Passport warning as government announces new rules for 26 countries

THE government has updated its latest passport warning for Brits going on holiday to Europe.

With families heading abroad this week for half-term, many are being warned to check their documents to avoid problems at the border.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) shared information about these changes alongside the British Embassy in Madrid, according to the .

They have warned that families need to check their passport expiry dates, so they are no more than 10 years old, and with at least three months left on them.

The update, issued on October 14, warns: "The rules for travelling to European countries changed on January 1, 2021.

"British nationals can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa.

"This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.

"Check your passport is valid for travel before you book your trip, and renew your passport if you do not have enough time left on it."

"Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave Spain or any other Schengen country."

This advice is in place for 26 of the countries in the Schengen area, which also includes France, Portugal, Greece and Italy.

Passports can also no longer be valid for more than 10 years, with previous rules allowing holders to continue to use their old ones for an extra nine months.

Those additional nine months are no longer valid.

The British Embassy also warns Brits that travelling through airports in Spain could take longer as they must now go through non-EU queues.

They added: "At Spanish border control, it is likely you will need to use separate lanes from EU, EEA and Swiss citizens when queueing."

They also warned Brits may need proof of accommodation and a return ticket to be allowed into the country.