UK passport holders are being urged to check theirs now, as the HM Passport Office warns you could potentially scupper your holiday plans.

In a new post on X, previously known as Twitter, officials have warned "you may not be able to travel". The warning goes on to say: "Damaged passports may cause difficulties when travelling, if you're planning a trip check that yours is in good condition. Signs of damage can include pages missing, rips, stains, or the cover is coming away."

Further details on the Passport Office website clarify that a passport is considered damaged if any information is unreadable, such as blurred text or faded ink; if any pages are torn, cut, or missing altogether; if there are holes, cuts, or tears in the cover; if the cover is detaching from the pages; or if there are marks on the pages, including water damage or ink stains.

If upon inspection you find that your passport does need replacing, the quickest way to secure a new one is via the government's online service. A replacement passport will set you back £94.50 and you'll need a digital photo and a credit or debit card.

Alternatively, you can renew using a paper form available for collection from your local Post Office, at a cost of £107. For those who may need to attend an interview as part of the process, the HM Passport Office has confirmed that these are now conducted via video call online, and you will be contacted to arrange one once your application has been reviewed.

Fees for new or replacement passports will rise again on April 8. You can read more about this here.