08 June 2022

Passport validity requirements for travel on the South Atlantic Airbridge

The Defence Passenger Reservation Centre notifies all passengers wishing to travel on the South Atlantic Airbridge that they require at least 6 months validity remaining on their passport, from the date of return to RAF Brize Norton or  Mount Pleasant Complex, this applies equally to service and civilian passengers.

This is in order to meet the entry requirements of Cape Verde through which the Airbridge transits on the journey between the UK and the Falkland Islands. Failure to meet this requirement  will result in you not being able to travel.

The Falkland Islands Government recommends that all those who need to travel, or may need to travel, renew their passports in good time. The Customs & Immigration Service are able to facilitate British passport applications, the timescales for these applications previously required at least 3 months notice in order to receive the travel document back from the UK. However, currently the UK Passport Office is experiencing significant delays in processing applications and it is recommended that in order to receive new passports from the UK at least 5 months notice is required.

To apply for a new passport contact the Customs and Immigration office located at 3 H Jones Road, Stanley, call 27340 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Officers will be able to provide you with application forms, provide advice on how to fill in your information and which documents need to be included with your application.

You will need to bring your current passport but this will be returned to you until your new one is issued. Adult passports cost £110.50 and child passports cost £80.50. The department can also take passport photographs for a fee of £7.50 for a set of four.

Do not apply for a new British passport online as you will be asked to send your current passport and your new one will only be sent to a UK address.

Emergency passports for British citizens can be issued in genuine emergencies such as for medical treatment or travel for compassionate reasons – not for holidays – and they are for single trips only. Emergency passports cost £75 plus the cost of photographs and on arriving at your destination you will need to obtain either another temporary document or a full passport at extra cost, to return to the Falklands.  

For more information on travelling from RAF Brize Norton visit:                                             https://www.raf.mod.uk/our-organisation/stations/raf-brize-norton/passenger-information/

For information on travelling from the Falkland Islands, please contact your booking agent.