6 month travel rule for expired passports

Guide to the 6-month passport rule — what is it?

Editor's Note

It may sound trivial, but one of the best rules you can follow as an international traveler is to remember to check your passport validity before you book flights and hotels.

Why? Because the requirements for entry differ from country to country. In the midst of planning my 2024 travel, I realized my U.S. passport expires in April, which could mess with my plans abroad.

Thankfully, I use a travel checklist to avoid disruptions to my travel itinerary.

I immediately started the passport renewal process online and had my photo taken at my local Walgreens — although you can DIY your passport photo if you prefer — so I could send out my application as quickly as possible. I also opted to expedite the processing time for an additional $60 fee and sent my application on its way.

If you're also in the middle of planning 2024 travel or simply want to know the ideal time to begin getting ready to renew your passport, the TPG team has you covered.

We collected information from the U.S. Department of State website and the United Kingdom's government website to create a one-stop cheat sheet examining a range of nations that typically require you to have a passport that lasts longer than your trip — whether by one, three or six months.

Note that certain countries deviate from the standard six-month requirement. These findings are also only related to passport validity dates — we're not covering visa requirements here. Those can vary depending on where you're going and where you're coming from.

Schengen countries in Europe

Many European countries are signers of the Schengen Agreement . As a result, they follow the 3+3 Rule, meaning your passport must be valid for three months beyond your three-month entry visa or for a total of six months, regardless of the duration of your initial stay.

While some Schengen countries only require passports to be valid for three months beyond your intended stay, others assume you may stay the full 90 days of your visa validity — thus the six-month time period.

The signers of the Schengen Agreement are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Bulgaria and Romania will join the group March 31, 2024.

The countries listed below abide by the usual six months of passport validity unless otherwise noted.

Non-Schengen countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East

Abide by the usual 6 months of passport validity.

• Bosnia-Herzegovina
• New Caledonia
• North Korea
• Saudi Arabia
• Turkmenistan
• Turkey (British passports must be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive in the country)
• United Arab Emirates
• West Bank/Gaza Strip

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond the scheduled departure date

Passport must be valid 1 month beyond the date of your intended stay, passport only needs to be valid for the proposed duration of your stay.

• Central African Republic
• Cote d'Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Equatorial Guinea
• Morocco (British passports must be valid for at least three months on the date of entry)
• Sao Tome and Principe
• South Africa (passports must also have 30 days beyond your intended date of exit from the country)
• South Sudan

Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• Trinidad and Tobago

Central and South America

• El Salvador

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond arrival

• Brazil (British passports need to be valid six months beyond arrival)

South Pacific

• American Samoa
• French Polynesia
• Marshall Islands
• Papua New Guinea
• New Zealand

Bottom line

When examining the rules, note that some countries have a slight distinction: They may require validity to be either six months from the date of entry or six months from the date of intended departure . For simplicity, we've taken the conservative approach and assumed that for any country with a six-month rule, like most of the ones above, you should ensure your passport is valid six months past the date of intended departure just in case.

Of course, the list above only includes just a few popular destinations worldwide. If your intended destination isn't on the list, it's always best to check with your relevant passport issuer.

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The list is organized by continents with countries listed in alphabetical order. Be aware that many of the countries on the list also require a visa for entry.

Europe is absent from this list. Due to stricter border controls in many European countries, the US State Department recommends that American citizens traveling to the countries in the Schengen Area should have a passport with six months of remaining validity. That said, the official requirement is only three months validity . While the rules for entering the countries that are a part of the Schengen Agreement are slated to change with the introduction of the ETIAS visa waiver program in 2025, this is not expected to change the required amount of passport validity required for entry.

For more, check out our complete guide to Africa Travel Document Requirements

For more, check out our complete guide to Asia Travel Document Requirements

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What is the 6-month passport rule.

If your passport is set to expire in six months or less, you may not be able to fly to or from the countries of your choice. That’s why it’s important to check your passport’s expiration date, especially if you plan to travel soon.

In this article, we’ll review:

• Why your passport needs to be valid for six months
• What countries have a 6-month passport validity rule
• What countries have a 3-month passport validity rule

Countries with other types of passport validity requirements

• If you can be denied entry abroad if your passport is almost expired

Why does my passport need to be valid for six months if I won’t be abroad that long?

The reason behind having a passport valid for six months prior to expiration is mainly because of precaution. If there’s an emergency or a sudden reason you have to stay abroad longer than expected, you’ll want to have a valid passport that can allow you to travel to/from the countries you need to visit.

What countries have 6-month passport validity rule?

According to U.S. Department of State , countries requiring six months of validity include:

• Saudi Arabia
• The United Arab Emirates

What countries have a 3-month passport validity rule?

According to U.S. Department of State, European countries within the Schengen zone generally have a 3-month validity requirement. The Schengen zone includes 26 countries that allow people to travel without needing a passport. These include:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Additionally, the following countries also have the 3-month expiration rule:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina

According to U.S. Department of State, Hong Kong and Macau have a 1-month validity requirement.

Additionally, the following countries have a three-month validity requirement where your passport cannot be expired within three months of the date you leave the country:

• North Macedonia

Can I be denied entry abroad if my passport is almost expired?

Yes. You'll want to check with specific countries about their rules, as in some cases you may be able to enter/leave a country within the 3-month expiration period. However, if your passport is close to expiring (anywhere from 3–6 months) you may be denied entry abroad. If you find yourself in this predicament, you may be able to contact your local embassy about expediting a passport renewal and/or receive an emergency , limited-validity passport.

If you’re looking to travel abroad soon, it’s essential to review your passport to see if it will expire soon. Because it can take time to renew a passport, you’ll want to renew it sooner rather than later so that you have a valid passport in time of your travel.

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The U.S. Will Stop Honoring Expired Passports As of July 1 — What to Know

The rule was initially implemented to help travelers navigate delays in passport processing due to the pandemic.

The State Department will no longer honor expired United States passports next month, ending a pandemic-era practice implemented due to delays in processing.

Starting July 1, travelers will no longer "be permitted to use your expired U.S. passport to return to the United States," the State Department wrote on its website. Previously, U.S. citizens who were abroad were allowed to enter the country if their passport had expired on or after Jan. 1, 2020.

"If your passport has expired, please contact your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for a U.S. passport," the State Department added.

The rule was initially implemented to help travelers navigate delays in passport processing due to consulates and embassies being forced to cut back staffing. That led to an "unprecedented" backlog of passport service appointments.

In the U.S. alone, processing times topped up to 18 weeks and the State Department even removed the option to book last-minute appointments online for a time. Currently, passports are taking eight to 11 weeks to process, or five to seven weeks if travelers pay the expedited fee, according to the State Department .

Passport renewals have also gotten more expensive after the price increased by $20 last year. Now, it costs $130 to renew an adult passport, an extra $60 for expedited service, and an extra $18.32 for one to two day delivery.

While currently the most convenient way to renew a passport is by mail, President Joe Biden signed an executive order last year requiring the government to design a new digital system . Most passports expire after 10 years , but many countries require visitors to have up to six months of validity on their passports before traveling.

Travelers who do renew their passports now have the option to select an "X" as their gender on their application, indicating an "unspecified or another gender identity."

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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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 🇦🇮
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• British Virgin Islands 🇻🇬
• Cambodia 🇰🇭
• Cameroon 🇨🇲
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• 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 🇱🇰
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• 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:

South koreans can travel these 148 countries visa-free, south korea visa photo guidelines and requirements, 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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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 .

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By Eleanor Aldridge

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 .

The 6-Month Passport Rule Every Traveler Should Know About

If you're planning summer travels abroad, don't forget to triple check your passport expiration date. Just because it doesn't officially expire before your trip, doesn't mean you're in the clear to travel...

It may seem like common sense that your U.S. Passport isn’t usable for international travel after it has reached its expiration date. But, you may not realize that just not being expired yet isn’t enough in most countries. Lots of places require a passport that has at least three to six months left on it from your date of entry.

So, avoid the heart-wrenching experience of being unable to board a plane to your dream trip by checking where you are traveling to and their passport rules well beforehand.

Here’s everything you need to know about passport expiration dates and traveling internationally.

Can I travel with less than 6 months on my passport?

The short answer is: it depends where you’re going. Each country has different requirements; some simply require that your passport doesn’t expire until after your trip, others require at least 6 months of validity after your trip starts.

The easiest way to confirm the passport expiration requirement of the country you are visiting is to go to the Travel.State.Gov destination page and type in the countries you are traveling to. It will then tell you the passport requirements for each country.

To be safe: if you have less than six months on your passport , it’s best go through the renewal process . That means checking the expiration date on your passport before you even book flights or finalize dates for your trip.

The U.S. Department of State even recommends getting it renewed if it is expiring within the next year .

Which countries require 6 months on a passport?

According to the U.S. Department of State , the below list of European countries require your passport be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry because they are part of Europe’s Schengen Area. (Yes, that means six months from the start of your trip , not even six months from when you book).

TO NOTE: when you search these destinations individually, some countries technically only require three months of validation instead of six — like Portugal, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, for example. But, as The Points Guy notes,

Many European countries are signers of the Schengen Agreement. As a result, they follow the 3+3 Rule, meaning your passport must be valid for three months beyond your three-month entry visa or for a total of six months, regardless of the duration of your initial stay. While some Schengen countries only require passports to be valid for three months beyond your intended stay, others assume you may stay the full 90 days of your visa validity — thus the six-month time period.

Here are the countries in the Schengen Area:

• Bulgaria (as of March 2024)
• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Romania (as of March 2024)
• Switzerland

We included European countries here since they tend to be popular for summer trips, but again, the Travel.State.Gov website will tell you the answer for every country in the world.

And don’t forget, next year U.S. Passport Holders Visiting Europe Will Need A Special Travel Authorization

In Asia and the Middle East , countries requiring six months of validity include: Mainland China, Mongolia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Burma, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Jordan, Israel, Egypt and Turkey.

Also, after we directly called the State Department to clarify, they noted that it is best to also check with the airline you are flying with. Some will refuse to let you board with an under-6-month passport even if your destination technically falls into the 3-month validity timeline.

Can I travel if my passport expires in 3 months?

Countries in the U.K. are a little less strict, as your passport must just be valid for the duration of your stay in the United Kingdom. Still, if you are only traveling through a U.K. airport and/or are continuing along to other locations, you must reach the validity of other countries.

Some other places with similar rules to the U.K. that could be good for a last-minute trip?

• The Bahamas

What do I do if I have a trip booked and my passport is about to expire?

If you are heading to a country that requires a 6-month validity, you simply won’t be able to get to where you want to go. So, you need to get it renewed ASAP. The State Department has a special page for expedited passport services called “Get My Passport Fast.”

Normally passport renewal takes about 6 to 8 weeks, and with expedited it takes 2 to 3 weeks (which costs $60 extra). To qualify for urgent renewal , you must have international travel booked within 14 calendar days and you must make an in-person appointment at a passport office.

Can I renew my U.S. passport after it expires?

Yes, you can still renew your passport even if it has expired. It must have been issued within the past 15 years though. If it is longer than that, you will need to re-apply from scratch. You can renew your passport by mail, online, or in-person.

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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.

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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.

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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

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The Guide to Mexico Passport Expiration Rules

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International travel is generally fun, and Mexico may be one of the best destinations for travelers from the United States. This is due to its stunning beaches, favorable exchange rate and, of course, its easy access from the U.S.

But the passport expiration rules in Mexico might keep you from having fun south of the border.

Let’s take a look at Mexico’s six-month passport rule this year, as well as ways to travel to Mexico without a passport and tips for getting your passport renewed.

Passport expiration rules for Mexico

Mexico’s passport validity rules are fairly lenient, especially when compared to other countries.

Unlike in Europe, where U.S. travelers must have at least six months of validity remaining on their passport when they visit, there has been no Mexico six-month passport rule in recent years.

Air travelers

According to the U.S. Department of State’s website, travelers entering by air need only have a passport that is currently valid.

There is no Mexico passport rule of six months. However, those arriving in the country do need to have at least one blank passport page in their book for stamps.

Overland travelers

If you’re entering by land, you'll need a valid passport. If you plan to travel beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles), you will need to stop at the National Migration Institute office to obtain an entry permit.

Note that there are some exceptions to this entry permit rule, such as travel into Baja California , so be sure to confirm what’s required of you before you depart.

The process differs for those entering by water, especially if they're on a cruise or a private boat.

Although all travelers entering Mexico by water need to have a valid passport, there are some exceptions for closed-loop cruises that depart and return to the same U.S. port. In these cases, U.S. citizens need only bring their birth certificates and a valid government-issued ID to board their cruise.

Those on private boats are able to use a passport card rather than a passport book if they’re entering territorial waters but do not go ashore. Otherwise, they’ll need to meet all of Mexico’s standard entry requirements.

» Learn more: When to renew your passport

Can I travel to Mexico with an expired passport?

Even though there aren’t any passport requirements of six months validity for Mexico, that doesn’t mean you’re allowed to travel passport-free. This is especially important to note if you have an expired passport.

Although it may be possible to enter Mexico by a land crossing without needing to present documentation, it’s still something that you need to have with you on your person.

» Learn more: How to get your first passport

Renewing your passport

Don’t meet Mexico’s passport expiration rules? You’ll need to renew your passport if you want to enter the country.

If your passport is not damaged and was issued less than 15 years ago, among other criteria, you’ll be able to renew your passport by mail using the DS-82 form.

Here are all the requirements for renewing by mail:

You must submit your passport with your application.

The passport was issued when you were age 16 or older.

The passport was issued within the last 15 years.

The passport was never reported as lost or stolen.

The passport is not damaged other than normal wear and tear.

The passport has your current name or you’re able to provide legal documentation of your name change.

If your passport doesn’t meet all of these requirements, you’ll have to complete an application for a new passport instead. This is done in person through the DS-11 form.

» Learn more: Why (and how) to renew your passport now, even if you’re not traveling soon

Traveling to Mexico without a passport

It’s possible to travel to Mexico without a passport, though the circumstances in which you can do so are limited.

First, there are those closed-loop cruises that we talked about. For example: You board your cruise from a U.S. port, such as San Diego, cruise south down to Mexico and debark in Cabo San Lucas . There is no passport control at the cruise terminal; you’re simply able to get off the ship. At departure, you’ll board, sail north and return to San Diego.

When debarking in San Diego you’ll go through U.S. immigration. If you don’t have a passport, you can instead present your birth certificate and ID.

Second, it’s possible to enter Mexico by land using a passport card.

These allow citizens to reenter the U.S. from Mexico, Bermuda, Canada and Caribbean countries by land or sea. They cost less than a passport book, but they're not valid for other international travel or any travel by air.

» Learn more: Passport book vs. card

Passport expiration rules for Mexico, recapped

If you're interested in traveling to Mexico in the near future, you'll want to be certain that you meet the eligibility requirements.

Although Mexico is more lenient than some other countries, you'll still need to have an unexpired passport or passport card, depending on your method of entry.

Otherwise, some limited travel options exist for those without a passport — though you'll always want to research entry requirements before traveling internationally.

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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, 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

Passports can only be renewed by mail, and the renewal process for passport books and cards is the same. You will select which type of passport you want when you fill out the application form. Online renewals are currently paused. Because it can take up to three months to process your application, it is important to renew your passport before it expires.

Typically, you will need the following items to renew your passport:

• 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.

Check with the Department of State to find out the current processing times for passport renewals .

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: May 15, 2024

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Top questions about passports.

• How do I check my application status ?
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• I’m a dual citizen. Do I need my Canadian passport to return to Canada ?
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• How do I open your application forms ?

See more questions in the Help Centre

Travelling in general

There isn’t a specific answer to this question. This is because each country has its own entry requirements.

Always check the entry and exit requirements for all countries you’re going to visit before making your plans. Then check your passport to see when it expires. This will tell you whether you need to renew your passport yet.

All countries have their own entry requirements. Read the  travel advisories  to view the entry and exit requirements of each country.

Since these requirements can change, you may also check with the  Government of Canada office  of the country you visit.

You shouldn’t travel with a passport that will expire during your trip or shortly after your planned return. To avoid problems while travelling, you should get a new passport before leaving if your passport could expire around or during your travels.

Some countries won’t allow you to enter if your passport expires shortly after your planned return date. To find out more about entry and exit requirements, consult the:

• travel advisories
• Government of Canada office  of the country you will be visiting

You should make all travel arrangements in the name on your passport.

If the names don't match, you may have problems at border crossings or when boarding flights.

Check with the authorities in the destination country to find out if you need any other documents.

Travelling with children

We strongly recommend that your child carry a consent letter if they’re travelling abroad:

• friends or relatives
• only one parent/guardian

For the purposes of the consent letter, a Canadian child is defined as anyone who is under the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province or territory of residence).

Learn more about children travelling abroad and get a  sample consent letter at Travel.gc.ca .

Page details

Can You Fly with an Expired Passport? [2024 Guide]

Your passport is the most important item on your checklist when you travel, whether for business or pleasure.

What happens if your travel document has expired? Can you still fly?

This guide will address the common concerns regarding travel with an expired passport.

Can You Fly If Your Passport Is Expired?

Emergency travel with an expired passport, stacking it up all.

Check these related articles:

• How Much Does a Passport Cost?
• Renew Passport By Mail: The ABC
• Expedited Passport

Let’s get started:

It depends. 

That’s because domestic and international flight rules differ significantly.

Domestic flights

If you’re planning a trip within the US, you don’t need a passport to board a plane. The Transportation Security Administration  (TSA) accepts other valid identification forms , such as:

• Driver’s license
• State-issued photo ID card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• Military ID
• Permanent resident card
• Foreign passport

Note that children under 18 aren’t required to provide identification documents when traveling within the country. However, different airlines may require such a document, so it’s best to check with them directly.

Pro tip:  According to the TSA, weapon permits and temporary driver’s licenses aren’t considered acceptable forms of identification.

International flights

Airlines and border security agencies worldwide require a valid passport for entry and exit.

An expired passport prevents you from boarding an international flight and can lead to complications with customs and immigration authorities.

Is this your case? Unfortunately, you’ll have to postpone your travel plans and  apply for a passport renewal . The process usually takes around 10 weeks.

To renew your passport, you’ll need a recent picture that meets all  official requirements . The good news is that you can get a compliant passport image from home. Just download the  PhotoAiD® app for iOS  or  PhotoAiD® for Android  and follow the instructions.

What if your trip is coming soon, and you don’t have time to renew your passport? In some cases, you may qualify for an emergency passport.

Depending on the nature of your trip, not all hope might be lost. 

Under certain circumstances, US citizens may be issued an  emergency passport . These are typically valid for one year and are issued quickly to accommodate urgent travel needs, such as a family emergency abroad.

Here are the types of services offered by the U.S. Department of State for urgent travel:

• Expedited:  Apply if your trip is in less than eight weeks.
• Urgent:  Apply if your trip is in less than three weeks.
• Life-or-death circumstances:  Apply if you must travel in less than 14 days.

If any of these scenarios apply to you, read our detailed guide on  expedited passports  to determine the next steps.

Note that emergency applications are handled strictly by a passport agency, not a passport acceptance facility (e.g., a post office), and you’ll need to make an appointment.

How long is a passport valid after expiration?

Once a passport reaches its expiration date, it’s considered invalid for international travel. However, some countries require your passport to be valid for six months beyond your stay. Always check your destination country’s entry requirements before your trip.

Can you fly within the US with an expired passport?

While you can’t use an expired passport as your primary ID for TSA checkpoints, you can still fly domestically using other valid forms of identification. Remember, all IDs must meet  Real ID requirements  starting in May 2025.

Can you travel back with an expired passport?

You can’t fly back to your home country with an expired passport. However, in emergencies, US embassies or consulates abroad can assist you in obtaining an emergency passport to facilitate your return home.

Can a child travel with an expired passport?

Like adults, children can’t travel internationally with an expired passport. However, for domestic flights, children under 18 don’t need an ID when traveling with a companion who has a valid identification document.

Can you fly to Mexico with an expired passport?

Mexico requires a valid passport book or passport card for entry. Airlines and Mexican authorities won’t accept an expired passport.

Navigating the rules surrounding expired passports can be complex. 

So here’s a quick recap:

• Domestic flights : No passport is needed; other forms of valid ID are accepted.
• International flights : A valid passport is mandatory.
• Emergency travel : An emergency passport can be issued in certain urgent situations, including when stuck in a foreign country.
• https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification
• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html
• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html

Sylwia is a skilled writer with a BA in English Studies and a knack for storytelling. For the past two years, she’s been writing captivating articles for international companies, turning her lifelong passion into a career.

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers a suite of mobile applications (apps) to help expedite the travel process when entering the United States, help customs brokers facilitate import inspections.

CBP One™ Mobile Application

A single portal for multiple CBP services to streamline your experience.

• Mobile Passport Control

CBP’s MPC app is a free application that can be downloaded from the Apple App store and Google Play and is currently available for eligible travelers to use upon arrival at MPC approved sites.

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For U.S. Citizens/Lawful Permanent Residents

Uscis extends green card validity extension to 24 months for green card renewals.

You may show your expired green card and your receipt notice as evidence of continued status or valid passport that contains a valid USCIS ADIT Stamp or valid USCIS Form I-94 with ADIT stamp, DHS seal, and printed photo of the LPR (aka USCIS Mail Delivery Process) to return back into the United States . NOTE: We have no authority to claim that this is sufficient evidence to gain entry to other countries if/when there is a departure from the USA. 

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling abroad, get the information you need to smoothly navigate your return back into the United States, including:

• Automated Passport Control
• Bringing Food into the United States
• Customs Declaration Form (6059B)
• Planning a Trip to Mexico from the United States
• Planning to Travel Abroad
• Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative
• CBP Mobile App Directory

If you are a lawful permanent resident, you may be eligible to become a U.S. citizen after five years of becoming a lawful permanent resident, or three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen. More information on the naturalization process and available citizenship materials can be found at the Citizenship Resource Center .

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Meet Kate and find out all you need to do to make your return to the U.S. easy and quick!

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Information for Lawful Permanent Residents

• Advance Parole  
• Advance Parole, Reentry Permit, and Refugee Travel Documentation for returning Aliens residing in the U.S.   ​​​​​​​
• USCIS Citizenship Resource Center

Resources for Study Abroad Students

• CBP Shares Travel Tips for Study Abroad Students  
• Study Abroad Students Can Help Protect the Safety of the U.S. Food Supply and Native Animal Species

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

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Life-or-Death Emergencies

Courier and Expeditor Companies

• Life-or-Death Emergency  (appointment required)
• Urgent Travel  (appointment required)
• Routine      
• Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel. Processing times + mailing times (up to 2 weeks) = total time to get a passport

Expand the options below to learn more about the four types of service we offer.

You may qualify for a life-or-death emergency appointment if you need to travel to a foreign country in the next 14 days because your immediate family member outside of the united states: has died, or is dying (hospice care), or has a life-threatening illness or injury see our  life-or-death emergencies  page for more information on how to make an appointment. , choose this service if you are traveling in less than 2-3 weeks.  if you have not applied, make an appointment online . your appointment at a  passport agency or center  must within 14 calendar days of your international travel date.  if you have already applied, call us at 1-877-487-2778 .  we cannot guarantee an appointment will be available. , choose this service if you are traveling in less than 8 weeks from the date you submit your application.  expedited service takes 2-3 weeks and does not include mailing times. mailing times may add 2 weeks on to the total time to get your passport. you can  expedite at an acceptance facility  or  expedite a renewal by mail .    , choose this service if you are traveling over 8 weeks from the date you submit your application. routine service takes 6-8 weeks and does not include mailing times. mailing times may add 2 weeks on to the total time to get your passport. you can apply for routine service at an  acceptance facility  or  renew by mail .    , contacting us if you have urgent travel.

Check your application status online and sign up for updates via email . How our contact center can help you depends on your travel date, and if you have applied or not yet applied...

I have already applied and do not have my passport

I have not applied yet, reminders for contacting us.

• Representatives are available Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. We close on federal holidays.
• Our primary number is 1-877-487-2778 . Se habla español.
• If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call 1-888-874-7793 for TDD/TTY teletype services.
• Contact your local U.S. embassy or consulate if you are applying outside the United States.

Traveling in Less Than 2-3 Weeks

Make an appointment at a passport agency or center.

We have two types of appointments:  Life-or-Death Emergency Service  and  Urgent Travel Service .

• You cannot walk in without an appointment. 
• We do not charge a fee to make an appointment.
• You cannot transfer your appointment to another customer.

Life-or-Death Emergency Service is for customers who are traveling in the next 14 days for a life-or-death emergency. Learn more on our  Life-or-Death Emergency page .

Urgent Travel Service : If you have not yet applied , make an appointment online . Your appointment must be scheduled within 14 calendar days of your international travel date.  

If you have already applied , call 1-877-487-2778 . 

We cannot guarantee an appointment will be available. 

Traveling in Less Than 8 Weeks

Expedite a first-time application or a child's application.

Use our Form Filler to fill out Form DS-11, print it, and apply in person at an acceptance facility.

• Follow the steps on how to apply in person
• Include your $60 expedite fee with the application fee
• Find an  acceptance facility  near you to submit your application

Expedite a Renewal or Name Change by Mail

Use our Form Filler  to fill out your form, print it, and mail it to us.

• Use Form DS-82 if you are renewing. Follow the steps on how to mail your application
• Use Form DS-5504 if you are changing your name within one year of a passport being issued. Follow the steps on how to change your name.
• Include the $60 expedite fee with the application fee
• Write "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope you send us

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i pay for faster delivery and return shipping.

Yes. You may choose one or both of the following shipment options:

• Delivering application to us : Pay for Priority Mail Express for faster shipping. The price for this service varies depending on the area of the country.
• Returning the passport to you : Pay $19.53 for 1-2 day delivery. This means you will receive your passport   1-2 days after we send it. Include this fee with your check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State. Do not submit a return envelope to us with postage pre-paid. 

You may receive your passport and supporting documents in separate mailings. If you are renewing a passport card, we will send it to you via First Class Mail. We do not use 1-2 day delivery services if you only applied for a passport card.

What are passport expeditors and courier companies?

Passport expeditors and couriers are companies that are not part of the U.S. Department of State. These companies submit applications and pick up passports for customers. 

These companies may charge several hundred dollars in extra fees. They may also charge for services that we offer for free such as making an appointment and filling out a form. 

To learn more about these companies, visit our  Passport Expeditor and Courier page .

Make An Appointment at a Passport Agency or Center

We have two types of appointments: Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service . You cannot walk-in. 

Not Yet Applied : Make an appointment online

Already Applied : Call  1-877-487-2778 . Se habla español.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call  1-888-874-7793  for TDD/TTY teletype services. 

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. 

Requesting a Refund for Expedited Service

Service Commitment

If you paid the $60 fee for expedited service when you applied and you did not receive expedited service, you may be eligible to  request a refund  of this fee. We cannot refund any other passport fees or your travel expenses if you miss your trip.

Non-Refundable Fees

We cannot refund the passport application fee and the execution fee. By law, we collect both fees and keep them even if a passport is not issued.

Learn more about refunds on our Refund of Expedited Passport Fee page.

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