A passport is your ticket to exploring the world, but has an expiration date. If your US passport is about to expire, here’s what you need to know to keep your travel plans on track.
Understanding Passport Validity
Passport validity is how long your passport is good for. For US passports, it’s typically ten years for adults and five years for minors. However, some countries have specific rules about how much validity you need to enter.
How Less Than 6 Months on Your Passport Limits Travel
Even if your passport is technically still valid, having less than six months remaining until its expiration date can significantly limit your travel options. So, if your passport is about to expire, the safest thing is to renew it.
Many countries enforce a “six-month rule,” which requires travelers to have at least six months of passport validity beyond their planned departure date. This rule is so travelers stay within their welcome and avoid issues if they need to extend their stay due to unforeseen circumstances.
The Six-Month Rule
Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. This prevents issues if you stay longer than planned. Some of these countries include China, Thailand, and Brazil.
The Three-Month Rule
Some countries, like those in the Schengen Area, require three months of validity beyond your travel dates. The Schengen Area, comprising 27 European countries, allows passport-free travel across its borders. However, travelers must have at least three months remaining validity on their passports beyond their planned departure date.
Duration of Stay Rule
A few countries only need your passport to be valid for your stay. The most popular countries with this rule include Mexico, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
It’s Time to Renew your Passport
If your passport is close to expiring or doesn’t meet your destination’s requirements, you should renew it. Here’s how:
Gather Required Documents
- Your current US passport.
- A completed renewal form (Form DS-82 for mail, Form DS-11 for in-person).
- A new passport photo.
- The necessary fees.
Complete the Application
Print and fill out Form DS-82 for mail renewals. Read more about the State Department’s new Online Passport Renewal Program at our blog.
Submit Your Application
- By Mail: Send your Form DS-82, passport, photo, and fees. Use a traceable delivery method.
- Apply Online: The State Department recently relaunched online passport renewal.
- Use an Expedited Passport Courier: An expedited passport courier, like The Passport Office, helps clients by speeding up the passport renewal process. This service is ideal for urgent travel needs or when passports are close to expiring.
Pay the Fees
Check the US Department of State’s website for the latest fee schedule.
Track Your Application
Track your renewal status online through the US Department of State’s website.
Receive Your New Passport
Standard processing takes 10-12 weeks.
Final Thoughts
Make sure your passport meets the validity requirements of your travel destination. You can avoid travel disruptions by understanding these rules and renewing your passport in time. If you need an expedited passport renewal, the Passport Office can help! Contact us to book your appointment today.
