passport travel 6 months expiration

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Passport Expiration Rules: The 6 Month Validity Requirement | Countries List

Learn about passport expiration rules, including the 6-month validity requirement for international travel. check your passport to ensure compliance with travel requirements..

Key Takeaways:

• The 6-Month Passport Rule requires passports to be valid for 6 months beyond return, ensuring smooth international travel and border crossings.
• Many countries, including Canada and China, enforce this rule to mitigate issues like illegal overstays and facilitate the handling of emergencies.
• Exceptions exist based on bilateral treaties or specific national rules; always verify passport requirements with official sources before traveling.

What is the 6-Month Passport Rule?

When planning an international trip, one crucial detail to check is your passport’s expiration date. Surprisingly, it’s not enough for your passport to be merely valid during your travel; it also needs to conform to the 6 Month Rule . This rule requires that your passport remain valid for at least six months beyond the date of your planned return. The reason behind this is fairly straightforward but vital: it serves as a buffer to prevent any issues if your stay abroad unexpectedly extends.

Why Must My Passport Be Valid for Six Months Beyond My Travel Dates?

Countries enforce the six-month rule to reduce the risk of travelers staying beyond their passport’s validity. If your passport were to expire while you’re abroad, you might face significant delays and complications when trying to return home. This requirement ensures that travelers can handle unexpected situations abroad without breaching international travel requirements.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of why this rule is important: – Prevents Illegal Stay: It helps prevent situations where travelers overstay due to an expired passport. – Ease of Handling Emergencies: If you face emergencies that require you to stay longer than planned, a valid passport will help you manage the situation better. – Smooth Border Crossings: Immigration authorities at borders have clear directives to avoid admitting travelers who might encounter passport validity issues during their stay.

Which Countries Require this Six-Month Passport Validity?

• Afghanistan 🇦🇫
• Anguilla 🇦🇮
• Botswana 🇧🇼
• British Virgin Islands 🇻🇬
• Cambodia 🇰🇭
• Cameroon 🇨🇲
• Cayman Islands 🇰🇾
• Central African Republic 🇨🇫
• Côte D’Ivoire 🇨🇮
• El Salvador 🇸🇻
• Equatorial Guinea 🇬🇶
• Guinea Bissau 🇬🇼
• Indonesia 🇮🇩
• Kiribati 🇰🇮
• Madagascar 🇲🇬
• Malaysia 🇲🇾
• Marshall Islands 🇲🇭
• Micronesia 🇫🇲
• Nicaragua 🇳🇮
• Papua New Guinea 🇵🇬
• Philippines 🇵🇭
• Saint Lucia 🇱🇨
• Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦
• Singapore 🇸🇬
• Solomon Islands 🇸🇧
• Sri Lanka 🇱🇰
• Suriname 🇸🇷
• Tanzania 🇹🇿
• Thailand 🇹🇭
• Timor-Leste 🇹🇱
• United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪
• Venezuela 🇻🇪
• Zimbabwe 🇿🇼

What Happens If I Travel With a Passport Nearing Expiration?

Traveling with a passport that is set to expire in less than six months could seriously derail your plans. Not only could you be denied entry upon reaching your destination, but you may also face complications even boarding your initial flights. Airlines often check passport validity as part of their routine checks and may deny boarding if they anticipate entry issues upon arrival in the destination country.

Here are potential issues with near-expiration passports: – Denied Entry: Countries strictly adhere to their entry requirements and having a short passport validity might get you turned away at the border. – Visa Complications: If you require a visa, the issuing country will typically request a passport validity extending beyond the visa duration .

Also of Interest:

Finland blue card: requirements and application guide, finland work visa: requirements, application process, and faqs, list of countries with 3-month passport expiry rule.

• Albania 🇦🇱*
• Lithuania 🇱🇹
• Luxembourg 🇱🇺
• Azerbaijan 🇦🇿
• Bosnia and Herzegovina 🇧🇦
• Montenegro 🇲🇪
• Netherlands 🇳🇱
• North Macedonia 🇲🇰*
• Honduras 🇭🇳*
• Portugal 🇵🇹
• Senegal 🇸🇳*
• Slovakia 🇸🇰
• Slovenia 🇸🇮
• Switzerland 🇨🇭
• Liechtenstein 🇱🇮

*These countries require a passport validity of 3 months from the date of your arrival into the country. Schengen countries generally require that you have a passport validity of 3 months from the date you intend to leave the EU.

What to Do If Your Passport Expires While You Are Abroad?

If you find yourself abroad with an expired passport, your first step should be to contact your home country’s embassy or consulate. They can guide you through the process of obtaining an emergency travel document. It’s vital to remember that these documents are usually a temporary solution, valid just for the duration required to ensure your return home where you will have to renew your passport under regular circumstances.

Steps to take if your passport expires abroad: 1. Contact the Embassy: Immediately connect with your country’s embassy or consulate. 2. Emergency Travel Document: Apply for an emergency travel document if necessary. 3. Plan Your Return: Strategize your traveling route back home considering your new document’s limitations.

Are There Exceptions to the Six-Month Rule?

Indeed, there are exceptions. Some countries might have special agreements or bilateral treaties that modify or waive the six-month rule. Others could have more or less stringent requirements based on diplomatic relationships or regional agreements. For example, Paraguay allows entry as long as your passport is valid upon entry, regardless of the duration left until expiration. Always verify with the relevant embassy or official travel advisories specific to your circumstances.

Always Check Passport Requirements Before Travel!

Ensuring your passport meets international travel requirements not only enables a smoother journey but also helps in managing unforeseen situations in a foreign country effectively. Always plan ahead and renew your passport if it falls within the six-month expiry window before an international trip. This simple step is a surefire way to enhance your travel experience, keeping regulatory hitches and stressful surprises at a minimum.

Learn Today:

Glossary/definitions.

• Definition: A requirement for international travelers that mandates their passport to remain valid for at least six months beyond the planned return date. This rule aims to prevent issues like overstaying, delays, or complications in case a traveler’s stay abroad extends unexpectedly.
• Definition: The period for which a passport remains usable, typically starting from the date of issue until the expiration date. Passport validity is a crucial factor in international travel compliance, ensuring travelers can enter foreign countries and return to their home country without hindrance.
• Definition: A temporary substitute for a passport issued by embassies or consulates to facilitate a traveler’s return home when their passport is lost, stolen, or expired while abroad. Emergency travel documents have limited validity and are meant to assist in immediate travel needs.
• Definition: Points of entry and exit at national borders where immigration officials enforce entry and exit requirements. Ensuring smooth border crossings involves meeting passport validity rules and complying with immigration regulations to facilitate seamless travel transitions between countries.
• Definition: Challenges or issues that arise when obtaining or using a visa due to factors like passport validity. Visa complications related to passport expiration may lead to the rejection of visa applications or restrictions on entry into foreign countries. Travelers must adhere to visa requirements, including ensuring sufficient passport validity beyond the visa duration.

This Article In A Nutshell:

Be travel-savvy by understanding the 6-Month Passport Rule. Your passport must be valid for six months beyond your trip’s end date. This prevents overstays, aids in emergencies, and smooths border crossings. Beware, near-expiration passports can cause entry denials. Know exceptions, check requirements before traveling, and contact embassies if in a bind! — By VisaVerge.com

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Sally French is a travel rewards expert who joined NerdWallet in 2020. She previously wrote about travel and credit cards for The New York Times and its sibling site, Wirecutter.

Outside of work, she loves fitness, and she competes in both powerlifting and weightlifting (she can deadlift more than triple bodyweight). Naturally, her travels always involve a fitness component, including a week of cycling up the coastline of Vietnam and a camping trip to the Arctic Circle, where she biked over the sea ice. Other adventures have included hiking 25 miles in one day through Italy's Cinque Terre and climbing the 1,260 steps to Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi, Thailand.

She lives in San Francisco.

Kevin Berry works as the content lead for multimedia production at NerdWallet including YouTube, podcasts and social media videos across all financial topics. Previously, he was the Lead Editor for the Travel Rewards team. Prior to NerdWallet, Kevin managed the content and social media teams at NBC Sports in Portland for eight years. His prior experience also includes time as a financial analyst (Comcast) and business system analyst (Nike).

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If you’re a procrastinator and your passport is set to expire, hopefully you don’t have an international trip planned within the next three months (at least). The U.S. Department of State is warning of massive delays in turnaround times both for issuing new — and renewing existing — passports.

U.S. passport renewal

Passport renewal applications can be done in person or by mail. Either way, the State Department suggests leaving at least three months (or more) between the time you submit your passport application and the day you receive the actual passport.

Current posted processing timelines are as follows:

Routine processing: Six to eight weeks.

Expedited processing: Two to three weeks.

Plus, that doesn’t even account for time to put together your application. Though not as onerous as first-time passport applications, you’ll still need to put in effort to gather some materials, such as a photograph from the last six months.

Applying for a U.S. passport for the first time

Children under age 16, first-time applicants and applicants who had their passport lost or stolen must apply in person — no mail-only option is allowed. Budget time to get an appointment at a local acceptance facility, which is typically a post office, library or city clerk's office.

Appointments are required at some, but not all, locations. Once you’ve applied at an acceptance facility, expect even lengthier processing times than what the renewal folks will experience.

If you need your passport sooner than the routine processing timeline noted in the previous section, you can pay $60 for expedited processing. But even still, the speedy version still takes several weeks.

And again, make time to gather your application materials, which includes evidence of U.S. citizenship for new passports. If you need time to track down your birth certificate from that dusty box in your parent’s garage, hopefully your international trip is even further than just a few weeks out.

» Learn more: 5 steps to take if you lose your passport

Your passport may need at least six months' validity remaining

Sometimes, even a valid passport that’s set to expire soon might be insufficient. Some countries require passports to be valid at least six months beyond your trip dates.

So even if your passport doesn’t expire until 2024, your late 2023 travel plans may be in jeopardy if your passport expires within six months of that trip. Some airlines won’t even let you board with a passport set to expire within that window. See which countries have such requirements via the State Department’s Country Information page .

What if you can’t wait that long to renew your passport?

With luck — and some extra money — you may be able to get your passport sooner. The State Department offers a few types of rush passport services:

Pay extra for expedited service by mail

For an additional $60, you can have your passport renewal processed on a shorter timeline. “Expedited” is a bit of a loose term here, and you’ll still need to plan for some turnaround time.

Additionally, the State Department recommends purchasing rush mail delivery, which costs an additional $18.32 for 1-2 day delivery of your completed passport.

Use this service if: You need your passport within the currently posted expedited processing timeline.

Claim a life-or-death emergency

Hopefully you don’t fall in this category, but if you have an eligible life-or-death emergency (eligible reasons include having an immediate family member outside of the U.S. who has died, is in hospice care, or has a life-threatening illness or injury) and you need to travel to a foreign country within three business days, you may qualify for an emergency, in-person appointment.

You’ll have to provide proof of the emergency, such as a death certificate or letter from the hospital, plus your airline ticket and passport application. From there, you’ll have to call the State Department’s Life-or-Death Emergency Service number to make an appointment.

There are only about two dozen locations nationwide offering such appointments, so you’ll likely need to make domestic travel plans just to get that rush passport.

And to make matters worse, you can’t make an appointment online. Due to the massive backlog, the State Department has actually disabled its online booking system. Bake in extra time to listen to on-hold music.

Use this service if: You need your passport within three business days and you have a valid emergency.

Hope for the best

You may also qualify for a rush passport if you have urgent international travel plans within two weeks but don’t have emergency proof.

Appointments are extremely limited though, and the State Department warns that there’s no guarantee you’ll get an appointment. Like the emergency process, you’ll have to call the same number (no online appointments either) and get your passport in person at one of those roughly two dozen locations nationwide.

Use this service if: You need your passport within three business days.

Why are passport processing times suddenly so slow?

Especially at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, passport processing times massively slowed. At one point, the State Department recommend leaving 18 weeks (that's more than four months) due to not just its own processing delays, but mail delays from the U.S. Postal Service.

In 2020, the State Department said processing times were roughly 12 weeks. But in the years following the initial shock of lockdowns, processing times got even higher — up to as many as 13 weeks. They have since started to level-off.

The State Department is chalking it all up to a record number of people applying for passports and renewals of existing ones. In fact, the State Department estimates that 2023 is on track to set the record for the highest demand of passports ever, far surpassing volumes seen during previous surges in demand in 2007 and 2017. 

In some weeks during the winter of 2022 into 2023, the Department received more than 500,000 applications. Not only did that exceed projections, but it marked a record number for that time of year.

Renew your U.S. passport now

With most borders open now and far fewer COVID-19 restrictions, international travel might be one of your top-of-mind vacation plans. But here’s something you never want on your mind: stressing over a rushed passport.

Beyond just the agony, rush passports can be expensive given the fees for expedited service, the cost of faster shipping and the potential extra trip to visit one of the few emergency passport centers.

Check now to see when your passport expires. If it’s anytime in the next year or so, start the application process now. There are enough reasons that travel is stressful, complicated and expensive already. Don't let an expired passport be one of them.

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Six Months Passport Validity Rule

What is the six-month passport validity rule? When traveling overseas, most people know that a valid United States passport is required to enter an international destination. But, what is unknown to the traveler is that some countries would need to have enough six-month validity on their passport to travel to the country known as the six-month validity passport rule for visitors .  Therefore, if your passport expires within the next six months or, in some cases, three months, some countries will refuse to give you entry into the country.

Hence, this rule is in place so that if the unexpected visitor needs to stay for up to six months, his/her passport would be valid to leave the country.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What is the Six Month Passport Validity Rule?

The 6 Month Validity Rule is imposed by foreign countries and not by the United States of America. It means that your passport should be valid for more than six months before you can enter a foreign country that imposes the six-month rule. This rule is imposed by some of the countries we have listed below. This rule is prevalent in the Asian continent, such as China and Hong Kong.

Which Countries Require Six Months on Passport?

When visiting another country, remember that the six-month rule is enforced by countries outside the US, not by the US. Hence, it’s important to know the rules when entering or leaving to avoid any issues.

Countries That Require a 3-Month Passport Rule?

Which countries need you to have a passport that is valid for three months or more? As a traveler, it’s important to know the requirements for international travel. One important factor to consider is the validity of your passport. While most countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months, there are some that have a 3 months passport rule.

Other Countries with Passport Validity Requirements

U.s. citizens entering u.s. with a passport expiring in 6 months.

The six-month validity requirement does NOT apply to an American citizen using a U.S. passport to enter the United States or Canada. He/she may do so up until the date of expiration of the passport.

Even though many countries implemented the six-month validity rule, other restrictions are enforced to enter these countries. Some require a passport to have one clean page per stamp or at least one available sheet. Also, a visa is a requirement to enter some countries. Be aware of this significant document because without it, when it is required, you will not be allowed to board your flight or enter the country you plan to visit.

Having a passport with plenty of validity before travel is best and wise. Also, it is necessary to know some laws of the country you plan to visit to avoid any mishaps or know what to do when you are there.

Get an Expedited Passport in As Little as 24 Hours!

Looking to travel in 30 days? And need to replace your passport, renew passport or get a new passport. U.S. Passport Help Guide provides all passport expediting services with passport services starting as low $199.00

Related Topics

What Are the New Passport Laws for 2024?

A Passport Processing Time Will Increase Soon: Here Are The Reasons Why

Passport Required for Domestic Flights [2023]

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What are the passport expiration rules when travelling? A country-by-country guide

By Olivia Morelli

No matter how often you travel, there’s always that last-minute panic that you’ve forgotten to do something that could jeopardise your trip – and realising that your passport may be out of date is the worst of the lot. For most countries, like the US and Australia, the passport expiration rule is that it just needs to be valid for the length of your stay. However, others stipulate that your passport needs to have at least six months of legitimacy left to enter the country. Below, we’ve split up the most popular travel destinations from the UK by what their passport expiration rules are, according to the  UK Post Office . Overall, the advice is to make sure that your passport always has six months left on it before you travel and remember that all countries will have their own expiration rules, so be sure to check the foreign travel advice section of the  GOV.UK  website for specific entry requirements for the country you are visiting.

These countries require six months on your passport before you travel

Some countries require that you have half a year left before your passport expires to pass through border control. Below are some of the most popular destinations requiring this six-month passport validity when travelling from the UK. For the complete list, head to  postoffice.co.uk .

This tiny city-state has always been a popular travel destination. Singapore is home to shiny shopping malls, quirky  shops , a futuristic international airport (one of the  best airports in the world , according to our readers), plenty of  things to do  from sky-high infinity pools to £1.75 Michelin-grade meals, and some seriously cool  hotels , make sure you check that you have more than six months left on your passport before you visit the “little red dot”.

South Africa

Absurdly beautiful beaches, craggy mountains, endless rolling wine country, thick untouched forests and amazing  safari  –  South Africa  is undoubtedly one of the world's prettiest places. The country’s rules state that you need at least 30 dates left on your passport from the date of exit, but the advice is to ensure you have at least six months validity left for the safe chance to see everything from leaping dolphins and puffing whales to the Big Five.

This Asian country ticks so many travel boxes.  Thailand has some of the best hotels  on the continent, from glossy city  hotels in Bangkok  to splurge-worthy beach  resorts in Phuket , not to mention  Thailand’s stellar spas , creative  Chiang Mai  and the under-the-radar  secret province of Trang . Check, check and check again that you have six months left on your passport before you travel.

This European country is home to grand Ottoman palaces, glittering turquoise sea, glamorous slivers of coastline and, of course, one of the most fascinating cities in the world.  Istanbul’s hotels  are as chic as they come, and the Turkish coast is the perfect place for  family holidays . Plus, there are endless  things to do in Istanbul , from spectacular cultural sites to tasty spots across the city, but be sure you have six months left on your passport before you travel.

These countries require three months on your passport before you travel

For most countries in the European Union, the UK’s passport office recommends that the passport expiry date is at least three months after the intended day of departure. Below, we look at some of the most popular destinations that require three months left on your passport, but other ones of note include Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Germany, Ireland, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Sweden. For the full list, head to  postoffice.co.uk .

By Sarah James

You don’t need us to tell you why you should visit this country, but if you need further convincing, ask any of the 93.7 million travellers visiting France annually. It’s on track to become the  most visited country in the world by 2025 , so now’s the time to explore it to its fullest. Stroll through  Parisian neighbourhoods , laze on  French white-sand beaches , and people watch in glamorous  St Tropez  or taste-test your way through the capital’s  most beautiful restaurants . You’ll need three months’ validity left on your passport to visit France.

With its buzzing capital, world-renowned beaches and secret islands, Greece will forever be one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations. Hop between  Greek isles , book into a  Grecian villa , discover a  lesser-known beach  or go on a seriously  romantic escape  – but make sure you have at least three months left on your passport first.

Whether dining out at the  best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast , taking a deep dive into  Italy’s most underrated lake , exploring the  streets of Milan  or going shopping in Rome (here’s our guide on  what to wear in Rome ), Italy is always a good idea. Italy’s passport regulations require at least three months left on your passport before you travel.

You’ll need three months on your passport before visiting this European country. Portugal’s capital has been named  Europe’s most budget-friendly city break for 2023 , so now is a better time than any to visit  Lisbon . Traverse the country, and you’ll find some of  Portugal’s prettiest places , from the  underrated town of Évora  to the top  restaurants in Porto .

These countries require your passport to be valid through the duration of your stay

Some countries have more relaxed rules on passport validity and only require your passport to be valid throughout your travels. Below, we spotlight our favourite destinations in this list – for the full list, head to  postoffice.co.uk .

Your passport should be valid for your stay while travelling through Japan. Then, once you’re there, you can split your time between  Tokyo’s tastiest restaurants  and the  coolest spots in Kyoto , visiting  cherry blossoms in sakura season  and hopping between  Japan’s loveliest hotels .

This country has all the best holiday types rolled into one gorgeous destination. Incredible  Mexican beaches ? Check. A capital city with unbelievable food? Yup,  Mexico City has some of the world’s best restaurants . A boho-chic gem where you can get your surf on? Yes –  Puerto Escondido  is one of our all-time favourite sunny spots. Plus, there’s excellent  shopping in Tulum , lots of  things to do in Oaxaca , and epic  Mexico hotels . Just make sure your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay.

When travelling from the UK to the US, your passport must be valid for your entire trip. However, other rules to consider when visiting the US include getting an ESTA and ensuring you have a biometric ePassport with the silver camera symbol on the front. Once you arrive, it’s all worth it, where  New York’s restaurants , LA’s art district and California’s beaches await. See our list for more of the  best places to visit in the USA .

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Renew an adult passport

Find out if you can renew your passport or need a new one. Learn how to renew your passport by mail or online, get it changed or corrected, or what to do if it expires soon.

Renew early. Passport processing times  vary. And some countries and airlines deny entry if your passport expires in less than 6 months.

Determine if you can renew your passport

If any of the following are true, you cannot renew your U.S. passport and must instead apply for a new passport in person using Form DS-11:

• Issued before your 16th birthday
• Issued more than 15 years ago
• Damaged, lost, or stolen. Learn how to report a lost or stolen passport.
• Issued in your previous name, and you do not have a legal document like a marriage license to prove your legal name change

If none of the above situations are true, you can renew your U.S. passport. 

Can you renew an expired passport?

You can renew an expired passport, but only if it was issued within the last 15 years.

How to renew your passport and what documents you will need

You can renew your passport and/or passport card by mail. You may instead be able to renew them online during the limited beta release of the Online Passport Renewal System.

Because it can take up to three months to process your application, it is important to renew your passport before it expires. Check with the Department of State to find out the current processing times for passport renewals .

Renewing your passport by mail

Typically, you will need the following items to renew your passport or passport card by mail:

• You can fill out Form DS-82 online , or
• Download Form DS-82 and fill it out by hand, or
• Find your local passport acceptance facility or regional agency and pick up a copy.
• Passport photo
• Passport fee
• Your most recent passport - Your most recent passport will be mailed back to you separately after your new passport is mailed.
• Name change documentation, if necessary

Learn how to submit all your documentation and passport fees and where to mail them.

Renewing your passport online

You may be able to renew your passport book and/or card online. The Department of State's online system currently limits the hours it is available and the number of passport renewals it accepts each day. 

Learn about the Online Passport Renewal System , including:

• Eligibility for renewing your passport book and/or card online
• How to create an online account
• What information and documents you will need to renew your passport online  

If you need your passport quickly

Learn how and where to get your passport fast for emergency or urgent travel or to get expedited processing. The time it takes for each varies throughout the year, and there may be additional fees. Use the fee calculator or chart.

Check the status of your passport renewal

Learn how to check the status of your passport renewal online . Or check its status by phone (call wait times may be long).

If you need to change your name or correct your passport

After you receive your renewed passport, if you change your name or find an error, you will need to get an updated one to reflect the change. The process, cost, and forms you need depend on how long you have had your current passport. Follow the steps from the State Department to change your name or correct your passport.

If you are outside the U.S.

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate near you to request a passport while outside the U.S.

If you need help with your passport application

If you have questions about your U.S. passport, the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) can help. Get contact information for NPIC and find out when to contact them based on when you are traveling.

Be aware of passport expiration rules for your destination

Some countries and airlines will not allow a U.S. passport holder to enter if their passport expires in less than 6 months. 

Check your destination country's U.S. passport expiration rules on the  Department of State's country information page .

• On the left, search for the country name in the "learn about your destination" box.
• On that country's page, look for "passport validity."

LAST UPDATED: June 17, 2024

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When and how to renew your passport, according to the State Department

Editor's Note

Even if you're an avid traveler, you might not be entirely aware of when your U.S. passport expires and how to renew it .

Rest assured: The process is relatively straightforward, and most applicants can easily do it online.

Here's everything you need to know about renewing your U.S. passport.

When should you renew your passport?

When timing your passport renewal, there are many dates to consider. I would argue the most important date to remember is six months before your passport expires. This is because many countries require travelers to have a minimum of six months of passport validity left at the time of entry.

As long as you submit your passport for renewal at least six months in advance, it should also cover your expiration and travel dates.

Additionally, remember that U.S. passports are valid for 10 years for most adults and five years for passports issued before the age of 16.

When you identify all of the dates for your specific circumstances, you should check current passport processing times , which change frequently.

Current processing times

If you do not have travel booked within the next two months, the agency advises you to renew your passport via routine service to receive it within six to eight weeks. For travel within the next two months, your best option is expedited service. For either option, you should tack on another two weeks for processing to begin and another two weeks for the passports to be returned.

Urgent travel

If you have international travel planned in the next 14 days, you have a few options to renew your passport. Your first option falls under the urgent travel category, which is for non-emergency travel within two or three weeks. In this case, you should attempt to make an appointment at a passport agency or center, either online or in person.

For life-or-death emergencies necessitating international travel within three days, you must provide documentation of a qualifying emergency circumstance to make an appointment. Do this online if you've not yet applied for a passport or via phone if you have applied.

Note that you can schedule these appointments up to two weeks prior to travel, but your appointment must fall within three business days of travel. Also, note that appointments for urgent travel are limited and cannot be guaranteed.

How should you renew your passport?

Most people are eligible to renew their passport via mail; this requires completing a Form DS-82 and providing a photo, your most recent passport and a check for the fees. Passport photos must meet the specified guidelines listed here .

All passport applications sent by mail must be transmitted via the U.S. Postal Service — no exceptions. If you use another carrier, your renewal package will be returned to you without being processed. If you're mailing your passport renewal application from Canada, you must use Canada Post.

If you meet one of four circumstances — including if you applied for a child under age 16, lost your passport or received your most recent passport 15-plus years ago — then you must renew your passport in person at a passport acceptance facility . Some facilities allow walk-ins, while others require appointments, so double-check your desired location's requirements.

How much does it cost?

Renewing your passport costs $130 for a passport book, $30 for a limited-use passport card and $160 for both the book and a passport card. If you plan to expedite your service, factor in an additional $60. You can also pay $18.32 for faster mailing.

Use the U.S. Department of State's online calculator to estimate fees for your specific renewal.

Bottom line

Remember that your passport number will change when you renew it, so you'll need to update your passport information for any Trusted Traveler Program membership online.

Passport processing times change throughout the year, but renewing your passport at least six months before travel should account for any processing delays.

Related reading:

• If you need a passport quickly, this service may be for you
• Best credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck
• Why you should renew your child's 5-year passport after 4 years
• Here are 15 places you need a visa to travel with an American passport
• Guide to getting your child's passport
• Easy ways to check your passport application status

Need a new passport? State Department tells travelers to apply at least 6 months before departure

Amid continued unprecedented demand for international travel, the State Department is advising Americans to submit applications for passports at least six months before their scheduled departure dates.

A State Department official said in an email that current processing times are 10 to 13 weeks for routine processing. It takes seven to nine weeks for expedited processing, which costs an extra $60.  

The estimates do not include the time it takes for your application to travel through the mail; the clock starts when the State Department receives the application, the official said.

Because some countries require that passports be valid at least six months beyond the dates of people's trips, travelers should check the State Department’s country-specific information pages to learn about entry and exit requirements and other important information for the countries they are visiting.

The agency said that it is meeting its published processing times in the "vast majority of cases" and that many customers receive their passports more quickly. Even so, the State Department has continued to experience a surge in passport demand, the official said. Flyers should carefully review passport processing times on travel.state.gov before they make any definite or nonrefundable travel plans, the official said.

The State Department said it is getting about 400,000 passport applications every week following higher-than-normal volumes in January through May that surpassed 500,000 applications a week.

Some weeks, the agency said, it gets twice as many applications marked as pending compared to the same point in fiscal year 2022. Given those fluctuations, the official said, the department is unable to provide an overall backlog number. 

The State Department hopes to return to pre-pandemic processing times by the end of calendar year, the official said.

Nearly 2 million more applications are expected to be processed this fiscal year than in the previous record period, one year before the Covid-19 pandemic, the official said.

So-called revenge travel has continued into 2023, a consequence of pent-up demand from travelers after a yearslong pandemic and the early lockdowns in 2020 that forced many to stay put. The vacation surge is producing record volumes of air travelers.

The Transportation Security Administration reported it processed 2,884,683 flyers Friday — more than the previous record of 2,882,915 on the Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend 2019.

Allianz Partners USA, which provides travel insurance products, has projected Americans will spend $214 billion on summer vacations this year.

The State Department official said people who have not yet applied for their passports should generally not call the agency for urgent travel appointments more than 14 days from their travel dates. People who need foreign visas for their urgent travel are an exception and should call within 28 days of their travel to seek urgent travel appointments. 

People who have to travel within 14 days should call the National Passport Information Center. While the State Department has increased staffing for urgent travel services, including on some weekends, appointments are very limited, and the official said it cannot guarantee that they will be available.

People who have pending applications and travel within five days should check appointment availability by calling 1-877-487-2778, the official said.

Rob Wile is a breaking business news reporter for NBC News Digital.

Philippine Consulate General

The Republic of the Philippines

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

New york, usa.

No. Your passport must be at least six-months valid for you to be able to travel abroad.

However, Filipinos who are currently abroad may travel back to the Philippines even if their passport are less than 6-months valid. 

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How long is a passport good for?

F orget jet lag – the biggest travel hurdle might be something you already own: your passport. This essential document acts as both your ID and proof of citizenship, ensuring a smooth international journey. But to avoid last-minute scrambles, it’s crucial to understand how long your passport is good for.

How long is a U.S. passport valid?

In the United States, the validity of a passport depends on the age of the holder at the time of issuance. For example;

• Adults (16 and older): Passports issued to adults are valid for ten years from the date of issue. This extended period acknowledges the stability in adults’ appearances and personal details over a decade.
• Children (under 16): Passports for children are valid for 5 years. The shorter validity period reflects the rapid changes in children’s appearances and the need for frequent updates to their identification.

How to renew your passport

Remember, many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date. This buffer ensures you have time to leave before it expires. So, even if your passport is technically valid, it might not be accepted if expiration looms close.

Renewing a U.S. passport involves an application, a recent photo, and a fee. Adults can renew their passport by mail if their previous passport is within 15 years old and they were 16+ when they got it. Otherwise, it’s an in-person process.

Things to consider

• Frequent travelers: For individuals who travel internationally on a regular basis, it is important to closely monitor the expiration dates of your passport and initiate the renewal process well in advance to avoid potential disruptions to your travel plans.
• Visa requirements: Some countries or regions, such as the Schengen Area in Europe, have specific visa requirements that are directly tied to the validity period of your passport. For example, Schengen Area countries typically require a passport to be valid for at least three months beyond the intended date of departure from the Schengen zone.
• Name changes: If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, you will need to obtain a new passport reflecting your updated name rather than simply renewing your existing passport. This usually involves submitting additional documentation to support the name change.

Practical tips for passport holders

To help avoid last-minute passport issues, try out the following tips:

• Regularly check expiry dates: Regularly check the expiration date of your passport and those of any family members, especially before planning international travel.
• Apply early for renewal: Apply for a renewal several months before the passport expires to help account for processing times, which can vary.
• Understand specific country requirements: Research the passport and visa requirements of your destination country well before you head out to travel.

The post How long is a passport good for? appeared first on The Manual .

Watch CBS News

Passports can now be renewed online. Here's how to apply.

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

June 13, 2024 / 11:24 AM EDT / CBS News

U.S. travelers can now renew their passport online under a pilot program the U.S. Department of State launched on Thursday. 

The State Department's new online system will allow U.S. passport holders to start a renewal application for a short window of time every day, closing once the system has reached a designated number of new applications, officials said in a statement . The agency is preparing a full launch of the renewal system at some point after testing, but didn't provide an exact date. 

If successful, an online renewal system could shorten the sometimes monthslong process travelers experience when trying to update their passport. 

"During the next several months, we plan to continue to limit the number of applications accepted each day so we can monitor the system's performance in real time," the department said. "If you are unable to start your application, try again on another day."

Processing passports has become a growing problem for the State Department ever since COVID-19 travel restrictions were lifted, with the agency bombarded with an overwhelming number of applications  each week. The passport application backlog grew so heavy last year that federal lawmakers from California, Colorado and Oklahoma introduced separate proposals to the Senate to speed up the application process. 

Republican Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma  proposed legislation  that would improve the online tracking of passport applications and allow the State Department to hire more staff. Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff and Ted Lieu of California introduced the  PASSPORT Act  to streamline the passport application and renewal process.

The number of Americans holding valid U.S. passports has grown at roughly 10% faster than the population over the past three decades, said Jay Zagorsky, an economist at Boston University. Just 5% of Americans had a passport in 1990, according to the State Department. That number grew to 48% in December.

The State Department issued a record setting 24 million passports in 2023. Wait times for passport applications and renewals  returned to their normal 6-8 week time frame in December , the State Department  said . 

Renewing your passport online involves a six-step process:

• Create a free MyTravelGov online account. 
• After the account is created, log in and start a renewal application by clicking on the "Renew Your Passport" button.
• On the form that appears, fill in all the boxes with the information currently printed on your passport.
• Enter your plans to travel internationally if your departure is within the next eight weeks.
• Upload a jpeg photo of yourself. No selfies. 
• Pay the passport renewal fee and digitally sign the application.

Visit the State Department's online renewal website for more details. 

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

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The Passport 3 Month Rule - Country Requirements & More

Home » Passports » How to Obtain a U.S. Passport

Are you ready to plan an international trip? Before booking your tickets and traveling abroad, make that the validity of your passport is up-to-date. One crucial part of this process usually overlooked by people is the 3-month rule enforced by certain countries.

Even if your passport has not expired yet, there are places you cannot travel to or through unless you have at least 90 days' worth of validity remaining before the expiration date. These passport requirements are not negotiable.

If you are looking to travel internationally, you need to be prepared with a passport that will allow you to travel to and through all the countries on your itinerary.

Short Summary

• The 3-month passport validity rule requires passports to be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended date of arrival, with exceptions and special cases.
• It is important to research entry requirements, obtain necessary visas in advance, and verify a passport's expiration date before traveling.
• If your passport does not have enough validity remaining, you will need to apply in person at a regional passport agency. Alternatively, our expert advice is to enlist the help of a registered passport expediting service to get your passport renewed as fast as possible .
• Emergency situations may require contacting one's home nation embassy or consulate to apply for emergency passport renewal service .

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

Understanding the 3-Month Passport Validity Rule

The 3-month passport validity rule mandates that a passport is valid for up to three months after the anticipated date of arrival. This regulation is in place to prevent illegal residency and guarantee travelers possess legal passports throughout their stay. Simply put, if you don't have the right travel documents, countries will deny you entry across their borders.

It's important for people intending to travel abroad to be informed about their destination country's rules about expiring passports. These differ from one nation to another.

While some countries require just a 3 month validity period, others might have different passport validity requirements. Some simply require a valid passport at time of entry. Many countries require more.

For example, many countries impose 6 month passport validity rules where individuals must have at least six additional months left before their passport expires. In some cases, requirements include other validity periods based on the nature of the traveler's stay and the corresponding visa.

To learn more, be sure to check out our guide to the six month validity rule for passports . We also maintain a list of countries that require six months of validity for entry.

Europe, The Schengen Agreement, and the 3-Month Rule

Many European countries are a part of the Schengen Agreement. This decades-old agreement between 27 European countries was designed to make travel within member nations faster, more efficient, and less expensive.

The agreement requires travelers to have valid passports during their stay, and it is governed by a 3-month passport validity rule. This same rule is also imposed by most other non-member nations across Europe in order to ensure that visitors do not overstay beyond their visa period.

Because of this common policy, countries can more efficiently monitor movement at their borders while reducing any risks connected with extended visits.

If you are planning to travel to Europe, be sure to read more about the Schengen Agreement , its rules, and its history.

Countries with a 3-Month Passport Validity Requirement

Again, passport validity is a critical factor for anyone planning international travel. Many European countries that are part of the Schengen Agreement require passports to be valid at least three months after an intended date of departure, including France, Germany, Italy and Spain among others.

Aside from these nations within Europe's borders, other non-European states impose this same 3 month passport rule too. Albania, Guatemala, and Panama being some popular examples.

It is important to research the passport policies for each country you plan on visiting. This is the only way to make sure you don't have hiccups during your travels due to invalid passports or failure to meet requirements regarding particular validity periods (which may also include six month rules). Ensure your U.S. passport holds sufficient time before leaving home by double checking beforehand!

Schengen Area Countries

The following countries are part of the Schengen Agreement and require 3 months of validity remaining on your U.S. passport:

*Travel through the microstates of Monaco , San Marino, and Vatican City are also governed by the Schengen Agreement.

It's necessary that all people in transit through any of these 27 signatory nations are certain their passports maintain at least 90 days of validity throughout the duration of their travels.

Other Countries That Require 3 Months Passport Validity

Be advised that passport validity requirements can change with little notice, so please pay attention to these rules when traveling internationally so you don't stumble upon unexpected complications!

For instance, be sure to pay attention to whether the three month validity rule is calculated based on your date of entry or anticipated date of departure from your desitnation country.

As of 2023, the countries listed below have a 3-month validity rule for U.S. passport holders:

Traveling to Countries with a 3-Month Rule: Tips and Advice

When it comes to passport validity, researching the passport requirements and regulations of each destination country is key to a successful trip.

Check your passport expiration date

Check if you need a visa.

Certain countries might require a travel visa while others allow you to enter without one. Visas are issued based on why you are traveling (e.g. tourism, school , work , business , etc.). The types and lengths of each visa is determined by each country's bilateral agreements with the United States.

Like passports, visas can take time to acquire, so make sure any permits are obtained well in advance of your trip. Even though some countries offer visas on arrival , there can be issues if you are relying on this type of service.

Be prepared for emergency situations.

Even if you plan on a short trip to a destination with a low (or no) validity rules, you want to be sure you are covered in case you have to stay longer due to a medical or personal emergency. Should you need to travel internationally in a hurry, you want to be sure your passport allows you to take the most direct and efficient route without having to worry about whether your passport has enough months remaining before it expires.

As a rule, it is wise to prepare yourself before any trips by having contingency plans ready just in case anything unpredicted may occur during your trip abroad. There is a chance an unexpected emergency may require you to travel to or through a country with a three or six month validity rule. If your passport has plenty of validity left, this is something you won't have to worry about.

In case of an emergency abroad, such as a lost or stolen passport , you should contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for help. You will not be able to continue your travels without a passport-no matter what the validity rules are for the countries you need to travel to or through.

Based on over 20 years of helping readers with their passport related questions, our best advice is to maintain a valid passport with at least 9 months of validity or more. When your passport gets within a year of its expiration date, don't delay; renew it!

How to Renew Your Passport and Reset Your Passport Validity

Again, if you plan to travel internationally and your passport will not be valid for three months or more, don't wait. Renew your passport as soon as possible. This will ensure you have access to any country that allows American travelers-even if it has a three or six month validity requirement.

To get yourself a new or renewed passport, you need to send an application form along with the required supporting documentation , current passport photos , and pay the passport application fees .

It should be taken into account that the time needed for this renewal process may vary, so making sure everything's in order beforehand can help avoid issues during travel plans. Currently, the time to process a passport application is 6 to 8 weeks . An expedited application will be processed in 2 to 3 weeks .

Be sure to take into account these current processing times for renewal applications before planning any international trips. Also be advised that you will need to submit your current passport as part of the passport renewal process. This means you will not be able to travel internationally until your renewed passport arrives.

Visit our complete guide to renewing a U.S. passport for step-by-step instructions for how to get your passport renewed and our best tips for speeding up the process.

Expedited Passport Services

For those who require a new passport or need to renew theirs in a hurry, expedited services are available. Choosing expedited passport renewal on your application can save you several weeks of waiting for your new travel document, but it may not be fast enough for your needs.

For a faster passport renewal, you can try to make an appointment at one of the 26 regional processing agencies across the U.S. Know that you will need to demonstrate a need to travel internationally within 14 days. This option also includes several additional costs that must be considered.

The fastest and most efficient way to get a passport renewed is through a passport expediting service . These professionals use their expertise and experience to get you a passport faster than you likely can on your own. While they charge a fee for their services, these fees are often much less than what it costs to travel to a regional passport agency on your own and potentially wait days for your new passport to be issued.

Should you opt to go this route, consult our directory of top passport expediters .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i travel with less than 3 months on my passport.

When planning any international travel, it is important to ensure that your passport will be valid for the duration of your trip and beyond. You should have at least three months remaining on your passport before going abroad. Many countries may require a validity period of six months or more.

Most airlines refuse boarding if you don't meet this requirement, so make sure you check in advance! To avoid issues while traveling overseas. For maximum travel flexibility, make certain that there's still enough time left on your passport by checking that it is valid for at least six months after departure dates from each destination on your itinerary.

Can I travel with 2 months on my passport?

Most countries require that your passport remain valid for a minimum of either three or six months beyond the duration of your trip. If you are planning to travel to one of these locations, you can't travel with only two months left. You likely will not even be able to board your international flight as most airlines deny boarding if relevant passport requirements for the destination country are not met.

To make sure that you are able to have a secure and safe journey, be certain to check all details in advance like dates or other information about any passports used before taking off.

However, some countries require only that your passport is valid upon entry. For peace of mind, always be sure your passport has enough extra validity remaining to account for any potential emergencies or disruptions to your travel plans.

Can I travel to Mexico if my passport expires in 3 months?

As long as your passport is still valid for the duration of the trip, you may go to Mexico even if it's expiring in three months. Mexican travel regulations don't mandate any minimum validity period for passports.

Can I travel to Canada if my passport expires in 3 months?

You can go to Canada as long as you have a valid passport during your stay-even if it's expiring in three months. Canadian travel requirements do not have any minimum validity period for U.S. passport holders.

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry? 2. What exactly does a passport expediter do? 3. Are passport expediting services legitimate? 4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor? 5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting .

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You can get your passport renewed online again. Here's how it works

Jonathan Franklin

The cover of a U.S. Passport is displayed in Tigard, Ore., Dec. 11, 2021. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

Paging all U.S. travelers (and introverts) — you may not need to make that trip in person to renew your passport after all.

The U.S. State Department announced Wednesday it is bringing back a trial service to renew your passport online, saying it will open the system for all online renewals soon.

As of now, the rollout for online passport renewals is restricted to certain times. Beginning during midday Eastern time, the State Department will accept a limited number of applications. Once the portal has reached its daily limit, it will close until the next day, according to the agency.

Canceled trips and no refunds: Passport delays are derailing travelers

In order to qualify for an online passport renewal, applicants must:

• Be U.S. citizens and residents ages 25 and older who have already had an existing passport for 10 years; the passport must still be in the applicant’s possession (and not previously reported lost or stolen. It can, however, be expired.)
• Not be changing their name, gender, date of birth or place of birth for the new passport.
• Live in a U.S. state or territory.
• Be applying for a regular tourist passport.
• Be able to upload a recent digital photo.
• Be able to pay the renewal fee online with either a debit or credit card.

Delays in passport renewals are putting a damper in Americans' summer travel plans

The State Department says those who are not eligible to submit their application online — or who choose not to do so — can always submit their renewal application by mail or in person at a passport agency or center.

State Department officials added that the processing times for an online passport renewal are the same as for those who choose to renew their passport through the mail.

The U.S. State Department first rolled out its online renewal system back in 2021 through an executive order from President Biden. But after several pauses, the program was paused indefinitely in March 2023.

Last year, the State Department faced a backlog of passport renewals and many Americans experienced delays. The agency described it as an “unprecedented demand for passports.”

In 2023, the U.S. issued more than 24 million passports , a record jump from the 22 million it issued the year before.

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Do you need to correct or update your U.S. passport due to a name change, data error, or printing error? Pick the topic below to learn how.

Change Your Name

The process to change your name on your passport varies depending on your situation. Expand the boxes below to find the process that applies to you.

Less than one year after BOTH my passport was issued and my name was legally changed

Submit the following by mail:

• Form DS-5504  (find mailing instructions on the form)
• Your most recent U.S. passport
• An original or certified document which shows that you changed your name less than one year after we issued your most recent U.S. passport. Examples include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
• One  passport photo

You will not have to submit any passport fees unless you want expedited service which costs an extra $60. 

More than one year after either my passport was issued or my name was legally changed

You may be eligible to renew your passport by mail using Form DS-82 or apply in person using Form DS-11.

Can I renew by mail?

You can renew by mail using  Form DS-82  if your most recent passport:

• Is submitted with your application
• Is undamaged (other than normal wear and tear )
• Was issued when you were age 16 or older
• Was issued within the last 15 years
• Was issued in your current name (or you can show your name change)

If you are eligible to renew, submit the following by mail:

• Your original or certified name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
• One color  passport photo
• Fees , which are different depending on your age
• Send Form DS-82 and supporting documents using USPS. UPS, FedEx, DHL, and other companies cannot deliver to the PO Box addresses listed on Form DS-82.

How do I apply in person if I cannot renew by mail?

If you are not eligible to renew your passport by mail using Form DS-82,  apply in person  and submit the following:

• Your evidence of U.S. citizenship and photocopy of that evidence
• Valid ID and photocopy of that ID
• Fees , which are different depending on your age

Please note : If your name has changed because you are married  and  you show us an ID issued in your new name, you do not need to submit proof of your name change. You must include the details of the marriage on the second page of Form DS-11.

Already using a different name but cannot show the change

If you cannot show the change with a court order, divorce decree, or marriage certificate, apply in person and submit:

• Your evidence of U.S. citizenship
• Valid ID issued in the name you are currently using and photocopy of that ID

What should I do if my name is different than what is on my citizenship evidence, or I cannot show my new name through marriage or on a court order?

You may need to fill out  Form DS-60: Affidavit Regarding a Change of Name  if:

• The name you are using is different than the name on your evidence of U.S. citizenship, or
• Your new name is not shown on a court order or through marriage.

This form must be completed by two people who have known you by both names. You must also submit three certified or original public records that show you have used the new name for five years or more.

Correct a Data or Printing Error

You can correct your passport if there is a data or printing error. A data error may include an issue with your name, gender, or place of birth. A printing error may include data is missing on the biographical page, discoloration, or crooked printing. We will correct the error at no charge if the passport is still valid.

• Your current passport
• One color photo
• Evidence of the error (e.g. your U.S. birth certificate showing the correct spelling of your last name).
• You will not have to submit any fees.
• If you are reporting the error within one year of us issuing your incorrect passport, the new passport will be valid for 10 years.
• If you are reporting the error after one year, the new passport will be valid until the expiration date of your original, incorrect passport. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i self-select my gender marker.

Please see our Selecting Your Gender Marker  page for information.

I have a passport, but I’ve changed addresses. Do I need to update my passport?

No. You don’t need to update your current passport with your new address.

Call  1-877-487-2778  or  1-888-874-7793 (TDD/TTY) if you have an application in process and you are waiting for a passport. 

My passport photo is really bad. Can I change it?

If your photo looks bad because of our printing error, you can use Form DS-5504 to reapply at no cost to you.

If your photo is printed correctly and you dislike your photo, you may use Form DS-82 (if eligible) to reapply. You must pay the normal fees.

Processing Times

Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel.  Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.

• It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we print it. 
• Processing times + mailing times = total time to get a passport

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

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GETTING ONBOARD

Required travel documents.

GETTING ONBOARD WITH

THE RIGHT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

It’s your responsibility to ensure you have all the proper documentation to board the ship and enter each of the countries your cruise visits. We’ll require government-issued identification to board. And government authorities may require you to have a visa or meet other requirements.

Select your departure port below to find out exactly what you need. But be aware – government requirements may change.

Don't Get Caught Without The Right Travel Doc

Passports are Best A passport is the best ID document for travel. Make sure yours doesn't expire for 6 months after your cruise ends. Learn more

Caution: Birth Certificates U.S. Citizens can cruise with a U.S. birth certificate on most sailings from the U.S. But your birth certificate needs to meet the requirements. Learn more

Names Must Match If you've had a name change, and the name used across your documents does not match, you will need to take an extra step. Learn more

Cruising With Kids That Aren't Yours When a minor (age 17 and under) travels without their legal guardian, an accompanying adult must present a notarized form signed by the child's guardian. Learn more

Visas May Be Required Some countries require an entry visa or electronic visa based on your nationality. Learn more

Don't Pack Your Docs Please keep all travel documents on your person at the terminal; you’ll need to present them at check-in.

Select where you're sailing from

Popular homeports:, full list of all homeports:, travel document requirements for sailings from u.s. homeports (excluding honoulu, hawaii & seward, alaska).

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the U.S. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

Note: U.S. Cruises that visit Colombia or Panama If your sailing visits Colombia or Panama, see your protocols here .

In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements of ONE of the check boxes below.

All documents must be original – no photocopies. Your name must match across documents. What if I had a name change?

• U.S. Passport Book OR U.S. Passport Card
• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best.
• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends
• Read more about passport requirements.
• Original U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
• U.S. Birth Certificates must be the original or an official document issued by the government.
• Read more about birth certificate requirements.
• Guests age 15 and under are NOT required to have a photo ID, just the birth certificate.
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests must bring their physical Permanent Resident Card and it must be original – no photocopies.
• Passports must be valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID
• Barbados & Martinique require ARC guests to provide a valid passport.
• Any additional requirements are the responsibility of the guest.
• Original U.S. Naturalization Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID)
• Original U.S. Naturalization Certificate.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired
• Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following states: Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington State.
• An Enhanced Driver’s License is different from a REAL ID compliant id. An EDL will have a flag on the front.
• U.S. Passport Book
• Visa may be required based on Passport Country of Origin. Learn More

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries.

• Electronic Travel Authorization will be required based on disembarkation port.
• Learn more about visa requirements.

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens

• Canadian Passport Book – Required if traveling to the U.S. by air
• Enhanced Driver's Licenses are only available from the following Provinces: British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec.
• Guests age 14 and under may present a passport as noted above OR one of the documents below:
• Original Naturalization Certificate OR Original Valid Canadian Citizenship Card OR Original Birth Certificate Issued by Canada.
• Read more about birth certificate requirements

In order to sail, a guest must meet the requirements below.

• Canadian Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Other Nationalities

• Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality. Common visas are noted below.

• The United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.
• Please check requirements for your own nationality .
• Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) is required for Chinese Nationals.
• Sailings with a Canadian Port of Call (ex. Alaska sailings) may require a Canadian Visitor’s Visa.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Australian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Australia. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens

• U.S. Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• All visitors are required to get an Australian ETA to travel to Australia.
• Read more about passport requirements

Additionally, visas or travel permits may be required to enter some countries. Please check requirements for your own nationality.

• New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA)
• All visitors are required to get a NZeTA to travel to New Zealand.

Accepted Identification for U.K. Citizens

• Passport Book

Accepted Identification for Australian Citizens

• Australian Passport Book
• Australian Driver's License OR Government-issued, laminated photo ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on Australian ports of call.
• If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.
• Guests age 17 and under may present one of the documents below:
• Medicare Card - Can be used as the only identification for children when all guests share the same last name.
• Original (or Certified) Birth Certificate - If the parent's name differs from the child.

* Sailings that originate and end in ports within Australia that do not include a visit to an overseas port outside of Australia. (Note that Queensland cruises that include Willis Island are considered domestic cruises) . If an itinerary leaves Australia, then guests must use a Passport.

• Passport Book AND Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• For Transpacific sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Canadian homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Canada. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents

• U.S. Passport Book - If traveling to Canada by air
• U.S. Passport Card - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• U.S. Birth Certificate AND Valid Government Issued ID (State ID Card, Driver’s License OR Military ID) - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea
• Original U.S. State Certified Birth Certificate or a certified copy; or an original Consular Birth Abroad Certificate from the U.S. State Department.
• Permanent Resident Card (Alien Resident Card "ARC" OR Green Card) AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship - If traveling to Canada by air, ground/car or by sea
• Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your cruise ends.
• Guests age 16 and older whose ARC has no photo must present a valid government issued photo ID.
• Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) that is not expired - Can be used if traveling to Canada by ground/car or by sea

Accepted Identification for Canadian Citizens & Permanent Residents

• Canadian Permanent Resident Card AND Valid Passport from Country of Citizenship
• Guests age 14 and under may also present either:
• Canada may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from European homeports (excluding Southampton, England; Haifa, Israel & Istanbul, Turkey)

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Europe. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter European Union countries.

• Traveling to Europe
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• Sailings that have a European Union Port of Call
• For Transatlantic sailings, the United States may require a Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or Visa depending on nationality.

Accepted Identification for European Citizens

• Guests are responsible for any requirements a country may have.
• Royal Caribbean strongly recommends that all guests travel with a valid passport. Learn why a passport is best
• EU Government ID
• Cruise itinerary must call only on countries within the Schengen Region .
• EU Government ID must be valid at least 3 months after your cruise ends.
• A Multi-Entry Schengen Visa may be required
• Coming Soon - European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.
• A Schengen Visa may be required
• European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
• Coming Soon - Some nationalities will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Dubai

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Dubai. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.K. Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Central & South American homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Central and South America. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian citizens cruising to and from Buenos Aires, Argentina and Valparaiso, Chile require additional documentation.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Singapore

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Singapore. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)
• All visitors are required to get an Singapore Arrival Card to travel to Singapore.

Accepted Identification for Singaporean Citizens

• Singaporean Passport Book
• Passport Book AND Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)

Travel document requirements for sailings from Japanese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Japan. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Japanese Citizens

• Japanese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Chinese homeports

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from China. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Accepted Identification for Chinese Citizens

• Chinese Passport Book

Travel document requirements for sailings from Istanbul, Turkey

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Istanbul, Turkey. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• U.S. Passport Book AND Turkish Visa
• All visitors are required to get a Turkish Visa to travel to Turkey.
• Passport Book AND Turkish Visa

Travel document requirements for sailings from Haifa, Israel

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Haifa, Israel. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• All visitors will soon be required to get an European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to travel to Europe.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Seward, Alaska

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Seward. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Canada may require a Visa depending on nationality.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Southampton, England

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from Southampton. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

Additionally, visas or travel permits will soon be required to enter the U.K. and European Union countries.

• Entering the U.K.
• Coming Soon - All visitors will soon be required to get an U.K. Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the U.K.

Travel document requirements for sailings from Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Here are the current requirements for our guests sailing from the Honolulu. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing. Please select the citizenship options below to learn the right requirements:

• Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

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