The common rules
| Destination type | Typical rule |
|---|---|
| Schengen area | Valid at least 3 months after you leave, and issued within the last 10 years |
| Many Asian and Gulf countries | Often 6 months validity and blank pages |
| Some countries | Valid only for the stay. Always confirm. |
Confirm the exact rule on the destination's official page or with your airline before you travel.
General information only
This guide is information, not legal or immigration advice. Rules and procedures change, so confirm with the official authority before you act. If you need legal help, speak to a qualified lawyer.
Questions and answers
Do blank pages matter?
Many countries ask for at least one or two blank pages. Check the official page for your destination.
Does validity count from arrival or departure?
Usually from the date you plan to leave the country or the Schengen area, but rules differ. Confirm with the official source.
Sources
Facts were read in these sources on 2026-10-18. Reported means a news source said it and we could not confirm it on an official site.