaches at the border. In 2020, a tourist with the latter was denied boarding on a plane to Thailand, as she was told it invalidated her passport. It’s a cautionary tale, and one to remember before getting a memento from the gift shop.

The proliferation of stamps also means that it is easy for frequent travellers to run out of space. Entry and exit marks for every European nation has been a striking change for the traveller. And while the introduction of electronic gates (and possibly biometric passports) are likely to remove the worry in the future, travellers who currently cross borders regularly could quite easily run out of pages. That’s a problem in itself, as the cost of a new adult passport starts at £82.50, and those with extra pages cost even more. But some countries, like South Africa , require tourists who are entering with visas to have two blank pages in them, meaning a replacement might be needed long before the space is filled.

This story was first published in February 2023 and has been revised and updated.

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travel to france time left on passport

BBC Breakfast's Simon Calder issues guidance to Brits over EU passport rule

A travel expert has shared a crucial tip for UK holidaymakers to avoid a potential disruption due to a lesser-known European Union rule.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Simon Calder explained that after Brexit, countries like Spain, France, Italy, Portugal and Greece won't accept any passport issued more than 10 years ago, even if it's still 'valid' in the UK with nine months left.

He said: "This is solely for the European Union. Nowhere nowhere else in the world cares. I mean, the wider Schengen area. So Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and so on."

He added: "But they are concerned uniquely about the issue date of your passport. And for instance, my last EU passport, issued in the UK was valid for a total of 10 years and nine months cos you got extra credit and that's great until we left the EU when we said we want to be subject to the rules for third country nationals."

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He added: "And on the day you plan to come back from the European Union, it has to have at least three months before the expiry date. So two tests: one, it can't be older than 10 years. Two. It must have at least three months left - based on your issue date and based on the expiry date - so it's complicated."

He said the passport issue is seeing people fall foul of this - a couple of 100 a day.

He said if you've spotted a problem now and you are going away over Easter, then try to get an emergency appointment with the nearest passport office.

"But if you're travelling later, maybe in the May Bank holidays, summer holidays, then you've got time on your side and just to stress, so we don't get people renewing passports unnecessarily again, it's only the EU that cares about the issue date of the passport," he said. "If you're going to America, Australia, Tunisia, they say no, your passport's valued up to and including the expiry date."

Nathan Barnes, aged 31, was taken aback when he wasn't allowed to get on his flight to France, even though his passport was up-to-date. He told the BBC: "They were very matter of fact about it, they just said 'sorry you can't board, off you pop'. I was gutted, surprised really. We had checked in online and thought it was fine."

This rule exists in all EU countries except for Ireland. Essentially, your passport should be less than 10 years old and have over three months left after your planned return date.

Rory Boland, who writes about travel for Which?, advised: "The '10-year-rule' is a problem that continues to catch people out. What's really important is that you check your passport validity and expiry date when booking your holiday. Not when you go to check-in, and certainly not when you travel to the airport, because that's when people are continually finding that their passport is out of date and it's often then too expensive, and too complicated to save their holiday."

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Simon Calder said people need to check passports now in order to avoid discovering at the airport they can't travel

IMAGES

  1. France Golden Visa Scheme

    travel to france time left on passport

  2. Map of France with a Passport and Ticket Stock Image

    travel to france time left on passport

  3. The Road to French Citizenship

    travel to france time left on passport

  4. U S Citizens Can Travel To France For Up To 90 Days Without A Visa

    travel to france time left on passport

  5. french citizens

    travel to france time left on passport

  6. What Americans can expect when traveling to France during the pandemic

    travel to france time left on passport

COMMENTS

  1. Guide to the 6-month passport rule

    Many European countries are signers of the Schengen Agreement. As a result, they follow the 3+3 Rule, meaning your passport must be valid for three months beyond your three-month entry visa or for a total of six months, regardless of the duration of your initial stay. While some Schengen countries only require passports to be valid for three ...

  2. Travel to France

    When traveling to France, please note that the Government of France does NOT recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free travel, and, if traveling on this emergency passport, you may be refused boarding and/or entry to France by immigration officials.

  3. The Passport 3 Month Rule

    Short Summary. The 3-month passport validity rule requires passports to be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended date of arrival, with exceptions and special cases. It is important to research entry requirements, obtain necessary visas in advance, and verify a passport's expiration date before traveling.

  4. Entry Requirements for American Travelers to France

    When in France, please carry a photocopy of your passport separately from your passport. The copy will facilitate issuance of a replacement ($75 fee for adults, $85 for children). The American Embassy in Paris is at 2, avenue Gabriel, tel. 01 43 12 22 22. The Passport Section is nearby at 4, avenue Gabriel (open 9a.m.-noon, Monday- Friday).

  5. France International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  6. Countries That Require Six Months of Passport Validity

    The Six Month Validity Rule for U.S. Passports - List of Countries. Many countries require travelers to have passports with at least 6 months of remaining validity as an entry requirement. Some require the passport be valid for six months from the date of entry while others require six months validity beyond one's stay.

  7. France Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to France?

    In summary: Yes. France passport requirements state that you must have a U.S. passport that will remain valid for at least three months after your travel dates and contains at least one blank page ...

  8. Arrival in France

    Upon your arrival in France, you will be subject to administrative obligations to transform your visa into a regular residence permit. These formalities will also allow you to access the services and benefits provided by the French administration. They differ depending on the visa issued to you. Long-stay visa with the obligation to apply for a ...

  9. Entry requirements

    Your passport must be: 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 ...

  10. Passport Validity Period for Travel to Europe

    Contact Us. Office of Aviation Consumer Protection. 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590 United States. Phone: (202) 366-2220 Business Hours: 8:30am-5:00pm ET, M-F. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

  11. Two months left on passport

    If your husband wants to try to get a passport at a regional passport office, he must make an appointment by calling the National Passport Information Center: 877-487-2778. In addition, he must have proof that he needs a passport urgently, such as a flight itinerary showing a departure within the next two weeks.

  12. Do I need a valid passport to travel to France?

    Due to Brexit, you also need to make sure you have at least 6 months left on your passport in order to travel. You may be refused entry to France if your passport does not have sufficient time remaining which is the responsibility of yourself as a traveller. For any further information, please visit the Foreign Office website

  13. How long do you need on your passport to travel to France? Rules you

    The UK Foreign Office's travel guidance states that if you're travelling to France, your passport will need to be valid for at least another three months after the day you plan to leave France ...

  14. Do I need 6 months left on my passport for Spain and France?

    Official advice on entry requirements to France from the government make it clear that you will require just 3 months' validity from the time you leave France to return to the UK or another country. Both adult and child passports should have at least 3 months' validity remaining from the date of leaving Spain travel.

  15. Travelling to France with exactly 3 months left on passport

    Answer 1 of 6: Hi, I'm travelling to France in August and returning on the 7th of September. My passport expires on the 7th of December, making it EXACTLY 3 months until expiry. Does anyone know if I will be ok to travel still? Cheers!

  16. Passport expiration

    Most sites recommend having at least 6 months left on your passport, and I would hate for us to travel all the way to France only to be turned around once we get there because of passport issues. ... Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Beyond destination forums.

  17. Can you travel with a soon to expire passport?

    For most European countries, HM Passport Office recommend that the passport expiry date is at least three months after intended day of departure from EU. Those countries are: *However, if you're travelling to the north of Cyprus, your passport should have at least six months validity. Austria. Belgium.

  18. France passport validity experiences, 3 months or 6 months

    This is really helpful thanks! We are travelling next week and my husband has just under 6 months left on his passport for travel to France/Belgium for 3 days (no extension on passport so a 10 year period). I just had an email from eurotunnel saying recommending 6 months and panicked, good to know should not have an issue.

  19. Travelling to France with exactly 3 months left on passport

    According to the UK gov website: Make sure your passport is: valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave France, or any other Schengen country. less than 10 years old

  20. What are the passport rules for visiting the EU?

    British travellers will need a visa-waiver to visit most EU countries from 2024. When the European Travel Information and Authorisation Scheme (Etias) launches, UK passport-holders will have to pay a fee of €7 (£6) for an electronic travel authorisation. Passport stamping is also due to be replaced by biometric checks next year.

  21. When do I need to renew my passport for travel to Europe?

    So a passport issued on 31 October 2012 could show an expiry date of 31 July 2023. This was fine around Europe and the world for decade - until Brexit, whereupon a longstanding rule kicked in.

  22. How many months do I need on my passport to travel?

    H aving a valid passport is essential for international travel, but countries have different rules around when a passport expires — and it's not necessarily the date shown on your document ...

  23. Britons issued passport warning as missing a key detail may mean you

    Travel expert Simon Calder shared how UK passport holders can avoid being caught out on their next holiday. He explained that EU countries are concerned with the issue date of passports. Calder told holidaymakers: "My last EU passport issued in the UK was valid for a total of 10 years and nine months, because you got extra credit.

  24. Brits in France: What to do if you're still waiting for your passport

    What you get isn't the same as a normal passport, it's a time-limited document allowing you to travel on a pre-agreed route - if your travel plans change after getting the emergency passport, you ...

  25. Passport renewal: How many months do I need left to travel

    Many countries across the world require you to have a few months left on your passport at the time of travel - here are the main holiday destinations to watch out for Travel Desk Wednesday 27 ...

  26. UK travel warning issued on '10-year passport rule'

    The '10-year passport rule' is catching people out (Picture: Getty Images) Be warned: if you still own a red 'remainer' passport, you'll want to pay close attention to this post-Brexit rule.

  27. A family's $6,300 vacation was at risk when the passport office lost

    It was their first time together abroad, and their daughters needed passports. Basi said the UK passport office lost her 3-year-old's photo and used an older child's photo instead.

  28. How long will it take to renew my passport? Everything you need ...

    How can I get a passport quickly? If you do need a passport urgently, there are two ways: use the one-week fast-track service or the even faster premium online service.. The fast-track service ...

  29. What are the rules on taking kids out of school for a holiday?

    UK newspaper The Independent reported in February that a family of four flying from London to Geneva would pay over 16 times more when travelling during half-term versus one week earlier.

  30. BBC Breakfast's Simon Calder issues guidance to Brits over EU passport rule

    Travel expert Simon Calder has issued a warning to Brits over a passport rule which has seen 100,000 people a year turned away from their flights