Last Updated on June 11, 2025 by Michelle Krause
Is my Red UK Passport still valid?
As a British passport holder, keeping your passport up to date is crucial. It serves as both an official form of identification and your ticket to international travel. However, with changes to passport designs and regulations, it’s natural to wonder whether your red (burgundy) UK passport is still valid.
If you’re a proud owner of a red UK passport, this guide will help you understand its validity and what steps to take if it’s time for a renewal. And if you need assistance, MyBritishPassport is here to make the renewal process simple and hassle-free.
Quick Overview
The article explains that while older “red” (burgundy) UK passports remain valid until their printed expiration date, there are important post‑Brexit travel restrictions to be aware of. For travel to EU/Schengen countries, your passport must have been issued within the last 10 years and must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended return date. Some countries (and airlines) impose even stricter rules, such as a six‑month validity requirement beyond your departure. Consequently, older burgundy passports – especially those issued before 2015-2018 – risk falling foul of these rules, even if they haven’t yet expired on the page. The article urges travellers to check both the issue and expiry dates well in advance to avoid being denied boarding or entry.
Can you still use the red UK passport?
Yes – your old red (burgundy) UK passport is still valid as long as it hasn’t expired. The cover colour doesn’t affect its validity
Is My Red UK Passport Still Valid?
Red UK passports were first issued in August 1988, with “European Community” printed on the cover. This later changed to “European Union” in 1997. Following Brexit, the UK introduced blue passports in March 2020, marking the end of red passports being issued.
If you currently hold a red UK passport, it remains valid until its expiration date. British passports are typically valid for ten years, so be sure to check if yours is nearing expiry. If it has already expired or will soon, it’s time to start the renewal process.
How to Check Your Passport’s Validity
Before planning an international trip, verifying your passport’s validity is essential. Here’s how to check:
- Look at the Expiration Date
This is printed on the data page of your passport, alongside your personal details and photo. Ensure your passport is valid for your trip and at least six months beyond your return date, as many countries require this. - Review the Issuance Date
Double-check when your passport was issued. If it’s close to expiring, renew it as soon as possible to avoid disruptions. - Inspect Its Condition
Immigration officials may reject a damaged passport. Look for tears, missing pages, or water damage, and replace it if necessary.
By following these steps, you can ensure your passport is ready for your next trip.
Does the Colour of My Passport Matter?
No, the colour of your passport has no effect on its validity. Both blue and red UK passports are recognised as valid travel documents. As long as your red passport is unexpired and in good condition, you can use it for travel.
If your red passport is still valid and you enjoy its iconic design, there’s no need to replace it until it expires. However, if it’s nearing its expiration date and you plan to travel, renewing it is advisable to avoid complications.
Read | UK Passport Checker – How to Check if Your UK Passport is Valid for Travel to the EU
About MyBritishPassport
At MyBritishPassport, we specialise in British passport renewals and applications, especially for those living abroad. Renewing a passport can be stressful, particularly when navigating foreign systems, but we’re here to simplify the process.
Our expert team offers personalized support to ensure your application meets all requirements, making the process as quick and seamless as possible. With MyBritishPassport, your passport application is in safe hands, giving you peace of mind and saving you time.
Enhanced durability & security of post-2020 passports
Since early 2020, the UK’s new blue passports feature a polycarbonate data page (rather than laminated paper), which significantly boosts resistance to tampering and wear. Polycarbonate is far more durable – many countries making the switch report dramatically fewer damaged passports. In fact, over 40 countries worldwide had transitioned to polycarbonate biometric pages by 2019. This makes the newer passports not only more secure against counterfeiting, but also better suited for travellers who frequently travel or keep passports exposed to tougher conditions. Source: Wikipedia
Final Thoughts
If you own a red UK passport, rest assured that its colour does not impact its validity. However, checking its expiration date is crucial, especially if you’re planning to travel. If your passport is due to expire, renewing it promptly will prevent travel disruptions.
MyBritishPassport offers efficient, stress-free services to guide you through the renewal process. Contact us today to get started and ensure you’re ready for your next adventure with a valid British passport.
Related Articles
- Expiry Date on a UK Passport
- What Is the Ten Year Rule for a British Passport
- How Do I Check When My UK Passport Expires
- British Passport: When to Renew
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