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Visas and Passports

Ready to jet off on your next adventure? Let's make sure you're all set with the right travel documents. Packing a valid passport and ensuring you have any necessary visas for your destination is just as important as your sunglasses and flip-flops.

Different destinations have different rules, and it's your responsibility to make sure you have all the correct documents. But don't worry – we've got some top tips to help you get sorted. Staying up to date with the latest entry requirements of your destination will help you avoid any last-minute surprises. And to keep your trip running smoothly, don't forget travel insurance – it's your safety net against unexpected hiccups along the way.

Close-up of a person stamping a passport with multiple colorful immigration stamps from various countries, symbolizing international travel and border control procedures.

Passport requirements for international travel

You're off on an adventure, but before you zip up that suitcase, let's talk passports. When travelling abroad, having the right passport is essential. Most destinations now accept a biometric passport (e-Passport), which includes a secure microchip storing your personal details and photo. This added security helps prevent fraud and speeds up border checks.

Heading to the USA?

If your passport was issued on or after October 26th, 2016, it must be biometric. You can easily tell if your passport is an e-Passport by looking at the cover, if it features an image of a rectangle bisected by a horizontal line, with a circle in the middle, just below the word 'Passport', then it is biometric.

To avoid any last-minute issues, always check your destination's specific entry requirements well in advance. And for extra security, travel insurance can cover unexpected passport-related disruptions.

Do you need 6 months on your UK passport to travel?

It depends on your destination. Places like Thailand, Dubai, and Singapore like to see at least 6 months of validity on your passport from when you plan to leave their sunny shores. But, if you're off to the USA, you're in luck – just make sure your passport's valid for your stay. No need for that extra 6-month cushion. You can check the IATA Travel Centre for the latest requirements.

Passport requirements for international flights

When travelling internationally, your passport must meet specific validity and entry requirements for your destination. Always check well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

  • Your passport must be signed—some countries may deny entry or issue fines if it is unsigned.
  • UK passport holders can check renewal or validity details via the HM Passport Office.

Passport requirements for cruises

To travel on a cruise, your British Citizen passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your trip. It should also have at least two blank pages. Some countries may also require you to carry a photocopy of your passport alongside the original document.

An aerial view of a luxurious cruise ship sailing on the deep blue sea. The ship's decks feature a swimming pool, sun loungers, a jogging track, and shaded seating areas. The sleek front of the ship showcases glass windows and a lounge space. Travellers should check visa requirements for cruises to ensure a smooth journey.

Children's Passports

  • Children's passports are only valid for 5 years, so always check expiry dates before travel.
  • Some countries have rules for children travelling without both parents - always check the requirements before you go.

EU, EEA, and Swiss National ID Cards No Longer Valid for UK Entry

Since October 1, 2021, most EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals can no longer enter the UK using just an ID card. A valid passport is required unless they have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

What is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?

The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) introduces biometric passport scanning for non-EU travelers. If you're visiting the EU, make sure you're ready for the new process.

Find everything you need to know in our full EES guide.

Passport requirements for international travel

You're off on an adventure, but before you zip up that suitcase, let's talk passports. When travelling abroad, having the right passport is essential. Most destinations now accept a biometric passport (e-Passport), which includes a secure microchip storing your personal details and photo. This added security helps prevent fraud and speeds up border checks.

Travelling to the EU? The European Union is introducing the Entry/Exit System (EES), which will require digital passport scans and biometric data collection at border crossings.

Find out how to get ready for EES before your next trip to Europe.

Aerial view of a luxurious cruise ship sailing on calm, deep blue waters, showcasing its sun deck, swimming pool, and relaxation areas.

Visa and cruise travel

Depending on the destination you are visiting, you may need a visa. You can check entry requirements online via the UK government website or contact the country's embassy to confirm whether a visa is necessary.

If you're visiting the USA or Canada, you'll need to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) or an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for visa-free entry. Many cruise lines work with visa partners who can assist with any additional visa applications required for your itinerary.

You should also ensure that you've taken out proper cruise travel insurance for your trip to ensure that you're protected against unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, cancellations and passport loss.

What to expect from passport control for cruises

  • Boarding the Cruise – When you check in for your cruise, the cruise line will usually scan your passport and keep a copy of your details. In some cases, they might hold onto your passport for the duration of your trip, especially if multiple visa checks are needed.
  • Arriving at Ports – In most cases, passport control is handled by the cruise line. When you arrive at a port, immigration officers may board the ship to check passengers' details. In other instances, you may need to go through passport control at the terminal before heading ashore.
  • Visa Checks – Some countries require a visa to enter, even if you're only visiting for a few hours. Other places also offer "cruise visas" or special exemptions for cruise passengers. Check this with your cruise provider or embassy before you travel.
  • Returning to the Ship – Usually, you just need to show your cruise key card to get back on board, but in some cases, you may need your passport too.
A cup of coffee with an airplane design in cocoa powder next to a leather passport holder and boarding passes on a wooden surface, symbolizing travel and adventure.




How to check if you need a Visa

Visa requirements depend on your nationality, the purpose of your trip, and your destination's entry rules. Some countries require a visa even for short visits or transits, while others allow visa-free entry under specific agreements.

If you're unsure whether you need a visa, you can check official entry requirements using the IATA Travel Centre.

Do British citizens need a Visa for the USA?

For travel to the United States, visa requirements vary based on the length and purpose of your stay:

  • Visa Waiver Program (VWP): Allows eligible travellers from the UK to visit for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they have an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
  • B2 Tourist Visa: Required for visitors who do not qualify for the VWP or plan to stay longer than 90 days.
  • Cruise Passengers: Depending on the itinerary, a visa may be required—even if you do not disembark in the USA.

To avoid any last-minute travel issues, always check the latest visa rules well in advance.

USA visa waiver programme and ESTA

What is the Visa Waiver Program?

The Visa Waiver Program, commonly referred to as VWP, is a handy initiative by the United States Government that lets citizens from 38 select countries visit the US for tourism or business reasons, or while en route to another destination, without the need for a visa. Travellers, within the VWP, must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to travel to the USA.

An aerial view of a luxurious cruise ship sailing on the deep blue sea. The ship's decks feature a swimming pool, sun loungers, a jogging track, and shaded seating areas. The sleek front of the ship showcases glass windows and a lounge space. Travellers should check visa requirements for cruises to ensure a smooth journey.

Travel insurance and B2 Visa's

If you are planning a trip to North America, you may need to apply for a B2 visa. You may need a B2 visa if you are travelling to the United States of America and you are not a UK citizen, your ESTA has been denied, or you wish to remain for longer than 90 days.

What is a B2 visa?

A B2 visa allows travel to the USA for tourism, family visits, or medical reasons. UK citizens can visit under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA), but must apply for a B2 visa if staying longer than 90 days.

Once it expires, you must return home unless you apply for an extension of up to one year.

What is the difference between a B1 and a B2 visa?

Whilst B2 visas are for those wishing to visit the United States for tourism purposes, B1 visas should be held by people wanting to travel to the USA for business reasons such as settling an estate or attending a conference.

How long does it take to get a B2 visa?

It takes between 3-5 days, and an additional 2 days delivery for the return of your passport and an additional 60 days to process your application.

Advance passenger information

Many countries require travellers to provide Advance Passenger Information (API) before their flight. This is additional security data that airlines collect and share with immigration authorities before your arrival.

In most cases. Airlines typically request passport details, travel dates, and destination information before departure. It's important to provide this information in advance to avoid delays at check-in or immigration.

Countries that commonly require API include:

  • 🇺🇸 United States
  • 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
  • 🇦🇺 Australia
  • 🇨🇦 Canada
  • 🇪🇸 Spain (for non-EU travellers)

However, requirements vary, so always check with your airline or immigration authorities before you travel.

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Middle aged couple on a cruise ship looking out to a blue ocean and sunshine. The lady holds a phone up, taking a picture of the view.
Back view of a family walking through an airport terminal. The parents, each pulling a suitcase, hold hands with their young daughter in the middle. They are casually dressed in denim outfits, and the setting appears to be a modern, well-lit hallway with large windows.
A woman standing on a pier with her arms raised in excitement, facing a large cruise ship docked nearby. She is wearing a straw hat, a yellow shirt, and a backpack, with a bright blue sky and calm waters surrounding the scene.

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