Checking your passport

It sounds so obvious but before planning a trip abroad you need to check your passport. It’s essential to check it with plenty of time to spare in case there are any issues.
You’ll need to ensure that your passport is in good condition and that the picture and all the details on your passport are correct and not too worn or damaged. You’ll also need to check that it’s not due to expire whilst you’re away, particularly if you’re traveling for a number of months or are unsure as to when your trip will end.

As part of the planning of your traveling trip you will need to check if you need to apply for a visa for any of the places you wish to visit and if so you’ll need to get your application in early as it can take a long time to process depending where you’re going.

If you find any problems with your passport or you require a new passport you will also need to do this well in advance of your trip as the application process can take 3 weeks.
If your passport is not due to expire for a few months don’t forget that you can carry over up to 9 months from an old passport onto your new one.