Brits urged to check passport pages 3 weeks before flying or risk being turned away

Brits are reminded to check their passport pages at least three weeks before a planned holiday or risk being turned away at the airport. Travellers should make sure there are no rips, marks or other issues that the Passport Office classes as damage before jetting off.

Your passport is a vital document necessary for travel abroad. It can also be used as identification in the UK.

However, there are certain cases in which your passport can be rejected for its official uses.

This includes if it is considered damaged.

“If your passport is damaged you must replace it,” GOV.UK warns. “You may not be able to travel with it.”

HM Passport Office will consider your passport damaged if:

• You cannot read any of your details
• Any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing
• There are holes, cuts or rips in the cover
• The cover is coming away
• There are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage)

You will therefore need to apply for a new passport before your holiday. However, you need to do this at least three weeks before your planned travel date as this is the time it can take to get a new one.

To apply online, visit gov.uk/apply-renew-passport. Key requirements include a digital photograph, a valid payment method (credit or debit card), and the old passport for renewal applications. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of identity and citizenship.

The application fee for adults stands at £94.50, while children's passports cost £61.50.

For those requiring assistance with the online application, local Post Office branches are available to offer support. Their staff are equipped to:

• Capture your digital photo
• Assist with completing the application online

However, be aware that this service incurs an additional charge.

You can get a paper passport application from a nearby Post Office to apply by post. Keep in mind, applying via post generally takes more time than submitting an application online.

You're required to dispatch a fully completed application form along with your supporting documents, two photographs, and the necessary fee.

Post Office team members can assist in ensuring your form is accurately filled out - though you must supply your own photos. Note that this service will cost you extra.

Payments can be made with cash, or through debit or credit card transactions.

You can usually expect a new passport within three weeks of processing and dispatch.

However, it can take longer if the passport office needs more information. If this is cutting it too close with your holiday, there are two ways to apply for an urgent passport.

GOV.UK says: “You can pay to get a passport urgently if you think the standard service will take too long.” For both of these options you will need to go to a passport office for an appointment:

• One day premium - This service costs £222 (or £235 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport)
• One week fast track - £178 for an adult passport (or £191 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport), or £145 for a child passport (or £158 for a 54-page frequent traveller passport)

For more information, visit gov.uk/renew-adult-passport.