British tourists have been warned that failing to sign their passport before travelling could lead to delays at border control this summer. His Majesty's Passport Office issued the reminder on social media, stating: 'Travel tip: Sign your passport before you go - unsigned passports can cause delays at border control.'
The alert applies to most passport holders, though children under 12 and people unable to sign their name due to a disability are exempt. In such cases, the passport will note that 'the holder is not required to sign'.
According to official Government guidance, Britons must sign their new passport 'as soon as you get it' because 'you can't use it until you do'. The signature should be made on the 'holder's signature' line using a black ballpoint pen. HM Passport Office cautions that an unsigned passport 'is not a valid travel document until the holder has signed it'.
The reminder comes as millions prepare for summer holidays, with additional advice to check passport expiry dates and entry requirements, particularly for EU travel where stricter validity rules apply.
