UK red passport holders face summer travel restrictions as Italy and Portugal relax border rules

The United Kingdom has issued a summer travel alert warning holidaymakers who still use the old red passport that they could be turned away at airports this season. The alert follows the passport’s phased withdrawal and the government’s push for travelers to switch to the newer blue design.

Separately, Italy and Portugal announced they will temporarily suspend certain EU Schengen entry checks, allowing tourists to enter with only a passport stamp ahead of the May half‑term holiday. The move comes after widespread disruption to border controls across Europe and aims to ease travel for visitors during the peak season.