Passports and visas for family holidays and breaks
Passports
ALL family members travelling abroad must have a valid passport. Although highly unrecommended practice, disorganised families can obtain them with as little as 48 hours notice in exchange for a personal visit to the passport office and a hefty fee.
Before 5th October 1998 many children were already included on a valid passport. These children can still continue to travel abroad with the passport holder until either:
- The child reaches the age of 16
- The passport on which the child is included expires
- The passport on which the child is included is submitted for amendment
Children travelling to the USA since 1st October 2004 must do so on their own passports.
The UK passport office has a comprehensive site and a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week staffed advice line on 0870 521 0410.
In the event of the loss or theft of your passport while you are abroad, contact the local police and your nearest British Consulate, Embassy or High Commission who will be able to advise you. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) can provide you with details of posts abroad and can be contacted on 0870 606 0290.
Visas
Some countries require all entrants to have a visa. Check with the country's embassy. A list of all embassies is available here.
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