Ryanair flight with expired ID card (expired less than 5 years ago)

Hi there,

I’m taking a Ryanair flight from France to Portugal (and back) in May. I’d prefer not to bring my passport since we’re leaving for the US in July, and I’d rather not risk losing it (or worse), so I’d like to leave it safely at home!

My ID card expired in July 2022 but should still be valid for 5 years. So it *should* be fine, but if anyone has been in this situation before, I’d love to hear about your experience to put my mind at ease!

Thanks in advance! 🙂

Hi I haven’t been in this situation, but based on the link below, I wouldn’t risk it.

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays-destination/portugal/#entree

Thanks a lot! I had seen that document, but I couldn’t download the Portuguese instructions attached to it, which I was hoping would solve the problem.

Like magic, it worked today—but the instructions didn’t really clarify anything.

However, while searching on the French government’s website yesterday, I found out that you can get your national ID card reissued if you have proof of travel to one of the countries that hasn’t clearly accepted the 5-year extension. It’s explained here. It’s cutting it too close for me, so I think I’ll just take my passport. But I’m mentioning it in case others might be affected!

I actually think that’s the smarter move—wouldn’t want to get stuck at the gates in Portugal! I had the same issue (expired ID card), so I took the opportunity to renew my passport and get everything sorted out properly (including my old "pink" driver’s license, which wasn’t valid anymore because it was in pieces...). Super convenient now that everything’s credit-card-sized. Have a great trip! !

Good evening,

To be honest, between France and Portugal there are no border checks, and even if there were an exceptional one, the authorities would consider your card valid. However, the issue could come from poorly trained airport staff who might check that the ticket matches your name. If you were traveling outside the Mediterranean area or flying with a national airline, there’d be no concern—but here, you’re dealing with both weak points.

Michel

Thanks to both of you.

@Tatra: "The issue could still stem from a lack of judgment by poorly trained airport staff checking that the ticket is indeed in your name." That’s actually what I’m most worried about, since I think immigration services at the airport are used to this situation. But overzealousness, risk aversion, or even ignorance on the part of airline employees is still possible.

So, I’ll go with the passport!