British tourists heading to Greece this summer have been advised by the Foreign Office to “keep a copy” of their passport’s photo page due to safety reasons.
The British Foreign Office provide guidance on what documents holidaymakers should carry during their travels, and in Greece, carrying photographic ID at all times is a legal requirement.
While photocopies may not always be accepted, the Foreign Office recommends still carrying them in case of emergencies, such as losing or getting your passport stolen.
This can also help in getting help from the local embassy if the passport does get misplaced.
In particularly touristy areas, thieves may target visitors.
“Thefts of passports, wallets and handbags are common on the metro and in crowded tourist places, particularly in central Athens” ” the Foreign Office states in its Greece travel recommendations.
“Carry your valuables in different bags and pockets and keep a copy of your passport photo page somewhere safe.”
Ensuring that the passport and the photocopy are stored in a different place ensures that if one is lost, the other can be used.
Greece is not the only area where passport theft is frequent.
In its travel advice for Brits visiting Spain, the Foreign Office advises: “Be alert to the risk of street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques and often work in teams.
“Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire. Do not carry all your valuables in one place. Keep a copy of the photo page of your passport somewhere safe.”