HOLIDAYMAKERS with fewer than 12 months left on their passport are being advised to renew them now or risk being denied entry to European countries.

The Government has warned that some valid British passports could be made redundant in neighbouring countries if Britain leaves the EU without striking a deal.

Official documents state that passports will have to be valid for at least six months before expiration if travellers still want guaranteed entry into EU countries. This is in compliance with the Schengen Border Code, and includes numerous holiday destinations like Spain, France, Greece, Germany, Italy and Portugal.

Government advice states: “If you plan to travel to the Schengen area after 29 March 2019, to avoid any possibility of your adult British passport not complying with the Schengen Border Code we suggest that you check the issue date and make sure your passport is no older than 9 years and 6 months on the day of travel.

“For example, if you’re planning to travel to the Schengen area on 30 March 2019, your passport should have an issue date on or after 1 October 2009.

“If your passport does not meet these criteria, you may be denied entry to any of the Schengen area countries, and you should renew your passport before you travel.”

The same rules apply to both adult and children’s passports, and officials recommend renewing your passport as soon as possible, as the passport issuing service can get busy.