Do I need my passport for the Eurostar?

Essential Travel Document for Eurostar Journeys: Passport or National ID Card

For a smooth and hassle-free Eurostar journey, ensuring you have the correct travel documentation is crucial. While traversing through Europe, you may encounter various border control checks, making it mandatory to carry your passport or national identity card.

Border Control Requirements for Eurostar

The Eurostar train service connects the United Kingdom with France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. As you pass through these countries, you may be subject to customs checks by authorities from the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, or Belgium.

Acceptable Travel Documents

To comply with border control regulations, Eurostar requires passengers to present either a valid passport or a national identity card issued by a European Union or European Economic Area member state.

Validity and Availability

It is essential to ensure that your travel document is current and readily available for inspection. Expired or damaged passports or identity cards will not be accepted. It is advisable to keep your travel document easily accessible throughout your journey to avoid delays or potential issues at border control.

Consequences of Not Carrying the Correct Document

Failure to carry the necessary travel document may result in delays, refusal to board the Eurostar, or even fines depending on the specific regulations of the countries involved. Therefore, it is highly recommended to double-check your travel documentation before embarking on your Eurostar adventure.

Additional Tips

• Make copies of your passport or national identity card for safekeeping.
• Store your original travel documents and copies separately to minimize the risk of losing all your documentation.
• Allow ample time for border control checks, especially during peak travel periods.
• If you are unsure of the required travel documents, contact the Eurostar customer service team for guidance.

By adhering to these regulations, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable Eurostar experience while exploring the vibrant cities and landscapes of Europe.