Some overseas countries have an immigration requirement for a passport to remain valid for a minimum period after entry to that country. Holding a British passport does not exempt the holder from complying with these requirements. If your passport is in its final year of validity, you are advised to check the requirements of your destination country before you make your final travel plans. Any questions should be addressed to their consulate or embassy. You can find a list of foreign embassies in the UK on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website (new window). Your travel agent will also be able to give you advice on visas.
You do not have to wait until your passport expires before you renew it. If you renew your passport before it expires, any unexpired period of validity rounded up to the nearest whole month (minimum of one month, maximum of nine months) will be added to your new passport. This period is calculated from the point at which your new passport is authorised for issue, not from date of application. You therefore need to apply at least six weeks before your passport expires to get this benefit.
Further reference:
24-hour Passport Adviceline: 0870 521 0410 (see terms and conditions). Calls are charged at 8p per
minute from a BT landline; live operators are available to assist with your enquiry 24 hours a day
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