Free Tool · 2026
Passport Validity Checker
Not sure if your passport is still valid for travel? Enter your passport details and destination — get an instant answer for 50+ countries.
How the Checker Works
Enter Passport Dates
Enter your passport's issue date (when it was made) and expiry date (when it runs out).
Pick Destination
Select where you're travelling. Each country has different passport validity rules.
Get Instant Answer
See if your passport is valid, plus any specific rules you need to know about.
Passport Validity Rules Explained
Most travellers assume a passport is valid until its expiry date. But many countries have extra rules that can make your passport invalid even if it hasn't expired.
Here are the rules that catch travellers out most often:
The 10-year rule (EU & Schengen)
For travel to the EU and Schengen area, your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before your arrival date. This is separate from the expiry date. If your passport was issued more than 10 years ago — even if it technically hasn't expired — you can be denied boarding [citation:4][citation:9].
The 3-month rule (EU & Schengen)
Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area. This is the minimum buffer most EU countries require [citation:4][citation:15].
The 6-month rule (many countries)
Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. This applies to India, China, Thailand, the UAE, Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, Kenya, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brazil and Peru — among others [citation:4][citation:15].
The USA rule
For travel to the USA, your passport must simply be valid for the duration of your stay. However, it's strongly recommended to have at least 6 months remaining, in case of unexpected delays [citation:4].
Other rules
- South Africa: Passport must be valid for 30 days after leaving + 2 blank pages [citation:4]
- Turkey: Passport must be valid for 150 days after arrival + 1 blank page [citation:4]
- Australia: Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay [citation:4]
- New Zealand: Passport must be valid for 3 months after departure [citation:4]
Passport Rules by Country (2026)
Quick reference for the most popular destinations.
| Destination | Minimum Validity | Special Rule |
|---|---|---|
| EU / Schengen | 3 months after leaving | 10-year issue rule |
| USA | Duration of stay | 6 months recommended |
| India | 6 months after return | — |
| China | 6 months after return | — |
| Thailand | 6 months after return | — |
| UAE | 6 months after return | — |
| Turkey | 150 days after arrival | 1 blank page |
| South Africa | 30 days after leaving | 2 blank pages |
| Australia | Duration of stay | — |
| New Zealand | 3 months after leaving | — |
| Canada | Duration of stay | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 10-year passport rule?
The 10-year passport rule applies to travel to the EU and Schengen area. Your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country. This is separate from the expiry date — a passport can still be technically valid but fail the 10-year rule.
How long does my passport need to be valid for the EU?
For travel to the EU and Schengen area, your passport must be issued less than 10 years before your arrival date and be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure date from the Schengen area.
How long does my passport need to be valid for the USA?
For travel to the USA, your passport must simply be valid for the duration of your stay. However, it is strongly recommended to have at least 6 months of validity remaining in case of unexpected delays.
Which countries require 6 months of passport validity?
Many countries require at least 6 months of passport validity, including India, China, Thailand, the UAE, Turkey, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brazil and Peru. Always check the specific requirements for your destination.
Can I travel to Europe with less than 3 months left on my passport?
No. To enter the EU and Schengen area, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave. If your passport expires sooner, you may be denied boarding or entry at the border.
How do I check if my passport is valid for travel?
Use our free passport validity checker above. Enter your passport's issue date, expiry date, and your destination country, and it will instantly tell you whether your passport meets the entry requirements.
What is the 6-month passport rule?
The 6-month passport rule requires your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return date. It applies to many countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America, but not to the EU or USA.
Does my passport need blank pages for travel?
Some countries require blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps. South Africa requires at least 2 blank pages and Turkey requires at least 1 blank page. Always check your destination's specific requirements.