countries to visit with 3 months passport validity

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Full list of countries where you need at least three months on your passport to go on holiday

• Kara Godfrey
• Published : 9:01, 9 Jul 2022

NEW rules are in place for Brits heading abroad this summer.

Since the UK left the EU, holidaymakers must follow a number of new restrictions when it comes to their passports.

Brits heading to countries in Europe must have at least three months left on their passport to be allowed into the country.

According to VisaGuide.World there are more then 40 countries that have a 6-month passport rule which includes popular holiday hotspots including Portugal, Greece and Spain.

The full list of destinations where you need at least three months on your passport are:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina

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• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• Switzerland

The  expiry date may not be accurate  either, as new UK rules no longer allow passports to be more than 10 years old.

Previous rules allowed Brits to roll over up to nine additional months when renewing a passport - these are no longer valid.

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The start date - or 'date of issue' - is the important thing to be checked on your passport to avoid any last-minute chaos.

You should make sure the start date is 10 years or less when you are travelling.

Some Brits have fallen victim to this new rule, and only realising it when they were turned away from their flight.

Back in November, a mum was banned from her flight after she was  told her passport was out of date  - even though it wasn't.

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And one woman lost out on her £2,600 dream holiday due to confusion over her  passport's expiry dates .

Here is everything you need to know about a passport renewal .

Which countries do I need more than three months on my passport?

There are more than 70 countries where you have to have at least six months left on your passport, not three. These are:

• Afghanistan
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Côte D’Ivoire
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea Bissau
• Marshall Islands
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Saint Lucia
• Solomon Islands
• Timor-Leste
• United Arab Emirates

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What are the passport expiration rules when travelling? A country-by-country guide

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No matter how often you travel, there’s always that last-minute panic that you’ve forgotten to do something that could jeopardise your trip – and realising that your passport may be out of date is the worst of the lot. For most countries, like the US and Australia, the passport expiration rule is that it just needs to be valid for the length of your stay. However, others stipulate that your passport needs to have at least six months of legitimacy left to enter the country. Below, we’ve split up the most popular travel destinations from the UK by what their passport expiration rules are, according to the  UK Post Office . Overall, the advice is to make sure that your passport always has six months left on it before you travel and remember that all countries will have their own expiration rules, so be sure to check the foreign travel advice section of the  GOV.UK  website for specific entry requirements for the country you are visiting.

These countries require six months on your passport before you travel

Some countries require that you have half a year left before your passport expires to pass through border control. Below are some of the most popular destinations requiring this six-month passport validity when travelling from the UK. For the complete list, head to  postoffice.co.uk .

This tiny city-state has always been a popular travel destination. Singapore is home to shiny shopping malls, quirky  shops , a futuristic international airport (one of the  best airports in the world , according to our readers), plenty of  things to do  from sky-high infinity pools to £1.75 Michelin-grade meals, and some seriously cool  hotels , make sure you check that you have more than six months left on your passport before you visit the “little red dot”.

South Africa

Absurdly beautiful beaches, craggy mountains, endless rolling wine country, thick untouched forests and amazing  safari  –  South Africa  is undoubtedly one of the world's prettiest places. The country’s rules state that you need at least 30 dates left on your passport from the date of exit, but the advice is to ensure you have at least six months validity left for the safe chance to see everything from leaping dolphins and puffing whales to the Big Five.

This Asian country ticks so many travel boxes.  Thailand has some of the best hotels  on the continent, from glossy city  hotels in Bangkok  to splurge-worthy beach  resorts in Phuket , not to mention  Thailand’s stellar spas , creative  Chiang Mai  and the under-the-radar  secret province of Trang . Check, check and check again that you have six months left on your passport before you travel.

This European country is home to grand Ottoman palaces, glittering turquoise sea, glamorous slivers of coastline and, of course, one of the most fascinating cities in the world.  Istanbul’s hotels  are as chic as they come, and the Turkish coast is the perfect place for  family holidays . Plus, there are endless  things to do in Istanbul , from spectacular cultural sites to tasty spots across the city, but be sure you have six months left on your passport before you travel.

These countries require three months on your passport before you travel

For most countries in the European Union, the UK’s passport office recommends that the passport expiry date is at least three months after the intended day of departure. Below, we look at some of the most popular destinations that require three months left on your passport, but other ones of note include Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Germany, Ireland, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Sweden. For the full list, head to  postoffice.co.uk .

You don’t need us to tell you why you should visit this country, but if you need further convincing, ask any of the 93.7 million travellers visiting France annually. It’s on track to become the  most visited country in the world by 2025 , so now’s the time to explore it to its fullest. Stroll through  Parisian neighbourhoods , laze on  French white-sand beaches , and people watch in glamorous  St Tropez  or taste-test your way through the capital’s  most beautiful restaurants . You’ll need three months’ validity left on your passport to visit France.

With its buzzing capital, world-renowned beaches and secret islands, Greece will forever be one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations. Hop between  Greek isles , book into a  Grecian villa , discover a  lesser-known beach  or go on a seriously  romantic escape  – but make sure you have at least three months left on your passport first.

Whether dining out at the  best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast , taking a deep dive into  Italy’s most underrated lake , exploring the  streets of Milan  or going shopping in Rome (here’s our guide on  what to wear in Rome ), Italy is always a good idea. Italy’s passport regulations require at least three months left on your passport before you travel.

You’ll need three months on your passport before visiting this European country. Portugal’s capital has been named  Europe’s most budget-friendly city break for 2023 , so now is a better time than any to visit  Lisbon . Traverse the country, and you’ll find some of  Portugal’s prettiest places , from the  underrated town of Évora  to the top  restaurants in Porto .

These countries require your passport to be valid through the duration of your stay

Some countries have more relaxed rules on passport validity and only require your passport to be valid throughout your travels. Below, we spotlight our favourite destinations in this list – for the full list, head to  postoffice.co.uk .

Your passport should be valid for your stay while travelling through Japan. Then, once you’re there, you can split your time between  Tokyo’s tastiest restaurants  and the  coolest spots in Kyoto , visiting  cherry blossoms in sakura season  and hopping between  Japan’s loveliest hotels .

This country has all the best holiday types rolled into one gorgeous destination. Incredible  Mexican beaches ? Check. A capital city with unbelievable food? Yup,  Mexico City has some of the world’s best restaurants . A boho-chic gem where you can get your surf on? Yes –  Puerto Escondido  is one of our all-time favourite sunny spots. Plus, there’s excellent  shopping in Tulum , lots of  things to do in Oaxaca , and epic  Mexico hotels . Just make sure your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay.

When travelling from the UK to the US, your passport must be valid for your entire trip. However, other rules to consider when visiting the US include getting an ESTA and ensuring you have a biometric ePassport with the silver camera symbol on the front. Once you arrive, it’s all worth it, where  New York’s restaurants , LA’s art district and California’s beaches await. See our list for more of the  best places to visit in the USA .

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US Passport Validity: A Country-by-Country Guide

Navigating the world of international travel can be complex, especially trying to understand passport validity—for example, many individuals are unaware their passports must typically be valid well past their planned return date to be allowed entry into a foreign country.

This comprehensive guide to travel documents aims to simplify issues around US passport validity, making your international travel as seamless as possible.

How long is my US passport valid for?

Ordinarily, a US passport is valid for 10 years for adults and for five years for children under age 16.

Could I be denied entry abroad if my passport expires soon? 

Yes. Your passport’s expiration date isn’t the only factor to consider when traveling internationally. Many countries require your passport to have a specific period of validity remaining. If your passport's expiration date does not meet those requirements, you may not be admitted into the country you plan to visit. 

Since you cannot travel on an expired passport and it takes time to get a new passport, countries try to ensure visitors won't have any trouble getting back home should their planned departure be delayed. Many have adopted the six-month passport rule to avoid complications.

What is the six-month passport rule?

The 'Six-Month Rule' stipulates that your passport should have at least six months of validity remaining from the date of your entry or departure to or from the international destination. If your passport expiration date is sooner than six months from your date of arrival, you may not be admitted.

This rule isn't universal. Some countries require a three-month validity, and others may have different requirements. It is always advisable to check the specific requirements of your destination country. 

The US Department of State's international travel data page is an excellent   resource  for travelers. You can look up the exact requirements of every foreign country on your dream destination list. 

Which countries require passport validity of six months?

A valid passport with six months remaining until the expiration date is required for entry into many countries. Numerous countries in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions require a US passport to have at least six months of validity remaining before granting a visa or allowing entry. 

Some countries requiring six months of passport validity include: mainland China, Mongolia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Burma, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Jordan, Israel, Egypt, and Turkey.

But it’s not universal. For example, Hong Kong and Macau have only a one-month validity requirement.

In some cases, airlines don't allow passengers holding passports with a validity period of under six months to board flights to access these destinations.

Since different rules apply in many countries and sometimes rules change, you should verify the individual country requirements via CIBTvisas’  Visa Quick Check  (or on the US Department of State website) as you plan your travel.

Which countries require three months of passport validity?

Several countries, including those within the Schengen Area, require your passport to be valid for three months beyond your intended departure date. 

These countries include many popular European destinations: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Which countries have other passport validity requirements? 

Some countries, like Australia, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, and Colombia, have unique passport validity requirements for US travelers. For example, Australia, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, and Colombia only require your US passport to be valid at the time of entry.  

FAQs on US passport validity

Why does my passport have to be valid for six months if i’m going abroad for less.

Countries set up the six-month passport rule because if your passport expires while abroad, you could have difficulties returning home until you secure a new passport, a valid visa extending your stay, or an emergency travel document. As a result, you might overstay the terms of your original visa and, depending on your individual economic circumstances, perhaps become a burden to the country. The six-month passport validity rule helps avoid these emergency situations.

Can you renew your passport before it expires?

Yes, US passport holders can renew their passports before the expiration date. For frequent travelers, it may be advisable to do so to avoid limiting your travel options, especially on last-minute trips. The US Department of State recommends renewing your passport nine months before it expires.

How long does it take to renew a passport right now? 

The processing time for passport renewals varies depending on the type of passport applicationyou make.

● Routine service will take 10 to 13 weeks, plus an additional two to four weeks for shipping. You can pay extra for expedited mailing service to cut down that time. ● Expedited processing takes seven to nine weeks, plus the mailing time.  ● If you must travel within the next 14 days, you may be able to get your passport at a passport agency by making an appointment. 

What documents do I need to renew my passport?

To renew your US passport book or passport card, you must fill out the passport application Form DS-82 : US Passport Renewal Application for Eligible Individuals and print it out on single-sided pages. 

● To renew your passport, you must provide your Social Security number. If you don’t have a Social Security number, you must submit a statement, signed and dated, including the phrase: 'I declare under penalty of perjury that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.” ● By checking the 'large book' box on the DS-82, you can request a passport book with additional pages free of charge, which might be helpful if you travel frequently. ● The form must be filled out completely and signed and dated. ● You must submit your most recent passport with your application. ● Your current passport must meet   all the requirements . ● If the name you currently use differs from the name on your most recent US passport, you must include a certified copy of the legal name change document. Examples include marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court-ordered name change documents.  ● One photograph must be attached to the application. To avoid delays, be sure your photo meets the   photo requirements . ● The mandated government renewal fees can be paid via personal check or money order payable to 'US Department of State.'

What do I do if my passport expires abroad?

After June 30, 2022, US citizens can no longer use their expired passports to return to the United States. If your passport expires abroad, you must contact the nearest US embassy or consulate to apply for a new US passport.

Can I travel from Canada to the US with less than six months on my passport?

Please note that the six-month validity requirement does not apply to American travelers. They can enter the US or Canada up until the day their passport expires.

Are there any other exceptions to the six-month validity rule?

Yes, there are many exceptions. Sovereign nations decide which policies work best for their citizens. Specific countries may have bilateral agreements altering the six-month rule. For instance, Chile allows entry as long as your US passport is valid for the duration of your stay. 

Keep your passport travel-ready

By understanding the policies affecting whether your US passport is considered valid for travel, you can better prepare to see more of the world. Remember to verify the specific requirements of your destination country before departure to avoid unwelcome surprises. Check the US State Department details on your country as you plan your trip and renew your passport in time for your travel dates when possible.

Trust CIBTvisas with your passport needs

CIBTvisas can help you renew your passport seamlessly in a few weeks or less. You’ll be putting yourself in the hands of the leader in global travel documents—our passport and visa professionals will submit all required documentation, so you won't even have to worry about corresponding with the State Department. 

Through CIBTvisas, you can reduce the wait time for your passport renewal and rest assured that your application is filed correctly. Stay ahead of the game and plan your renewal to avoid additional fees and travel hiccups.  Contact CIBTvisas for a quote today.   

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Complete Guide to U.S. Passport Validity: 6-Month and 3-Month Rules Explained | Rustic Pathways

To travel abroad your passport must be valid for one to six months after your trip. Learn all about passport validity requirements including the 6-month rule and 3-month rule.

Complete Guide to U.S. Passport Validity: 6-Month and 3-Month Rules Explained

It’s a few weeks before your next trip abroad and you decide to dust off your passport. You dig it out of your documents only to discover it expires in a few months. Hopefully this never happens to you, but in the case it does, you might just be okay. 

Countries around the world have strict passport validity rules, often called the 6-month rule or the 3-month rule. These rules are the standards immigration officials and airlines use to decide if your passport is valid and you can enter another country. Here we will guide you through everything you need to know about passport validity rules as an international traveler. 

In This Guide

Do i need to renew my passport before traveling, what is the 6-month rule, what is the 3-month rule, passport validity requirements for every country.

• FAQs About Passport Validity

Before packing your bags, it’s vital to determine if your passport meets the validity requirements of your destination country. Enter the country you are traveling to, your expected arrival date, and your expected departure date to check the passport validity requirements for your trip.

As a bare minimum, your passport always needs to be valid when you enter another country. Most countries are stricter and enforce either a six-month or three-month rule to make sure travelers can complete their trips without having to renew their passports. Here’s more about these passport validity rules:

The six-month rule is a common requirement that your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your entry or departure to or from the country you are visiting. It is the minimum buffer before your passport expires to be accepted by immigration in another country. Many airlines also follow this rule and won’t let passengers board a plane without a passport with enough validity time remaining.

Countries that follow the six-month rule can follow one of two standards:

• Your passport must be valid for six months after your arrival date
• Your passport must be valid for six months after your departure date

How to Calculate 6 Months Passport Validity

To determine if your passport meets the six-month rule, add six months to your arrival or exit date. If your passport expires before this date, you will need to renew it before traveling.

Case 1: The country you are visiting requires six months of validity from your arrival.

If you plan to enter the country on January 1st, your passport should be valid until at least July 1st of the same year.

Case 2: The country you are visiting requires six months of validity starting from your departure date.

If you plan to enter the country on January 1st and leave on February 1st, your passport should be valid until at least August 1st of the same year.

The three-month rule requires that your passport be valid for at least three months from the date of your entry or departure to or from the country you are visiting. This less strict passport validity requirement is common in the Schengen Zone of countries in Europe. Three months is the minimum that certain countries will allow, but generally, six months or more is always recommended.

How to Calculate 3 Months Passport Validity

To calculate three-month passport validity, add three months to your arrival or departure date. If your passport expires before this date, you need to renew it.

Similar to the six-month rule, the three-month rule can follow one of two standards:

• Your passport must be valid for three months after your arrival date
• Your passport must be valid for three months after your departure date

Case 1: The country you are visiting requires three months of validity from your arrival.

If you plan to enter the country on January 1st, your passport should be valid until at least April 1st of the same year.

Case 2: The country you are visiting requires three months of validity starting from your departure date.

If you plan to enter the country on January 1st and leave on February 1st, your passport should be valid until at least May 1st of the same year.

In addition to the six-month and three-month rules, some countries have specific requirements that are less or more strict. For example, Taiwan only requires that your passport be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay in the country.

Planning ahead and having more time than needed is always the secure and safe route when traveling internationally. Make sure to check the most up-to-date requirements from the U.S. Department of State and your airline before traveling. Here are the current requirements as of June 2024 for each country in the world.

Countries Requiring 6 Months Validity Before Passport Expiration

Countries requiring 3 months validity before passport expiration, countries requiring validity for the planned travel period, countries requiring other passport validity rules.

Learn more about what countries U.S. passport holders can travel to without a visa. 

FAQ About U.S. Passport Validty

How do you calculate 6 months passport validity +.

Add six months to your arrival or exit date. If your passport expires before this date, renew it before traveling.

What is the Meaning of 6 Months Validity? +

It means your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended arrival or departure date from the country you are visiting.

Can I Travel with Less Than 6 Months on My Passport? +

Yes, only to countries that have three month or less passport rules. However, six months or more is almost always recommended.

Which Countries Need 6 Months on Passport? +

Countries like China, Brazil, and Thailand require at least six months of passport validity.

Can I return to the US on an expired passport? +

No, since 2022 U.S. citizens with an expired passport are no longer able to return to the U.S. on a direct flight and must contact the nearest embassy or consulate in order to renew their passport or get urgent travel authorization. 

How long is a U.S. passport valid for? +

For adults a passport book or passport card are valid for 10 years from their issuance. U.S. passports for minors under 16 are valid for 5 years.

Steps for U.S. Passport Renewal Abroad Essential Guide to U.S. Passport Validity: 6-Month Rule Explained Best Tips for Passport Safety During Travel Expedited Passport Services: Quick and Easy Guide Where to Apply for a U.S. Passport: Office Guide

Quintin Willekens is from Arizona and has a degree in Business Sustainability from Arizona State University and an interest in cross-cultural connections. His passion for global cultures was ignited early, leading him to explore over 20 countries by the time he graduated. Quintin continued his cultural immersion by teaching English in South Korea for 3 years. After getting married in South Korea, you will find him wandering the streets of Seoul with his partner and dog. At Rustic Pathways he brings a wealth of international insight and a dedication to education, travel, and sustainable development.

Guide to the 6-month passport rule — what is it?

Editor's Note

It may sound trivial, but one of the best rules you can follow as an international traveler is to remember to check your passport validity before you book flights and hotels.

Why? Because the requirements for entry differ from country to country. In the midst of planning my 2024 travel, I realized my U.S. passport expires in April, which could mess with my plans abroad.

Thankfully, I use a travel checklist to avoid disruptions to my travel itinerary.

I immediately started the passport renewal process online and had my photo taken at my local Walgreens — although you can DIY your passport photo if you prefer — so I could send out my application as quickly as possible. I also opted to expedite the processing time for an additional $60 fee and sent my application on its way.

If you're also in the middle of planning 2024 travel or simply want to know the ideal time to begin getting ready to renew your passport, the TPG team has you covered.

We collected information from the U.S. Department of State website and the United Kingdom's government website to create a one-stop cheat sheet examining a range of nations that typically require you to have a passport that lasts longer than your trip — whether by one, three or six months.

Note that certain countries deviate from the standard six-month requirement. These findings are also only related to passport validity dates — we're not covering visa requirements here. Those can vary depending on where you're going and where you're coming from.

Schengen countries in Europe

Many European countries are signers of the Schengen Agreement . As a result, they follow the 3+3 Rule, meaning your passport must be valid for three months beyond your three-month entry visa or for a total of six months, regardless of the duration of your initial stay.

While some Schengen countries only require passports to be valid for three months beyond your intended stay, others assume you may stay the full 90 days of your visa validity — thus the six-month time period.

The signers of the Schengen Agreement are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Bulgaria and Romania will join the group March 31, 2024.

The countries listed below abide by the usual six months of passport validity unless otherwise noted.

Non-Schengen countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East

Abide by the usual 6 months of passport validity.

• Bosnia-Herzegovina
• New Caledonia
• North Korea
• Saudi Arabia
• Turkmenistan
• Turkey (British passports must be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive in the country)
• United Arab Emirates
• West Bank/Gaza Strip

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond the scheduled departure date

Passport must be valid 1 month beyond the date of your intended stay, passport only needs to be valid for the proposed duration of your stay.

• Central African Republic
• Cote d'Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Equatorial Guinea
• Morocco (British passports must be valid for at least three months on the date of entry)
• Sao Tome and Principe
• South Africa (passports must also have 30 days beyond your intended date of exit from the country)
• South Sudan

Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• Trinidad and Tobago

Central and South America

• El Salvador

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond arrival

• Brazil (British passports need to be valid six months beyond arrival)

South Pacific

• American Samoa
• French Polynesia
• Marshall Islands
• Papua New Guinea
• New Zealand

Bottom line

When examining the rules, note that some countries have a slight distinction: They may require validity to be either six months from the date of entry or six months from the date of intended departure . For simplicity, we've taken the conservative approach and assumed that for any country with a six-month rule, like most of the ones above, you should ensure your passport is valid six months past the date of intended departure just in case.

Of course, the list above only includes just a few popular destinations worldwide. If your intended destination isn't on the list, it's always best to check with your relevant passport issuer.

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The Countries You Can Visit With Less Than 6 Months On Your Passport

However, there are some countries and territories that allow you to have less than 6 months left on your passport and still visit them:

Passport must be valid for at least three months from the date of arrival. One page must be blank for entry stamp.

Passport must be valid at time of entry and departure. However if your flight(s) have a stopover in any of the Schengen countries, your passport will then need to be valid for at least 3 months past your departure date.

Passport must be valid at time of entry and for duration of stay. Must have one blank page for entry stamp.

Passport must be valid at time of entry. One page required for entry stamp.

The Bahamas

Your passport must be valid at time of entry. Two pages are required for entry stamp.

Passport must be valid at time of entry. Must have one blank page for entry stamp.

Passport must be valid for at least three months from the date of arrival. Two blank pages when presented to Belarusian immigration authorities.

Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Belize and must have one page blank per stamp.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Passport must be valid for three months after the planned date of departure. One page is required for an entry stamp.

Your passport must be valid on the date of entry. Must have one blank page for entry stamp.

Passport must be valid at time of entry. If you’re transiting Canada en route to Europe, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area . Must have one blank page.

Cayman Islands

Passport must be valid at time of entry and exit. Must have one blank page for entry stamp.

Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Costa Rica and must have at least one page.

Dominican Republic

Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Ireland and must have at least one page.

El Salvador

Passport must be valid at time of entry. Must have one blank page per stamp.

Passport must have three months validity. Must have one blank page per stamp.

Passport must be valid for one month beyond the date of your intended stay. Must have one blank page.

No minimum requirement, but your authorized stay must not exceed the validity remaining on your passport.

Also note that airlines may decline boarding if a traveler has fewer than six months of validity on his or her passport.

One page required for entry stamp (although passports are normally not stamped upon entry into Israel).

Passport must be valid for the duration of intended period of stay. Please note you cannot travel on a passport you have previously declared as lost or stolen, even if you subsequently locate it. One page is required for entry stamp.

Passport must be valid for 3 months. Must have one blank page.

Passport must be valid for ninety days following entry, with no Israeli stamps or visas. One page required for entry stamp.

Passport must be valid for 3 months beyond date of arrival. Must have one blank page per stamp.

Passport must be valid at time of entry. One blank page requested for entry stamp.

New Zealand

Passport must be valid for 3 months beyond date of departure. Must have one blank page.

Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Nicaragua and must have one blank page per stamp.

Saint Lucia

Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Saint Lucia and must have at least one page.

The Schengen Region

Officially, you’re only supposed to need 3 months to enter the 29 Schengen Countries (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland). However, the rules for each country vary in terms of passport requirements.

These are the Schengen Region countries that allow a passport with less than 6 months left (but keep in mind that if you’re traveling through one of the countries that require 6 months – i.e. a stopover in Austria [which requires 6 months beyond your planned departure date] to get to Belgium [which only requires 3 months], you’ll still need 6 months on your passport):

• Belgium – Passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area and must have 2 pages minimum.
• Bulgaria – Passport needs to be valid for at least three months beyond your departure date from Bulgaria, and most have one blank page for entry/exit stamps.
• Croatia – Passport must be valid for three months after the planned date of departure. One page is required for an entry stamp.
• Estonia – Passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your stay, with 1 page per entry stamp.
• France – Passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area and must have at least one blank page for stamps.
• Germany – Passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area and must have 2 pages.
• Hungary – Passport required to have three months validity beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen area (although six months validity is recommended) and must have 1 page per stamp.
• Iceland – Three months required, six months recommended beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area, and two pages required for entry stamp.
• Italy – Six months validity recommended. At least 3 months validity beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area and two pages are required for the entry stamp.
• Malta – Passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area and must have one page for entry stamp.
• Netherlands – A passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned date of departure from the Schengen area. Two pages required for entry stamp.
• Poland – Six months remaining validity strongly recommended; at least three months remaining validity beyond planned departure from the Schengen area is required.
• Romania – Passport needs to be valid for at least three months beyond your departure date, and must have one blank page per stamp.
• Slovenia – Six months recommended; at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area. One page required for entry stamp.
• Spain – 6 months recommended, 3 months beyond your date of departure is required, and 1 page per stamp.
• Sweden – Passport must be valid at least three months beyond the period of stay, and have space for entry and exit stamps.

The Seychelles

Passport must be valid for duration of stay and one blank page required.

Sint Maarten

South africa.

Passport must be valid for 30 days beyond your intended date of exit from South Africa. Must have 2 consecutive empty visa pages per entry (not including endorsement pages).

South Korea

Passport must be valid at time of entry. One blank page per stamp.

Turks and Caicos Islands

The passport must have 3 months of validity upon entry. Two pages are required for entry stamp.

United Kingdom

Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the United Kingdom (At least six months remaining validity is required for onward travel to many other countries). Must have one blank page.

Important Note:

Obviously, there’s a lot more to international travel than just having a passport that’s still valid for X amount of time. For example, some countries require visas or visa waivers (the Schengen Region countries will require a visa waiver from U.S. residents relatively soon, although its launch has been delayed [*cough* several times. But not as many times as Real ID has been delayed *cough*]), sometimes based on the length of your stay, sometimes just to enter the country.

You can check the State Department’s website for specifics.

But if you have less than 6 months left on your passport and want to go SOMEWHERE before you send it to the State Department for renewal (and let it languish for weeks to months), at least you know where you may be able to go.

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10 comments.

Note that sometimes it’s the airlines that enforce this (i.e. if you fly AA to Bahamas and your passport is expiring within 6 months, AA most likely will deny you boarding even though Bahamas would have allowed you entry.) YMMV though!

Traveling to London end of September my US Passport expires February 19th 2023…..will.I be.ok? Or does passporthave to be renewed? not traveling anywhere else, just london

United Kingdom: Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the United Kingdom (At least six months remaining validity is required for onward travel to many other countries). Must have one blank page.

Hi,my son his got a passport each is expire in February next year. Now In August I’m going to France and then in December Spain.Can I back to UK even the passport is more or less then 6 months valabil?

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/UnitedKingdom.html

I think you miss Japan. We travel with one my wife with less than 6 months on her passport. https://jp.usembassy.gov/services/welcomebacktojapan/

I just checked and you’re right. I’ll add it to the list. Thanks!

I didn’t think Australia required six months for passport expiration.

I just checked – you’re correct. I’ll add it to the list. Thank-you!

Can you update the latest on Canada

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Passport Validity Period for Travel to Europe

Many European countries ("the Schengen states") require that your passport be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.  For more information see the Department of State's Schengen web page at http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/schengen-fact-sheet.html .

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In Europe's Schengen area , your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. At present, the Schengen area includes most European Union (EU) countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland.

If you are transiting through Canada or the United Kingdom (UK) enroute to the Schengen area : your passport must be valid for at least six months, even though Canada and the UK do not themselves have the six-month rule. If your passport will expire within six months, airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe.

Traveling in Europe

If you plan to travel in Europe, you need to know about the Schengen Borders Agreement, which allows you to move freely within a number of countries without border checks. Tourists, exchange students, and people visiting for business from certain countries, like the United States, can travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days. The Schengen area includes most EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. It also includes four non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Before you travel to the Schengen area, we recommend you do the following:

• Check the expiration date on your passport book carefully before traveling to Europe. Ensure your passport book is valid for at least six months when you enter the Schengen area. This is especially important for minors under age 16 as their passports are only valid for five years. In contrast, U.S. citizen adults aged 16 and older receive passports that are valid for 10 years.
• Always carry your passport book with you when traveling to another country in the Schengen area. Even if there is no border check at that time, officials may reinstate border controls without notice.
• Be prepared to explain your purpose of travel.
• Be prepared to provide proof of sufficient financial resources for the visit.
• Comply with other entry requirements for each country you will visit or transit.

On our Country Information pages , you can find passport validity requirements and other important information for your destination country. If your passport does not meet the Schengen requirements, you may be:

• Refused boarding by the airline at your point of origin or while transferring planes.
• Denied entry when you arrive in the Schengen area, regardless of how long you will stay.

An immigration official will determine if you qualify for visa-free entry to the Schengen area when you first cross any external Schengen border. You will have to present your passport at that time. The officer may deny your entry if you do not qualify.

You should also check passport validity requirements if traveling onward from the Schengen area to a country outside the Schengen area. You can find this information in our Country Information pages.

HOW LONG CAN I REMAIN?

• With a valid U.S. passport book, you can stay up to 90 days in the Schengen area for tourism or business during any 180-day period. You must wait an additional 90 days before applying to re-enter the Schengen area.
• If you plan to stay in the Schengen area longer than three months, contact the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the majority of your time and apply for a visa.

Countries in the Schengen area may reinstate temporary internal or external border control without notice. U.S. citizens should carry their U.S. passport book at all times when entering or leaving the Schengen area. They should also bring it when traveling between Schengen countries.

How can the U.S. government help me if border officials do not let me enter?

• We can give you the contact information of foreign embassies of the countries you wish to visit.
• We can provide information about hiring an English-speaking foreign attorney overseas if you choose to do so.
• Note: We cannot influence a foreign government’s decision about allowing you to enter. We cannot intervene in another country’s criminal or administrative procedures.

What countries are members of the Schengen Borders Agreement?

Click on the country name for more information.

Bulgaria (entering in March 2024)

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

Netherlands

Romania (entering in March 2024)

Switzerland

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What is the 6-month passport rule.

If your passport is set to expire in six months or less, you may not be able to fly to or from the countries of your choice. That’s why it’s important to check your passport’s expiration date, especially if you plan to travel soon.

In this article, we’ll review:

• Why your passport needs to be valid for six months
• What countries have a 6-month passport validity rule
• What countries have a 3-month passport validity rule

Countries with other types of passport validity requirements

• If you can be denied entry abroad if your passport is almost expired

Why does my passport need to be valid for six months if I won’t be abroad that long?

The reason behind having a passport valid for six months prior to expiration is mainly because of precaution. If there’s an emergency or a sudden reason you have to stay abroad longer than expected, you’ll want to have a valid passport that can allow you to travel to/from the countries you need to visit.

What countries have 6-month passport validity rule?

According to U.S. Department of State , countries requiring six months of validity include:

• Saudi Arabia
• The United Arab Emirates

What countries have a 3-month passport validity rule?

According to U.S. Department of State, European countries within the Schengen zone generally have a 3-month validity requirement. The Schengen zone includes 26 countries that allow people to travel without needing a passport. These include:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Additionally, the following countries also have the 3-month expiration rule:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina

According to U.S. Department of State, Hong Kong and Macau have a 1-month validity requirement.

Additionally, the following countries have a three-month validity requirement where your passport cannot be expired within three months of the date you leave the country:

• North Macedonia

Can I be denied entry abroad if my passport is almost expired?

Yes. You'll want to check with specific countries about their rules, as in some cases you may be able to enter/leave a country within the 3-month expiration period. However, if your passport is close to expiring (anywhere from 3–6 months) you may be denied entry abroad. If you find yourself in this predicament, you may be able to contact your local embassy about expediting a passport renewal and/or receive an emergency , limited-validity passport.

If you’re looking to travel abroad soon, it’s essential to review your passport to see if it will expire soon. Because it can take time to renew a passport, you’ll want to renew it sooner rather than later so that you have a valid passport in time of your travel.

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Six Months Passport Validity Rule

What is the six-month passport validity rule? When traveling overseas, most people know that a valid United States passport is required to enter an international destination. But, what is unknown to the traveler is that some countries would need to have enough six-month validity on their passport to travel to the country known as the six-month validity passport rule for visitors .  Therefore, if your passport expires within the next six months or, in some cases, three months, some countries will refuse to give you entry into the country.

Hence, this rule is in place so that if the unexpected visitor needs to stay for up to six months, his/her passport would be valid to leave the country.

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What is the Six Month Passport Validity Rule?

The 6 Month Validity Rule is imposed by foreign countries and not by the United States of America. It means that your passport should be valid for more than six months before you can enter a foreign country that imposes the six-month rule. This rule is imposed by some of the countries we have listed below. This rule is prevalent in the Asian continent, such as China and Hong Kong.

Which Countries Require Six Months on Passport?

When visiting another country, remember that the six-month rule is enforced by countries outside the US, not by the US. Hence, it’s important to know the rules when entering or leaving to avoid any issues.

Countries That Require a 3-Month Passport Rule?

Which countries need you to have a passport that is valid for three months or more? As a traveler, it’s important to know the requirements for international travel. One important factor to consider is the validity of your passport. While most countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months, there are some that have a 3 months passport rule.

Other Countries with Passport Validity Requirements

U.s. citizens entering u.s. with a passport expiring in 6 months.

The six-month validity requirement does NOT apply to an American citizen using a U.S. passport to enter the United States or Canada. He/she may do so up until the date of expiration of the passport.

Even though many countries implemented the six-month validity rule, other restrictions are enforced to enter these countries. Some require a passport to have one clean page per stamp or at least one available sheet. Also, a visa is a requirement to enter some countries. Be aware of this significant document because without it, when it is required, you will not be allowed to board your flight or enter the country you plan to visit.

Having a passport with plenty of validity before travel is best and wise. Also, it is necessary to know some laws of the country you plan to visit to avoid any mishaps or know what to do when you are there.

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