Tom Bishop, Head of Direct Line Travel Insurance said:

“As travel restrictions ease for the summer months, it is great to see Brits excited to once again plan holidays and explore the continent. However, our research reveals nearly a quarter of Brits, the equivalent to 12.3 million people, do not currently have a valid passport at all.  A further 13 per cent, or 6.7 million, have a passport expiring in the coming year. This could lead to travellers spending an eye watering £180 million in the next 12 months to secure a fast-tracked new passport.  Young adults account for nearly half of all passports expiring in the coming year.

“As we get used to being able to travel more freely, it is always best to double check the expiration date on your passport well in advance of travelling, as well as the rules around the required remaining validity for the country you are travelling to. It is also crucial to remember the regulations when travelling to certain countries and individuals should also check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advice to make sure they are aware of any rules regarding entry requirements for the country they plan to visit.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

¹ Research commissioned with Opinium between 8^th – 11^th February 2022 among 2,003 UK adults

² Current gov.uk guidance about travelling to Europe advises passports must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

·         less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)

·         valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

“We are asking the European Commission to clarify the 10-year rule. Their guidance for Schengen border guards may not be updated until the spring of 2022. Until then, for some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.”

For further information please contact:

Chelsey Wheeler
Deputy Head of News and Issues – Direct Line  

Tel: 01651 832 095

Email: [email protected]  

Direct Line

Started in 1985, Direct Line became the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel of communication. It provides motor, home, travel and pet insurance cover direct to customers by phone or on-line.

Direct Line general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Direct Line and UK Insurance limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Direct Line products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 3761 or visiting www.directline.com