Validity of the passport: what restrictions according to countries?

Are you planning a trip abroad in the least to come? Have you thought of checking the validity of your passport?

Travel abroad is always a special and exciting event. Some travellers are looking for exotic places, while others just want to explore new cultures. However, before leaving around the world, you have to plan several things and above all, check the validity of your passport.

In fact, the laws and regulations in force regarding the validity of a passport vary from country to country. The expiry date of your passport, age and destination are factors affecting the validity of your papers. This is what we have prepared for you a comprehensive guide that will answer all your questions.

How long is my passport valid?

In France, the validity of a passport is 10 years for adults. For children under the age of fifteen, it is only five years . It is not uncommon that we forget this precious document at the bottom of a drawer and that we almost forget its existence.

Strangely, when the time comes to use it, it happens not to pay attention to the expiry date of the passport. We recommend that you check the validity of your passport at least once to twice a year. This way, you will avoid the wrong surprises.

Why should my passport be valid six months after the return?

Several countries require a valid passport for at least six months after the date of return. It must remain six months before your passport expires on the last day of your trip. This rule is not applicable in all countries, however, it is good to inform you before leaving.

This particular modality is actually a protection for you, and for the country in question. If you want to stay longer than expected in a country, you may need to extend your visa. Likewise, if for a case of force majeure, you are blocked on site. It would be impossible if you stayed if your documents were to expire, which would force you to cancel this project.

Do I need a valid passport to travel to Europe?

The answer is simply no. If you live in the EU, or more precisely in the Schengen area, you will not need your passport. Only an identity card is sufficient to cross the countries of the European Union.

That being said, we always recommend to travel with valid documents, to avoid trouble. Finally, please note that minors wishing to travel alone must have an authorization to leave the territory.

Can I fly with a perished passport?

You can rejoice, because yes it is now possible. Indeed, the Court of Cassation recently opposed the Easyjet airline and a French traveler with a perished passport. It is only one old agreement dating back to 1957 gave the possibility to travel to the EU with an expired passport. As a result, the European Directive 2004 which said otherwise was cancelled by this agreement.

However, keep in mind that your trip will be limited to the countries of the European Union only. You must be a French national and the duration of your trip must be less than three months. If you are a national of another EU country, you will need to check the documents required to travel with an expired passport. Please also note that your passport has not been expired for more than five years.

How many blank pages do I have in my passport?

There are two types of passports. Indeed, there is the standard passport that contains 32 pages, and the Grand Voyageur passport, with 48 pages. If you plan to travel for a long time or in several countries, then expect a larger passport is recommended.

Some countries will even ask you for a passport with at least two blank pages to cross borders. In conclusion, always keep an eye on the number of blank pages left in your passport.

How do I renew my passport?

After checking the validity of your passport, you realize it is outdated. We must act. To renew your passport, just show yourself at the city hall or consulate. Take with you your identity papers and your original passport. You will also need a photo dated and certified with the correct format. Finally, you will have to pay the sum of 86€ for the tax stamp.

Know that it is also possible to make an online pre-application. In addition to saving time, this method will allow you to track the progress of your application at home. In addition, the pre-request process will guide you through all stages of your passport renewal.

How do I travel to the USA with a visa or an ESTA?

Are you dreaming of going to see Mickey in Disneyland or the Statue of Liberty in New York? This is your lucky day! France is part of the list of 38 countries that have access to the "Watch visa" programme. Indeed, it allows you to travel to the United States using an electronic authorization. This is called ESTA, or Electronic System for Travel Authorization. But this indicates that the validity of a passport is not a sufficient condition.

You can request the ESA online, the decision is usually made within 72 hours. This authorization is valid for two years . If by misfortune your request is refused, you will need to make a visa. If you have traveled to some countries since 2011 like Iran, Iraq or Somalia, the visa is mandatory .

Background

In conclusion, for a smooth journey, you have to keep an eye on your passport. Important points to be taken are:

• The expiry date of your passport,
• The number of blank pages remaining in it,
• modalities and country-specific restrictions.

In this way, you can travel the head quietly, knowing that the validity of your passport has no secret for you.