Traveling out of the country? Always check
On my most recent international trip, something occurred that I had never experienced before. If you have followed my Instagram (@lifesheloves_com) you will have seen that I traveled a lot this year. Before 2022 is over, I will have gone to Italy 3 times, Korea twice, Thailand, and Germany. Not to mention the various trips I took within the United States.
A few days ago, I landed in Germany. After standing in line for quite a while, because a gentleman was obviously having some difficulty, people were getting impatient. I felt bad for the guy, it was obvious he was flustered and the rest of the people in his party were all visibly upset.
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They finally opened a second window and I went through the standard process but when I was at the security check point the police officer looking at my passport said I needed to wait. My passport expires in 86 days and does not meet the 90 day requirement. I was caught completely off guard. The man looked at me and said, “Me, too.” Another police officer was called to the windows and we were escorted into a room in the back. I was shocked. I knew about the 90 day rule and I knew my passport was close but I was sure that I was ok. Somehow, February 2023 was so far away. Well, I was wrong.
I started to ramble at the police officer about only being in Germany for a few days before going to Italy and I would be home months before my passport actually expired. The other guy just sat in his seat sweating and chuckling saying something about being an American citizen. I needed him to be quiet.
At that point, the officer looked at both of us and said that it was an EU rule and that they had the right to enforce this rule. A light bulb went off in my head, this is an EU rule. I quickly told the officer that I was an Italian citizen and also carry an Italian passport. I could tell he was surprised and he started lecturing that I should always travel with my Italian passport when I am in Europe because it gives me so many more rights. He took my two passports and that of my new friend, who was starting to worry, to some other officers.
When the officer came back out, he asked me to follow him outside. He returned my passports and told be to only use my Italian passport when I was in Europe. I was so relieved. I asked him what was going to happen to the other guy. The officer responded that he would be sent back to the United States. I felt so bad for the guy, even a bit sick to my stomach for him. I was relieved for myself. I will never let that happen again.
I did check the airline’s website, just to be sure and there it was:
“When traveling abroad, it is also essential to have a valid passport. Many travelers don’t realize that most countries apply rules in regard to the passport expiration date. For most countries, visitors must have a valid passport for six-months after they plan to arrive at their destination, however this period can vary. Either way, if you are planning a trip abroad, always make sure to check the passport validity requirements and the expiry date of your passport. This will help avoid unfortunate issues at the airport or at immigration at your destination country.”
GET INFORMED about your destination at travel.state.gov/destination
