A little-known passport bug has been revealed that could result in you being unable to travel by air. If authorities at the airports where you go on holiday are concerned about the validity of your passport, they could hold you at the airport for further questioning.
Even if you have already landed at your destination, “Your passport is your gateway to the world and a small damage can cause complications at the airport check-in counters,” warns Gavin Lapidus, director of eShores, ahead of the summer season.
eShores is “a team of leading travel consultants who plan tailor-made holidays.” Gavin continued, saying: “Most passports last for ten years, during which time they can suffer some wear and tear. When you travel, your passport is checked for damage or alterations and for validity. Damaged documents may be refused, bringing your holiday to an end.”
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Responding to the warning, one Briton said: “It’s all quite funny when you think about it. You’re photographed, fingerprinted and subjected to Orwellian scrutiny. You’re prevented from travelling if there’s even a slight problem with your passport, but if you land at Dover without any ID, you’re free to come in and go wherever you like.”
A Travelbag spokesperson told Chronicle Live: “If your passport has been damaged by any of the above issues, you should replace it immediately before you travel. You may think the damage is minor, but due to the way passports are manufactured for added security, there may be more damage than you realise, which may result in you being denied travel.
“For added peace of mind, it is recommended to keep your passport well hidden and out of sight so that it remains as pristine as possible and you don’t have any of these problems when travelling.” After all, no one wants their holiday ruined by a passport error.
