Many countries have a specific travel regulation for the number of blank passport pages visitors should have.
This is to allow space for visas and visa stamps.
Before embarking on an international trip, it is important to check your destination’s passport requirements to ensure that you meet them.
Having a certain number of blank passport pages is a mandatory rule for some territories, along with any necessary travel documents such as an eVisa or Entry Document.
How Many Blank Pages Are Required By Each Country?
Each border authority has its own passport requirements for travelers. The number of compulsory blank pages depends on the individual territory.
Countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Morocco only require visitors to have 1 blank page to enter.
Others, for example Germany, India, and South Africa, follow a 2-page regulation.
Some African destinations need at least 3 blank pages, such as Botswana, Mozambique, and Zambia.
There are even some territories, including Brunei and Namibia, that demand a minimum of 6 empty passport pages.
If you fail to meet these requirements, you could be refused permission to board by an airline, or refused entry at border control.
What if I am visiting multiple countries?
If a trip consists of visiting multiple countries, it is necessary to add the requirements of each country together.
For example, if you are traveling to somewhere that requires 1 page, then continuing on to somewhere that requires 2, you will need to have a total of 3 empty passport pages.
Can I Add Passport Pages?
Most countries do not allow passport holders to add pages. The United States, for example, previously provided this service but no longer do. The same applies for the UK.
In most cases, it is necessary to apply for a new passport if there are no more blank pages left.
You can contact your destination’s embassy or consulate if you are unsure about passport page requirements.