Simon Calder shares the two key ‘tests’ for British passports

Britons heading to Europe on holiday this summer will need to ensure their passport passes two key “tests”.

Travel expert Simon Calder shared his top advice with Lorraine on ITV and said there are a couple of reasons why Britons could be denied entry to the EU.

The expert said: “Check your passport validity. I’ve got two passports here. This one is valid until November but it’s had its 10th birthday so I can’t use it for Europe. This one is brand new and I can use it for Europe.”

Although a passport might still be within its expiry date, Britons can’t use it for travel to Europe if it was issued over 10 years ago.

Simon added: “However, if your passport is valid, going to America, going to Australia or places like that, this one is valid up to and including its expiry date.”

The USA will allow British tourists to use their passport up until the expiry date even if it isn’t valid in Europe.

Simon added: “So please check that your passport is valid for Europe. Just two tests. Has it had its 10th birthday?

“Does it have less than three months before the expiry date printed on it? [If so], you’re not going.”

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Britons will need to have at least three months left on their passport after the date they intend to leave the EU.

If British tourists need to renew their passports, they’re advised to leave a 10-week window for applications.

Several countries have their own passport rules. Tourists visiting Turkey must have a passport that’s valid for at least 150 days from the date they arrive and have a full blank page for entry and exit stamps.