I’m abroad and my passport or identity card has expired (or almost expired). What should I do?

I want to travel

If your passport or ID card has almost expired and you want to travel,  what you need to do depends on when you want to travel and how long your passport or ID card is still valid.

• If your passport or ID card has almost expired, you can still use it to travel. However, you may be limited in your choice of destination. Some countries require your passport or ID card to be valid for a certain period. You can check this in the travel advisory (information in Dutch) for the country in question. You can also ask the embassy of the country you wish to travel to.
• If your passport or ID card has already expired, you cannot travel anywhere at all. Not even to a European country with no border controls. You will need to apply for a new passport or ID card. If you have travel plans that absolutely cannot be changed, or if you have to travel unexpectedly, for example in the event of an emergency, you can apply for an emergency travel document.

I want to retain my Dutch nationality

If your passport or ID card has almost expired and you want to ensure you retain your Dutch nationality, what you need to do depends on whether you only have Dutch nationality or also a second nationality.

• If Dutch nationality is your only nationality and your passport or ID card expires, you will remain a Dutch national. You can apply for a Dutch passport or ID card when it is convenient for you to do so. Even if it has already expired.
• If you are a Dutch national and also a national of another country and your Dutch passport or ID card has expired, you may lose your Dutch nationality. Check whether this applies to you on this page: When do I lose my Dutch nationality?

Also useful

• Can I use my Dutch driving licence as ID abroad?
• Embassies, consulates and other representations
• Which documents can I use as ID abroad? (information in Dutch)