scrubbedexpat098

Got both, UK one about to run out but Aus one valid for years yet. Going back for 10 days in October, am I right in thinking that I can join the EU citizen queue with an expired passport? I've looked for answers but can't get a difinitive one. Was hoping my BE pals may be able to shed some light

Fanx dirtbags

quiltman

not sure, but the EU queues are usually longer than the non EU ones! Use your OZ passport, get the visitors stamp then get your UK passport renewed whilst there - you can make a same day appointment at most passport offices - just google HMPO for details.

Amazulu

Just travel on the Aussie one

I did last year and the non-EU queue at the airport was shorter and I got through quicker

You can probably use their smart gates now anyway

Pulaski

The last two times I visited the UK I just used my US passport. I didn't even carry my expired British passport.

Of course I was "stamped in" as a visitor with rights to stay for a limited duration, but I was leaving within two weeks anyway so it didn't make a jot of a difference.

Amazulu

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EPassport_gates

Although, unlike Australia, it looks like the UK charges you to use their smart gates

Tight f**kers

scrubbedexpat098

Thanks guys. I'm not fussed either way but my missus is in a needless panick, I keep saying we'll go through on Aussie ones but you know what women are like when they've made their mind up. Going back to surprise both sets of parents, 50th wedding, and 70th birthday on the same day, no kids, just us, brilliant

Bermudashorts

They don't.

ozzieeagle

https://www.gov.uk/registered-traveller ???

Amazulu

GBP70

Wankers

Bermudashorts

Ok my bad. I have never paid anything but then I did not use my Australian passport.

Amazulu

Cool

GBP70 is a bit steep when it should be free considering that there is no (paid) human interaction

bcworld

Seems like a moot point anyway if it's saying you need to have a visa or be a very regular visitor (4 times in 2 years) to the UK to use the eGates.

Pollyana

If you are there for less than 6 months just enter as Aussies and don't even raise the question of UK passports. Tell her she'll be fine, and tell het a woman said so

moneypenny20

I honestly can't decide whether to renew my UK passport or not. They all ran out a few years back when we couldn't afford to renew them. It's not like I need it but the odd patriotic part of me thinks I should have it.

Pollyana

One thing I've learnt from BE is that its easier to keep it current than to let it lapse and try and get a new one later. Although it costs at the time if you think you might ever need it again it saves lots of paperwork.
I've also picked up through work talk that the Brits are quicker than the Aussies to help their citizens in the event of international trouble, evacuations etc