can uk passport holders travel to france

Brexit: travel rules between the UK and France

On 1 January 2021 Brexit came into effect, re-establishing the borders between the UK and France. Here's the information you need to know before planning trips between the two countries.

Please consult our dedicated Covid-19 article for the latest updates on travel between the UK and France.

Following a transition period, Brexit came into effect on 1 January 2021 and the UK left the European Union. Free movement no longer applies between the UK and France, and migration controls have been re-established to and from the UK.

Travel arrangements

For British travellers to France:

Since 1 January 2021, British nationals have been subject to more in-depth checks when travelling. They are encouraged to allow additional time for border control and use the queue labelled 'Ressortissant de pays tiers' rather than 'EU / EEA / CH'.

British nationals who are not resident in an EU Member State and who wish to travel to France for a short stay (a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period), or who are in transit to another Member State or to the Schengen area, do not require a visa.

Travellers need to:

• present their passport with at least six months' validity, which will be stamped upon entering and leaving the Schengen area. The maximum duration of a short stay cannot exceed 90 days within a period of 180 days;
• be able to prove that they have sufficient funds to meet their needs during their stay. With some exceptions, the minimum required in France is calculated as 65 euros per day. Examples of proof include cash or a bank statement;
• obtain travel insurance covering all medical, hospital and death expenses that could be incurred during their stay in France, including repatriation costs for medical reasons. Current EHIC cards will still be valid until their expiry date.

The supporting documents used to verify compliance with the entry conditions are listed in Annex I of the Schengen Borders Code, accessible here (External link) .

Further information on travel arrangements for British nationals to France is available on the French government website here (External link) and the UK government website here (External link) .

For international tourists wishing to visit both France and the UK on the same trip:

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can travel to the UK visa-free for holidays or short stays. A passport valid for the duration of the stay is required to enter UK territory. Until 1 October 2021, it is also possible to travel with a valid national ID card.

For nationals from outside the EU, a visa may be required to stay in the UK. Further information is available on the UK government website here (External link) .

Travellers from the UK to France are subject to customs control to comply with deductibles for purchases made in the UK, in quantity for alcohol and tobacco, and in value for other goods. The level of these exemptions is specified on the French Directorate General of Customs and Excise website here (External link) .

Purchases made in France may be eligible for tax relief - check here (External link) . PABLO machines, which automate this process, are available in ports, airports and train stations serving the UK.

Further information on customs procedures for UK travellers to France is available on the French government website here (External link) and the UK government website here (External link) .

Download the Brexit guide for travellers (French only) (External link)

Driving licences

British nationals travelling to France for a short stay can drive under their UK driving licence. An international driving licence is not required.

Travelling with pets

It is no longer possible to enter an EU territory with a European pet passport issued in the UK. British nationals travelling to France with dogs or cats must comply with the following health conditions defined by the regulation of 12 June 2013:

• ensure that pets are identifiable by way of a microchip or clearly legible tattoo made before 3 July 2011;
• ensure that pets have been vaccinated against rabies and that the vaccine is still valid;
• ensure that each pet has a health certificate issued by a registered UK vet. The certificate must be accompanied by proof of vaccination against rabies as well as a document attesting to the pet's ID. Certificates are valid for a period of 10 days from the date of issue and must be presented during border checks during this period. They remain valid in EU territories and Northern Ireland for a period of four months.

EU or Northern Irish nationals returning from a temporary stay in the UK and transporting dogs or cats to France must be in possession of a European pet passport. The passport must certify a valid anti-rabies vaccination and must be presented at border control.

On arrival in France, travellers with pets will need to enter through a designated travellers’ point of entry (TPE).

The editorial staff of France.fr follows the trends and news of destinations to bring you stories from France that reveal its innovations and traditions that make you long to (re) discover its territories.

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Can I travel to France? UK entry requirements and travel restrictions – and what amber list rules are

There are different requirements depending on your vaccination status to travel to france.

It’s peak summer holiday season, but foreign holidays are no longer straightforward.

France is one of the popular destinations for UK tourists, which is currently on the amber list.

Here’s what you need to know about the entry requirements and quarantine rules when travelling to France .

What are the entry requirements to travel to France?

If you are not fully-vaccinated, you will only be allowed entry for essential reasons – for example, you have French residency (and must complete a certificate of international travel) – and agree to seven days’ self-isolation.

However, if you are fully-vaccinated, you will be allowed to enter if you provide:

• proof of your vaccination status. France will accept the NHS app (England) or an NHS letter (England, Wales and Scotland
• proof of a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of departure (or an antigen test within 48 hours of departure)
• a completed “ sworn statement ” or certificate of international travel

Under-18s who are travelling with fully-vaccinated adults do not need to self-isolate or provide an essential reason for travel.

What are the rules in France?

Face coverings are no longer required in outdoor public spaces, with some exceptions including public gatherings, queues, markets and stadiums.

But masks are still compulsory (for those aged 11 and over) in enclosed public spaces. There is no longer an overnight curfew and indoor hospitality has reopened, with six people per table.

Retail, cultural and sports venues are open with capacity restrictions and safety measures, but there can be no outdoor gatherings of more than 10 people.

Tourist accommodation, including camping and caravan sites, can also open.

What are the amber rules in the UK?

When you return to the UK, you must follow the  amber list rules .

Before departing an amber list country for the UK, you will need to show evidence of a negative Covid test.

After arriving back in the UK you will have to quarantine for 10 days, taking a PCR test on day two and day eight.

You can take an additional PCR test on day five, and if you test negative you are allowed to leave quarantine early.

The restrictions in place for amber list destinations do not explicitly forbid holidays.

However, alongside the quarantine restrictions that provide a significant obstruction to most people, ministers have cautioned against travelling to countries outside the green list for non-essential reasons.

Transport Minister Grant Shapps has said “you should not be travelling to these places right now”, while former health secretary Matt Hancock insisted people should not travel to amber or red list countries  “unless it’s absolutely necessary, and certainly not for holiday purposes”.

He told Times Radio: “The red and amber list countries are places that you shouldn’t go to unless you have an absolutely compelling reason.”

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman was also asked why holidays to amber list destinations were not therefore illegal, responding: “Our advice is that no one should be travelling to amber countries, that’s in the interests of public health.

“There may be unavoidable, essential reasons for which people still have to travel to amber list countries, that’s why the rules are there.

“It’s right to have this three-tiered approach because there are some limited circumstances where – for unavoidable work reasons, for example – it’s necessary to travel to these amber list countries, where we know there are concerns but don’t have specific instances of variants of concern.”

The lists is decided based on the following criteria:

• The percentage of a country’s population that have been vaccinated
• The rate of infection
• The prevalence of variants of concern
• The country’s access to reliable scientific data and genomic sequencing

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ETIAS France for British citizens

Now that the UK has left the European Union, British nationals are no longer EU citizens. For this reason, UK passport holders will soon need to apply for ETIAS .

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to be launched in 2025 to increase security and safety across the Schengen Area, which includes France .

From the launch date, British nationals will no longer be able to cross the border into France using just their passport , an ETIAS France permit will also be required.

France entry requirements from the UK

If you’re a British citizen planning to travel to France you must meet the country’s entry requirements.

As France is part of the borderless Schengen Area, the entry rules are the same as all other Schengen countries. UK visitors must have the following to enter France:

Do I need a visa to go to France from the UK?

You do not need a visa to go to Paris from the UK , or any other part of France or the Schengen Area.

You can stay in the Schengen travel zone for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa . Your reason for travel must be tourism, business, or transit.

If you plan to stay for longer than 90 days at a time, or for a reason that’s not stated above, you must apply for a Schengen visa at a French embassy or consulate.

Note : While you do not need a visa to travel to France, you will soon need an ETIAS visa waiver to continue enjoying visa-free travel. You can find more information about this new policy below.

ETIAS France for the UK: Key details

The ETIAS for France travel authorisation follows the same entry rules as the visa-exemption policy:

It’s important to understand that ETIAS France is not a visa . It’s a visa waiver which allows UK citizens to travel without a visa.

ETIAS will be an additional step to the Schengen Area’s visa-free policy, facilitating a safer and smoother entry process for non-Schengen travellers .

ETIAS France requirements for UK citizens

If you’re planning on visiting France from the UK from 2025, you’ll need to register with ETIAS. You must ensure you meet the ETIAS France requirements before starting the registration process.

All you need to register with ETIAS is the following:

• UK passport: Must meet the requirements outlined below
• Email address: To receive the approved visa waiver
• Debit or credit card: To pay the ETIAS processing fee

UK passport requirements for ETIAS France

Your passport must meet the following requirements to be eligible for ETIAS France:

The passport rules for France require your passport to be valid for at least 3 months from the intended date of departure from France or the Schengen Area.

Your passport must be biometric (ePassport), as the ETIAS visa waiver is linked to the electronic chip. Since 2010, all passports issued by the British Government have been biometric, which means that the vast majority of UK citizens are eligible.

Use the same passport

ETIAS France cannot be transferred from one passport to another. For this reason, Brits applying for ETIAS with dual nationality should use the same document to make the application and enter France.

Expired passports

Similarly, if the passport expires during the 3-year validity period of the ETIAS, a new visa waiver must be obtained.

ETIAS France application from the UK

The ETIAS France application process for British nationals is fully online and can be completed from anywhere with an internet connection.

Once it becomes mandatory to apply for ETIAS to visit France, UK citizens will be able to complete the process online in just a few minutes. Most applications are expected to be approved almost immediately.

After filling in the ETIAS France form with the information listed below, applicants pay the visa waiver fees using a debit or credit card before submitting their request.

ETIAS France required information for UK applicants

To apply for ETIAS to visit France, UK passport holders should complete the online application form.

The brief questionnaire requires a few personal details and passport information, including:

• Personal details: Name, date of birth, place of birth, gender, nationality, your parents’ first name(s)
• Contact information: Home address, email address, phone number
• Passport data: Passport number, expiry date
• Education and occupation: Level of education, current occupation
• Travel plans: Destination country, accommodation address

You must then answer a few security questions to complete the form .

All the information provided must be accurate . Any errors or omissions may lead to processing delays or even rejection of the ETIAS for France.

ETIAS France security clearance for UK citizens

ETIAS checks your information against security databases , including the Schengen Information System (SIS), EUROPOL, and ECRIS, as well as the ETIAS watchlist.

Provided you meet the ETIAS France requirements for British nationals and there are no hits during automatic pre-screening, the ETIAS will be approved and digitally linked to your passport.

On the rare occasion that something is flagged up, your application will be processed manually by the ETIAS Central Unit and National Units . They have the final decision on whether to grant access to France with ETIAS.

Brits with a criminal record should not be deterred from applying for ETIAS , as only those individuals considered a threat to the public will be denied entry.

Travel to France from the UK

Entering France from the UK will be quick and easy with ETIAS. All you’ll need to do is present your passport to a border officer who will scan it and validate your visa waiver .

There are many ways to travel from the UK to France . Here's a breakdown of some of the most popular methods:

Travel from the UK to France by ferry

Ferries are a traditional and popular way to travel between the UK and France, especially if you're travelling with a vehicle .

Major ferry routes connect ports such as Dover (UK) and Calais (France) , as well as Portsmouth, Poole, and Plymouth in the UK with various ports in France including Calais, Dunkirk, Cherbourg, and St. Malo.

Travel by the Eurostar train

The Eurostar is a high-speed train service that operates through the Channel Tunnel between London St Pancras International and Paris Gare du Nord .

This option is popular for those who prefer a fast and efficient journey between city centres , with travel times typically around 2 hours and 15 minutes from London to Paris.

Additionally, the Eurostar also connects London with other French cities such as Lille and Lyon.

Fly from the UK to France

Major airports in the UK like London Heathrow, London Gatwick, and Manchester offer frequent flights to cities such as Paris (Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports), Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and Toulouse.

Flight duration can vary depending on the route and airline , with shorter flight times often comparable to Eurostar travel, though additional time for airport check-in and security procedures should be considered.

Drive from the UK to France

For those who prefer the flexibility of having their own vehicle , driving from the UK to France is an option. This involves either taking a ferry across the English Channel or using the Channel Tunnel for a Eurotunnel Shuttle service with your vehicle.

Travel to France from the UK by coach

Several coach and bus companies offer budget-friendly travel options between the UK and France. These services typically operate from major cities such as London and Paris, with longer travel times compared to trains or flights.

Health requirements in France for UK citizens

UK citizens planning a visit to France from the UK are advised to take out health insurance to cover the costs of medical treatment should it be required during the trip .

Whilst no specific vaccinations are needed for France, foreigners should be up-to-date with routine vaccines .

Brits carrying prescription medicine from the UK to France should ensure that it is kept in its original packaging and clearly labelled.

Embassy of France in United Kingdom

• 58 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7JT, United Kingdom
• (+44) 20 7073 1000

Embassy of United Kingdom in France

• 35 rue du Faubourg St Honoré, 75383 Paris Cedex 08, France
• (+33) 1 44 51 31 00
• [email protected]

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Moving to France from the UK

As the UK’s closest neighbour to continental Europe, France has been an attractive destination for British emigrants for many years.

Speak to a dedicated immigration adviser today about moving to France from the UK and how we can assist with the move. We are available to speak over the phone, in person, and via online video call.

Call  0330 828 4146  or use the online contact form to get in touch.

Guide to planning your move to France from the UK

France is undoubtedly a popular location for British emigrants, with almost 150,000 UK citizens resident in France. After Spain, it is the second most popular European country for British nationals.

Since 1st January 2021, it is no longer possible for British nationals to move to France and live freely as other European citizens.

The end of free movement as a result of Brexit has meant that it is now far more difficult for British citizens to move to France, although it is not impossible.

This page outlines many of the considerations for UK nationals when planning a move to France.

Since the Withdrawal Agreement and Brexit rules have come into force, there have been many changes to the immigration processes. Some of these may not apply to UK nationals living in France prior to the 1 st  January 2021.

Some of these changes include:

• You are not entitled to live in another EU country unless you go through the immigration system as a third-country national
• If you intend to stay in France for longer than 90 days, you must apply for a long-stay visa in advance of your travel
• If you wish to apply for French citizenship, there are a number of conditions you must meet. As a non-EU citizen, these may include language and integration conditions
• If you wish to work in France, you will likely have to apply for an appropriate work visa, find an employer in advance of travel, and abide by the conditions of your work visa

If you are a UK national who has EU citizenship due to dual nationality (for example, you hold an Irish passport), it will be much easier for you to move to France. It may be worth exploring alternative options if you wish to live in France.

Similarly, if you are the spouse or close family member of a French citizen or French resident, you may qualify for a form of family visa, which may mean that your options for moving to France are made more straightforward.

As well as this, if your spouse, partner, or eligible family member is a European citizen, it may be easier for you to move to France. If your family member meets the conditions of residence as an EU citizen in France, you can apply (similar to applying as a dependent in the UK system).

Working with an experienced immigration lawyer can help maximise your chances of a successful application.

Moving to France after Brexit 2021

If you are a UK national considering moving to France, some of the changes that you can expect to face after the 1 st  of January 2021 include the following:

• A UK national must hold a long-stay visa if they intent to live in France or a French Overseas territory for longer than 90 days (whether for work, study, visitor, or family purposes)
• Owners of second homes spending between three to six months a year in France are not considered residents and must apply for a temporary long-stay visitor visa (VLS-T Visiteur)
• Owners of second homes spending longer than six months a year in France are considered French residents and must apply for a long-stay visitor visa (VLS-TS Visiteur)
• Third country nationals and UK citizen family members living in France are no longer considered ‘family members of EU nationals’ (unless eligible under the Withdrawal Agreement)
• If you wish to work in France, you must apply for a long-stay work visa and fulfil the conditions of stay of this visa
• If you wish to study in France, you must apply for a French study visa if your course lasts longer than three months
• If you wish to join a family member in France for longer than three months, you must apply for the appropriate family visa

Depending on your circumstances, some additional changes may apply to you. If you have any questions about moving to France, it is recommended to obtain professional legal advice from a qualified immigration solicitor.

How to apply for a French residence permit

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a French residence permit.

• Complete your  residency application  online
• Gather your supporting documents (certified French translations of official documents may be required)
• Print the application confirmation page for your records
• Attend the appointment at your local prefecture to provide your biometric details
• Wait for your residency permit to be posted to you

If you plan to settle in France after January 1 st  2021, the below table outlines how to apply for a residence permit based on your circumstances.

To apply for your permit when you arrive in France, you must attend your local prefecture with the aim of securing your permit.

Each prefecture has different rules and you will be given information on how to apply and when you may collect it.

Use the website of your local prefecture or local town hall for further information, or contact the French consulate for further information.

How long does the French residence permit last?

The validity period for the permit depends on the type of permit, how long you want to stay for, and other relevant circumstances. When issued your permit, the expiry date will be displayed clearly.

Applying for a visa to travel to France

Traditionally, visa applications have to go through the embassy or consulate of the country you wish to visit. However, if you are a citizen of the UK, you can submit your French visa application online. The French government website will guide you through the process of applying for a visa to France from the UK. Besides, you can request the assistance of one of IAS’ immigration lawyers.

Once your application is completed, you must book an appointment at your nearest TLS France Visa Application Centre (in either London, Manchester, or Edinburgh) to provide a copy of your supporting documents and to have your fingerprints and photograph taken.

What do I need to apply for a French visa?

To get a visa to travel to France, you will need the following:

• Your passport or any other valid travel document
• Adequate paperwork to explain the reasons for your trip
• Evidence you can financially support yourself and your family during your stay
• Proof of a valid accommodation
• Travel and health insurance certificate, if you are travelling for leisure purposes

Depending on your case, additional documents may be needed to support your eligibility. Some of your documents will need to be translated into French by a certified and accredited translator.

Moving to France checklist

Below is a list of the top six steps you should follow if you have decided you want to move to France.

• Do your research on the cost of living in France compared to the UK
• Decide whether you meet the immigration requirements
• Obtain the appropriate French visa
• Identify the location you want to live in
• Register with the French authorities
• Set up a French bank account, French address, utilities, services, and other contracts

1.      Research your new country

It is important to know what life will be like in your new country before you make the move.

As a country, France has a high standard of living, comparable to the UK. French culture is renowned all over the world, and 23% of the UK population have some ability to speak or understand the French language.

2.      Meet the immigration requirements

If you are a non-EU citizen, you must ensure that you meet the immigration requirements to move to France from the UK.

These may include showing the French government that you have the appropriate level of French language skills, having adequate finances to maintain yourself, and having a pre-approved job offer from an eligible employer.

3.      Obtain your visa

Getting your long-stay French visa is one of the most important steps in the process. After Brexit, you are required to apply for a visa and be successful with your application before you can legally work in France (in most cases).

Find out more information on the government’s  France-Visas website .

If you lived in France before December 31 st  2021, you are likely to be protected under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement residence permit and do not need to apply for an employment visa.

4.      Best places to live in France

The most popular regions for British nationals to live in France are as follows:

• Île-de-France (the ‘island’ of France, a large region including Paris)
• Poitou-Charentes (situated in the west of the country, which is part of Nouvelle Aquitaine)
• Aquitaine (located in the south-west of France, with cities including Bordeaux)
• Midi-Pyrénées (this region is in the south of France and includes cities such as Montpellier and Toulouse)
• Brittany (one of the closes places to the UK, found in the north of France)

5.      Register your details with French authorities

One of the first actions you should take when you move to France is to register with the appropriate authorities.

When you have obtained your French visa, you should apply for the applicable residence permit at the prefecture of your new home.

6.      Set up your services

When moving to France and setting up utilities and services for your new home, you may be required to submit the following:

• Proof of identity (e.g., passport or valid residence permit)
• Proof of address or property ownership
• Details of your French bank account
• Details of the previous tenant (where relevant)

Note that the French equivalent electricity voltage is different than the UK and electrical sockets are also different, meaning you should be prepared when considering whether to bring your electrical items with you.

Do I need a visa and residence permit to live in France?

Visiting France on a short-term basis has not changed significantly after Brexit, and it is not necessary to apply for a visa to do so.

Short-term stay

However, if you wish to stay in France for a period of longer than 90 days, you must apply for a visa. There are two main options for temporary stays of less than 12 months

• Long-stay visitor visa (generally issued for up to 12 months, allowing individuals to live and sometimes work in France (in certain cases)
• Temporary long-stay visa (for individuals intending to stay in France for between three to six months in a year)

Schengen Visa

The Schengen Area is a group of countries in Europe that allow visa-free travel for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

The UK is part of a group of countries not in the EU nor participating in the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) scheme. This means that eligible UK nationals wishing to visit France for a short visit may apply for a  Schengen Visa.

The typical requirements include showing your passport, proof of health insurance, prebooked accommodation, and financial maintenance for your stay.

Long-term stay

If you wish to stay in France for longer periods of time, you will likely be required to apply for the carte de séjour or  Visa Long Séjour valant Titre de Séjour (VLS-TS) . There are a number of different types of residency permits available from the French government.

Some of these include:

• Long-stay visa : This visa is designed for individuals who wish to live in France (and may allow them to work). Sometimes known as the Talent Passport, it is typically valid for one year, but may be extended
• Temporary residency permit : This permit allows individuals to stay in France for a certain set of circumstances (including asylum seekers, voluntary workers, and family carers), excluding work reasons
• Multi-year residency permit : This is typically issued to individuals who hold a long-stay visa, allowing them to stay in France for up to four years. This permit may be issued to students, employed workers, self-employed workers, or on the basis of private or family life
• Retired persons residency permit : This visa is valid for up to ten years and is designed for individuals living independently through their own financial means
• Permanent residency : Individuals holding permanent residency may live and work in France. This is valid for ten years

French visas financial requirements for retired British citizens

If you are a retired British citizen and you wish to move to France, you must have a stable minimum net income of €1,231 per month. A higher income might be required if you are travelling with your partner or your dependents.

If your income is below the minimum level, you must be able to demonstrate that you hold enough capital resources to sustain yourself while in France. Otherwise, you can initially apply for a one-year visa and, provided that you meet the requirements, apply for a permanent residence permit after one year.

France Visas requirements for British entrepreneurs

If you are a British citizen and you wish to set up your business in France, you will need to demonstrate the economic viability of your project and prepare a detailed business plan.

France immigration authorities need to be satisfied with the prospective earnings. However, the initial minimum income requirement might be relaxed if you have other resources.

How can IAS help me?

We are a team of experienced immigration lawyers with expertise covering all areas of immigration law. Contact us for support with your move to France.

We can help you throughout each stage of the process and provide you with the legal advice you need to make decisions for your family and your future.

If you are looking to migrate to another location, we can also help you with the following:

• Emigrate to Ireland
• Emigrate to the USA
• Emigrate to Australia
• Emigrate to Canada
• Emigrate to Portugal
• Emigrate to Spain
• Emigrate to Russia
• Emigrate to Germany

Call our friendly client care team or use the online contact form to speak to an immigration adviser today.

Take the first step. Request a Fact Finding + Expert Consultation

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Need help with an immigration issue? Book a one-to-one advice session with one of our legal caseworkers.

We can complete your visa application on your behalf, taking the stress and hassle out of the process.

Need to submit an application quickly? We can help you complete and send it off in as little as 24 hours.

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal with our legal support and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can i stay in france with a uk passport after brexit 2021.

If you are a UK passport holder, you are entitled to stay in France for up to 90 days in a 180-day period visa-free.

If you hold dual nationality and have two passports, one of which is an EU passport (e.g., an Irish and a  British passport ), you can use this valid passport to stay indefinitely in France.

If you wish to stay for a longer period, or settle in France, you will be required to apply for a long-stay visa and a residency permit.

Can UK citizens claim benefits in France?

If you lived in France prior to January 1 st  2021, you are covered under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement meaning that your right to claim benefits is protected.

If you move to France after this date, you must inform the UK government offices in charge of benefits, pension and tax. You may be able to claim UK benefits abroad, if you are eligible.

To check whether you are eligible to receive benefits from the French government, you can check your eligibility on the  French government website , or the  Pôle Emploi .

Where can I find jobs in France for UK nationals after 2021?

The French national employment agency Pôle Emploi has listings of jobs.  APEC  is a national employment agency focusing on professional and managerial jobs.

Some other websites you can use to find work in France include the following:

• L’Agriculture Recrute
• Emplois Verts
• IAPA (International Au Pair Organization)
• Indeed France
• L’Hôtellerie Restauration
• Stratégies Emploi

How do I contact the French embassy / consulate in the UK?

To contact the French consulate in the UK, the contact details are below:

• Address : 21 Cromwell Road, London, SW72EN, UK
• French Visa team address : 6a Cromwell Place, London, SW72EW
• Phone : +44 (0) 20 7073 1200
• French Visa team phone : +44 (0) 20 3040 0460
• Website : French consulate website – https://uk.ambafrance.org/-Consulate-in-London-
• Email address :  [email protected]
• French Visa team email :  [email protected]

Applying for Health Insurance in France

Those who wish to relocate to France from the UK must have health insurance cover until they are granted access to the State system. to this end, a minimum level of income of €30,000 is required for the duration of your visa.

If you are settling a business in France, you and your family will gain entitlement to join the French health system once your business is registered. Similarly, if you are relocating as a retired British citizen, you might be entitled to join the health system after three months of legal residence in France.

What happens if my French visa application is refused?

If French immigration authorities have not accepted your visa application, you will receive further details about the reasons for the refusal. You might be able to appeal to the Commission de recours contre les décisions de refus de visa d’entrée en France within two months of the decision.

Get in touch with our lawyers to find out more.

How can I get French permanent residence as a British citizen?

At least two months before your current long-term visa expires, you must either seek renewal or apply for permanent residence. Business owners might be eligible for a residence permit known as Carte de Séjour Pluriannuelle, which is valid for four years. This costs €200.

To be eligible for permanent residence in France, applicants must participate in an integration process called Republican Integration Contract (CIR), which includes a language test. Besides, they must prove they are generating adequate income from their business or employment.

After five years of legal residence in France, you can apply for a Carte de résident de longue durée-UE étranger en France depuis 5 ans, a more permanent residence valid for ten years. This is a very important immigration status, which is subject to the conditions of income and health insurance. These documents also allow you to stay in other European countries for more than three months.

Alternatively, you can apply for a different permanent residence permit (Carte de résident permanent d’un étranger en France), which is not subject to any conditions relating to your income or health insurance.

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Reader Question of the Month: Can I Travel to France With My EU Spouse?

Expert FAQs

Each month we answer one of your most frequently asked questions on buying or selling French property, moving to or living in France. This month, digital editor Zoë Smith addresses one of the most commonly asked questions regarding travelling to France with your EU spouse. 

Question: Can I Travel to France With My EU Spouse?

My wife and I are UK residents and UK passport holders, but she also holds an Irish passport and so she can visit our second home in France without restriction. Am I entitled to get a visa that would allow me to accompany her for visits of more than 6 months cumulatively each year?

Answer: Yes. French citizens, EU citizens, and permanent residents all have the right to bring their spouses and dependant family members with them to France, for both short and long trips. However, you do need to provide the correct documentation.

First things first: as a British citizen (and this rule also applies to most non-EU/EEA citizens), you don’t need a visa to visit France, but you are subject to the 90/180-day rule, which you can read more about here . But what happens if you want to stay longer?

If you have overstayed the 90-day allowance and wish to enter the EU:

If you are travelling to an EU country with your EU national spouse, you should be granted entry without a visa, even if you have overstayed your 90 days, providing that you can prove your relationship. As laid out in the official EU rules on Europa.eu (find the full text here ):

“ It is always best for your non-EU family members to be well-informed in advance and to have all the necessary documents before starting their journey.

However, if they arrive at the border with their passport but without an entry visa, the border authorities should give them the opportunity to prove by other means that they are family members of a mobile EU citizen. They can do so by providing proof of their identity and family ties with an EU citizen (for example, a marriage or birth certificate) and, proof that they are joining or accompanying the EU citizen (for example, proof that the EU citizen is already living in the country where entry is sought). If they manage to prove it, they should be issued with an entry visa on the spot.”

If this situation applies to you, you should ensure that you have the correct documentation with you when you travel, for example, your marriage certificate.  

If you want to stay longer than 90 days in France or another EU country:

If you wish to stay in an EU country for longer than 90 days, you are entitled to do this as the spouse of an EU citizen, you may enter the country without a visa . However, you will need to apply for a residency permit or Carte de Séjour within three months of your arrival in France.

The application process can be done online and follows a simplified process. Application requirements may differ depending on your personal situation, but typically you will need to provide your ID, marriage certificate, your spouse’s ID and proof of living together for more than six months (such as a utility bill in both of your names, a rental contract, or a joint bank account). You will also need to sign an attestation of non-polygamy.

Carte de Séjour applications are fast-tracked for EU family members and are also free of charge. You can find out more about the procedure  here  and then start the application process  here .

A Carte de Séjour marked “ family member of an EU/EEA/Swiss citize n” will typically be issued for five years and will allow you to come and go as often as you like for the duration of its validity. This residency card can be renewed within two months of its expiry.

*** It’s important to note that the procedure is different if you are married to a French national rather than an EU national – our article French Residency: Can I Join My EU Spouse or Family Member in France?  explains more.

What about if I don’t want to move to France?

Note that the above-mentioned Carte de Séjour is a residency card and is therefore intended for those wishing to take up residency, either temporarily or permanently in France. If you wish to travel to France with your EU spouse for a period of up to six months, you need to apply for a temporary long-stay visa  prior to travel. Note that this is still required even if you are travelling with your EU spouse and failure to do this will likely result in a fine as well as an over-stay stamp in your passport.

Have you applied for a French Carte de Séjour as the spouse of an EU citizen? Do you travel with your EU spouse to France for stays of more than 90 days? Please get in touch and share your experience!

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Do you have a question that you want answered by FrenchEntrée or one of our mortgage, property, currency exchange, or legal experts? Send your questions to: [email protected]

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FrenchEntrée's Digital Editor, Zoë is also a freelance journalist who has written for the Telegraph, HuffPost, and CNN, and a guidebook updater for the Rough Guide to France and Rough Guide to Dordogne & Lot. She lives in the French countryside just outside of Nantes.

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'Passport date issue stopped our travel UK to France and elsewhere'

A lack of clarity over passport expiry dates 'has left me with no holiday and no compensation', says one traveller who said she was denied boarding with p&o.

Confusion over the rules surrounding British passport validity have prevented several Connexion readers from reaching their destination in France or elsewhere in Europe.

One British reader was denied boarding on an Air France flight over the issue, while another woman lost hundreds of pounds after wrongly not being allowed to fly with EasyJet.

The passport validity issue has arisen since UK citizens became third party nationals after Brexit came into effect, meaning they have been subject to the passport rules for non-EU member states when travelling to the bloc.

This means that their passport must meet two criteria:

• Be valid for at least three months after the date they intend to leave the EU country they are visiting
• Have been issued within the previous 10 years.

For the second point, the European Commission’s Migration and Home Affairs Department has told The Independent that: “Entry should be allowed to those travelling with passports issued within the previous 10 years at the moment of entry into the Schengen area.

“The condition that the passport must have been issued within the previous 10 years does not extend for the duration of the intended stay. It is enough that the condition is fulfilled at the moment of entry.”

It is possible to have a passport that is still valid but which was issued more than 10 years ago because, before September 2018, the UK had a policy of crediting passport-holders for ‘unspent time’ on their previous passports.

This meant that the documents could be valid for up to 10 years and nine months. In this way, for example, a passport issued on July 24, 2012, could have an expiry date of April 24, 2023.

Read more: Post-Brexit passport rule confusion affects British travellers to EU

However, several British people have been told by their travel operator that they are being refused boarding because their passport will not be less than 10 years old for the whole duration of their stay in Europe.

This may be because although the UK government advice states that the document must be less than 10 years old “on the day you enter” the EU, it also adds that “for some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit.”

The UK Foreign Office added that it was seeking clarification from the European Commission on this point, and when contacted by The Connexion , a spokesperson said that requirements for entry into the EU were the responsibility of member states.

"The UK Government is in contact with the European Commission to clarify its rules of entry for British passport holders,” he added.

"FCDO travel advice will continue to be updated in line with any updates to their border guards handbook. Airlines are expected to follow official guidance provided by states on their entry requirements."

The French visa authorities state on their website that people entering the country must present on arrival: “a valid passport which is less than 10 years old and which will be valid for three months after the envisaged date of departure.”

They do not mention a passport needing to be less than 10 years old for the duration of your stay in France. The European Commission website also states that the same rules apply for “travel within the EU” apart from Ireland, which is the only country where the regulations differ.

The Connexion contacted the French consulate for confirmation; we were directed back to the European Commission page - suggesting that France does follow general EU rules - but the spokesperson would make no further comment on the matter.

Despite this, some travel operators appear to be following the ‘less than 10 years old during the whole visit’ rule, only accepting passports which are less than nine years and nine months old.

This would mean that they have more than three months validity and will also be less than 10 years old for the whole duration of a European trip, but as the European Commission states, this is not necessary.

‘Let down by the airline and the UK government’

Kerry Ireland was refused boarding with Air France when travelling to Paris with her partner Nigel on March 18.

“My boyfriend and I, like many people, had to cancel our travel plans for two years running due to Covid,” she told The Connexion.

“Finally, things began to open back up and we were able to plan a trip away this year for our anniversary,” a five-day trip to Paris.

“We booked our flights, accommodation plus several trips and excursions, such as tickets to a show at the Moulin Rouge, Eiffel Tower, Seine Dinner Cruise, and The Louvre to name but a few.”

Ms Ireland, who is an account manager and new business specialist for luxury hotels, added: “We both checked the guidelines for travelling to France on the government website and discovered that we needed three months left on our passports to travel.

“Our passports were both in date; my expiry was January 2023 meaning we both had enough months left to travel.”

Ms Ireland’s passport was issued on April 23, 2012, meaning that it was still less than 10 years old and with more than three months’ validity on it at the time of attempted travel.

However, when Ms Ireland and Nigel arrived at Birmingham airport, “the chap behind the check-in desk scanned both passports and then looked perplexed.

“He appeared to scan them again and then said he needed to speak to his supervisor. He returned a minute or so later and said that my passport had expired.

“We were initially in shock but then we pointed out that my passport expiry was January 2023, not January 2022, leaving 10 months to travel.

“I questioned why he was saying my passport had expired and he informed us that although my passport was shown well within date, the expiry date was actually incorrect, as my passport was issued in April 2012 and the extra months granted were no longer valid.

“As you can imagine, this was horrifying news. We asked to speak to a supervisor and were told that there was nothing anyone could do, we were not going to be able to travel.

“He said that it was due to Britain leaving the EU and the ‘extra months’ once granted by the EU were no longer valid. Had we stayed in the EU we would have been allowed to travel.

“We left the airport feeling disgusted, angry and extremely upset.”

Later that day, Ms Ireland contacted the passport office, who told her that “although the passport was valid I could not fly on it as it had expired as an EU travel document.”

“We were told that we should have known this and that it was advertised and was on the government website. I have checked and it wasn't.

“We asked for an appointment at the office to renew my passport to try and salvage our trip. We were willing to drive to Peterborough but we were told there were no walk-ins and the next appointment was the following Tuesday.

“We explained the situation but we were told there was nothing they could do. Our holiday was over, we were absolutely devastated. We asked to make a complaint but the adviser said he couldn't take details over the phone.

“I then made contact with Air France. We had inputted our passport details [when booking the trip] and nothing had flagged up.

“They have been good enough to provide us with a travel voucher as they understood our situation.

“We then spent the day trying to cancel all our trips, excursions and restaurants. Thankfully the accommodation in France were lovely and did not charge us.

“We managed to cancel a few trips but most were non-refundable, therefore we have lost money. We later discovered that we were also not covered by our travel insurance.”

Ms Ireland has since made several unsuccessful attempts to lodge an official complaint with the passport office via phone and email. “The third time [I called] I was on hold for over one and a half hours before being cut off,” she said.

“We cannot believe that such a catastrophic and fundamental issue can be allowed to happen and for people to be treated this way.

“What occurred is absolutely disgusting. We have been left with no holiday yet again due to no fault of our own. We have been left feeling hollow, sickened and let down by the airline and the UK government.

“The stress and anxiety this situation caused was horrendous and no one should have to go through this again.”

The Connexion has contacted Air France to ask why Ms Ireland was turned away and whether this was due to an error.

£13 in compensation for incorrectly denied boarding

Annie Jefferies, a retiree who lives in Devon, was wrongly refused boarding on an EasyJet flight from Bristol to Geneva when travelling to see her seriously ill brother-in-law in October 2021 because of an even stricter interpretation of the rules.

Mrs Jefferies’ passport was issued in November 2011, but extended to May 2022, so when she arrived at the airport it was both less than 10 years old and with more than three months’ validity remaining on it.

She reached the gate “with no issues” but was then “told very firmly” that she would not be allowed to fly, the staff member at the gate telling her that “my passport was out of date as I did not have six months left.”

This was incorrect both because Mrs Jefferies only needed three months validity plus the four days she would be spending in Europe, and because – with the extension – her passport had six months and eight days left on it.

The EasyJet crew member would not accept this, however, saying that the passport needed to have six months validity remaining within its original 10-year period.

“Once I had been escorted out of the airport building by the security guard, I rang my sister in Geneva who was extremely upset and said that she was sure this was incorrect information, but by then the flight gate had closed and I had no option but to collect my car from the airport parking lot and return to Tavistock,” she said.

“I was extremely upset; I am 73 years old and do not expect such an uncaring and dismissive attitude,” she said.

Mrs Jefferies then had to apply for an emergency passport, costing £177, book onto a later return flight to Geneva, which came to £196 and cancel her hotel booking, for which she lost £217.

She also wasted 218 miles’ worth of petrol travelling to and from the airport and her £62 car parking, which she had to rebook for a later date at a cost of £81.

Mrs Jefferies was later told by EasyJet customer service that she should have been allowed to board the flight, but said she was “disgusted” to then only be offered £13 in compensation.

She wrote to the airline demanding further compensation but was told “that there was no more that they could do as this was government policy.

“The lady that I saw at the passport office suggested that I should take this issue up with the government, but I could not face it as I had already wasted a great deal of time trying to deal with EasyJet.

“I didn’t feel that I would get anywhere fighting the government!

“The whole incident was quite disgraceful and caused much distress to my family,” she told The Connexion .

We have contacted EasyJet to ask why this situation arose, and how “government policy” prevented the airline from paying more in compensation.

EasyJet has previously told The Connexion : “We have recently made some changes to the wording on the guidance provided on our website and to ground crew, to ensure this is clear and so avoids this being misinterpreted."

Credit: David and Sarah Asplin

Watch out for the 10-year cut-off

On another occasion, EasyJet was right to refuse boarding to a Connexion reader, whose passport was more than 10 years old on the day of travel.

Sarah Asplin, who runs gîtes and a small campsite in Brossac, Charente with her husband David, was unable to board an EasyJet flight from Bristol to Bordeaux in April.

She had travelled to the UK to meet her new granddaughter, and was returning to France on April 1.

However, her passport had been issued on August 4, 2011, so although it was still technically valid because of an extension added to it, it was more than 10 years old.

“The passport still had six weeks of validity on it but EasyJet staff explained that the new [post-Brexit] rules meant UK passports are now only valid for 10 years from the date of issue,” Mr Asplin told The Connexion .

“Fortunately, my wife has dual citizenship and was able to use her second passport to make the flight. Thank heavens she had her Irish passport with her!” Mr Asplin added.

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• Visas and immigration
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Entering the UK

Before you leave for the uk.

Check what documents you’ll need to enter the UK.

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You can enter the UK with one of the following identity documents:

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If you’re travelling from Ireland to Northern Ireland

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You may be delayed at the border if your passport or national identity card is not registered on your UK Visas and Immigration account .

Travelling with a national identity card

You cannot use a national identity card from an EU country , Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein to enter the UK unless you:

• have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme , or Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man’s settlement schemes
• have an EU Settlement Scheme family permit, or the equivalent from Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man
• have a Frontier Worker permit
• are an S2 Healthcare Visitor
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• are an EU, EEA or Swiss national aged 18 or under travelling as part of a French school group using a France-UK school trip travel information form

Check if you need a visa to come to the UK .

If you’re waiting for a decision on your application for settled or pre-settled status

You can still use your EEA or Swiss national identity card to enter the UK if all of the following are true:

• you’ve applied for settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man’s settlement schemes
• you’ve been issued with confirmation your application is valid
• you’re not applying as a joining family member

You may also need to show evidence that you were living in the UK by 31 December 2020 .

If you have not applied for settled or pre-settled status but are planning to

You must enter the UK with either:

• an EU Settlement Scheme family permit

Your family permit or visa could be issued by the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man.

You do not need any documents to enter Northern Ireland.

You may need a visa if you’re planning to stay in the UK - for example, to work or study.

A Border Force officer may ask to see proof of your identity and nationality.

If you’re an Irish citizen, you can use any documents that show your identity or nationality. For example:

• proof that you’ve been given Irish citizenship - such as a certificate of naturalisation
• an Irish passport card (current or expired)
• a copy of your passport or Irish passport card that clearly shows your identity and nationality

You can use more than one document - for example, a driving licence with a certificate of naturalisation. If you’re using an expired passport or Irish passport card, it must be recent enough that it’s clear that it’s yours.

If you’re not an Irish citizen, you’ll need to use either a passport or a national identity card, if you’re eligible.

Find out more about travelling to the UK from Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man .

You’re from outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

You must have a valid passport to enter the UK. It should be valid for the whole of your stay.

You may also need a visa, depending on which country you’re from.

Check if you need a visa to come to the UK . You must have your visa before you travel to the UK.

You may also need a visa if you’re ‘transiting’ or travelling through the UK , for example you’re changing flights at a UK airport.

If you need a visa, you’ll need to show your airline or transport provider (your ‘carrier’) either:

• a valid visa
• a ‘visa exemption document’ such as a UK-issued biometric residence card or EU Settlement Scheme family permit

Before you travel, check that your visa is valid and will not expire before you enter the UK.

If you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme

If you would usually need a visa to come to the UK , you’ll need to show your carrier one of the following visa exemption documents:

• a UK-issued biometric residence card
• an EU Settlement Scheme travel permit

If you do not have an exemption document, you may be able to prove your immigration status online using the view and prove service . Check if your carrier allows this before you travel.

If you have a pending application to the EU Settlement Scheme you must have a valid visa or visa exemption document to travel to the UK.

If you’re travelling from Ireland

You do not need any documents to travel from Ireland to Northern Ireland. You may need a visa if you’re planning to stay in the UK - for example, to work or study.

If you’re travelling from Ireland to England, Scotland or Wales, a Border Force officer may ask to see your passport. It should be valid for the whole of your stay.

If you’re travelling from Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man

You only need to show your documents if you’re stopped by a Border Force officer. They may ask to see proof of your:

• permission to come to the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, if you need it - for example, a visa, biometric residence permit (BRP) or work permit

You do not have to use a passport, Irish passport card or identity card to prove your identity. You can use other documents instead - for example, a driving licence or armed forces identity card.

Travelling with children

You may be asked at the border to prove the relationship between yourself and any children travelling with you, if you do not seem to be the parent, for example if you have a different surname.

You can prove this with:

• a birth or adoption certificate showing your relationship with the child
• divorce or marriage certificates if you’re the parent but have a different surname from the child
• a letter from the child’s parent giving permission for the child to travel with you and providing contact details, if you’re not the parent

Before you board

Your carrier will check your passport and other travel documents. They’ll send this information electronically to Border Force .

You can ask to see the information about you that’s been sent by carriers.

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Less than 6 months

To travel to the United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland), you must present your passport valid at the border.

Only the French have a status (provisional or not) of resident (called Settled Status or Pre-Settled Status ) in the United Kingdom will be able to continue to present their identity cards until 2025.

A simulator shows you the documents you can travel with in the UK:

Know the documents required to travel to Europe

Warning  

if you are stopping at an international airport in the United Kingdom, it is recommended to check the documents required by your country of destination. If necessary, you will need to make a visa application .

More than 6 months

In case of a stay of more than 6 months in the United Kingdom, you must apply for a visa . This is mainly the case if you want to work, study or settle there.

Traveling with one of his parents

A French miner who travels to the United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland), must have a passport valid.

Only French minors with a status (provisional or not) of resident ( Settled Status or Pre-Settled Status ) in the United Kingdom will be able to continue to present their identity cards until 2025.

Traveling alone or with another person

A French minor traveling to the United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland) must have with him:

• a valid passport
• and one authorization to leave the territory (AST) if he is not accompanied by his parents.

With what documents can a French minor travel abroad?

Travel abroad: for which country should a Frenchman apply for a visa?

Holidays abroad: how to be well insured?

Additional topics

Identity card

Authorization to leave the territory (AST)

Identity documents required to travel by air

Conditions of entry and residence in the United Kingdom

Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs

Useful information for traveling to the United Kingdom

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Full list of passport rules for TUI, easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair and British Airways

Brits flying with TUI, easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair and British Airways are being warned to check their passports and ID cards before heading on holidays to the likes of Spain, Portugal, France and more

• 11:03, 7 Mar 2024

People gearing up for holidays this year need to know the different passport rules of different airlines before they fly including Jet2 , Ryanair , TUI , easyJet and British Airways .

Since the UK left the European Union , British passport holders have been subject to more stringent rules regarding their travel documents. Many of those who fall foul of new travel rules have found themselves blocked from travelling and losing out on a pricey break.

As well as their being slightly complex national rules to follow regarding issue and expiry date - which we have explained previously - airlines have specific hoops they ask passengers to jump through before they are able to fly, Birmingham Mail reported.

We take a look at some of the guidelines issued by the biggest UK airlines including what you can expect when moving through passport control - check out the guide below. If you're not sure about your documents, make sure to get in touch with them direct as soon as possible so they can advise if there are any documents you need to get updated.

When you're flying to another country, you need to show a passport or a national ID card that's still valid. If you're flying inside your own country and you're 16 or older, you have to show an up to date photo ID. It may be wise to have a passport with you on such flights in case staff raise issues.

Children who are younger than 16 don't need a photo ID if they're flying with an adult who has one and can say who the child is. Now that the UK isn't in the European Union anymore, countries in the EU want UK passports to be less than ten years old and still valid for at least three months after you plan to leave the country.

To make sure your passport is okay for travel, ask yourself two questions for each person going with you (this includes kids) if you can say yes to both, you're all set:

1. When you get to the EU, will your passport's 'date of issue' be less than 10 years old?

2. When you leave the EU, will your passport still have at least three months left (based on the 'date of expiry')?

If you're going to places that aren't in the EU, like Turkey, the rules might be different, so make sure to check on the Foreign Office's website for specific country-by-country rules.

If you're travelling abroad with Ryanair, you must have a valid passport. For travel outside the EEA (European Economic Area), the passport must be valid for the period of the intended stay, except for the below countries.

The budget airline imposes different rules for different countries outside of the EEA. Those going to Jordan must have a passport which is valid for six months beyond the period of the intended stay.

When heading to Turkey the passport must be valid for six months from the date of entry, while trips to Montenegro require a passport that is valid for at least three months. For travel to Israel , passengers must have a ticket for flying out of the country.

All non-EU passport holders travelling into a Schengen member country must make sure that their passport 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 holders travelling into a Schengen member country (excluding Ireland) as of 1 January 2021 must make sure that their passport:

• 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.
• should be issued within the previous 10 years upon the date of arrival.

Make sure to check the rules of the specific country you're travelling to on the Ryanair website and Foreign Office. It is important to note requirements relating to passport issue and validity date, as these can vary country to country quite significantly.

When flying with TUI, passengers must hold a valid ID with a photograph, such as an international passport or EU National ID. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have a valid photo ID. British Citizens must hold a valid 10-year passport.

EU National IDs must be valid for entry into the country of intended destination. Passports for British citizens are valid for travel to any EU country up to and including the passport expiry date.

The UK Government recommends that on the day you travel you have at least six months left on your passport. Anything less than this may see you face issues at the border. To go to Europe, you must have a minimum of three months left on your passport from the day you're planning to travel home.

Some countries outside of the EU require a British passport to have a certain period of validity left on it, such as six months, or blank pages. Visit the Gov.uk website for advice on a country-by-country basis. It is also your responsibility to check whether you need a visa to enter your destination country, TUI warns.

British Citizens under 16 years old, including newborn babies, are required to have a child passport. The child's passport will initially be valid for five years, but can be renewed for a further five years at the end of this period.

You'll need to have some form of identification on both domestic and international flights with easyJet.

Photographic ID is required on all domestic flights. Children under the age of 16 do not need to show ID on domestic flights (excluding Italy). The adult they are travelling with can vouch for the infant's/child's identity. Children under 14 on Italian domestic flight must show photographic ID.

All customers travelling on international flights must hold either a valid EU/EEA/Swiss National Identity card or Passport, and, where required, a valid visa. Your passport needs to be in good condition and signed. Some countries require that passports are valid for a minimum period beyond your trip, usually three or six months.

Make sure to check your passport's expiry and issue date before you travel. If you're a UK passport holder travelling to the EU (except Ireland), or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, the Vatican City or Switzerland, your passport will need to meet the following criteria:

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.

Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area and Switzerland may travel within Europe using a valid EU/EEA/Swiss National Identity Card or Passport Card.

British Airways

The UK's flag carrier notes the same EU entry/exit rules on its website as other airlines, but also urges passenger to make sure that their documents "meet the specific passport validity requirements for your destination" - directing them towards the IATA Travel Centre for more information.

BA also notes that passports must be signed by their owner. "You may be denied entry or fined in some countries for travelling with an unsigned passport," the airline warns.

With BA children need their own passports to travel internationally, including infants under two. Infant and children's passports are only valid for five years, so please check the expiry date before departure.

"Please note, it’s your responsibility to ensure you have valid documentation when you travel. If you fail to comply with these requirements, you may not be allowed to travel, or you may be refused entry at your destination and have to pay associated costs," the airline warns.

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StringersHub

Travel photography thrives in China as inbound tourism picks up

Posted: April 17, 2024 | Last updated: April 17, 2024

[Voiceover] China's expanded visa-free policies are fueling the country's tourism market, especially the travel photography sector. Part of the country's relaxed visa policies began last December allowing passport holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia to travel in China for up to 15 days without a visa. One photographer in Shanghai said he noticed an uptick in clients after the visa-free policies went into effect. [Soundbite] Miao Yitao, Photographer: "Before the visa-free policy took effect, most of my clients were domestic. There were very few foreign clients, at most one out of 10 orders. But now foreign clients account for half of the total. [Voiceover] Another photographer in Shanghai, who can speak Japanese and Korean said the influx of foreign tourists is apparent, especially those interested in a "Hanfu" photoshoot, which includes dressing up in elaborate traditional Chinese outfits and makeup. [Soundbite] An An, photographer: "I can speak Japanese and Korean, so it's easier for me to communicate with those clients. I offer guidance to make their poses look cute, and that makes them happy. I also introduce to them the styles of the clothes, why they are made like this, and which dynasties they originate from." [Voiceover] In March, China expanded its visa-free program to include six additional European countries like Switzerland, Ireland, and Hungary. [RESTRICTIONS: No access Chinese mainland]

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