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• Travel Insurance
• Medical insurance
• About the Insurer

With PassportCard there is no out out-of-pocket expenses, no paperwork and no long claiming processes. We are the first travel insurance company in the world to offers payouts in real time. When emergency strikes, PassportCard is there to cover it immediately.

PassportCard has gained a leading position in the expat health and insurance fields. Our customers have instant access to healthcare services across the globe. There’s no need for traditional claim forms, approvals or reimbursements.

Instant Payouts

If a customer needs a doctor abroad all they have to do is call the number on the back of their PassportCard. Our system will instantly calculate the costs and put that money straight onto their PassportCard. They then just use the card like a normal debit card. No paying out of their own pockets. It’s stress-free and easy, just how it should be.

No paperwork, No Hassle

PassportCard is the only travel insurer to settle claims in real time; literally within minutes. Say you have a high fever and you need medical help abroad – just call and we pay. No long claims process, no paperwork and no follow-ups. It’s that simple!

Revolutionary Trust

PassportCard trusts our customers and our customers trust us. We payout instantly and don’t second-guess medical claims. If our customers need us then we are there for them. That’s all there is to it.

Re–activation

One PassportCard is all you need. Just contact us before going abroad to activate your policy for a set length of time. Going away again next year? Just use the same card again. There’s no easier way of staying covered year in, year out.

Our Operations

Switzerland, travelcard australia.

TravelCard Australia introduces the innovative idea of real-time travel insurance.

Allianz Partners collaborates with PassportCard to offer our unique real-time travel insurance throughout Germany.

PassportCard Israel

PassportCard is the travel insurance market leader in Israel. We offer the most advanced international private medical insurance for both expats and global citizens.

United States

Robin’s digital health venture offers a new way of optimizing payments and controlling US healthcare costs. Taking just seconds to complete Robin lowers healthcare costs and restores trust between members, providers and insurers.

PassportCard Cyprus

PassportCard Cyprus offers a unique health solution for Europeans exploring the world.

Innovation lab

Our innovation lab is the place where technology and insurance meet. Our lab challenges the set rules of the insurance industry to create the next big idea. From proof of concept to development, our lab works in short cycles to develop the award-winning technologies of tomorrow.

In The Press

PassportCard customers have full control via the new app

UK-based health insurance provider PassportCard has announced enabling payments for medical treatments abroad ...

PASSPORTCARD AWARDED 2021 INNOVATION PRIZE IN GERMANY IN THE SERVICE EXPERIENCE IN HEALTH INSURANCE CATEGORY

The Davidshield-Passportcard travel insurance company came first in an international innovation competition wh...

PassportCard Launches International Health Insurance In Germany

PassportCard Deutschland, in partnership with Allianz, launched its international health insurance in Germany ...

Israeli regulator grants DavidShield insurance co license

The DavidShield-PassportCard group, jointly controlled by founder Alon Ketzef and US insurance company White M...

Increase in demand for health insurance from Israelis on relocation

Alon Ketzef, one of DavidShield shareholders: “In the last month more than 6,000 families have inquired for he...

TravelCard insurance has quite literally changed the game

TravelCard insurance has quite literally changed the game, creating a real-time debit card that pays insurance...

How a High-tech Company Conquered Israel’s Travel Insurance Market

PassportCard roared onto the local scene, and has since become Israel’s largest travel insurance company, with...

CATRIONA ROWNTREE: 9 THINGS I’VE LEARNT FROM MY TRAVEL MISTAKES

"On my last trip for Getaway, I actually ended up becoming the first claimant for TravelCard in Australia when...

Instant payments for travellers struck by disaster.

JETSETTERS caught out by an unexpected travel hitch are often left waiting months for their claim to be proces...

PassportCard one of The Top 7 InsurTech Startups in EMEA.

MEDICI Top 21 – InsurTech has selected PassportCard as one of The Top 7 InsurTech Startups in EMEA.

PassportCard wins 2 awards for distinguished achievements in 2016: The Best Specialist Service Provider and The Best Marketing Campaign of the Year

The judges commented on winning the Best Specialist Service Provider Award: "This is an exciting innovation wh...

Mobile claims: Are we there yet?

"A step in the right direction...Allianz Global Assistance Canada is testing a new way for travellers to pay f...

Leading a revolution in global travel

PassportCard prides itself in being the world’s first real-time travel insurance, benefitting both consumers...

Innovation in claims handling key for UK brokers

Innovation within add-on products to introduce ‘real-time’ claims experience for clients could help both custo...

AGA Germany launches Real-Time travel insurance in collaboration with PassportCard

With the Real-time travel insurance AGA is leading the market with an innovative proposition. No out of pock...

Bringing travel claims into the 21st century

Travel claims lead to piles of paperwork, delays in payment and poor customer retention rates. Sharon Haran, t...

Allianz Global Assistance launches real-time travel insurance

Allianz Global Assistance (AGA) Germany has launched on April 4th 2016, the new real-time travel protection to...

PassportCard technology that enables claims to be paid in “real time” is underpinned by analytics

PassportCard a travel insurance offering that is set to be launched in the UK market this year enables claims ...

German Innovation Award 2021

Specialist Service Provider of the Year

The Best Marketing Campaign of the Year

The Most Innovative Emerging Company

General Catalyst Award for Travel Innovation

MEDICI TOP 21

Top 7 InsurTech Startup in The EMEA

The Paybefore Award for Advanced Prepaid Solutions

Innovation in Global Mobility

The people behind PassportCard

Ronit Segal - CEO of Israel Region

Previously VP Operations Set-up, leading establishmnet of activities in Australia and Germany.

with a 360 degrees thinking, complex processes is where she is like a duck to water

Alon Ketzef - Founder & President

Previously: founder of Davidshield (today merged with PCG), former VP Sales and Marketing at Israel National HMO.

a visionary, a romantic and an executor. Where no mountain is high enough and no river is wide enough...

Ran Mizrahi - Chief Insurance Officer

Former VP Underwriting and Claims at PCG. Former VP Customer Support at PCG.

a standup comedian at heart that does insurance as a day job

Eithan Wolf - CEO EU Region

Man on the ground in the establishment of the activity in Germany. Former Deputy CEO Israel Region.

Where Leadership & style never go out of fashion

Shefer Abelson - Chief Product Technology

Previously CEO of Crusoe Cyber Security and CIO of Hachshara Insurance.

Managing complex technology challenges with the calmness of a scuba diver.

Daphna Shapiro Goldberg - Chief Data Analysis

Chief Data Analysis and Chief Pricing Officer, Previously: Team Leader - Healthcare and Group Benefit at Mercer.

a mathematician, a physicist, a marine biologies, of which numbers are her mother tongue

Yaron Herling - VP Strategy Implementation

Former PMO of Israel activity. Previously: PMO at IDIT division at SAPIENS.

where process and meticulous planning are a way of life

Eyal Ben-Chlouche - Chairman of the Board

Former Commissioner of Insurance of the State of Israel.

a rationalistic finance professional whose true passion is winemaking

Peter Klemt - CEO APAC Region

GM Brokers & Strategy at Unimutual Insurance, previously GM Business Developemnt at QBE Australia

waiting (for skies to open)...

Ilana Bar - International General Counsel

Partner at Kennedys Law, Previously General COunsel at Migdal Insurance

friendly despite her career choice, a master of intricate reulatory law

Shahar Shabo - Chief Financial Officer

Former SVP Strategy Implementation at PCG.

top down or bottom up - a laser beam on the meeting point of business and numbers

Leor Catalan - CEO of Corporate Ventures

In charge of go-to-market activities: PassportCard Nomads. TravelCard Australia, CEO Robin. Former CEO of APAC Region.

an architect in spirit, a forward thinker, a designer, a builder, a leader

White Mountains - shareholder

White Mountains Insurance Group is a Bermuda-based financial services holding company. It’s traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Bermuda Stock Exchange under the symbol WTM. If you’d like to find out any more information about White Mountains, head to the company's website at http://www.whitemountains.com .

DavidShield - Shareholder

The DavidShield group has been leading the way in smart health insurance, by developing high-end technological solutions and innovative customer-oriented services. The group has a strong worldwide presence, with operations in over 100 countries, offices in Europe, the US, the Middle East and Australia, and R&D labs in Zurich and Tel Aviv.

Get In Touch

United kingdom.

Catalyst House, 720 Centennial Ave, Elstree, Borehamwood WD6 3SY London, UK

8A Hazoran Street, Netanya, Israel 42504

Caffamacherreihe 8, 20355 Hamburg, Deutschland

7 Florinis Street Greg Tower, 6th Floor, 1065 Nicosia, Cyprus.

Level 11, 5 Blue Street North Sydney, 2060 NSW

PassportCard is a member of White Mountains and Davidshield group

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If you're looking to make a smooth start to your journey, you need to make sure you have the right documents, such as a valid passport and the relevant visas.

To help, we've summarised some of the key considerations and requirements here - but it's not a full list of all possible requirements around the world. It's your responsibility to ensure you have the right documents to be allowed to travel.

Passports and ID cards

To travel on an international flight your passport must:

• Have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter a country . Check the Date of Issue on your passport.
• Be valid for the required time after your planned return date . This is often at least three or six months after the day you plan to leave your destination. Check the Expiry Date on your passport.
• Meet the specific passport validity requirements for your destination . Check the  IATA Travel Centre  for more information.
• Be signed by its owner . Please ensure each passport is signed with the owner's signature. You may be denied entry or fined in some countries for travelling with an unsigned passport. More information is available for UK passport holders at  HM Passport Office .

Children's passports

Children need their own passports to travel internationally, including infants under two. Infant and children's passports are only valid for five years, so please check the expiry date before departure.

EU, EEA or Swiss national ID cards

These are are no longer accepted as valid documentation for entering the UK, unless you’re exempt. Please check the latest  UK Government advice  for more details.

Please note, it’s your responsibility to ensure you have valid documentation when you travel.  If you fail to comply with these requirements, you may not be allowed to travel, or you may be refused entry at your destination and have to pay associated costs.

You do not require a passport to travel within the UK, but you will need to carry one type of photographic ID when travelling with us. Examples include:

• Valid passport
• Valid driving licence, either provisional or full
• Valid EU national identity card
• Valid armed forces identity card
• Valid police warrant card or badge

If you are a citizen of the UK, Republic of Ireland, Channel Islands or Isle of Man and were born in these areas, you do not need a passport to travel between these destinations, but you do require some form of photographic identification, such as a driving licence.

All other travellers require a valid passport to travel between these destinations.

Processing times for passports vary but it may take six weeks or longer to receive a passport after applying, so we advise that you wait until your passport has arrived before making a booking. Many countries offer fast-track applications where required.

If you need a passport or need to renew an existing one you can apply directly to your nation’s passport office. In the UK, that’s the UK passport service .

If you’d like help with your application, British Airways has partnered with VisaCentral, a company that will do all of the hard work for you. VisaCentral can help with passport renewals and replacements, name changes, second passports and new passports for children. Plus, as a British Airways customer you’ll get a 30% discount on the service fees.

Get a passport through VisaCentral

If there is a place on your passport for you to sign, please sign your passport with your signature.  Your passport is not valid until it is signed . For British passports, you can learn more from  HM Passport Office .

Visas and other travel documentation

How to check if you need a visa

Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your journey, you may need a visa, or an equivalent form of authorisation, for every country you enter as part of your journey — even if you are only in transit or connecting from one flight to another in the airport of that country without going through border control — known as a transit visa.

This is in addition to a valid passport.

There are several ways you can check if you need a visa:

Check if you need a visa via the IATA Travel Centre  - it's free to check and also includes passport and health requirements, as well as customs, currency and airport information.

If you need a visa, our partner VisaCentral can help  - it's free to check and they’ll tell you exactly what documents you need to get one. Plus, as a British Airways customer, you’ll get a 30% discount on VisaCentral service fees should you need help with an application.

Check if you need a transit visa to connect through the UK  - even if you’re only connecting from one flight to another, you may need a transit visa, such as a Direct Airside Transit (DATV) visa or a Visitor in Transit visa, to connect through the UK.

Check if you need a visa via the Sherpa online search tool below .  Sherpa can also help obtain many e-visas, and advise of other possible information you may need for your travels.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

An ETA will soon be required for people travelling to the UK who do not need a visa, including children and babies. It will be electronically linked to your passport and will give you permission:

• To visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or to study.
• To visit the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession .
• To transit through the UK – including if you’re not going through the UK border control.

An ETA will be required from 15 November 2023 when travelling from certain countries, with more being added to the scheme over time. Please check if you require an ETA .

Read further information and apply for an ETA  or watch more about ETA .

The information provided on this page is for information purposes only and could be subject to change at very short notice. It is your responsibility to check and observe all the health and entry requirements applicable to your journey and you should always check the latest travel guidance from your government before you travel and the guidance provided by the relevant public authorities of your destination. Failure to meet applicable requirements means that British Airways will not be able to carry you, and compensation and care and assistance provisions will not apply. Please note that Sherpa is a third party service provider that may apply fees for such services.

Entry requirements and other travel documents

If you're a citizen of a country covered by the Visa Waiver Programme (such as the UK) you are able to travel to the USA with an Electronic System Travel Authorisation (ESTA) instead of a visa.

Make sure you apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure .You may not be allowed to travel if you arrive at the airport without an ESTA.

You will need a valid e-Passport to use ESTA. These have a microchip symbol on their front cover. ESTAs are valid for multiple journeys for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner.

Apply for an ESTA

More about the Visa Waiver Program and ESTAs

When you need a visa

You will need to apply for a visa to travel to the United States and should contact your local US Embassy in the following circumstances:

• If you are a citizen of a country not covered by the Visa Waiver Programme.
• If you have dual nationality with one passport being issued by a country eligible under the Visa Waiver Programme and the other issued by Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria.
• If you have an ESTA and have visited Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria since 1 March 2011.

Help with your ESTA application

Our partner VisaCentral can take the hard work out of applying, and offers a safe, secure and easy way to obtain your ESTA. Benefits of using its service include:

• Specialist support – access to a visa specialist via phone or email if you have questions regarding your application.
• Automated monitoring - applications not instantly approved automatically get resubmitted or assigned to a visa specialist for review; there’s no need to re-apply.
• Discounted rate – get a 30% discount on VisaCentral's handling fees as a British Airways customer.

Get an ESTA through VisaCentral

Many visitors need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization to travel to Canada. You can check Canada’s entry requirements before flying.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization for you.

Get an eTA through VisaCentral

If you're travelling to China, you'll need to check what type of visa you require. Transit visas are available if you are staying for less than 144 hours.

If you have a British passport, the GOV.UK website shows what types of are available when travelling to or through China.

Find out more about visa requirements for China  (British passport holders only)

If you have a passport from any other country, please ensure you check with your nearest Chinese Embassy .

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain a Visa for you.

Get a visa through VisaCentral

If you are travelling to India, you may be able to obtain an eTourist Visa online, just four days before you travel. The visa will be valid for 60 days and you will need to present a printed copy when you check in to be able to travel.

Find out more and apply for India e-Tourist Visa

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain an eTourist Visa for you.

While we make every effort to keep this information up to date, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) visa restrictions can change at short notice. Please  check the IATA Travel Centre  before you book.

If you are a pilgrim

If you are a Hajj or Umrah pilgrim, you must enter KSA through Jeddah with a valid Hajj or Umrah visa. Travel must be between the official pilgrimage travel dates.

You cannot:

• travel for Hajj using an Umrah visa
• travel for Umrah using a Hajj visa
• enter, transfer or transit through Riyadh
• travel outside of the official pilgrimage dates determined by the Saudi authorities each year

If you are travelling from the UK, we recommend to book through our specialist partner Masterfare who can arrange your flight and Hajj/Umrah visa through a KSA Ministry of Hajj approved agent.

If you are travelling from another country, or you book on ba.com, it is your responsibility to ensure you get the correct pilgrimage visa from a KSA Ministry of Hajj-approved Hajj or Umrah agent.

If you do not have the correct documentation, or have booked to travel outside the official pilgrimage dates, you will not be allowed to travel or be able to get a refund.

Non-pilgrim visitors

If you are not Muslim, you can enter Jeddah or Riyadh at any time using a business or visit visa.

If you are Muslim, are using a business or visit visa during Hajj, or are travelling in the 6-week period up to and including Hajj, you must enter KSA through Riyadh.

If you are Muslim with a business or visit visa, you will need a Hajj visa to travel during the official pilgramage travel dates.

These restrictions do not apply to residents or citizens of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

KSA visa restrictions change at short notice. Please check the IATA Travel Centre before you book.

Some countries' immigration departments require additional documentation for all children under 18 years travelling into, out of or transiting their country. This varies depending on the country so please check before you travel on the IATA Travel Centre. Just make sure you use the date of birth of your child to receive the correct information.

South Africa requirements

If you need a visa for your journey, you can apply directly with the embassy or high commission of the country you want to travel to — visit their website or local consulate to learn more about the process.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can do all of the hard work for you:

• it's a safe, secure and easy way to obtain your visa
• it can help save time — VisaCentral will stand in line at the embassy or consulate on your behalf
• you'll get a 30% discount on handling fees as a British Airways customer

Advance Passenger Information (API)

Many countries require us to collect some passport and travel information about who's flying into their country. The information you provide is sent securely to the necessary government authorities.

You will need to supply some or all of the following details:

• your full name (as it appears on your passport)
• your date of birth
• your gender
• your nationality
• your passport number
• your passport expiry date
• the country that issued your passport
• your country of residence.

Additionally, when travelling to the US, you will need to provide:

• the destination address of your first night’s stay
• Alien Registration Number (Green Card) for those who have US residency
• Traveler Redress Number   if you have one (this enables travellers who have experienced problems entering the US to avoid future difficulties).

If you're a US citizen and have a 'Global Entry' number, you don't need to provide this as part of your API. When you arrive in the US your Global Entry status will be recognised when you use the dedicated Immigration kiosk.

Some governments require us to provide them with information from flight bookings, which will contain additional passenger details to those listed above.

You can add Advance Passenger Information to your booking on ba.com using   Manage My Booking . If there is any information you need to provide, you'll see a red exclamation mark against the passenger information section at the top of the page.

Add Advance Passenger Information

Legal statement for US flights

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the US Department of Homeland Security requires us to collect information from you for purposes of watch list screening, under the authority of 49 U.S.C. section 114, and the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. Providing this information is voluntary; however, if you don't provide it, you may be subject to additional screening or denied transport or authorisation to enter the post-security area. TSA may share information you provide with law enforcement or intelligence agencies or others under its published system of records notice. For more on TSA Privacy policies, or to view the system of records notice and the privacy impact assessment, visit   tsa.gov .

Travel schemes

If you are a national of one of the below countries you can join the 'Registered Traveller' scheme and enjoy faster entry to the UK, as long as you have a biometric passport.

When you apply, the UK Border Force carries out checks to see if you are eligible to join. If accepted, you won't need to fill out a landing card for the UK. You'll be able to enter the UK at the ePassport gates or the UK/EU lanes at several UK airports, including all London airports, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester.

Find out more or apply for the Registered Traveller scheme

UK citizens can get through US passport control faster by joining Global Entry, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) programme. The scheme allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers arriving in the United States. Benefits include:

• no processing queues
• no requirement to complete a paper customs declaration form
• reduced waiting times
• TSA Pre✓® Eligibility (faster, more efficient security screening at participating US airports).

Membership lasts for five years and the application process includes background checks (at a non-refundable cost of £42 payable to the UK government), online enrolment with the US Customs and Border Protection Agency (at a non-refundable cost of USD100) and attendance at a face to face interview at an official enrolment centre.

More about Global Entry and FAQs

Apply for Global Entry

We participate in the TSA Pre✓ ® programme for customers with a Known Traveller Number (KTN) departing from US airports. TSA Pre✓ ® is a faster, easier security screening process at US airports. Once enrolled, you will be able to speed through security without removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets.

Who is eligible?

• Members of the Global Entry scheme.
• US citizens and US lawful permanent residents enrolled in TSA Pre✓ ® , NEXUS or SENTRI. 
• Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS. 

Enter your Global Entry, TSA Pre✓®, NEXUS or SENTRI membership number (your KTN) into your booking each time you travel to demonstrate your eligibility. You can add your KTN during online check-in via   Manage My Booking   on ba.com, at an airport desk or by   contacting us .

Even if you are eligible for TSA Pre✓ ® as a member of a trusted traveller programme, TSA Pre✓ ® does not guarantee expedited screening.

Find out more and enrol

Find out where TSA Pre✓ ® is available  

Where a TSA Pre✓ ® lane is not available, you can show your TSA Pre✓ ® boarding pass and may receive a form of expedited screening in a standard lane.

You can now submit an electronic arrival card via the Web Service and Mobile App before you arrive in Singapore. You will then be able to head directly to immigration clearance, allowing you to avoid unnecessary delays and save time at the airport.

COVID-19 information

Keeping our customers and colleagues safe at all times is always our number one priority. During the pandemic we introduced new measures including the need to wear face coverings.

Customers are no longer required to wear a mask at airports in England, however, as an international airline flying all around the world, we are obliged to ensure our customers continue to comply with local restrictions and meet the requirements of the destination they arrive at.

Therefore, we ask you to check the requirements of the destination you’re flying to before departing for the airport, because:

• If you are travelling on our flights, you will be required to wear a mask on board if the destination you are flying to or from requires you to.
• If you are travelling on our flights, you will be required to wear a mask to disembark the aircraft, and at your arrival airport, if the destination you are flying to requires it.

Countries requiring masks

You will need to wear a mask if you are travelling to or from the below destinations. Please also be aware that some countries require a specific type of mask, as indicated.

If your destination is not listed below, then you are not required to wear a mask. However, if you still wish to wear a mask you’re able to make a personal choice and we kindly request everyone to respect each other’s preferences.

Please note, if your flight is due to be operated by another airline on behalf of British Airways, you may still be required to wear a mask for your flights regardless of your destination. We advise that you bring your own mask with you if flying with a partner airline to ensure you meet any requirements.

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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The U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized, plastic passport that has no visa pages. The card is proof of U.S. citizenship and identity, and has the same length of validity as the passport book.  

The card is for U.S. citizens who travel by land and sea from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and Caribbean countries.

The card is not valid for international travel by air and is cheaper than the passport book.

You can apply for either the book or card, or both documents.  

Steps to Apply for a Card

• Applying for the first time:  Apply in Person page .
• Applying for your child: Children Under 16 page .
• Renewing as an adult:   Renew by Mail page .  
• Change your name or correct an error on the document.  

We use the same forms for both passport books and cards. The first step on our forms is to select if you want a passport book, passport card, or both documents. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i apply for the passport card and passport book using the same application.

Yes. You can apply for both a passport book and passport card at the same time using the same application. When completing your form, let us know if you would like to apply for one or both documents. 

If you're renewing both your passport book and passport card, you must provide both documents. If you can submit a passport book, but you lost your passport card, you cannot renew the passport card using Form DS-82.

Can I get a passport card if I already have a passport book?

Yes. If you already have a passport book and   you are eligible to use Form DS-82, you may apply for a passport card by mail as a "renewal" even if it is your first passport card.

You can do the same and apply for your first passport book by mail as a "renewal" if you already have a passport card.

May I use a passport card to fly?

You cannot use the passport card to fly to or from a foreign country.

The Transportation Security Administration accepts the passport card as ID for domestic flights in the United States.

The passport card is for U.S. citizens who live in northern and southern border communities and cross the border by land.

Use the passport book for international air travel.

Can I use my passport card at Ready Lanes?

Yes. You can save time at the U.S.-Mexico border by using Ready Lanes that read the U.S. passport card’s Radio Frequency Identification technology. Find a complete list of documents accepted at Ready Lanes. 

I don't have any citizenship evidence or photo ID to apply. How can I get these documents?

Go to our Citizenship Evidence page and Photo ID page for examples of documents we accept.

Don't have a birth certificate?

If you were born in the United States, contact the county, city, or state where you were born and ask for a certified copy of your birth certificate. A certified copy has the seal or stamp of the official issuing authority.

If you were born outside the United States, follow the tips on the Citizenship Evidence page. 

Don't have a driver's license?

We accept other types of government-issued, primary photo ID. We will accept secondary photo ID if you do not have a primary ID. 

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Why get a Travel Money Card?

Carry up to 22 currencies safely.

Take one secure, prepaid Mastercard® away with you that holds multiple currencies (see ‘common questions’ for which).

Accepted in over 36 million locations worldwide

Use it wherever you see the Mastercard Acceptance Mark – millions of shops, restaurants and bars in more than 200 countries.

Manage your card with our travel app

Top up, manage or freeze your card, transfer funds between currencies, view your PIN and more all in our free Travel app .

Safe and secure holiday spending

Manage your holiday funds on a Travel Money Card with our free travel app. Top it up, freeze it, swap currencies, view your PIN and more.

It’s simple to get started

No need to carry lots of cash abroad. Order a Travel Money Card today for smart, secure holiday spending.

Order your card

Order online, via the app or pick one up in branch and load it with any of the 22 currencies it holds.

Activate it

Cards ordered online and in-app should arrive within 2-3 working days. Activate it by following the instructions in your welcome letter.

It’s ready to use

Spend in 36 million locations worldwide, and top up and manage your card in the app or online.

What is Post Office Travel Money Card?

Discover how easy our Travel Money Card makes managing your spending aboard

New-look travel app out now

Our revamped travel app’s out now. It makes buying, topping up and managing Travel Money Cards with up to 22 currencies a breeze. Buying and accessing Travel Insurance on the move effortless. And it puts holiday extras like airport hotels, lounge access and more at your fingertips. All with an improved user experience. Find out what’s changed .

Order a Travel Money Card

Order your card online – or through the Post Office travel app – and we'll deliver it within 2-3 days. Just activate it and go.

Need it quick? Visit a branch

Pick up a Travel Money Card instantly at your local Post Office. Bring a valid passport, UK driving licence or valid EEA card as ID. 

Need some help?

We’re here to help you make the most of your Travel Money Card – or put your mind at ease if it’s been lost or stolen

Lost or stolen card?

Please immediately call: 020 7937 0280

Available 24/7

To read our FAQs, manage your card or contact us about using it:

Visit our Travel Money Card support page

Common questions

How can i order my card.

There are three ways that you able to obtain a Travel Money Card, each very simple.

Please note, you must be a UK resident over the age of 18 to obtain a Travel Monday Card.

• Via our travel app: you can order and store up to three Travel Money Cards in our free travel app . Delivery will take 2-3 working days.
• Online: follow our application process  to order your card online. Your card will take 2-3 working days to be delivered. Once it arrives you can link it to our Travel app to manage on the go. 
• In branch: simply find a nearby Post Office branch and pop in to get your Travel Money Card there. Please remember to take a valid passport, UK driving licence or a valid EEA card in order to obtain your card, and you can take it away the same day.

Whichever way you choose to order your card, don't forget to activate it once it arrives. Full details of how to activate your card will be provided in your welcome letter, to which your card will be attached if it’s been sent in the post.

How do I use my card?

Travel Money Card is enabled with both chip & PIN and contactless, so you can make larger and lower-value value payments with it respectively. For convenience, you can also add it to Apple Pay and Google Wallet.

You can load it with between £50 and £5,000 (see more on load limits below). You can use it to pay wherever the Mastercard Acceptance Mark is displayed. And you can withdraw cash with it at over 2 million ATMs worldwide (charges and fees apply, see 'Are there top-up limits?' below).

Your Travel Money Card is completely separate from your bank account so it’s a safe and secure way to pay while you’re abroad.

How can I manage my card?

After you've activated your card, you can manage it using our travel app or via a web browser. You can check your recent transactions, view your PIN, transfer funds between different currency ‘wallets’, top up your card, freeze your card and more.

Our travel app brings together travel essentials including holiday money, travel insurance and more together in one place. As well as managing your Travel Money Card you can buy cover for your trip, access your policy documents on the move, book extras such as airport parking and hotels, and find your nearest ATM while overseas or Post Office branches here in the UK.

Which currencies can I use?

The Post Office Travel Money Card can be loaded with up to 22 currencies at any one time. You can top up funds on the card and transfer currencies between different ‘wallets’ for these currencies easily in our travel app or online.

Currencies available:

• EUR – euro
• USD – US dollar
• AUD – Australian dollar
• AED - UAE dirham
• CAD – Canadian dollar
• CHF – Swiss franc
• CNY – Chinese yuan
• CZK – Czech koruna
• DKK – Danish krone
• GBP – pound sterling
• HKD – Hong Kong dollar
• HUF – Hungarian forint
• JPY – Japanese yen
• NOK – Norwegian krone
• NZD – New Zealand dollar
• PLN – Polish zloty
• SAR – Saudi riyal
• SEK – Swedish Krona
• SGD – Singapore dollar
• THB – Thai baht
• TRY – Turkish lira
• ZAR – South African rand

What are the charges and fees?

Full details of our charges and fees can be found in our   Travel Money Card terms and conditions .

The Post Office Travel Money Card is intended for use in the countries where the national currency is the same as the currencies on your card. If the currency falls outside of any of the 22 we offer on your card, you’ll be charged a cross-border fee. For example, using your card in Brazil will incur a cross-border fee because we do not offer the Brazilian real as a currency. 

Cross border fees are set at 3% and are only applicable when you use your currency in a country other than the ones we offer. 

For more information on cross border fees, please visit our cross border payment page.

There are no charges when using your card in retailers in the country of the currency on the card. This means that a €20 purchase in Spain would cost you €20 and will be deducted from your euro balance. 

To avoid unnecessary charges to your card, wherever asked, you should always choose to pay for goods or withdraw cash in the currencies of your card. For example, if you are using the card in Spain you should always choose to pay in euro if offered a choice; choosing to pay in sterling (GBP) in this example would allow the merchant to exchange your transaction from euro to sterling. This would mean your transaction has gone through two exchange rate conversions, which will increase the total cost of your transaction. 

For loads in Great British pounds, a load commission fee of 1.5% will apply (min £3, max £50). A monthly maintenance fee of £2 will be deducted from your balance 12 months after your card expires. Expiration dates can be found on your TMC; all cards are valid for up to 3 years. 

A cash withdrawal fee will be charged when withdrawing cash from a UK Post Office branch or from any ATM globally that accepts Mastercard.  

We have listed all available currencies and their associated withdrawal limits and charges below: 

EUR – euro Max daily cash withdrawal: 450 EUR Withdrawal charge: 2 EUR

USD – US dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 500 USD Withdrawal charge: 2.5 USD

AED – UAE dirham Max daily cash withdrawal: 1,700 AED Withdrawal charge: 8.5 AED

AUD – Australian dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 700 AUD Withdrawal charge: 3 AUD

CAD – Canadian dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 600 CAD Withdrawal charge: 3 CAD

CHF – Swiss franc Max daily cash withdrawal: 500 CHF Withdrawal charge: 2.5 CHF

CNY – Chinese yuan Max daily cash withdrawal: 2,500 CNY Withdrawal charge: 15 CNY

CZK – Czech koruna Max daily cash withdrawal: 9,000 CZK Withdrawal charge: 50 CZK

DKK – Danish krone Max daily cash withdrawal: 2,500 DKK Withdrawal charge: 12.50 DKK

GBP – Great British pound Max daily cash withdrawal: 300 GBP Withdrawal charge: 1.5 GBP

HKD – Hong Kong dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 3,000 HKD Withdrawal charge: 15 HKD

HUF – Hungarian forint Max daily cash withdrawal: 110,000 HUF Withdrawal charge: 600 HUF

JPY – Japanese yen Max daily cash withdrawal: 40,000 JPY Withdrawal charge: 200 JPY

NOK – Norwegian krone Max daily cash withdrawal: 3,250 NOK Withdrawal charge: 20 NOK

NZD – New Zealand dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 750 NZD Withdrawal charge: 3.5 NZD

PLN – Polish zloty Max daily cash withdrawal: 1,700 PLN Withdrawal charge: 8.5 PLN

SAR – Saudi riyal Max daily cash withdrawal: 1,500 SAR Withdrawal charge: 7.50 SAR

SEK – Swedish Krona Max daily cash withdrawal: 3,500 SEK Withdrawal charge: 20 SEK

SGD – Singapore dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 500 SGD Withdrawal charge: 3 SGD

THB – Thai baht Max daily cash withdrawal: 17,000 THB Withdrawal charge: 80 THB

TRY – Turkish lira Max daily cash withdrawal: 1,500 TRY Withdrawal charge: 7 TRY

ZAR – South African rand Max daily cash withdrawal: 6,500 ZAR Withdrawal charge: 30 ZAR

Are there top-up limits?

Yes, all currencies have top-up limits and balances. See full information below, which is applicable to all currencies available on the Travel Money Card.

• Top-up limit: minimum £50 – maximum £5,000
• Maximum balance: £10,000 at any time, with a maximum annual balance of £30,000
• Read more Travel Money Card FAQs

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Find out more information by reading the  Post Office Travel Money Card's terms and conditions .

Post Office Travel Money Card is an electronic money product issued by First Rate Exchange Services Ltd pursuant to license by Mastercard International. First Rate Exchange Services Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales with number 4287490 whose registered office is Great West House, Great West Road, Brentford, TW8 9DF, (Financial Services Register No. 900412). Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Post Office and the Post Office logo are registered trademarks of Post Office Limited.

Post Office Limited is registered in England and Wales. Registered number 2154540. Registered office: 100 Wood Street, London, EC2V 7ER. 

These details can be checked on the Financial Services Register by visiting the  Financial Conduct Authority website  and searching by Firm Reference Number (FRN).

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Irish passport card

What is an irish passport card, where can i use it, how much does it cost, how to apply, lost, stolen or damaged card, more information.

The Irish passport card is a travel document that Irish citizens can use for certain travel instead of the standard passport book. It is similar in size to a credit card and it has a SealCrypt strip. You can only get a passport card if you hold a valid Irish passport book.

You must apply online to get an Irish passport card.

Online applications are completed in approximately 3 to 5 working days.  Check the Passport Service website  for the current processing times.

You can use the passport card when traveling in the European Union, the European Economic Area (which includes Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) and Switzerland.

If you are an Irish Citizen travelling from Ireland, you do not need a passport to enter the United Kingdom under Common Travel Area rights , but airlines and sea carriers may want you to prove your identity when checking in. You should check with your airline or sea carrier to see what types of identification they accept.

For travel to other non-EEA countries, you must use your standard Irish passport book.

Adults and children can get passport cards. You will save money if you get your passport book and passport card at the same time as part of a bundle.

There is an additional €5 postal fee for each child application to cover the cost of returning documents to the applicant.

There is an additional €15 postal fee if you reside outside Ireland.

You can only apply for a passport card online .

Over 18 and hold existing passport book

• You may apply for a passport card individually.
• Your passport book must have at least 3 months remaining validity.

Over 18 with no passport book or passport card

• You can get a passport card and passport book at the same time online as part of a bundle.

If you are under 18

• You can only get a passport card with a passport Book as part of a bundle which is an option you can select when renewing your child’s passport online.
• Passport Cards for under 18s will be valid for the same period as the Passport Book.

When making the application you need:

• Your current passport book
• Your photograph (see the detailed guidelines on dfa.ie )
• A valid email address
• A debit card or credit card

The personal details you provide when applying for a passport card must be exactly the same as those on your passport book.

The passport card is valid for 5 years or until your passport book expires, whichever period is shorter.

If you are going to use your passport card when travelling, you must use the passport card number when checking in online.

Track your application

When you submit your application online, you are issued with an 11-digit application number. You can track your application’s progress on the Department’s website using the application number.

If you have lost your Irish passport in Ireland, tell the Passport Office immediately. Lost, stolen or damaged passports can be renewed online.

You can find more information in the Department’s list of FAQs and on dfa.ie . You can also view the turnaround times for the processing of applications. If you have any queries you can contact the Passport Service .

Related documents

• Irish passports - an overview Who can apply for an Irish passport? Where can Irish passport holders travel? Our overview document answers your questions. 1723.0077
• Irish citizenship and passports for children born abroad Outlines the rules about Irish citizenship for children who were born abroad and have an Irish parent. It also covers the documents you need when applying for an Irish passport for children born abroad. 1602.0042
• The European Health Insurance Card The European Health Insurance Card gives you access to medically necessary, state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in another EU/EEA country. Find out more. 1562.2836

If you have a question about this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

You can also contact your local Citizens Information Centre .

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Can I travel to the UK with an ID card after Brexit or do I need a passport?

From 1 October 2021 you need a valid passport to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). If you become a UK resident on or before 31 December 2020, you can continue to use your ID card to travel between the Netherlands and the UK until at least the end of 2025.  

Visiting the UK

From 1 October 2021 you need a valid passport to travel to the United Kingdom (UK). The UK is made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. For more information on travelling to the UK from 2021 . 

Dutch nationals living in the UK by 31 December 2020

If you become a UK resident on or before 31 December 2020, you are covered by the withdrawal agreement. This means you can continue to use your ID card to travel between the Netherlands and the UK until at least the end of 2025. You may need to show proof that you fall under the withdrawal agreement.  

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Passport Book vs. Card: 4 Key Differences

A Los Angeles native, Jennifer is a freelance personal finance writer and editor whose goal is to help readers get excited about improving their financial health. She loves using credit card rewards points toward airfare, and recently took a round-trip flight to Southeast Asia entirely on points. Her work has been featured by Forbes, HuffPost, MSN Money and Business Insider.

Megan Lee joined the travel rewards team at NerdWallet with over 12 years of SEO, writing and content development experience, primarily in international education and nonprofit work. She has been published in U.S. News & World Report, USA Today and elsewhere, and has spoken at conferences like that of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Megan has built and directed remote content teams and editorial strategies for websites like GoAbroad and Go Overseas. When not traveling, Megan adventures around her Midwest home base where she likes to attend theme parties, ride her bike and cook Asian food.

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

About the passport book

About the passport card, how a passport book and passport card differ, when to get both, if you're choosing between the passport card and passport book.

For international travel, the U.S. Department of State issues two types of official government documents: the passport book and the passport card.

The main difference between a passport card and book boils down to where you can use them, what methods of transit are eligible and the cost.

It’s important to learn the difference between the two so you can choose more confidently if one (or both) are right for you.

A passport book is a small booklet available to U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals that can be used for international travel by air, sea or land. For travelers age 16 or older at the date of issue, the books are valid for 10 years. Younger travelers are given passports that are valid for five years.

Each passport book is assigned a unique number. The first page of a passport contains your photo and personal information, including your full name, nationality, date of birth, place of birth, sex, the passport issue date and passport expiration date. The rest of the book is filled with blank pages for immigration stamps and visas. Depending on the country you’re visiting, you might be required to have two to four blank visa pages.

The standard passport book is 28 pages; however, you can request a 52-page book if you anticipate frequent international travel.

Since 2007, only electronic passports have been issued. These books contain an electronic chip that stores the information on the first page, a biometric identifier of your passport photo, a chip identification number and a digital signature.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

The passport card is also available to U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals, but can only be used for foreign border entry by land and sea — and only in specific places. Regardless of the country you’re visiting, it’s not an accepted form of ID for international air travel. Passport cards are valid for the same durations as passport books.

The passport card fits a standard wallet card slot and contains your photo, full name, nationality, date of birth, place of birth, issue and expiration dates, plus your unique passport card number.

The card also has built-in Radio Frequency Identification which can be used in Ready Lanes at Canadian and Mexican land borders for faster entry.

» Learn more: How to save on road trips

1. Border entry method

The biggest difference between a passport book and passport card is the methods of travel that are eligible. While passport books can be used for all entry methods into an international country — whether air, land or sea — passport cards are limited to travel through land and sea borders only.

» Learn more: TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: Which is right for you?

2. Travel destination

Another difference between a passport book and passport card is which countries each can be used to enter.

There are no limitations for destinations where you can use your passport book. Passport cards, however, can only be used going through a land border or seaport in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. For example, if you’re planning a Mediterranean cruise, you’ll need to use a passport book. The card isn’t valid for seaport entry in Europe.

» Learn more: The complete guide to a U.S.-Canada border crossing

3. Format and size

Passport books and passport cards have physical differences. Passport books are 3.5-by-5-inch booklets with blank pages for foreign immigration stamps and visas. Although they’re pocket-sized, passport books are bulkier than passport cards, which are the size of a credit card or driver’s license.

» Learn more: How to get your first passport

Passport books are more expensive than cards. Regardless of document type, all first-time applicants must pay a $35 acceptance fee, which is included in the price.

Passport books for first-time applicants cost:

For adults (16 and older): $165.

For children (15 and under): $135.

The cost difference is stark compared to passport cards for first-time applicants:

For adults (16 and older): $65.

For children (15 and under): $50.

Acceptance fees are dropped for renewals of both the passport book and card. Travelers can expect to pay $130 to renew an adult passport book and $30 to renew an adult passport card.

The passport book is the all-encompassing identifier to carry regardless of how and where you’re traveling. You have the option to purchase a passport book and card in one application, and there are a couple of scenarios when having both passport types might be convenient, like:

If you travel equally by air and land. If you’re visiting Canada or Mexico by car, you might prefer a more compact document for traveling across the border. In that case, having a passport card for regular land-based trips would be useful. You can keep your passport book handy for international air travel.

If you don’t have a Real ID , which will be required for domestic air travel beginning in 2025. A U.S. passport — book or card — is accepted as an alternative to the Real ID, but the card is more convenient to carry around. If you’re flying domestically without a Real ID, you'll be able to use a passport card for air travel within the 50 states and reserve your passport book for international travel.

If you choose to apply for both passport options in one application rather than applying for them separately, you’ll save $35 since you’ll only pay one acceptance fee.

» Learn more: What flyers need to know about REAL ID for travel this fall and beyond

Deciding between a passport book and a passport card can feel like a difficult choice considering the cost difference and the turnaround time to get your passport application processed.

When choosing which option is best for you, consider the type of travel you’re most likely to do over the next few years. If you’re unsure about your future travel needs, a passport book might be your best option.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

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2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

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Be careful what you wish for – especially when it comes to passport rules

The man who pays his way: brexit changed much for travellers – but not everyone seems to agree on what, or why, article bookmarked.

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This weekly column began in 1994. I calculate today’s is number 1,572. Never has there been a weekend when I have been stumped for a subject: the travel industry is constantly changing, innovating and faltering. Sometimes, the thing writes itself – or, even better, readers do the work for me. And so it has proved today.

The context: prospective travellers are being turned away from airports because they inadvertently fail to comply with the passport rules for visits to the European Union .

After Brexit , we asked to be subject to the “non-visa third country” conditions for entry to the EU and wider Schengen area. These require your passport to meet two tests:

• Under 10 years old since issue date on the day you go in.
• At least three months before expiry date on the day you plan to leave.

I regularly publicise these conditions on social media, especially ahead of busy travel times. Each time, I get a barrage of responses – mostly contradicting my version of events. So allow me to give you a sample of the latest crop, and my view on them.

Jon Clodd: “This is nothing new, I got refused entry onto a ferry to Spain in 2014 because of an expired passport.”

That would have been because your passport had expired. The issue here is about passports that are in date and valid for travel to a wide range of nations – including the US, Australia and Tunisia – but which nevertheless cannot be used for travel to the EU.

Sara Lockwood: “Post - Brexit? These rules have been in place for years.”

Yes, the regulations about passport validity are long-standing – and the UK helped draw them up. But what is novel is our decision to request that we are treated in the same way as the fine citizens of Tonga and Venezuela.

Before Brexit, it was simple: your passport was valid for travel in the EU and wider Schengen area up to and including the expiry date. Not anymore.

Brian Read: “Many carriers insist on six months to expiry date.”

If they do – and wrongly deny you boarding – then you can claim for cash compensation in addition to recompense for additional costs. Most regrettably, easyJet and Ryanair continued to apply the wrong rules for many months , resulting in many passengers being wrongly denied boarding, until they finally agreed to accept The Independent ’s version of the regulations.

David Smith: “Some passports have more than 10 years from issue to expiry but that extra duration doesn’t count.”

This is the same issue that J P White puts in a different way: “Passports are not 10 years – they are effectively nine-year nine-month passports.” One reason the two giant budget airlines got things wrong for so long was that the UK government misrepresented the rules – suggesting that three months needed to be subtracted from 10 years. That was never the case, and it is unfortunate that some in the travel industry continue to pretend that it is.

Sam Williams: “I thought they were the standard rules everywhere.”

The only region of the world that cares when your passport was issued is the European Union and wider Schengen area. I am concerned that travellers to dozens of other countries – such as Turkey, Morocco and Mexico – are fearful that their passport is not recognised after 10 years.

Charles Forsyth: “If the EU27 were sensible they would continue as before.”

That is not quite how it works in international negotiations. If a country insists on leaving a union of nations and taking on all the consequences of doing so, the union has no choice but to impose those rules. It is possible that a new government might seek to renegotiate on the UK’s status, but to “continue as before” is not an option.

The leading Brexiteer, Andrea Leadsom, promised: “Our future, and that of our children and grandchildren, will be so much better outside the EU. My ambition will be to guide our country to the sunlit uplands.” Well, we’re here. Be careful what you wish for.

Simon Calder, also known as The Man Who Pays His Way, has been writing about travel for The Independent since 1994. In his weekly opinion column, he explores a key travel issue – and what it means for you.

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Foreign Office passport warning affects all UK tourists visiting Turkey and 'it is illegal not to'

T he British Foreign Office has reminded holidaymakers of a key passport rule that is a legal requirement in Turkey and must be followed at all times. All UK tourists visiting Turkey will need a valid passport to do so, but some travellers don't realise that they need to carry it with them throughout their trip.

Authorities in Turkey are known to carry out ID checks, particularly in busy areas and anyone asked will be expected to show photographic ID. The Foreign Office has urged holidaymakers to 'always carry' their passport on their person while out and about in case they are stopped by police.

The Foreign Office advice reads: "It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. Always carry your passport or residence permit.

Read more: I flew from Birmingham Airport after rule change and realised my mistake too late

"In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the authorities may stop people for ID checks. There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey. Cooperate with officials conducting checks."

Tourists travelling from the UK to Turkey should make sure that their passports meet the country's entry requirements, which state that passports must be valid for at least 150 days from the date a person arrives and have a full blank page for entry and exit stamps.

The Foreign Office has also advised travellers of the licences and documents they'll need if they plan to drive or hire a moped or motorcycle. Tourists who plan to drive in Turkey must carry a green card and either a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) or a valid UK driving licence notarised in Turkish. You cannot buy an IDP outside of the UK so be sure to get one before you travel.

It is illegal not to wear a helmet on motorcycles and mopeds and anyone caught breaking the rules can expect a large fine. Police are known to be tough on drunk drivers and people caught drink-driving could see their licence confiscated for six months.

Planning your next holiday? Travel Republic has deals on package holidays to the likes of Spain from £155pp. If you're looking to upgrade your luggage for your next trip, luxury suitcase brand Antler has received over 800 five-star customer reviews on its best-selling Clifton Cabin Bag . Priced at £170, the trendy suitcase is ideal for Jet2 and TUI flights and also fits the size requirements set by Ryanair and EasyJet for upgraded cabin luggage.

Money blog: 'My anxiety levels are rocketing' - the mortgage chokehold facing old-age Britons

Welcome to Weekend Money. Growing numbers of Britons face being forced to work past their pension age to pay off long-term mortgages - share your story below if this affects you. We'll be back with the latest consumer and personal finance news on Monday.

Sunday 23 June 2024 13:35, UK

Weekend Money

• 'My anxiety levels are rocketing' - the mortgage chokehold facing old-age Britons
• The bad news buried in the really good news - what you need to know from Money this week
• Holiday money tips, Airbnb fears and 'shocking' ticket prices - what you've been saying this week
• Tourists urged to avoid car hire company over 'serious issues'

Best of the week

• Why frozen fruit and veg can be better for our health - and our wallets
• Ian King analysis: Door still open for August rate cut - though one thing could get in the way
• 'One guy wanted to rent my room for a few hours to meet a friend...' What I learnt from putting my home on Airbnb
• Women in Business : 'How I went from mum with no qualifications to owner of big law firm'
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

By Katie Williams , Money team

Many of us envisage retirement as a peaceful winding down after several decades of hard work.

But an increasing number of mortgage holders face having to put their relaxation on ice as they're left with no choice but to work past their pension age to pay off long-term mortgages.

Homeowners are still reeling from painful interest rate increases by the Bank of England (BoE) that pushed high street mortgage rates as high as 6.8%. Those who have taken out or renewed their mortgage in the past year have likely had their monthly payments rocket.

A recent BoE report revealed nearly half of all mortgages issued in the last three months of 2023 were for 30 years or longer, while two in five were issued to borrowers who would be past state pension age at the end of their mortgage term.

Different figures from UK Finance show 41,580 first-time buyers took out mortgages with terms of 30 years or more in the last quarter of 2023, of which around 15,700 (38%) were longer than 35 years.

'I'll be paying until I'm 75'

One single homeowner from Hove, who asked not to give her name, said even though she had a "healthy deposit" for the flat she bought a year and a half ago, the mortgage was still a "big stretch" and she will be paying it off until she is 75.

"I can't get it down, I need to keep working," she said.

"When I'm older I will have no other source of guaranteed income other than company pension and state pension, they won't cover my mortgage and other expenses."

Stephen Eblet's mortgage is set to run until he is 68 - one year past his pension age. He says he has enough in his private pension to pay it off, but doing so will impact his finances in retirement.

The 62-year-old self-employed plumber, who lives in Gristhorpe, near Scarborough, suffers with musculoskeletal pain and is worried about "making the finish line" at 67, a retirement age he says is "far too high" for manual labourers.

"My anxiety levels are rocketing," he said. "I'm terribly worried about having to finish work early because of back problems and where that will leave me with a mortgage and how it will impact my lifestyle should I have to retire."

Inheritance, downsizing and interest rate falls - how Britons are planning to make their mortgages shorter 

Taking out a long-term mortgage doesn't necessarily mean you're locked in. 

There is the option to shorten the term at the end of your fixed-rate period or move to a less expensive home to cut off some of the debt.

This is the case for Danielle Steele, 39, from Swindon, who has a mortgage with her husband that is currently set to end when they are 71.

They plan to downsize once their two daughters leave home in around a decade or so, meaning they're not too concerned at this point.

Father-of-four David Clarkson, 41, who lives in Flintshire, said he and his wife recently opted for a mortgage that will take them to 75, with a rate fixed for three years. It kept his payments within £150 of what they were paying before.

He is hoping interest rates will drop in the next three to six years to allow them to pay it off in time.

"So far we've not had to change too many aspects of daily life, but this will change in the coming years if wages don't go up or prices continue to rise," he said.

Steve, 51, from Scotland, said his mortgage goes three years past his pension age - but it's a "calculated risk".

"We hope we'll get inheritance to pay off our mortgage sooner. Not that you want older relatives to die, but it seems a lot of people need to rely on that these days," he said. 

Long-term means high interest

Gerard Boon, managing director of online mortgage broker Boon Brokers, says staff have seen a rise in clients reporting that they'll have to worker longer and later in life to settle their bills.

"We always ask how long people are willing to work. Five or six years ago or even just pre-COVID… people would normally say their retirement age [is] 66 or 67 years old and that was fairly standard. But now, more often than not, people are saying [they'll] have to work until 70 or maybe 75," he said.

He noted that some lenders have "cottoned on" to this fact and are raising the age cap on their mortgages as a result. Others remain more cautious, such as Halifax, which recently cut the cap from 75 to 70 years for some of its products.

Mr Boon said his advice to clients is always to opt for a shorter term if possible, as they will pay "far more" interest over the course of a longer-term deal - but for many it's just not feasible.

"I would say the vast majority of applications, especially for first-time buyers in the age range of 20 to 25, they've opted for the longest time period," he said.

" People are trying to get their costs down... I think a lot of people are taking these longer mortgage terms with the hopes that they'll be able to refinance at a later date to shorten the term."

What are lenders' rules around retirement age?

UK lenders will have age limits for mortgage lending - one being a cap on the maximum age you can take one out, and another for paying them off.

Different lenders will have different rules on what age they require the debt to be paid by.

The upper age limit for paying off a mortgage typically ranges between 70 and 85, while most will not let you enter a new deal past the age of 80.

Individual circumstances, such as income, employment status and credit history, will also affect eligibility as they would for any borrower.

Holidaymakers are being urged to avoid a car hire company ranked last in a customer satisfaction survey.

Goldcar, which operates in countries like Spain, Portugal, France and the US, achieved an overall score of 52% in the annual report by consumer group Which?.

It was awarded two stars out of a possible five for value for money, car description matching reality, record given of damage to car, and customer service.

One fifth (20%) of respondents who used Goldcar said they had issues with the condition of the car, and 23% reported being charged extra either when they picked up or returned the car.

The car hire company with the second-lowest overall score was Dollar (56%), followed by Record Go (57%), Budget (61%) and Sixt (64%).

"Booking car hire should be straightforward, but all too often it feels like the wild west, with travellers lamenting fraught experiences, poor customer service and spurious fees," said Rory Boland, editor of magazine Which? Travel.

"Goldcar in particular is best avoided, with customers repeatedly reporting serious issues from pressure selling to poor customer service."

A spokesman for Goldcar, which is owned by Europcar Mobility Group, said: "Goldcar is of course disappointed about the results of the Which? report.

"The company takes customer care very seriously with a code of ethics for counter sales and a guide of good sales practices, both of which are reviewed annually based on customer feedback.

"We are committed to investigating any incidents where a customer believes they have received a service that does not match expectations for a low-cost brand and continue to invest in staff training and best practices."

Throughout the week, lots of our readers send in comments on the money stories that have caught their eye, and every Saturday we bring you a selection of them. 

Our analysis of the best ways to make your holiday cash go further garnered some attention.

Experts explained the benefits of using plastic overseas, what type of cards are best to use and how to avoid a common mistake that can cause you to spend more. 

They were also quizzed on when and where holidaymakers should get cash, and what exchange rates to look for.

Money blog readers said:

Instead of carrying cash, why not use a gift card instead? And if you use the taxis or minicab, check the prices first. And why not get a weekly or monthly bus pass if you can? Marc Ricketts

We used a Halifax clarity card on a recent holiday to Thailand. It's a great holiday card but it's a pain using it online. They want a text confirmation - a problem if you're using a local sim. Card is locked and there's no way to unlock it without phoning home. Gareth Rona

Our  cost of living specialist Megan Harwood-Baynes shared her experience of putting her home on Airbnb, making £700 from a spare room in two months.

But she advised prospective users of the app to make sure they have a good radar for vetting people. 

Not everyone was convinced...

Before boasting about being an Airbnb host, people should know about the damage they do to local areas. Because of them rents keep going up. People who grew up locally are forced to move away.  Tissiam

The majority of leasehold flats don't allow short-term lets.  Why does the UK allow Airbnb to operate if they don't secure copies of leases to confirm leasehold properties have the permissions required for those hosts either unaware or too arrogant to comply with terms of leases?  Als

Pearl Jam fans were left upset after paying for tickets to see the band - only for the price to be cut in half less than two weeks before the show. 

Readers took the opportunity to share their concerns about the industry.

It's shocking how much ticket prices have doubled in the last few years. Its making concerts as much as a holiday when you include transport.  Holly

Why aren't the tickets for gigs broken down to see where the money goes, i.e. taxes, VAT, and actually to the artist . Fees are getting out of hand. Ian

Two interlinked stories dominated the money world this week - inflation and interest rates.

As expected, the Bank of England held the base rate at a 16-year high of 5.25% on Thursday.

The nine-person Monetary Policy Committee voted 7-2 in favour of holding them - the same split as the last time it met. 

Our  economics and data editor Ed Conway said: "Everyone now is kind of in a holding pattern until August when the next meeting takes place. 

"That is the moment where people think there could be a cut. We're going to potentially be waiting until August and maybe even November - it really depends on what happens with the data." 

Rates have been elevated over the last few years to reduce consumer spending and encourage saving - when that happens, price rises (inflation) usually slow.

Now inflation is down to 2% (May's figures were released on Wednesday), isn't the battle won?

That's certainly the interpretation Rishi Sunak wants you to believe - and there's no doubt inflation falling is massive after three years of spiralling prices instigated by the Ukraine war and subsequent energy crisis.

It's worth noting too, as the government did, that the UK is faring well internationally when it comes to inflation...

But there was bad news buried in the good news. Services inflation was expected to drop much more sharply - instead it remained at 5.7%.

Business correspondent Paul Kelso explained: "While the headline rate has been reined in, primarily by food prices rising more slowly than a year ago, inflation for all services remains at 5.7%. 

"This is precisely the sort of 'sticky' above-target domestic inflation the Bank has always feared would linger after energy price shocks fell away, and the reason it forecasts the rate will actually rise in the second half of the year."

Economists are also concerned about this - analysts at Pantheon Macroeconomics see inflation creeping up to 2.9% by November.

Wage growth also remains high and, while this is great for workers, it is inflationary.

Setting all the economics aside, there was also a school of thought the Bank will not move during an election campaign - to make sure it does not influence the polls, which we saw on Wednesday. 

After the rate decision, the most likely date for a cut was pushed back from August to September, according to market forecasts.

This is bad news for borrowers - though savers may enjoy higher rates on their cash for longer.

Some savings rates have been rising, and others have been falling, but the top five easy access accounts are still paying more than 5%. 

It's also worth reiterating, as always, that inflation falling doesn't mean prices are - for that, we'd need negative inflation.

Conway focused on overall inflation over the past three years - rather than annual inflation - to see how much prices have gone up.

His charts, as always, are eye-opening...

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money.

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

The Money team is Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

Around 1,500 workers at Tata Steel are to hold an "all-out indefinite strike", the Unite union has announced. 

The industrial action at Port Talbot and Llanwern, Newport, will begin on 8 July and is expected to "severely impact" the company's UK operations, the union said.

It comes in response to plans to close Tata Steel's blast furnaces in South Wales, putting 2,800 jobs at risk, according to the union.

Unite said it would be the first time in more than 40 years that steelworkers in the UK have gone on strike.

Industrial action, including staff working to rule and a ban on overtime, began earlier this week.

The union's general secretary Sharon Graham said: "The strikes will go on until Tata halts its disastrous plans.

"Unite is backing Tata's workers to the hilt in their historic battle to save the Welsh steel industry and give it the bright future it deserves."

The UK's biggest trade union has officially backed the campaign to introduce a four-day working week. 

Unison has argued the flexible working pattern could help employers recruit and retain staff, and has demanded the next government take action to make sure more businesses adopt it. 

Campaigners have argued that research shows business performance and productivity increases when staff are able to work a four-day week.

Unison's general secretary Christina McAnea said the COVID pandemic proved people could do their jobs from home and, with the use of AI on the rise, the move was inevitable. 

"What's needed is a rethink on how workplaces are organised, as well as progressive policies that future-proof people's livelihoods and protect their wellbeing," she said. 

Last year, 61 companies across the UK took part in a four-day working week trial, and 56 of them agreed to stick with it. 

The Great British summer could finally be arriving, with some forecasts suggesting there could be a heatwave next week.

But as temperatures creep towards 30C, technology in your home, including mobile phones and broadband routers, can overheat.

Placing a router in the coolest room, away from direct sunlight is the best way to ensure you stay connected to the internet, experts at Uswitch.com have recommended. 

Mobile phones are also designed to work up to 35C.

Putting devices in direct sunlight can put them under additional strain.

Uswitch.com says by closing down unused apps, checking non-official chargers, and avoiding putting mobiles in a fridge or freezer, can keep them cooler for longer. 

As thousands of Taylor Swift fans descend on Wembley Stadium for the blockbuster Eras tour this weekend, parents who are set to endure the clapping, screaming and crying have the chance to bag themselves a freebie. 

Tech retailer Curry's is giving away free JBL noise-cancelling headphones to the first 50 parents or guardians who show a valid concert ticket.

"Taylor Swift's tour in Wembley will be a musical moment like no other," Stuart Taylor, store manager at Curry's in Wembley, said.

"But we know she isn't for everyone. 

"We have already seen so many videos of social media of parents taking their kids to dates on the tour so far, so we wanted to give something back to parents doing their duty - whether they're going with their kids or playing taxi driver."

The deal only applies to the Wembley store in northwest London.

Government borrowing was less than expected in May , new figures have revealed.

Net borrowing - the difference between public sector spending and income - was £15bn, an increase of £0.8bn on the same time last year, the Office for National Statistics said.

The amount is below the £15.7bn forecast by the Office for Budget Responsibility and less than expected by economists.

However, it's still the highest amount for the month of May since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Retail sales rose by a better-than-expected 2.9% in May as increased footfall, better weather and deals saw shoppers return to high streets, according to officials.

It comes following a poor performance during the previous month as days of heavy rain dampened demand across much of the country.

Economists polled by news agency Reuters had been expecting a rise of around 1.5%.

Meanwhile, the Office for National Statistics also revised its retail sales figures for April.

It previously estimated that they fell by a worse-than-expected 2.3%, but now it says the drop was 1.8%.

Microsoft has regained the title of the world's most valuable public company , just days after it was overtaken by one of its rivals.

Computer chipmaker Nvidia lost its hold on the top spot after its shares slipped by 3.5% in the US yesterday, leaving the company valued at $3.2trn (£2.5trn).

Nvidia, Microsoft and Apple are now in a three-horse race for the top spot, while they are also battling to become the world's first $4trn (£3.2trn) firm, analysts say.

A key factor to watch is whether Nvidia can maintain its dominance in AI, or if its market share will be eroded by its rivals as they invest heavily in the field while racing to catch up.

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