Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Post-Brexit Passport Rule Grounds British Author at Fair

4/15/2026

41 9 Full Breakdown

Center

Rosen Misses Fair

Michael Rosen missed the Bologna Children's Book Fair due to a post-Brexit passport rule.
His passport, issued in March 2016 and valid until August 2026, was deemed invalid for travel.
The 10-year validity rule has caused confusion and affects about 200 British travelers daily.
The HM Passport Office advised travelers to check passports, especially for the Schengen area and other strict-validity destinations.

Left

Rosen Wins Award

Michael Rosen, the children's author, won the 2026 Hans Christian Andersen Award announced at the Bologna Children's Book Fair.
He was unable to attend due to post-Brexit passport rules requiring recently issued UK passports.
He posted on social media to express frustration, drawing mixed reactions including Brexit criticism.
The award ceremony will take place in August in Ottawa.

1 of 2

Rosen Misses Fair

Michael Rosen missed the Bologna Children's Book Fair due to a post-Brexit passport rule.
His passport, issued in March 2016 and valid until August 2026, was deemed invalid for travel.
The 10-year validity rule has caused confusion and affects about 200 British travelers daily.
The HM Passport Office advised travelers to check passports, especially for the Schengen area and other strict-validity destinations.

1 / 2