Passports

• If you are a UK citizen travelling anywhere outside the United Kingdom or Eire you will need your passport. Even if you travel within the European Union you will still need your passport. If you are from one of the other member countries of the European Union you can travel to member countries using your identity card instead of your passport.
• If you are under 18 you may go abroad on your own or with company, but you must have your own passport for which parental consent is required. Once you are 18, you can get a passport and travel abroad without your parents consent.
• Applying for a passport can take a while, especially in high season - spring or early summer. So if you plan to travel abroad leave plenty of time to get your passport. You can telephone the passport office for up to date details of how long it will take to process your passport application.
• To apply for a passport, you will need to pick up an application form from the post office. Fill it in and send it to the passport office nearest to you. Post Offices will help you complete your applications for a small fee. Although this is an unofficial service, it may help to guarantee that your application is dealt with speedily.
• A normal passport is valid for ten years (or until all the pages are full with visa stamps) and costs £51. If you have queries about passports you will find a lot of information in the Notes for Guidance which you get with the passport application form.
• Two photos must accompany the passport application form. The back of the photographs must be signed by one of the following people to confirm that you are the person in the picture. The person must have known you for a minimum of 2 years:
• a professional person, eg; Doctor, teacher, lawyer
• an MP
• a magistrate
• a Minister of Religion
• a local councillor
• a bank officer
• a civil servant
• a police officer.

More specific information about travelling abroad is available on the net. For example, a new website www.suzylamplugh.org/worldwise has been developed by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust to help you enjoy travelling around the world without getting into trouble. Here you will find country by country, practical tips you need to get around safely, whether you are travelling on your own or with friends.Passport Office

0870 5210 410 (Advice Line)

Apply online www.ukpa.gov.uk

Do I need a Visa?

If you are a UK citizen there is no need to apply for a visa to European Union countries. For most other countries in Europe this is also the case. But if you plan to find work it is advisable to check with a country's UK embassy or consulate beforehand for any restrictions or permits you may need. The processing time for a visa can be up to 5 weeks, so ensure that you are clear of your position before planning your visit.

If you have a Euro<26 card (see below for more information) you can call for free advice on the visa situation throughout Europe.

Tip: The Rough Guide series of travel books are a great source of information about all aspects of travelling abroad - www.roughguides.com for more information.