Passport processing times have finally returned to normal after significant delays in 2023, bringing relief to many travelers. However, while the processing times are no longer a major concern, there is another passport issue that can still upend your trip abroad. It involves passports that have not yet expired but are close to their expiration date.
Many countries require that American travelers have a certain amount of validity remaining on their U.S. passport in order to enter or secure a visa for that country. For instance, the Schengen Area, consisting of 27 European nations, mandates that a U.S. passport be valid for at least 90 days beyond the end of the trip according to the State Department. Likewise, numerous countries in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions demand a minimum of six months of passport validity for entry, while others like Hong Kong require one month.
The implications of not meeting the validity requirements can be troublesome. Gatekeepers such as border officials may deny travel if your passport does not have the required amount of validity remaining. Some airlines may even refuse to let you board the flight. This means that your non-expired passport could end up costing you a well-deserved vacation. Charles Leocha, president and co-founder of Travelers United, a nonprofit advocacy group, states that this requirement often catches people off guard.
The rule is in place because a valid U.S. passport allows tourists to stay in certain countries for up to 90 days without a visa, assuming they intend to stay for the maximum duration. Border officials may assume this, even if it is not the traveler’s intention. Additionally, it is important to note that some countries may require travelers to obtain a separate visa for entry, which typically comes with an additional cost. For instance, Brazil will reinstate a visa requirement for Americans starting April 10, costing U.S. citizens $80.90 and lasting for 10 years.
To avoid any issues related to passport validity, travelers should plan ahead. Sally French, a travel expert at NerdWallet, recommends applying for a new passport if it will expire within a year. The cost of a traditional passport (passport book) for adults is $130, with an additional $35 acceptance fee for first-time applicants. Expedited passport processing is available at an extra cost of $60. Generally, passports are valid for 10 years (5 years if issued to a traveler under the age of 16).
In the past, passport processing delays have caused frustration for many travelers. During the 2023 fiscal year, the U.S. State Department recorded a historic volume of passport applications, issuing more than 24 million passport books and cards. Consequently, processing times for routine applications increased to 10 to 13 weeks, while expedited applications took seven to nine weeks. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, routine service took six to eight weeks, and expedited service took two to three weeks. However, the State Department has announced a return to pre-pandemic processing times, providing a glimmer of hope for travelers. It is worth noting that these processing times do not include mailing, which can take an additional two weeks for the government to receive the application and for travelers to receive their new passport.
The importance of passports in today’s world cannot be overstated. According to the State Department, almost half of Americans now possess a passport, compared to just 5% in 1990. The number of valid U.S. passports in circulation has nearly doubled since 2007, reaching over 160 million.
While passport processing times have returned to normal, travelers must be aware of the validity requirements set by various countries. Failing to meet these requirements could lead to denied entry or difficulties securing a visa. Therefore, it is crucial to plan ahead and ensure that your passport has the necessary validity before embarking on any international trip.
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