Millions of Brits issued passport warning ahead of summer
UK holidaymakers have been urged not to "let an expiring passport ruin their summer plans"
Brits planning to travel abroad this summer have been issued an urgent passport warning that risks disrupting their holidays. Over 1.4 million UK adults will see their passports expire before the end of June 2026, according to data obtained from HM Passport Office by Wizz Air. The budget airline has urged Brits to double check the expiry dates of their travel documents, to avoid last minute stress and potential cancellations.
The European flight provider, which whisks UK passengers away to sunny destinations including Greece, Spain and Portugal, warned that many countries require passports to have at least six months validity remaining - potentially leaving millions stranded this summer. Yvonne Moynihan, managing director at Wizz Air UK said: "Don't let an expiring passport ruin your summer plans. Summer holidays should be about excitement, not last-minute stress."
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She added that it was important for Brits to make sure their passports are valid during the February half-term, which usually sees a spike in summer holiday bookings.
Ms Moynihan said: "With peaking booking season underway, now is the time to check if your passport is valid.
"A quick two-minute check today could save weeks of disruption later and ensure travellers can book with confidence and enjoy the full range of destinations across our network."
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As well as causing potential trip cancellation, an out-of-date passport can leave UK holidaymakers with no choice but to pay up to £222 for a last-minute replacement.
Travellers whose passports have expired can request a replacement through GOV.UK, with the online renewal fee standing at £94.50, rising to £107 for postal paper submissions.
New passports usually arrive within a fortnight, through expedited services are also available at additional expense.
