Passport plan peace of mind

More than 1,000 Passport Office workers are striking for five weeks up to May 5 and holidaymakers are warned of a “significant impact” on passport delivery.

Brits with expiring travel documents face a difficult decision – risk applying for a new one during the strikes, or hold on until after a holiday?

Cody Candee, founder of luggage storage firm Bounce, has provided a four-point advice plan.

1

Check that your passport is valid Obvious, but if you’re travelling abroad you must make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your trip.

Not only should your passport be valid for your departure date, but many countries require it to be in date for at least six months after your arrival, even if you’re only visiting for a day.

2

Renew early With the cost of fast-tracking yourself a new passport significantly more expensive than standard applications, Cody recommends renewing well in advance.

If you have less than six months validity, apply for a new one immediately.

Processing times are around 10 weeks but, as travel is surging after the pandemic, the Home Office predicts another massive year for renewals.

3

Check your blank pages If you run out of clear pages you may have to renew sooner than your renewal date.

Some countries, such as Italy, require a fully blank page, while others, such as South Africa, require at least two.

Always make sure you check the requirements of your chosen destination before travelling.

4

Beware of copycat websites There are a variety of websites that imitate official government websites for passport applications.

They attempt to charge £20-£100 on top of the official fee by offering certain additional “validation” services.

Be absolutely sure to use only trusted sources.

For example, the Post Office’s Check & Send Service offers in-depth application guidance, from specially trained staff.

usebounce.com

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