Travel Advice for Refugee Travel Document Holders
This page provides general travel information sourced from official embassy and government websites for people travelling with a UK Refugee Travel Document.
It is not legal, immigration, or visa advice. Always check official sources before travelling.
What Is The UK Refugee Travel Document, issued under the 1951 UN Convention
The UK Refugee Travel Document is a travel document issued by the UK government to individuals who have been granted refugee status in the United Kingdom under the 1951 Refugee Convention.
It allows refugees to travel internationally when they cannot use a passport from their country of nationality.
Important Note: The information above is provided for general information only.
GoingHoliday does not provide legal, immigration, or visa advice.
Travel rules can change at any time, and entry decisions are made by the relevant authorities.
Key Points To Know:
✔ Issued by the UK Home Office
✔ Based on the 1951 Refugee Convention
✔ Recognised by many countries worldwide
✔ Used instead of a national passport
✔ Usually issued for a limited period and must be valid for travel
Important Things To Note:
The UK Refugee Travel Document is not a British passport
Entry rules vary by country — some countries allow visa-free travel, others require a visa
You may be asked to show some documents when you travel. These may include:
- Your visa (if required)
Proof of return travel
Accommodation bookings
Travel insurance
Can You Travel Anywhere With It?
No.
Each country sets its own entry rules for refugee travel document holders. Always check:
Embassy or consulate websites
Airline entry requirements
Official government travel portals
Essential Documents To Carry
When travelling, you should always carry:
Your Refugee Travel Document
Make sure it is valid for at least 6 months after your return date
Check that it has blank pages for stamps
E-Visa / Residence Permit / BRP (if applicable)
- Digital record of your immigration status also known as the e-Visa
Some countries and airlines may ask to see proof of UK residence
Printed Copies of Documents
We recommend carrying paper copies of:
Flight tickets
Hotel or accommodation bookings
Travel insurance
Return flight confirmation
Visa approval (if required)
Digital Copies
Keep photos or PDFs on your phone and cloud storage (e.g. email, Google Drive).
Visa’s & Entry Requirements
Different countries have different rules for refugee travel document holders.
Before travelling:
Check whether your destination is visa-free, simplified visa, or full visa required
Check transit visa rules if you are changing planes
Confirm rules with the official embassy or airline
Visa rules can change at any time.
Entry/Exit System (EES) – New EU Rules
Some Schengen countries are introducing the Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital system replacing passport stamps.
It records:
- Entry and exit dates
- Travel document details
- Biometric information (facial image/fingerprints on first entry)
These are not visas, but the system is mandatory at certain borders.
Examples Include:
Most Schengen countries
Short stays (up to 90 days)
Travellers entering from outside the EU
✔ Always check if EES applies for:
Your nationality
Your travel document
Your destination and transit countries
Airline Checks & Airport Tips
Airline staff may not always be familiar with refugee travel documents.
Tips:
✔ Arrive at the airport early
✔ Carry printed copies of all documents
✔ Be prepared to explain:
That your document is a UK-issued Refugee Travel Document
That your visa or entry permission has been granted (if applicable)
If unsure, airlines may verify documents before boarding.
Travel Insurance
Always travel with insurance that:
✔ Covers your entire trip duration
✔ Is valid for refugee travel documents
✔ Covers medical emergencies and cancellations
Some visas require proof of insurance.
Border Control & Entry
At border control, you may be asked for:
Proof of accommodation
- Reason for travel
Proof of funds
Return flight
Travel insurance
This is normal and does not mean there is a problem.
Final Checklist Before You Travel:
✔ Travel document valid for your entire trip
✔ Visa / entry permission confirmed (if required)
✔ Check if your destination uses the Entry/Exit System (EES)
✔ Flights & accommodation booked
✔ Travel insurance purchased
✔ Proof of funds prepared (if requested)
✔ Copies of important documents printed and saved digitally
✔ Embassy & airline rules checked
What To Bring On Your Travels
Need help preparing your documents?
Call Us
Have a Question? Feel free to call or message us on WhatsApp and one of our team members will respond as soon as possible.