is travel document ordinary passport

Passport Types Explained: Ordinary vs. Official Passport

January 3, 2024

The Difference Between Ordinary and Official Passports: Explained in Simple Terms

Passports are essential travel documents that allow individuals to cross international borders and explore the world. Whether you're planning a vacation, attending a conference, or representing your country, having the right passport is crucial. While most people are familiar with ordinary passports, there is another type of passport known as an official passport. Understanding the difference between these two types of passports is important, as it can determine the privileges and limitations you have when traveling. In this article, we will delve into the dissimilarities between ordinary and official passports, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of passport types.

What is an Ordinary Passport?

An ordinary passport, also known as a tourist passport or regular passport, is the most common type of passport issued to citizens around the world. This is the passport that you would typically use when traveling for personal reasons, such as vacations, family visits, or sightseeing. Ordinary passports are designed for general travel purposes and are recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Characteristics of an Ordinary Passport

Ordinary passports possess certain characteristics that distinguish them from other passport types. Here are some key features of an ordinary passport:

Personal Use: Ordinary passports are intended for personal travel purposes, allowing individuals to explore the world beyond their own borders.

Validity: The validity of an ordinary passport varies depending on the country of issuance. It generally ranges from five to ten years.

Visa Requirements: Before traveling to a foreign country, individuals with an ordinary passport may need to obtain a visa, which grants them permission to enter a specific country.

Access to Visa-Free Countries: Holding an ordinary passport may grant you access to visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry in certain countries. The number of visa-free countries may vary depending on your nationality.

What is an Official Passport?

On the other hand, an official passport is a type of passport issued to government officials, diplomats, and individuals who are representing their country on official business. Official passports are granted to individuals who require international travel for official purposes, such as attending conferences, negotiating treaties, or performing diplomatic duties.

Characteristics of an Official Passport

Official passports possess distinct features that differentiate them from ordinary passports. Here are some key characteristics of an official passport:

Official Use: Official passports are exclusively used for official government business, representing the issuing country on diplomatic missions or official duties.

Validity: The validity of an official passport may vary depending on the country issuing it, but it is generally shorter than an ordinary passport. It is important to note that the validity of an official passport may extend beyond the holder's term of office.

Visa Exemptions: Holders of official passports often enjoy visa exemptions or diplomatic privileges when traveling to certain countries. These exemptions are granted as a courtesy to individuals representing their countries officially.

Courtesy: Official passports are typically issued as a mark of courtesy by one government to another. It represents the issuing country's recognition of the holder's official status.

The Key Differences Between Ordinary and Official Passports

Now that we have a basic understanding of what ordinary and official passports are, let's delve deeper into the differences between the two:

Intended Purpose: The primary distinction between ordinary and official passports lies in their intended purpose. Ordinary passports are meant for personal travel and exploration, while official passports are exclusively used for official government business and diplomatic purposes.

Eligibility: Ordinary passports are available to any citizen who meets the requirements set by their respective country. In contrast, official passports are strictly reserved for government officials, diplomats, and individuals representing their countries on official business.

Visa Requirements: Individuals with ordinary passports often need to acquire visas before entering certain countries. On the other hand, holders of official passports may enjoy visa exemptions or diplomatic privileges, simplifying their travel arrangements.

Validity: Ordinary passports generally have a longer validity compared to official passports, which may have shorter durations due to the changing nature of official duties.

Cover Design: Ordinary passports often have distinctive cover designs that represent their country of origin. In contrast, official passports may have different cover designs or colors to signify the holder's official status.

Which Passport Do I Need?

Determining which passport type you need depends on the purpose of your travel. If you are planning a personal vacation or a leisure trip, an ordinary passport will suffice. However, if you are a government official, diplomat, or representing your country on official business, you will require an official passport.

It is essential to understand the specific requirements and regulations of the countries you plan to visit. Different countries have different visa policies and may offer varying levels of courtesy to individuals holding official passports. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with the appropriate authorities or embassies for accurate information regarding visa requirements and diplomatic privileges.

In conclusion, ordinary and official passports serve different purposes and cater to diverse needs. Ordinary passports are designed for personal travel and exploration, while official passports are reserved for government officials and individuals on official business. The key distinctions lie in their intended purpose, eligibility criteria, visa requirements, and cover designs. It is crucial to obtain the correct passport type based on your intended travel and consult appropriate authorities to ensure compliance with visa regulations and diplomatic courtesies.

Traveling the world is a remarkable experience, and having the right passport enables you to embark on exciting adventures and discover new cultures. Whether you hold an ordinary passport or an official passport, remember to cherish the opportunities it presents, as it is your gateway to the vast wonders of the world. So, pack your bags, check your passport, and set off on a journey that will create memories to last a lifetime. Safe travels!

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passport
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_United_States_citizens

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Travel Tips

What Is The Difference Between A Travel Document And A Passport

Published: November 2, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Blinni Parent

Plan Your Trip

Introduction

When it comes to international travel, having the right identification is crucial. Two commonly used documents are a travel document and a passport. While they may seem similar, there are important differences between the two that travelers should be aware of. Understanding these distinctions can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

A travel document is an official document issued by a country that verifies the identity and nationality of the holder. It is primarily used for international travel when a passport is not available or cannot be obtained. On the other hand, a passport is a government-issued document that serves as proof of identity, nationality, and citizenship. It is the most widely accepted form of identification for international travel.

Both travel documents and passports are important for traveling abroad, but they serve different purposes and have distinct features. This article will delve into the definitions, purposes, features, validity, application process, eligibility, costs, and travel restrictions associated with these two types of documents, allowing travelers to understand the differences and make informed decisions.

Definition of a Travel Document

A travel document is an official identification document issued by a country to its citizens or residents that allows them to travel internationally. It serves as a substitute for a passport when one is not available or cannot be obtained. The specific type and name of the travel document vary depending on the country, but some common examples include the refugee travel document and the certificate of identity.

Travel documents are primarily intended for individuals who are unable to obtain a passport due to circumstances such as being a refugee, stateless, or having a temporary or limited residency status. These documents allow the holders to leave and re-enter the country of their residence or seek international protection while still having a recognized form of identification.

While travel documents are not as widely recognized as passports, they are accepted by some countries and airlines as a valid form of identification for entry and exit purposes. However, it’s important to note that not all countries recognize travel documents, and some may require additional visas or permits for entry. It is advisable for travelers to consult with the embassy or consulate of the destination country to ensure the travel document will be accepted.

Travel documents typically include the holder’s name, date of birth, photograph, and other identifying information. They are usually valid for a specific period of time, which varies depending on the issuing country. It’s important to ensure that the travel document is valid for the duration of the planned trip to avoid any complications during travel.

Overall, a travel document serves as an alternative form of identification for individuals who are unable to obtain a passport. It allows them to travel internationally, although it may have limitations compared to a passport in terms of recognition and acceptance. Understanding the definition and purpose of a travel document is essential for those who require one for their international journeys.

Definition of a Passport

A passport is a government-issued document that serves as proof of identity, nationality, and citizenship. It allows individuals to travel internationally and serves as a crucial identification document when crossing borders. Passports are recognized and accepted by virtually all countries as a valid form of identification for entry and exit purposes.

A passport typically contains the holder’s personal information, including their full name, date of birth, place of birth, photograph, and signature. It also includes information about their nationality, such as their citizenship and passport number, as well as the passport’s date of issue and expiration.

Passports are considered the gold standard for international travel identification. They provide travelers with the highest level of acceptance and recognition across borders, allowing for seamless and hassle-free journeys. In addition to proving one’s identity and nationality, passports can also serve as a means of accessing consular services and assistance in the event of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

Passports are typically issued by the government of the holder’s home country and are subject to specific regulations and requirements. The exact process for obtaining a passport varies from country to country but generally involves submitting an application, providing supporting documents, and paying applicable fees. Passports are then issued for a specific period of time, typically ranging from five to ten years, before they need to be renewed.

It’s important for travelers to ensure that their passport is valid for the duration of their planned trip as many countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. Having an expired passport or one that is about to expire can result in denial of entry or cause unnecessary delays and complications at immigration checkpoints.

Overall, a passport is a vital document for international travel, providing proof of identity, nationality, and citizenship. It is widely accepted and recognized, allowing travelers to navigate seamlessly across borders. Understanding the definition and purpose of a passport is essential for any individual planning to venture abroad.

Purpose of a Travel Document

The primary purpose of a travel document is to provide an official form of identification and travel authorization for individuals who are unable to obtain a passport. Travel documents are often issued to individuals who are stateless, refugees, or have temporary or limited residency status. These documents allow them to travel internationally and serve as a recognized form of identification for entry and exit purposes.

One of the main purposes of a travel document is to enable individuals to leave and re-enter the country of their residence. It provides them with a legal pathway to travel internationally and return without the need for a standard passport. Travel documents protect the rights of individuals who may have difficulty obtaining a passport due to their legal status or circumstances.

In addition, travel documents can serve as a means for individuals to seek international protection or asylum. For refugees or those who are stateless, these documents provide an opportunity to access international assistance and support by allowing them to travel to a safe country where their security and well-being can be ensured.

Travel documents also serve as a form of identification during travel. They contain essential personal information such as the holder’s name, date of birth, and photograph, which allows authorities to verify their identity. This helps maintain the security and integrity of international borders and ensures that only authorized individuals are granted entry or exit.

Furthermore, travel documents may enable holders to obtain visas or permits for entry into certain countries. While each country has its own regulations regarding the acceptance of travel documents, some countries may require additional documentation or approvals for entry. Therefore, it’s important for travelers with travel documents to research the visa requirements of their intended destination before embarking on their journey.

In summary, the purpose of a travel document is to provide identification and travel authorization for individuals who cannot obtain a traditional passport. It enables travel, protects the rights of individuals with limited residency status, and allows them access to international protection or asylum. While it may have certain limitations in terms of recognition and acceptance, a travel document serves as a valuable tool for navigating international travel.

Purpose of a Passport

A passport serves as a vital document that fulfills several essential purposes for international travel. Its primary purpose is to establish the identity, nationality, and citizenship of the passport holder. It is widely recognized and accepted as a valid form of identification by nearly all countries around the world.

One of the main purposes of a passport is to facilitate international travel. It serves as proof that the holder has been granted permission by their home country to travel abroad. Passports are required at various checkpoints, including immigration and customs, during the journey to verify the traveler’s identity and ensure compliance with entry and exit requirements.

Another important purpose of a passport is to provide a means of consular protection and assistance. Embassies and consulates can provide support and assistance to their citizens who encounter difficulties while traveling abroad. Having a valid passport allows individuals to access consular services and seek help in case of emergencies, lost documents, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Passports also play a significant role in maintaining national security. They help authorities verify the identity and nationality of travelers, reducing the risk of entry by individuals with fraudulent or forged identification documents. By establishing a standardized method of identification, passports contribute to border control and help ensure the safety and security of countries.

In addition, passports are often required for obtaining visas or permits to enter specific countries. Many countries have established visa requirements, and a valid passport is typically a prerequisite for applying for these entry documents. Passports provide the necessary information and proof of identity to facilitate the visa application process.

Moreover, a passport serves as a record of travel history. Each time a traveler enters or exits a foreign country, it is usually documented in their passport. This record can be useful for various purposes, including proving travel history for immigration purposes, visa applications, or for personal reference.

Overall, the purpose of a passport is multi-fold. It serves as a primary identification document, enables international travel, provides consular protection, contributes to national security, facilitates visa applications, and documents travel history. Obtaining and carrying a valid passport is essential for any individual planning to engage in international travel.

Features of a Travel Document

Travel documents have certain distinct features that set them apart from passports. While the specific features may vary depending on the issuing country, there are some common characteristics that can be found in most travel documents.

Firstly, travel documents typically contain the essential identifying information of the holder. This includes their full name, date of birth, and a recent photograph. The photograph serves as a visual verification of the holder’s identity and helps authorities confirm their authenticity when traveling internationally.

Travel documents also often include details about the issuing country. This may include the country’s name, coat of arms or other emblems, and other relevant information that establishes the document’s origin and authenticity. These elements help to prevent counterfeiting and unauthorized duplication of travel documents.

Another feature of travel documents is the inclusion of security measures such as holograms, watermarks, or special ink. These security features are designed to deter tampering or counterfeiting, ensuring the integrity and validity of the document. Such measures enhance the confidence of both the holder and the authorities that the travel document is genuine.

Furthermore, travel documents may have limitations in terms of validity and use. They are typically issued for a specific period of time, which can range from a few months to a few years, depending on the issuing country. It is important for travelers to be aware of the validity of their travel document and to ensure that it remains valid throughout their planned journey.

Unlike passports, travel documents may have certain travel restrictions attached to them. These restrictions may vary depending on the issuing country and the legal status of the holder. It is advisable for individuals with travel documents to research and understand the specific limitations and requirements for travel to different countries before embarking on their trip.

Overall, the features of a travel document include the essential identifying information of the holder, details about the issuing country, security measures to prevent tampering, and limitations in terms of validity and travel restrictions. These features ensure the authenticity of the document and help facilitate international travel for individuals who are unable to obtain a passport.

Features of a Passport

Passports have several distinct features that make them an essential document for international travel. These features are designed to establish the identity, nationality, and citizenship of the passport holder and to ensure the integrity and validity of the document.

One of the primary features of a passport is the personal information section. This includes the full name, date of birth, place of birth, and a recent photograph of the passport holder. The photograph helps authorities verify the identity of the traveler and serves as a visual reference when comparing the holder to the document.

Passports also typically include the issuing country’s coat of arms, emblem, or other national symbols. These features add to the document’s legitimacy and help establish its origin. They can also vary in design and colors, reflecting the unique characteristics of each country’s passport.

Furthermore, passports contain security features to prevent forgery and tampering. These may include holographic images, ultraviolet ink, microprinting, or other advanced security measures. These features make it difficult for counterfeiters to replicate the passport and enhance the credibility and authenticity of the document.

In addition to the personal information section, passports have a dedicated page for visas and entry/exit stamps. This page is used by authorities at border control to record the traveler’s entry and exit from different countries. It serves as a record of the individual’s travel history and can be used for various purposes such as immigration records or visa applications.

Passports also have machine-readable zones (MRZ) located at the bottom of the personal information page. These zones contain encrypted data that can be read by automated passport control systems. The MRZ allows for efficient and accurate scanning of passports, speeding up the immigration process at airports and other border checkpoints.

Finally, passports have an expiration date. The validity period of a passport varies from country to country but generally ranges from five to ten years. It is important for travelers to be aware of the expiration date of their passport and to renew it in a timely manner to avoid any disruptions to their travel plans.

In summary, passports have distinct features such as personal information pages, national symbols, security measures, visa pages, machine-readable zones, and expiration dates. These features enable efficient identification, prevent counterfeiting, record travel history, and establish the nationality and citizenship of the passport holder. Understanding these features is crucial for anyone planning to travel internationally.

Validity of a Travel Document

The validity of a travel document refers to the period during which the document is considered legally valid and can be used for international travel. The specific validity period varies depending on the issuing country and the type of travel document.

Generally, travel documents are issued for a specific duration and expire at the end of that period. The validity period can range from a few months to several years. It is crucial for travelers to be aware of the expiration date of their travel document and to ensure that it remains valid throughout their planned journey.

It is important to note that the validity of a travel document does not necessarily indicate the length of time a traveler can stay in a foreign country. The validity refers solely to the period during which the document can be used for international travel, while the duration of stay is determined by the visa or entry permit granted by the destination country.

Travelers should also be mindful of the “six-month validity rule” enforced by many countries. Some countries require that a passport or travel document be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. In such cases, if the travel document has less than six months of validity remaining, the traveler may be denied entry or may face difficulties during immigration procedures.

Additionally, it is important to consider the processing time for renewing or obtaining a new travel document, as it can take several weeks or even months. Travelers should plan ahead and initiate the renewal or application process well in advance of their planned travel dates to avoid any unnecessary complications or delays.

In summary, the validity of a travel document refers to the duration during which the document is legally valid and can be used for international travel. It is crucial for travelers to be aware of the expiration date of their travel document and to consider any additional validity requirements set by the destination country. By paying attention to these factors and planning ahead, travelers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Validity of a Passport

The validity of a passport is the period during which the passport is considered legally valid and can be used as a valid form of identification for international travel. The validity of a passport varies depending on the issuing country and can range from a few years to a decade.

Typically, passports are valid for a period of five to ten years, although some countries may issue shorter-term passports for specific purposes or to certain individuals. It is important for travelers to be aware of the expiration date of their passport and to ensure that it remains valid throughout their intended travel period.

Many countries enforce certain validity requirements for passports. Commonly known as the “six-month validity rule”, some countries require that a passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. This rule is in place to ensure that travelers have a valid passport for the duration of their stay and to prevent any potential complications or issues arising from an expired or soon-to-expire passport.

It is advisable for travelers to renew their passports well in advance of the expiration date. The passport renewal process can take several weeks or even months in some cases, depending on the country. By initiating the renewal process early, travelers can avoid any last-minute rush or potential travel disruptions due to an expired passport.

Additionally, it is important to note that even if a passport is still valid, some countries may have visa requirements that need to be fulfilled for entry. Certain visas have their own validity periods and may need to be obtained separately from the passport. It is recommended that travelers consult the embassy or consulate of the destination country to understand the specific visa requirements and validity periods associated with their travel plans.

In summary, the validity of a passport refers to the period during which the passport is considered legally valid and can be used for international travel. Travelers should be aware of the expiration date of their passport, any additional validity requirements set by the destination country, and should initiate the renewal process in a timely manner. By staying informed and prepared, travelers can ensure a smooth and uninterrupted travel experience.

Application Process for a Travel Document

The application process for a travel document varies depending on the country issuing the document and the specific circumstances of the applicant. Here is a general overview of the application process:

Gather Required Documents: Start by gathering all the necessary documents for the application. This typically includes proof of identity, proof of residency, any legal documentation supporting the need for a travel document, and any other documents specific to the issuing country’s requirements.
Complete Application Form: Fill out the application form provided by the issuing authority. The form will ask for personal information, such as name, date of birth, and address, as well as details about the reason for needing the travel document.
Provide Supporting Documents: Submit all the required supporting documents along with the completed application form. This may include proof of residency, legal documentation, photographs, or any other specific documents requested by the issuing authority.
Pay Application Fees: In most cases, there will be an application fee associated with obtaining a travel document. Pay the required fee as specified by the issuing authority. The fee may vary depending on factors such as age, urgency of the application, or the type of travel document being applied for.
Submit the Application: Once all the necessary documents are gathered and the application fee is paid, submit the application to the designated authorities. This may be done in person at a government office or through a designated postal service depending on the country’s procedures.
Wait for Processing: After submitting the application, it will undergo a processing period. The duration can vary depending on the issuing country and the volume of applications. It is advisable to inquire about the approximate processing time with the issuing authority or check their website for updates.
Receive the Travel Document: If the application is approved, the applicant will receive the travel document by mail or can collect it in person from the designated government office. In some cases, an interview or additional steps may be required before the travel document is issued.

It is important to note that the application process and requirements may vary significantly from country to country. It is recommended that applicants refer to the official website of the issuing authority or contact the appropriate embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the application process for a travel document.

By following the instructions provided by the issuing authority and ensuring that all required documents are submitted accurately and on time, applicants can increase their chances of a successful application for a travel document.

Application Process for a Passport

The application process for a passport requires careful attention to detail and adherence to the specific requirements set by the issuing country. While the exact process can vary, here is a general overview of the application process:

Collect Required Documents: Start by gathering all the necessary documents for the passport application. This typically includes proof of identity, proof of citizenship, proof of residency, and any other supporting documents specified by the issuing authority. These may include birth certificates, identification cards, proof of address, or previous passports.
Complete Application Form: Fill out the passport application form accurately and completely. The form will ask for personal information such as name, date of birth, and contact details. It is important to ensure that all information provided is correct and matches the supporting documents.
Provide Photographs: Submit passport-sized, recent photographs that meet the specifications set by the issuing authority. These specifications usually include specific dimensions, background color, and other requirements. It is crucial to follow these guidelines to avoid any delays or rejections in the application process.
Pay Application Fees: There are fees associated with passport applications, including processing fees and issuance fees. Make sure to pay the required fees as specified by the issuing authority. The amount may vary depending on factors such as the applicant’s age and the type of passport requested.
Submit the Application: Once all the necessary documents are collected, the application form is filled out, and the fees are paid, submit the application to the designated passport office or embassy/consulate. This can typically be done in person or by mail, depending on the procedures of the issuing authority.
Attend an Interview (if required): Some countries may require applicants to attend an interview as part of the application process. During the interview, the applicant may be asked to provide additional information or to clarify any details on the application form.
Wait for Processing: After the application is submitted, it will undergo a processing period. The duration of this process can vary, depending on the issuing country and the volume of applications received. It is advisable to inquire about the estimated processing time or check the issuing authority’s website for updates.
Receive the Passport: If the application is approved, the passport will be issued and can be collected in person from the designated passport office or delivered through secure mail. It is important to ensure that the passport is received and kept in a safe place for future travel.

It is crucial to note that requirements and procedures for passport applications can vary from country to country. It is recommended to refer to the official website of the issuing authority or contact the appropriate embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the application process for a passport.

By following the instructions provided by the issuing authority, submitting all required documents accurately and on time, and paying the necessary fees, applicants can increase their chances of a successful passport application.

Eligibility for a Travel Document

The eligibility criteria for a travel document vary from country to country, as different nations have their own regulations and requirements. However, there are some common factors that determine eligibility for a travel document:

1. Legal Status: Typically, individuals who are stateless, refugees, or have temporary or limited residency status are eligible to apply for a travel document. These documents are designed to provide recognition and identification for individuals who may not be able to obtain a passport from their home country.

2. Citizenship Determination: Eligibility for a travel document often depends on the determination of citizenship or nationality. Individuals who are considered citizens or nationals of a country, even if they hold a different legal status, may be eligible to apply for a travel document issued by that country.

3. Circumstances: Some countries may have specific circumstances or requirements that make individuals eligible for a travel document. For example, individuals granted asylum or seeking international protection may qualify for a travel document to facilitate their travel and ensure their safety.

4. Supporting Documentation: Applicants are typically required to provide supporting documentation to establish their eligibility. This may include proof of identity, residency, or legal status. The specific documents required can vary depending on the issuing country and the individual’s circumstances.

5. Age Restrictions: Some countries may have age restrictions for travel document eligibility. For example, there may be different requirements or application processes for minors compared to adults. It is important to review the age-specific criteria set by the issuing authority.

6. Visa or Entry Requirements: While a travel document allows for international travel, it does not guarantee entry into other countries. Travelers may still need to meet the visa or entry requirements of the destination country, which can include additional documentation or permits beyond the travel document itself.

It is important to note that the eligibility criteria for a travel document are subject to change and depend on the policies and regulations of the issuing country. It is recommended to consult the official website of the issuing authority or contact the appropriate embassy or consulate to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding eligibility requirements.

By meeting the eligibility criteria and providing the necessary supporting documentation, individuals can apply for a travel document and gain a recognized form of identification for their international travels.

Eligibility for a Passport

To be eligible for a passport, individuals must meet certain criteria set by the issuing country. While the specific requirements can vary, there are some common factors that determine eligibility for a passport:

1. Citizenship or Nationality: Generally, individuals must be citizens or nationals of the country issuing the passport to be eligible. This means having legal citizenship or nationality through birth, descent, naturalization, or other recognized means. Each country has its own rules regarding citizenship and nationality, which determine the eligibility for a passport.

2. Proof of Identity: Applicants must provide sufficient proof of their identity, typically through official identification documents such as a birth certificate, national identification card, or previous passport. The documents required may vary depending on the issuing country’s regulations.

3. Age Requirements: Some countries have age restrictions for passport eligibility. There may be different requirements or application processes for minors compared to adults. For minors, additional documentation such as parental consent or guardianship may be required.

4. Application Process: Eligibility for a passport may also depend on successfully completing the application process. This involves accurately completing the application form, providing the required supporting documents, and paying the applicable fees. Following the instructions provided by the issuing authority is crucial to meet the eligibility criteria.

5. Other Requirements: Certain circumstances or specific requirements may affect eligibility for a passport. These can include factors such as legal restrictions, criminal history, or outstanding debts. It is important to review the eligibility criteria set by the issuing authority to ensure compliance with any additional requirements.

It is worth noting that dual citizenship or holding multiple passports is permitted in some cases, depending on the countries involved and their respective laws. This can provide individuals with increased travel flexibility and options.

It is important to keep in mind that eligibility criteria for a passport can evolve, and they differ from country to country. It is advised to consult the official website of the issuing authority or contact the relevant embassy or consulate to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding eligibility requirements for a passport.

By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the necessary procedures, individuals can obtain a passport as a recognized form of identification and travel document for international travel.

Cost of a Travel Document

The cost of a travel document can vary depending on several factors, including the issuing country, the type of travel document, and the specific circumstances of the applicant. While the exact fees differ, here is a general overview of the cost considerations for obtaining a travel document:

1. Application Fee: Most countries charge an application fee for the issuance of a travel document. This fee typically covers the administrative costs associated with processing the application. The application fee can vary significantly from country to country, ranging from a nominal fee to a substantial amount.

2. Expedited Processing Fee (if applicable): Some countries offer expedited processing services for urgent travel needs. This service allows applicants to receive their travel document more quickly than standard processing times. However, expedited processing usually incurs an additional fee, which can be higher than the regular application fee.

3. Supporting Document Costs: Depending on the specific requirements of the issuing country, applicants may need to obtain supporting documents to establish their eligibility for a travel document. This may include obtaining copies of birth certificates, legal residency documents, or other supporting evidence. The costs associated with obtaining these documents are separate from the application fee and may vary.

4. Passport Photos: Applicants are typically required to provide passport-sized photographs that meet specific criteria, such as dimensions, background color, and other specifications. The cost of obtaining these photographs can vary depending on the location and the number of copies required.

It is essential to note that the cost of a travel document can change periodically due to currency fluctuations or changes in government policies. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the official website of the issuing authority or contact the appropriate embassy or consulate to obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the cost of obtaining a travel document.

By considering the application fee, any additional expedited processing fees, the cost of supporting documents, and passport photos, applicants can estimate the total cost associated with obtaining a travel document. Being aware of these costs allows individuals to plan accordingly and budget for the necessary expenses.

Cost of a Passport

The cost of a passport can vary depending on several factors, including the issuing country, the type of passport, and the specific services requested. While the exact fees differ, here is a general overview of the cost considerations associated with obtaining a passport:

1. Application Fee: Most countries charge an application fee for the issuance of a passport. This fee covers the administrative costs involved in processing the application. The application fee can vary significantly from country to country, ranging from a nominal fee to a considerable amount. It is important to note that the application fee is typically non-refundable, even if the application is denied or withdrawn.

2. Passport Book, Card, or Both: In some countries, individuals have the option to apply for a passport book, a passport card, or both. The passport book is the standard booklet format that allows for international travel by air, while the passport card is a smaller, wallet-sized document valid for land and sea travel to certain countries. Applying for both the book and the card may incur additional fees.

3. Expedited Processing Fee (if applicable): For urgent travel needs, some countries offer expedited processing services that allow applicants to receive their passport more quickly than standard processing times. This expedited service usually incurs an additional fee, which can be higher than the regular application fee. It is important to note that expedited processing availability may vary depending on the issuing country’s policies and the volume of applications.

5. Delivery or Collection Fees: Depending on the issuing authority’s policies, there may be additional fees for passport delivery or collection services. These fees cover the cost of securely mailing the passport to the applicant’s address or the designated collection point.

It is crucial to note that the cost of a passport can change periodically due to currency fluctuations or changes in government policies. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the official website of the issuing authority or contact the appropriate embassy or consulate to obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the cost of obtaining a passport.

By considering the application fee, any additional expedited processing fees, the cost of passport photos, and any additional delivery or collection fees, individuals can estimate the total cost associated with obtaining a passport. Being aware of these costs allows individuals to plan accordingly and budget for the necessary expenses.

Travel Restrictions with a Travel Document

Travel restrictions with a travel document can vary depending on the issuing country and the specific type of travel document being used. While the exact restrictions differ, here are some common considerations to keep in mind:

1. Visa Requirements: Travel documents do not guarantee entry into all countries. Some countries may have specific visa requirements for travelers holding a travel document. It is essential to research the visa regulations of the destination country and apply for any necessary visas in advance.

2. Limited Recognition: Travel documents may have limited recognition compared to a standard passport. While some countries recognize and accept travel documents for entry and exit purposes, others may have restrictions or additional requirements. It is advisable to consult with the embassy or consulate of the destination country to understand their policies regarding travel document acceptance.

3. Travel Limitations: Depending on the issuing country and the specific circumstances, there may be travel limitations attached to the travel document. These limitations can include restrictions on certain countries or regions, limitations on the duration of travel, or requirements for additional permissions or authorizations for specific destinations.

4. Restricted Rights: Travel documents may not provide the same rights and privileges as a standard passport. This can include limitations on accessing consular services, such as consular protection and assistance, offered by the issuing country while traveling abroad.

5. Changes in Legal Status: Travel documents are often linked to an individual’s legal status or circumstances. If there are changes in legal status, such as obtaining a new citizenship or residency status, it may impact the validity or usability of the travel document. It is crucial to ensure that the travel document remains valid and applicable throughout the duration of travel.

It is important to note that each issuing country has its own regulations and restrictions regarding travel documents. It is recommended to refer to the official website of the issuing authority or contact the appropriate embassy or consulate to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding travel restrictions associated with a travel document.

By understanding and adhering to the travel restrictions, individuals can ensure a smoother travel experience and avoid any unnecessary complications or issues during their journeys.

Travel Restrictions with a Passport

Travel restrictions with a passport can vary depending on the destination country and the specific circumstances of the traveler. While the exact restrictions may differ, it is important to consider the following factors:

1. Visa Requirements: Even with a valid passport, travelers may still be subject to visa requirements. Each country has its own visa policies, and entry may be restricted or require advance permission depending on the traveler’s nationality and the purpose and duration of their intended stay. It is essential to check the visa requirements of the destination country and apply for the appropriate visa before traveling.

2. Entry Restrictions: Certain countries may have specific entry restrictions based on factors such as political situations, health concerns, or diplomatic relationships. These restrictions can range from denial of entry for specific nationalities to required documentation or permits for entry. It is crucial to check the entry requirements and restrictions of the destination country to avoid any travel complications.

3. Travel Advisories: Governments often issue travel advisories or travel warnings for certain countries or regions. These advisories may caution against non-essential travel, recommend heightened caution, or advise against specific areas within a country. Travelers should regularly check the travel advisories issued by their government and consider them when planning their trips.

4. Duration of Stay: Most countries have limitations on the duration of stay for travelers entering with a passport. Depending on the country, this may be determined by the visa type or by the visa waiver program. Exceeding the permitted stay can result in penalties, fines, or even deportation. It is important to be aware of the maximum stay duration and adhere to the established guidelines.

5. Personal Circumstances: Some individuals may face additional travel restrictions based on their personal circumstances, such as criminal records, outstanding debts, or prior immigration violations. These factors can result in denial of entry or refusal of visa issuance. It is crucial to understand and address any potential issues before embarking on international travel.

It is important to note that travel restrictions can change rapidly based on global events or specific country policies. Travelers should stay informed and regularly check for updates from official sources, such as government websites or embassies, to ensure they have the most accurate and up-to-date information.

By understanding and complying with the travel restrictions associated with a passport, travelers can ensure a smoother and more hassle-free experience during their international journeys.

In conclusion, understanding the differences between a travel document and a passport is crucial for international travelers. While both serve as identification documents, they have distinct features and purposes. A travel document is an official document issued by a country to individuals who are unable to obtain a passport. It allows for international travel and provides a recognized form of identification. On the other hand, a passport is a government-issued document that establishes identity, nationality, and citizenship. It is widely accepted and recognized as a valid form of identification for international travel.

Travel documents and passports have their own application processes, eligibility requirements, costs, and travel restrictions. It is important for travelers to familiarize themselves with the specific requirements and regulations of their issuing country. This includes understanding visa requirements, entry restrictions, and travel advisories that may apply to their journey.

Obtaining a travel document or a passport comes with responsibilities. Travelers should ensure that their travel document or passport remains valid throughout their planned journey and adhere to the regulations of their destination country. It is advisable to stay informed about any updates or changes in travel restrictions and to maintain a proactive approach when it comes to renewing or applying for necessary documents.

Ultimately, by being informed and prepared, travelers can enjoy smoother and more enjoyable international travel experiences. Whether it’s a travel document or a passport, having the right identification is essential for seamless passage through borders and for availing oneself of the necessary consular services when needed.

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Passport vs Travel Document: Difference and Comparison

In today’s busy and competitive world, travel has become almost a necessity of the day. The globalization of the world economy has opened new frontiers leading to a mass movement of people across countries and cities.

International travel has increased by leaps and bounds in the last few decades.

Certain compliance formalities mandate international travel, one of which is the possession and submission of a Passport and a Travel Document . Many people sometimes use these terms interchangeably and may even think they are synonymous.

However, there is a vast difference between a Passport and a Travel Document .

Key Takeaways A passport is a government-issued document that verifies a person’s identity and nationality. In contrast, a travel document is a broader term encompassing any official document used for international travel, including passports, visas, and refugee travel documents. Passports are widely recognized and required for international travel as proof of identity and citizenship. In contrast, other travel documents may have more specific purposes and be required in addition to a passport, such as visas for entry into certain countries. The primary function of a passport is to facilitate international travel by confirming the bearer’s identity and nationality to foreign authorities, while travel documents assist in various aspects of international travel and immigration processes.

Passport vs Travel Document

The difference between a Passport and a Travel Document is that Passport is an official document identifying the traveller, their nationality and the necessary authorization to travel. In contrast, a Travel Document is a temporary document issued in place of a Passport, especially when the Passport may have expired or the person has applied for one but has not yet received it.

Comparison Table

What is passport.

A passport is an official document issued by a relevant statutory authority of a country to its citizens. The Passport is given with the purpose that it will serve as an essential document for exit from and re-entry into the country.

Simply put, the Passport allows citizens to travel in a foreign country in conformity with visa requirements.

A passport is proof ko of citizenship. That means Passport protects the citizen while they are living or studying abroad.

A passport enables identification of the country to which the person belongs, which may further help in obtaining any local embassy assistance in a foreign country in case of any urgent situations.

A passport is also considered an identification document to be carried by travellers when travelling abroad. A key indicates the identity and nationality of the traveller.

A passport also indicates the objective of the person’s travel.

The passport will commonly contain details such as the holder’s name, date of birth, address, signature, photography, and any other information depending on the Passport issued. A passport will have a limited validity between 10 to 15 years, after which it has to be renewed.

There are different types of Passports, such as official, diplomatic, family, and others.

What is Travel Document?

A travel Document is a type of Passport . A travel Document signifies the ability of a person to travel.

Travel Documents can also be considered identity documents issued by a government authority or any international treaty organization.

Travel Document s are issued commonly to facilitate the movement of people across international boundaries to abide by certain treaties or for multiple other purposes. Travel Documents can also be given for different reasons, such as the Passport being expired, or Passport being lost, or a new Passport is not issued, and the person has an immediate need for travel.

Travel Document s may be considered sufficient, especially domestically or within group countries. For example, travelling to Nepal from India does not require a Passport , and people can travel based on valid identification documents.

Also, travel within certain EU countries may be based on appropriate identity proofs provided by the traveller, in which case such identity cards serve as Travel Document s.

Travel Document does not indicate proof of citizenship. Therefore from this perspective, Travel Document has fewer privileges attached to it.

Certain countries may forbid travelling solely based on a Travel Document. Hence, this document may not be advantageous to someone travelling/staying abroad, especially for a more extended period.

Main Differences Between Passport and Travel Documents

A passport is proof of citizenship. A travel Document is not proof of citizenship.
Passports may not be required, especially in domestic travel or travel within certain group countries. Travel Document in the form of an identity card is required in case of domestic air travel and travel within countries that are part of a group.
A passport takes some time to issue. Travel Documents may be given immediately or sooner.
A passport is issued after police verification. Travel Document issuance may not require police verification.
A passport is issued for a long-term period. Travel Document is valid for the short term unless it is a regular identity card issued by the government of a country.
A passport can be considered a Travel Document . Not all Travel Document s can be considered a Passport .

Difference Between Passport and Travel Document

https://heinonline.org/hol-cgi-bin/get_pdf.cgi?handle=hein.journals/mulr13&section=39
https://www.yourdictionary.com/travel-document

Last Updated : 13 July, 2023

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Types of Passports

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

The United States Government issues a few different types of passports to American citizens. Each type has a specific purpose and requires specific requirements be met in order to obtain it. The information below provides details about the kinds of passports, who they are for and how they can be obtained.

Regular Passport

The regular passport is often referred to as a tourist passport although it is also used by those who travel for business, study, work and other purposes.

A regular passport book has a blue cover and is issued with the standard 28 pages or non-standard 52 pages. This type of passport has a validity of 10 years when issued to an applicant age 16 or older and 5 years when issued to a minor age 15 or younger .

The regular passport can be used for a variety of travel purposes including but not limited to tourism, business, work, participation in competitions and conferences, research and study. Requirements for getting this kind of passport include evidence of United States citizenship, proof of identity, a photocopy of identification document and a passport photo. There are additional requirements for minors. Evidence of name change must be submitted if the name requested is different from citizenship evidence.

Applicants can apply at local application acceptance facilities for routine processing in 6 to 8 weeks or expedited service in 2 to 3 weeks . Faster processing can be obtained at a regional processing center. Those who are unable to visit an agency can apply through a registered expediting courier service get a passport expedited in one day to two weeks.

Official Passport

Official U.S. passport with brown cover.

An official passport is issued to an employee or official of the U.S. Government traveling abroad to carry out official duties. This same type of passport can be issued to spouses and family members of such persons when authorized by the Department of State.

Applicants must submit the same application form and supporting documents required for a regular passport through the Special Passport Issuance Agency . In addition, evidence of official status must be submitted. There is no fee for this type of passport. The official passport is issued for a validity of 5 years, cannot be used for leisure travel and must be returned when official duty ends as part of the checkout process.

Diplomatic Passport

Diplomatic U.S. passport with black cover.

The diplomatic passport is issued to a Foreign Service officer or to a person having diplomatic status because he or she is traveling abroad to carry out diplomatic duties on behalf of the United States Government.

As with an official passport, the diplomatic passport cannot be used for leisure travel. For this reason, diplomats are encouraged to obtain a regular passport before departing the United States for official duties.

Applicants must submit the appropriate application form, supporting documents and a copy of the orders from assigned post. The validity for this type of passport is 5 years. There is no fee for this passport. It must be turned in when tour of duty is over.

Passport Card

The passport card is a variation of the regular passport. It has the same requirements and can be used for the same purposes. However, there are restrictions on the type of travel and destinations for which the passport card can be used. This type of passport is limited to land and sea travel to Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean region, and Mexico.

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Types of passports and travel documents

Canada issues around 5 million travel documents a year. Of these, 98% are regular (blue) passports.

Canada issues

4 types of passports to Canadians
3 types of travel documents to refugees or stateless persons living in Canada, or to Canadians abroad in urgent cases

Canadian passports

Regular passport.

We issue regular (blue) passports to Canadian citizens for casual travel, such as

business trips

The regular passport has 36 pages. The validity depends on the age of the passport holder:

adults age 16 years or older can choose a 5-year or 10-year passport
children aged 0 to 15 years are issued passports for a maximum of 5 years

Diplomatic passport

We issue diplomatic passports to

high-ranking Government of Canada officials
representatives and delegates of the Government of Canada

You can use diplomatic passports for travel to

a post abroad
international governmental organizations and conferences of a diplomatic nature

The issuing office decides the validity period.

Special passport

We issue special passports to

Members of Parliament
to a post abroad
on an official mission

Temporary passport

Certain Canadian government offices abroad may issue temporary passports

to Canadian citizens with an urgent and proven need for a passport
for use while waiting to receive a regular, special or diplomatic passport

The issuing office decides how long the passport is valid, to a maximum of 1 year.

Canadian travel documents

Refugee travel document.

We issue refugee travel documents to people in Canada with protected person status. This includes

Convention refugees
persons in need of protection

You can use a refugee travel document for travel to all countries, except your country of citizenship.

Certificate of identity

We issue certificates of identity to permanent residents of Canada who aren’t yet Canadian citizens and who either

are otherwise stateless, or
can’t get a national passport or travel document from any source for a valid reason

You can’t use a certificate of identity to travel to your country of citizenship.

Emergency travel documents

Canadian government offices abroad may issue an emergency travel document to Canadians who are outside Canada in urgent cases where they cannot get a temporary passport.

An emergency travel document with a limited validity allows you to

return directly to Canada
return to your country of residence or
travel to a Canadian government office abroad that offers full passport services

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What is a ‘Type P’ Passport?

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When you travel internationally, a passport is required to enter a foreign country or to return home. These government-issued documents verify your identity and enable you to travel freely.

But did you know that there are multiple types of passports? And the most common type is referred to as Type P.

A Type P passport is the standard passport that Americans use as identification when traveling internationally. This government-issued identification can also be used within the United States as an alternative to a driver's license as proof of identity.

Learn more about the Type P passport, how to get one, and when it expires.

5 different types of U.S. passports

In the U.S., there are five types of passports available. Each passport type is for a different kind of traveler. However, only the Regular "Fee" passports can be used for personal travel.

Regular "fee" passports . These blue passports are the most commonly issued. They are also known as "tourist" or Type P passports because they are for personal use.

Diplomatic . Black diplomatic passports are for foreign service officers and others with diplomatic statuses, such as the president of the United States.

Official . These passports are maroon and are issued to officials and employees of the U.S. government who travel on official duties. Military members also receive official passports when required by the country they're stationed in.

Service . These gray passports are issued on a limited basis to contractors supporting the U.S. government in a foreign country when a Type P passport won't work.

No-Fee Regular . These passports are identical to Type P, but the traveler does not pay standard fees. They are issued to certain U.S. Department of Defense employees, American Red Cross and Peace Corps volunteers assigned overseas.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Benefits of having a passport

A passport provides travelers with numerous benefits while traveling abroad and at home. Here are a few benefits of having a U.S. Type P passport:

Traveling internationally . When you travel internationally, you need a passport to enter a foreign country and upon returning to the U.S.

Prerequisite for visas . Some countries require a visa to enter. Travelers must have their passports to apply for a visa.

An Alternative to a Real ID . Starting May 7, 2025, travelers must have a Real ID to fly, even on domestic flights. However, if you have not upgraded your driver's license or ID card by then, your passport will be an acceptable alternative.

Lost or stolen ID . You can use your passport as a government-issued ID when your other identification is lost, stolen, or misplaced.

Jobs or school in a foreign country . You're not restricted to your local area in today's global economy. With a passport, you can travel globally for jobs or education in other countries.

How to get a passport

The U.S. State Department has a simple process for people to apply for a Type P passport. Follow these steps:

Complete the application form (DS-11) for a U.S. passport . You can download the form or fill it out online.

Gather proof of U.S. citizenship . You'll need to submit proof of citizenship along with your passport application. You must submit an original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, certification of birth abroad, or certificate of naturalization or citizenship.

Bring current identification . When you submit your passport application, an official will review your identification to ensure the application is for you. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver's license, previous or current passport, military identification, certificate of naturalization or citizenship, or federal, state or city government employee identification.

Get passport photos . Attach a 2-inch x 2-inch color photo to your application. The photo should have been taken within the last six months, with your head facing the camera. Wear everyday clothing and do not wear a uniform. Do not smile, remove eyeglasses and head coverings.

Pay application fees . Applicants can pay the passport fees with a personal check, cashier's check or money order made payable to the "U.S. Department of State." The execution fee charged by the acceptance facility must be paid separately. For those 16 and older, the application fee is $130. It's $100 if the applicant is younger than 16. Execution fees run $35 regardless of age.

Receive passport . You may receive your passport and proof of identity in two separate packages. If you're also applying for a passport card, that may arrive in another package. Standard processing times are six to nine weeks, while expedited processing takes three to five weeks.

If you're getting a Type P passport for your child, both parents must attend the application appointment. Otherwise, the parent unable to attend must provide a notarized statement of consent to the issuance of the passport.

» Learn more: Need a passport for a trip? Give yourself a big cushion

When do passports expire?

The expiration date of your passport depends on what type of passport you have. For example, blue Type P passports for adults are good for ten years from the date of issue, whereas Type P passports issued for children under 16 expire after five years.

The U.S. Department of State may revoke your passport earlier if you owe money to the U.S. government, have a history of lost or stolen passports, or cannot provide the required documentation.

Special issuance passports have different expiration dates based on which type you have. However, all special issuance passports have a maximum duration of five years.

Can I renew my passport?

Yes, a Type P passport for an adult can be renewed if you apply when it is still valid. Passports for children under 16 expire five years after issuance and cannot be renewed.

» Learn more: How to renew your passport

Do I need to update Global Entry when I get a new passport?

Global Entry is a membership program that expedites your entry into the U.S. when returning from international travel. Your membership is based on your current passport. When you get a new passport, you must log into your Global Entry account and update your passport information.

» Learn more: Is Global Entry worth it?

Passport Type P recapped

Whether you have an international trip already planned or are considering booking one, now is the time to get your passport. While it may sound ominous, applying for a Type P passport means getting a personal passport for international travel.

The process is relatively simple and the fees are reasonable given that adult passports are good for ten years. However, it takes around two months to get your passport back, so you should apply now to avoid paying extra fees to expedite your passport.

Standard processing takes six to nine weeks to get a U.S. Type P passport. You’ll pay an extra $60 for expedited processing of three to five weeks. Additionally, applicants can pay $19.53 for faster return shipping of one to two days.

When applying for your passport, you’ll also have the option to request a passport card. Passport cards are primarily used when crossing the border into Canada or Mexico. A passport ID card is available for $30 for adults and $15 for children.

You can get a passport photo at various businesses and online stores. Companies that offer passport photos include drugstores, photoshops and passport acceptance facilities. You may also use the pictures from a photo booth or your camera if they meet the application criteria.

It is recommended that travelers get a Type P passport, even if they have a special-issued passport. Other passports have shorter lifespans than the ten years for a Type P passport. Additionally, the other types can only be used for official purposes. Therefore, you'll need a Type P passport for travel and personal use.

Passport colors make it easy for customs officials to determine which country you’re from and what type of passport you have. In the U.S., most travelers have a blue Type P passport. However, government officials, military personnel, and contractors on official business have different passport colors.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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Explore the latest in immigration with VisaVerge.com: your hub for Visa rules, OPT, H1B, H4, Green Card, EAD, and PERM process news and updates.

Immigration

Passport vs Travel Document: Understanding the Difference in Numbers

The main difference between a passport number and a travel document number is that a passport number is unique to a passport, while a travel document number refers to any document used for travel..

Key Takeaways:

Passport numbers are unique identifiers for citizens, while travel document numbers are for non-citizens unable to obtain a passport.
Passport numbers are used for international travel , while travel document numbers provide special provisions for non-citizens.
Knowing where to find and using the correct number is crucial for booking flights and navigating immigration processes.

When preparing for international travel, documentation is key, and understanding the various types you may require is essential. There are several terms and numbers to grapple with, and among these, the passport number and the travel document number often cause confusion. In this blog post, we’ll shed light on the differences between these pivotal identifiers to aid your travel preparation.

Understanding the Passport Number

A passport is a government-issued document that certifies the identity and nationality of the holder primarily for international travel. Every passport contains a unique number, which plays a critical role in your travel ventures.

Characteristics of a Passport Number

Distinctiveness : Each passport number is unique to the individual document.
Composition : The format, which typically includes alphanumerical characters, varies by issuing country but commonly runs between 6 and 9 characters in length.
Location : Found on the personal information page alongside your photo and other personal details.

One of the primary functions of a passport number is to facilitate the tracking and management of the document throughout various travel and immigration processes.

Travel Document Number Definition

Diverging from the common passport, a travel document is provided to individuals who cannot obtain a passport from their home country. This could apply to refugees, stateless individuals, or those with status as wards of an international organization such as the United Nations.

Types of Travel Documents

Refugee Travel Documents : Issued to individuals who are unable to go back to their home country due to fear of persecution.
Permit to Re-enter : Often granted to permanent residents of a country to return after traveling abroad.
Stateless Travel Document : Designed for individuals not recognized as citizens by any country.

The travel document number functions much like a passport number and is a unique identifier for the document holder, found within the travel document itself.

Also of Interest:

Partner resident visa nz: eligibility and application guide, religious worker visa: eligibility and application process, passport vs travel document.

While both these documents enable travel, the contexts and individuals they serve are different.

Issuance : Passports are issued by governments to their citizens. Travel documents, however, are typically issued to non-citizens who may be residing in the country and are unable to acquire a passport from their own nation.
Use Cases : A passport is the standard travel document for citizens traveling internationally. A travel document is a special provision for those who do not have that option.

Locating Numbers on Documents

If you’re preparing for travel, knowing where to find these numbers is crucial:

Passport Number : Look on the personal information page of your passport.
Travel Document Number : Usually found on the front page of the document, similar to the passport.

Use During Travel

In both cases, the relevant number will be used when booking flights, applying for visas, and during entry and exit processes at borders. It’s crucial to provide the correct number, as errors can lead to issues during your travel.

Application Processes

Whether you’re applying for a passport or a travel document, you will be assigned a number that will be critical in tracking your application’s progress and any further correspondence with immigration authorities. Always keep a record of these numbers, as they will be required for future reference and verifications.

When Navigating Immigration

Understanding the implications of these documents and their numbers is especially important in scenarios where you might need to show a history of your travel. For instance, when applying for certain visas or permanent residency, authorities often ask for a record of your international movements, which can be traceable via these numbers.

If you are unsure about which document or number applies to your situation, it is advisable to consult with immigration officials or legal professionals. Official immigration websites offer comprehensive resources, often providing clarification on such matters:

For U.S. citizens, the Department of State’s travel website travel.state.gov can provide information on passports.
Non-citizens in the U.S. requiring a travel document should refer to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS .

Final Thoughts

While both a passport number and a travel document number serve as unique identifiers for travelers, it’s important to understand their differences, both in terms of their purpose and the population they serve. Mistaking one for the other could lead to travel delays or even denials, so before you plan your next international journey, ensure you know which number you will be required to use.

In summary, a passport is typically for citizens, and its number is your golden ticket for global travel. On the other hand, travel documents cater to those unable to procure a passport, granting travel rights with dignity and security to those who might otherwise be left without options. Direct quotes often encapsulate these concepts best, as one immigration authority succinctly puts it: “Your passport or travel document number is your key to the world – know it, protect it.”

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or setting out on your first international adventure, the importance of understanding and differentiating between your passport number and travel document number cannot be overstated. Safe travels and always remember: your passage to the world rests in the details.

Still Got Questions? Read Below to Know More

I’m a green card holder in the us; do i use my green card number or my passport number from my home country when booking an international flight.

When booking an international flight as a U.S. green card holder, you should generally use the passport number from your home country. The reason for this is that airlines are primarily concerned with your travel document details, and your passport is the internationally recognized travel document that proves your identity and nationality. It will also be checked by airport officials when you are passing through customs and immigration in other countries.

Here’s what you generally need to provide: 1. Passport Number: Airlines will need your passport number because it is your main travel document for international flights. 2. Green Card: Although you don’t typically use your green card number to book the flight, it is crucial to carry your green card with you as it proves your lawful permanent resident status in the United States upon your return.

For authoritative guidance, check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website or contact your airline directly if you have specific questions regarding travel documents. The CBP page on “International Travel as a Permanent Resident” can be found here: U.S. Customs and Border Protection – International Travel as a Permanent Resident .

Remember, when returning to the U.S., you must present your valid green card (Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551) to re-enter the country as it signifies your right to live and work in the United States. Safe travels!

Can my child use my travel document, or do they need a separate one when we’re seeking asylum?

When seeking asylum, it is generally required for each individual to have their own travel document, regardless of age. This means that your child cannot use your travel document and will need a separate one. The need for individual travel documents applies to adults, children, and infants alike. Travel documents for children are crucial, as they establish a child’s identity and nationality.

Here are the specific reasons why your child needs a separate travel document:

Identity Verification : Each person must be identified separately during the asylum process. A travel document ensures that authorities can verify your child’s identity.
Legal Requirements : Immigration laws typically require all travelers, including minors, to carry their own travel document to cross international borders legally.
Application Processing : During the asylum application, individual records must be created for each family member, and having separate travel documents is necessary for this process.

It’s important to note that the regulations regarding travel documents might vary slightly among different countries and agencies handling refugee and asylum matters. However, for the most precise and up-to-date information, you should consult the official asylum application guidance of the country where you intend to seek asylum. For example, guidance from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the refugee and asylum page on the website of the immigration department you’re dealing with can provide country-specific and up-to-date information. Here is a link to the relevant USCIS page as an example: USCIS Refugee and Asylum .

Remember to check with the specific embassy, consulate, or immigration authority about the necessary documents for each member of your family when seeking asylum. They’ll give you the most accurate information regarding the process and whether any exceptions apply.

If I lost my passport while abroad, how do I travel back to my home country without my passport number?

If you’ve lost your passport while abroad, it’s important to act quickly to safeguard your identity and arrange for your return home. Here’s what you should do:

Report the Loss : Contact the local police to report the lost passport. Ask for a police report, as it may be needed for the passport replacement process.

Visit Your Embassy or Consulate : Locate the nearest embassy or consulate of your home country. They are responsible for helping citizens in distress. Inform them about your situation and that you need to travel back without a passport.

Obtain a Travel Document : The embassy or consulate will guide you through the process of obtaining an emergency travel document or a temporary passport that can be used to return home. They’ll require you to verify your identity and may ask for:

A police report of the lost passport
Proof of citizenship (like a copy of your lost passport, birth certificate)
Passport-sized photos (which can often be taken at the embassy or nearby facilities)
Travel itinerary (proof of your planned return, such as ticket confirmations)

You won’t need your lost passport number if you can provide enough information to establish your identity. The embassy or consulate staff is trained to handle these situations and will assist you through the process. It’s advisable to always have photocopies or digital copies of your important travel documents stored separately from the originals when you travel to ease these situations.

For specific instructions based on your nationality, you should consult the official government immigration or consular website. Here are a couple of links from the US and UK for reference: – U.S. Department of State – Emergency Assistance – UK Government – Overseas British passport applications

What happens if I make a typo when entering my passport number for an online visa application?

If you make a typo when entering your passport number for an online visa application, there are a few steps and consequences you should be aware of:

Correction Before Submission : If you notice the typo before submitting the application, you can simply correct it. Most online visa application forms allow you to review and edit your information before the final submission.

Correction After Submission :

If the typo is spotted after submission but before processing has begun, you might be able to correct it by contacting the immigration authorities directly.
However, once your application has started to be processed, it may not be possible to change the passport number you have submitted. This can depend on the policies of the specific immigration authority handling your visa.
A typo in your passport number can lead to a delay in processing as it can cause confusion or make it impossible to match your application with your passport.
In some cases, the visa might be denied, or if the visa is issued with the wrong passport number, you may not be able to travel because the visa will not match the number in your actual passport.

“If your visa application is rejected because of incorrect information, you will usually need to reapply, and this can involve paying the application fee again.”

It is crucial that you contact the relevant immigration service as soon as you discover the mistake. Each country’s immigration authority provides guidance on how to proceed in such situations. Here are a couple of important links to government immigration websites where you can find country-specific information or contact details for assistance:

United States : U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs: https://travel.state.gov/
United Kingdom : UK Visas and Immigration: https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk

Always be sure to double-check your application before submitting, as this can help avoid any issues related to typos or incorrect information.

How can I find out if my refugee travel document is accepted by the country I want to visit?

To find out if your refugee travel document is accepted by the country you want to visit, you should follow these steps:

Check the Country’s Embassy or Consulate Website: Start by looking up the official embassy or consulate website of the country you plan to visit. Most embassies provide visa and entry requirement information for refugees and stateless individuals traveling with documents issued by other countries.

Contact Immigration Authorities Directly: If the information on the embassy’s website is not clear or does not mention refugee travel documents specifically, reach out to the immigration authorities of that country directly via email or phone. They will be able to give you the most accurate and current information.

Consult with UNHCR or IOM: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or the International Organization for Migration (IOM) can also offer guidance on travel with a refugee travel document. They may have resources or contacts that can answer your questions. Additionally, consulting international travel advisories and state departments, such as the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs, might also be helpful.

Remember to also verify whether there are any transit countries you will pass through on your way to your destination, as your refugee travel document will need to be accepted there as well.

For more detailed information, here are a few direct official resources:

US Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs: travel.state.gov
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR): unhcr.org
International Organization for Migration (IOM): iom.int

When contacting or researching the acceptance of your refugee travel document, ensure you provide specific information such as the issuing country of your document, as different countries have different agreements and your status may affect your travel rights.

Learn Today:

Glossary of immigration terms.

1. Passport : A government-issued document that certifies the identity and nationality of the holder, primarily for international travel.

2. Passport Number : A unique number assigned to each passport, facilitating the tracking and management of the document throughout various travel and immigration processes.

3. Travel Document : A document provided to individuals who cannot obtain a passport from their home country, such as refugees, stateless individuals, or those under the protection of international organizations.

4. Travel Document Number : A unique identifier for a travel document holder, functioning similarly to a passport number and found within the travel document itself.

5. Refugee Travel Document : A travel document issued to individuals who are unable to return to their home country due to fear of persecution.

6. Permit to Re-enter : A travel document often granted to permanent residents of a country to allow them to return after traveling abroad.

7. Stateless Travel Document : A travel document designed for individuals not recognized as citizens by any country.

8. Issuance : Passports are issued by governments to their citizens, while travel documents are typically issued to non-citizens who may be residing in a country and unable to acquire a passport from their own nation.

9. Use Cases : Passports are the standard travel documents for citizens traveling internationally, whereas travel documents are a special provision for those who cannot obtain a passport.

10. Personal Information Page : The section of a passport or travel document that contains the holder’s photo and other personal details, including the passport or travel document number.

11. Immigration Authorities : Government agencies responsible for enforcing immigration laws and processing entry, exit, and immigration-related matters.

12. Application Process : The procedures and requirements involved in applying for a passport or a travel document, including the assignment of a unique number to track the application’s progress and correspond with immigration authorities.

13. Visas : Official documents issued by a country’s immigration authorities that allow individuals to enter, stay, or work in that country for a specified period and purpose.

14. Permanent Residency : A legal status obtained by individuals that allows them to live and work indefinitely in a country of which they are not citizens.

15. U.S. Department of State : The government department responsible for the issuance of passports for U.S. citizens. Its travel website, travel.state.gov, provides information on passports.

16. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) : The agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security responsible for approving and processing applications for various immigration benefits, including travel documents for non-citizens in the United States.

17. Immigration Officials : Government personnel who specialize in immigration matters and provide guidance, information, and assistance to individuals navigating immigration processes.

18. Legal Professionals : Attorneys or lawyers specializing in immigration law, who can provide legal advice and representation to individuals seeking immigration-related assistance.

Note: It is always recommended to consult with immigration officials or legal professionals for personalized and accurate information regarding specific immigration situations or inquiries.

In the world of travel documentation, understanding the difference between passport numbers and travel document numbers is crucial. Passport numbers open doors for citizens exploring the globe, while travel document numbers grant dignity and rights to those who can’t obtain a passport. Remember, your passage to the world lies in these details, so get informed and check out visaverge.com for more travel tips and expert advice. Happy travels!

This Article in a Nutshell:

Passports and travel documents have unique numbers that are essential for international travel. Passports are for citizens, while travel documents are for non-citizens unable to obtain a passport. These numbers are used when booking flights, applying for visas, and during border processes. Knowing where to find and provide the correct number is crucial for a smooth journey.

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Australian passports.

The principle object of the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act) is to provide for the issue and administration of Australian passports, to be used as evidence of identity and citizenship by Australian citizens who are travelling internationally (section 3 of the Passports Act).

The Australian Passport Office (APO), part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, issues Australian passports to Australian citizens in Australia and overseas. The APO also issues travel-related documents to Australian (and occasionally Commonwealth) citizens in certain situations and to eligible non-Australian citizens living in Australia (in line with Australia’s international obligations).

An Australian passport represents the holder as an Australian citizen and requests that the bearer be afforded freedom of passage and every assistance and protection of which he or she may stand in need. An Australian travel-related document does not provide this. Collectively, Australian passports and travel-related documents are known as Australian travel documents (ATDs).

ATDs must be issued in forms that are approved by the Minister for Foreign Affairs (subsection 53(2) of the Passports Act). This power is delegated to Senior Executive Officers in the APO, but in practice the Minister approves all new forms of travel documents.

Current forms of Australian passport

Ordinary, Diplomatic and Official Passports are machine-readable (Biometric) travel documents, indicated by the ePassport logo on the front cover.

These passports are designed to meet the internationally agreed standards for biometric travel documents agreed and set out by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The ICAO standards ensure that biometric travel documents are secure and work across border systems globally. Australia continues to play a key role is setting these international standards.

Biometric travel documents do both of the following:

include a tamper-proof passport chip as a security measure (and, as such, are a condition of some countries' visa waiver programs)
facilitate the use of automated border systems (such as Australia's SmartGate).

Ordinary passports

Ordinary Australian passports are issued to adults and children.

The maximum validity of an ordinary Australian passport is set out in subsection 17(2) of the Passports Determination:

10 years for an adult
10 years for a child aged 16 or 17 years
5 years for a child 15 years or under
5 years (optional) or 10 years for an adult aged 75 or over.

These maximum validities may be reduced depending on the circumstances.

A Limited Validity Passport (LVP) is an ordinary passport issued with less than the maximum validity for a passport of its kind. Usually, LVPs are issued in Australia to meet the urgent travel needs of customers who cannot meet full application requirements, but their identity, citizenship and entitlement can be established. LVPs are issued with a maximum validity of 1 year.

A Reduced Validity Passport is an ordinary passport issued with a reduced maximum validity, determined by legislation, following the loss or theft of 2 or more of the customer’s travel documents in the 5 years immediately prior to making the application (subsection 17(2) item 10 of the Passports Determination). See also: Lost and stolen passports .

A Replacement Passport is an ordinary passport issued with the same expiry date as the passport being replaced or, in the case of a Replacement Passport to upgrade a Limited Validity Passport, the expiry date the LVP would have had if it had been issued with full validity initially. See (subsection 17(2) items 11 to 17 of the Passports Determination). See also: Replacement Passports .

Concurrent Passports may be issued to adults and children in specified circumstances. The maximum validity of a Concurrent Passport is 3 years (subsection 17(2) item 5 of the Passports Determination). See also: Concurrent Passports .

An Ordinary passport with a maximum of 1-year validity may also be issued in particular circumstances (these are distinct from LVPs) (subsection 17(2) Items 7 to 9 of the Passports Determination).

Diplomatic and Official Passports

Diplomatic and Official Passports are issued to facilitate the travel of Australian citizens who are travelling for diplomatic or official purposes, as approved by the Minister for Foreign Affairs under the Ministerial Schedules: Sponsored Passports [PDF] .

Diplomatic and Official Passports are also known as sponsored passports because in most cases the government authority that the holder will represent, sponsors the passport. The sponsoring authority must provide a Sponsorship Letter and the holder must sign a Sponsored Passports Conditions Acknowledgment .

Diplomatic and Official Passports do not award the holder any special rights or privileges. Individual countries may confer this at any time and at their discretion.

Emergency Passports

Emergency Passports (EYs) are issued at overseas posts to facilitate the urgent travel of Australian citizens who meet all requirements but cannot wait the standard turnaround time for the issue of a full validity passport.

The current Emergency Passport (EY) (P series) has:

a dark grey cover
only six Visa pages
no Passport Chip (EYs are not Biometric travel documents).

Not all countries accept Emergency Passports. Some countries exclude emergency and non-biometric passports from their visa-waiver or visa on arrival programs. The holder of an Emergency Passport is responsible for checking with each destination country that an Emergency Passport is accepted for entry, exit and transit. The maximum validity of an EY is 1 year (subsection 17(2) item 6 of the Passports Determination). EYs are intended to meet the immediate travel needs of the holder and may be issued with less than the maximum validity. See also: Emergency Passports .

Travel document series

Approximately every five years, the APO issues a new series of ATDs, with updated security features. In addition, every second series (released approximately every 10 years) has new design features, including new visa pages.

Due to the advanced security features of Australian travel documents (ATDs) and the integrity of the APO's rigorous assessment process, ATDs are among the most secure and trusted identity and travel documents in the world.

Australian travel-related documents

Australian travel documents (ATDs) are issued under the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Act) and related legislation.

In addition to Australian passports, the Australian Passport Office (APO), part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), issues the following Australian travel-related documents:

Convention Travel Documents (CTDs)
Certificates of Identity (COIs)
Documents of Identity (DOIs)
Provisional Travel Documents (PTDs).

CTDs and COIs, and DOIs in certain circumstances, are issued to non-Australian citizens in accordance with Australia’s obligations under international law.

Current forms of Australian travel-related document

Collectively, Australian passports and travel-related documents are known as Australian travel documents (ATDs). An Australian passport represents the bearer as an Australian citizen. In most cases, an Australian travel-related document does not.

CTDs and COIs are issued to eligible non‑Australians living in Australia (refugees and persons who are stateless or unable to obtain a travel document from their country of nationality).

Important: The issue of a CTD or COI does not award the holder any right to return to Australia without a valid Australian visa with re-entry rights.

DOIs may be issued to Australian citizens in certain circumstances where an Australian passport is unnecessary or undesirable or to citizens of other Commonwealth countries who are unable to obtain a travel document from their country of nationality (for example, in emergency situations overseas).

PTDs are a temporary travel document issued to Australian citizens overseas in countries without an Australian consular presence, who need to cross a border to get to an Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate and apply for a new ATD.

CTDs and COIs are machine-readable (biometric) travel documents and meet the internationally agreed standards set out by the International Civil Aviation Organization ( ICAO Doc 9303 Machine Readable Travel Documents ). Biometric travel documents include a tamper proof passport chip as a security measure.

DOIs issued overseas and PTDs do not include a passport chip. For this reason, travel on an emergency Travel-related document issued overseas may require a visa, even where Australian citizens can usually travel visa free.

Application for an Australian passport

An application for an Australian passport must be in the approved form and must be lodged in person.

Subsection 7(3) of the Australian Passports Act 2005 provides that an application for an Australian passport must be made in the form approved by the Minister (or delegate) and accompanied by the applicable fee (if any).

Eligible customers can complete a passport application online then print it for lodgement. In person lodgement is mandatory and a key requirement to meet the highest level of identity assurance under the National Identity Proofing Guidelines.

Streamlined renewal is only available to adults applying online because generating the application relies on verification of the customer’s previous passport record. There is no hardcopy form for streamlined renewal. In Australia, hardcopy passport application forms are available on request from Australia Post outlets that are accredited to offer passport services.

Customers can complete a passport application online, then print and lodge it at one of the participating Australia Post outlets across Australia.

Overseas, hardcopy forms are only available on request from an Australian diplomatic mission or consulate (overseas post). Passport officers at overseas posts provide passport lodgement services and issue emergency travel documents to Australians overseas.

Each Australian State and Territory capital city also has a Passport Office (STO), where urgent passport applications can be lodged in compelling or compassionate circumstances.

Customers can book an appointment to lodge at a STO through the Australian Passport Office Contact Centre (APOCC). Appointments at STOs are only available to customers who:

need to travel urgently due to compelling or Compassionate circumstances
are applying for a diplomatic or Official Passport or
are applying for a Travel-related document (CTD or COI).

APOCC provides a telephone helpline for passport clients in Australia and to some locations overseas. Applicants for an Australian travel-related document must call APOCC to obtain an application form.

Almost all Australian passports are personalised in Australia at one of two bulk printing/personalisation centres. This includes all Ordinary passports issued to applicants in Australia and overseas.

Completed passports are sent directly to the customer by registered mail (in Australia) or to the post for sending on to the customer (overseas). Customers may also choose to collect their passport from a STO or overseas post.

Information on applying for an Australian passport is also available on the passports website.

Application for a travel-related document

Australian travel-related documents may be issued to eligible non-Australian citizens living in Australia. Applications must be in the approved form and lodged in person.

Subsection 9(3) of the Australian Passports Act 2005 provides that an application for an Australian travel-related document must be made in the form approved by the Minister (or delegate) and accompanied by the applicable fee (if any).

There is currently no online application option for Convention Travel Documents (CTDs) or Certificates of Identity (COIs). Customers applying for these document types must complete a hardcopy PC5 Form. In Australia, customers must call the Australian Passport Office Contact Centre (APOCC) to obtain this form.

CTD and COI applications must be lodged at a State or Territory Passport Office (STO). Australia Post outlets do not accept CTD and COI applications. Customers must call APOCC to book an appointment to lodge their application. As is with Australian passports, every application for a CTD or COI must be lodged in person.

Overseas, CTDs and COIs are only available in certain circumstances, to customers who have held a previous Australian CTD or COI. Forms are available by arrangement with an Australian diplomatic mission or consulate (overseas post).

Specially trained Passport Case Officers establish the identity of the customer, confirm the customer’s identity and visa status against their Department of Home Affairs record and assess their eligibility against the criteria for issue of a CTD or COI.

Information on applying for a Convention Travel Document (CTD) or Certificate of Identity (COI) is also available on the passports website.

Cardinal and supporting documents

An application for a passport must be supported by Original documents to confirm the applicant’s identity and citizenship, as required.

A customer applying for an ATD for the first time should present their original cardinal (or commencement of identity) document (not a copy) issued by an RBDM or Home Affairs.

Customers must also present originals of any other documents needed to confirm their identity, including current personal details and citizenship.

Throughout their life, the identity of a person born or living in Australia is managed by the RBDM where they were born or live. Usually, a document issued by an RBDM is required to confirm any changes to their personal details.

For customers born overseas, foreign documents may be presented for particular purposes (such as to show evidence of their place of birth and/or gender) or in particular circumstances only (for example, where the customer was born and lives overseas and cannot access an RBDM to update their details).

At lodgement, the lodgement officer will examine the integrity of the original documents presented and make certified copies to be attached to the customer’s passport record. During processing, Australian birth certificates, name change certificates and citizenship certificates will be verified with the issuing agency.

The presentation of original documents and the verification of cardinal and name change documents are necessary to meet the highest level of assurance (Level 4, previously ‘Gold Standard’) for the verification of a person’s identity under the National Identity Proofing Guidelines .

Information on documents you need is also available on the passports website.

Establishing identity

Confirming a customer’s identity is essential to the security and integrity of the Australian passport system. Under sections 8 and 10 of the Passports Act , before issuing an Australian passport or Travel-related document to a person, the Minister (or Minister’s delegate) must be satisfied of the identity of the person.

ICAO Doc 9303 Part 4 specifies that the holder’s name, DOB, sex (gender), photo and signature are all mandatory fields to confirm identity. Inclusion of the place of birth (POB) is a decision for issuing States. Australia considers POB to be a key identity attribute and includes it as a mandatory field.

These key identity attributes, or personal details, will appear on the ATD, along with the customer’s biometric identifiers (photo and signature).

Establishing a client’s identity is essential to the security and integrity of the Australian passport system. As the Australian passport is a primary evidence of identity document, robust processes must be followed to establish a customer’s identity. A customer applying for an Australian travel document (ATD) for the first time must present their original cardinal (or commencement of identity) document (not a copy) issued by an RBDM or Home Affairs, plus originals of any other documents needed to confirm their current personal details:

Date of Birth (DOB)
Place of Birth (POB)
Sex (gender).

At lodgement, the lodgement officer will examine the integrity of the original documents presented and make certified copies to be attached to the client's passport record. During processing, Australian birth certificates, name change certificates and citizenship certificates will be verified with the issuing agency.

An adult applying for an Australian Travel Document (ATD) for the first time must present evidence of their identity in the community (or social footprint) by presenting Personal Identity Documents (PIDs) and a referee who has known them for at least 12 months and who can confirm their identity. For children, the lodging parent must provide their PIDs. They are not required for the child. These measures provide additional confidence that the identity is legitimate.

All customers aged 16 and above must attend lodgement in person , whether applying for the first time or renewing. The lodgement officer will compare the customer’s photo to the customer in person (and/or take a photo of the customer for Facial Recognition (FR) purposes or to appear in the ATD).

These identity requirements meet the highest level of assurance (Level 4, previously ‘Gold Standard’) for the verification of a person’s identity under the National Identity Proofing Guidelines [PDF] . This means that Australian passports are issued with a very high level of confidence in the claimed identity. In person lodgement is a key requirement to meet this level of assurance and one of the reasons the Australian passport is so highly regarded internationally.

Information on identity is also available on the passports website.

Name on Australian travel document

The ICAO specifications for machine-readable passports set out in ICAO Doc 9303 ensure that all passports meet agreed standards and can be accepted and processed across borders. ICAO Doc 9303 Part 4 specifies that the holder's name is a mandatory field.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has no authority to register names or name changes. In Australia, that is the responsibility of the relevant Australian State or Territory Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (RBDM) or the Department of Home Affairs.

Unless an exception applies, the name to appear on an Australian passport must be the customer’s most recent name exactly as it appears on the customer’s Australian birth, Australian citizenship or Australian RBDM name change certificate (subsection 53(5) of the Passports Act).

In certain circumstances, it may appear exactly as it appeared on the customer’s previous Australian passport.

The customer’s surname only may be updated to reflect a surname that appears on their RBDM marriage or registered relationship certificate if it is their most recently recorded surname.

For Convention Travel Documents (CTDs) and Certificates of Identity (COIs), the customer’s name must be their most recent name recorded for them by Home Affairs .

These requirements help to prevent a person from obtaining official documents and potentially operating in society in different identities.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs (or a delegated officer) may accept another name in exceptional circumstances or refuse a name (or signature) that is unacceptable, inappropriate or offensive.

Information on names and name change is also available on the passports website.

Unacceptable names or signatures

Under subsection 53(4) of the Passports Act, the Minister (or an appropriate delegate) may also refuse a name or signature that is unacceptable, inappropriate or offensive.

Examples of names or signatures that may be deemed unacceptable, inappropriate or offensive include, but are not limited to, name or signatures that include:

an expletive
a racial or ethnic slur or implication
an obscene or offensive term, symbol or picture
a political statement or slogan such as “all rights reserved”, "signed on behalf of", trademark ™ or copyright ©, an official title, position or rank that the person does not hold
the name of, or reference to, a public institution or public office
a title, award or decoration that is not awarded directly to, or conferred directly on the customer by the Crown or under a law of the Commonwealth
a term that could mislead people into believing that the bearer has been awarded or conferred a title, award or decoration (see the note above)
a string of words that would not commonly be recognised as a name
a name that cannot be established by repute or usage
any other term that is contrary to the public interest
a symbol without phonetic significance
characters that the Minister or delegate considers are inconsistent with the international standards and recommended practices and procedures for travel documents adopted under the Convention on International Civil Aviation 1944 (the Chicago Convention).

Date of birth on Australian travel document

In accordance with ICAO Doc 9303 Part 4 , Australian travel documents (ATDs) must record the holder’s date of birth (DOB).

The date of birth (DOB) on an Australian passport should appear exactly as per the customer’s full original Australian birth certificate or Australian citizenship certificate.

The DOB on a Convention Travel Document or Certificate of Identity (for non-Australian citizens) should appear exactly as per the customer's visa evidence or Home Affairs record.

The DOB must appear on the ATD in the following format: DD MMM YYYY (for example, 07 JUN 1979).

In most cases, the customer’s DOB must be confirmed against original documents. There are exceptions for customers who genuinely cannot obtain original evidence of their DOB.

Place of birth on Australian travel document

ICAO Doc 9303 Part 3 specifies that inclusion of the holder’s place of birth (POB) on a travel document is a decision for issuing States. Australia considers POB to be a key identity attribute and includes it as a mandatory field.

Australian travel documents (ATDs) must record the holder's place of birth (POB).

Usually POB refers to the customer’s suburb, town or city of birth, but may also be a village, province, district, state or other overseas equivalent for customers born overseas.

The customer’s suburb, town or city of birth or overseas equivalent is printed on the ATD. Unless there is no other place of birth known, the country of birth (COB) is not printed on the ATD but is recorded in PICS for identity purposes.

In most cases, POB is recorded exactly as per the customer's full original Australian birth certificate, foreign birth certificate or foreign passport.

There are exceptions for:

customers who genuinely cannot present a birth certificate or foreign passport (for example, customers born overseas in a war-torn country)
foreign place names with commonly used English translations (the English place name will appear on the passport)
places that have changed names due to geographical renaming (the customer may request their POB be updated to reflect the new name)
countries that are not recognised by Australia.

Sex (gender) on Australian travel document

In accordance with ICAO Doc 9303 Part 4 , Australian travel documents (ATDs) must record the holder’s sex. Consistent the Australian Government Guidelines on the Recognition of Sex and Gender , the Australian Passport Office (APO) interprets sex on the ATD to mean gender.

Under the Australian Government Guidelines on the Recognition of Sex and Gender , the Australian Government is primarily concerned with a person’s identity and social footprint. As such, the preferred approach is for Australian Government departments and agencies to collect information on a person's gender. Consistent with these guidelines, APO interprets sex on the ATD to mean gender.

ICAO Doc 9303 Part 4 specifies that the holder’s sex (gender) is a mandatory field. This field cannot be left blank. Customers who identify as a gender other than male or female (intersex, indeterminate, unspecified, non-binary) may request that the gender in their ATD appear as X.

ATDs will record sex/gender as one of the following:

X (intersex/indeterminate/unspecified/non-binary).

In most cases, gender is recorded exactly as per the customer's full original Australian birth certificate, foreign birth certificate or foreign passport.

Sex and Gender Diverse (SGD) customers may also present a Form B-14 or letter from a Registered medical practitioner or psychologist to support their preferred gender.

Photo and signature (biometrics)

ICAO Doc 9303 Part 4 specifies that the passport customer's photo and signature are mandatory fields.

The customer must present two identical passport photos that meet APO specific requirements.

The photo to appear on the Australian travel document (ATD) must bear a good likeness to the customer and be of a high enough quality to allow for automated Facial Recognition verification.

This increases the efficiency and integrity of the issuing process and enables eligible customers to access streamlined renewal.

A high-quality photo in a biometric (machine-readable) travel document (or ePassport) enables travellers to access automated border processing, such as SmartGates at the Australian border and similar systems overseas.

Poor quality photos decrease the chances of successful automated processing, meaning the customer may be referred to the primary line for manual processing.

Information on photo requirements is available on the passports website.

Signatures provide an extra biometric security feature on the travel document, in addition to the customer's photo and are a mandatory element for persons over 10 years of age.

Subsection 53(4) of the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act) provides that the Minister (or delegate) may refuse any name or signature that the Minister or delegate considers to be unacceptable or inappropriate. In addition to being scanned and printed on the ATD, an adult’s signature on the application form is a legal declaration by the customer that:

the statements they have made and the information they have provided in, or in connection with, their application are true and correct
they have read and understood the information provided about the collection, use and disclosure of their personal information.

The lodging person signs this declaration for child applications.

The adult customer or lodging person’s signature is also compared to the signature on their Personal Identity Documents (PIDs) presented at lodgement, to help confirm their identity.

Confirming citizenship

Only Australian citizens are entitled to an Australian passport. Before issuing an Australian passport to a person, the Minister (or a person delegated to exercise the Minister’s power to issue an Australian passport under the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act) must be satisfied that the person is an Australian citizen.

Under section 8 of the Passports Act, before issuing an Australian passport to a person, the Minister (or delegate) must be satisfied that the person is an Australian citizen.

As the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) does not determine citizenship, a customer must provide original evidence to confirm their Australian citizenship with their passport application.

In accordance with the Australian Citizenship Act 2007 , acceptable evidence of Australian citizenship will depend on whether the customer was born:

in Australia before 20 August 1986
in Australia on or after 20 August 1986

The Department of Home Affairs is the department responsible for determining Australian citizenship (not DFAT). If there is any doubt, the customer must obtain an Australian citizenship certificate from the Department of Home Affairs, unless the customer is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

An Australian citizenship certificate is not a requirement for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander customers. Alternative options apply in these cases.

Information on citizenship is also available on the passports website.

Children and consent

A child application should include the written consent of each person who has parental responsibility for the child or an Australian court order that permits the child to have an Australian Travel Document (ATD), travel internationally or live or spend time with a person outside Australia.

The Minister (or their delegate) must not issue an Australian Travel Document (ATD) to a child unless one of the following criteria is met (subsection 11(1) of the Passports Act):

an application has been lodged with the full consent of all persons with the parental responsibility for the child (paragraph 11(1)(a) of the Passports Act)
an Australian court order has been presented that permits the child to have an ATD, travel internationally or live or spend time with a person outside Australia (paragraph 11(1)(b) of the Passports Act).

The Minister (or delegate) may consider an application without full consent or an Australian court order that permits issue under the circumstances in subsection 11(2) of the Australian Passports Act 2005 and the Special circumstances in subsection 10(3) of the Australian Passports Determination 2015.

These applications are managed by the Specialised Case Management Section (SCM) and/or specially trained and accredited Passport Case Officers.

Alternatively, a person with parental responsibility may request that a child application be considered under the special circumstances provisions set out in subsection 11(2) of the Passports Act and section 10 the Australian Passports Determination 2015. Certain delegates may consider applications without full consent or an Australian court order under these legislated special circumstances only.

Even when considered under special circumstances, there is no guarantee that a child application without full consent or an Australian court order will be approved. The delegate assessing the case may decide to issue, not to issue (because no special circumstances exist) or to refuse to exercise their discretion to issue under special circumstances because the matter should be dealt with by a court.

Child passport applications without full consent or an Australian court order generally take six to eight weeks to process. Normal turnaround times do not apply. If an ATD is not issued the application fee is generally not refunded.

Information on applying for a child passport is also available on the passports website, as well as supplementary forms and publications relevant to certain types of child applications.

The issue of an ATD to a child, even under special circumstances, does not equate to permission for the child to travel internationally.

Competent authority requests

The Minister may, at the request of a competent authority, cancel or refuse to issue an Australian travel document (ATD) to a person for law enforcement and security reasons.

The Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act) provides that the Minister may, at the request of a competent authority, cancel or refuse to issue an ATD to prevent a person from travelling internationally. These provisions are intended to:

support law enforcement and security, including international law enforcement cooperation, by ensuring that a person is unable to travel internationally to avoid prosecution or to potentially commit a crime or endanger others
prevent avoidance of repaying a debt arising out of assistance provided by Australian consular services.

A competent authority may make a refusal/cancellation request for the following reasons:

Australian law enforcement matters (section 12 of the Passports Act 2005)
international law enforcement matters (section 13 of the Passports Act 2005)
potential for harmful conduct (section 14 of the Passports Act 2005)
consular debt (section 16 of the Passports Act 2005).

All decisions following a competent authority request are made by the Minister, even where decisions are delegable and delegated. This is because a decision to restrict a person's freedom to travel is a serious decision and should be made at the highest level.

The only decision that does not require Ministerial sign off is the decision to refuse to issue an Australian passport under subsection 12(2) of the Passports Act, as there is no discretion in this decision -if a competent authority makes a request under subsection 12(1) or 12(1A), the Minister must not issue an Australian passport to the person, but may issue a travel-related document (for example, to facilitate return to Australia).

Refusal to process an application (fraud or dishonesty)

Qualified investigators are referred all cases with suspicions of fraud or dishonesty in relation to an application for an Australian travel document (ATD).

The Minister (or a delegated officer) may refuse to process an application for an ATD if there are reasonable grounds to suspect fraud or dishonesty in the application.

Under subsection 19A(2) of the Passports Act, if the Minister or delegate decides to refuse to process the application due to fraud or dishonesty, all Application Fees paid are forfeited and non-Refundable .

Under subsection 19A(3) of the Passports Act, if the person concerned still wishes to be issued an Australian Travel Document (ATD), a new application is required.

This does not limit the offence provisions in sections 29, 30 and 31 of the Passports Act (making false or misleading statements, giving false or misleading information or producing false or misleading documents in relation to an application or ATD).

The relevant offence provisions (relating to false or misleading statements, information or documents) may also apply.

Information on passport fraud is also available on the passports website.

Refusal to issue an Australian travel document

An Australian travel document (ATD) will not be issued if the application is incomplete, the applicable fee is not paid or identity, citizenship or entitlement cannot be confirmed.

An Australian citizen is entitled, on application, to be issued with an Australian passport (subsection 7(1) of the Australian Passports Act 2005).

their entitlement is not affected by another section of the Passports Act
their application is in the approved form
they pay the applicable fee (if any).

There is no entitlement to an Australian travel-related document, but in accordance with Australia’s obligations under the UN Convention related to the Status of Refugees and the UN Convention related to the Status of Stateless Persons , Australia issues these documents to persons who meet the eligibility criteria set out in sections 6 or 7 the Australian Passports Determination 2015.

An application for an Australian travel-related document must also be in the approved form and accompanied by the applicable fee (if any) (subsection 9(3) of the Passports Act).

Entitlement to be issued an Australian travel document (ATD) is affected by sections 8 and 10 of the Passports Act (identity and citizenship must be established) and Part 2 Division 2 of the Passports Act ‘Reasons the Minister may refuse to issue an Australian Travel Document’ (subsection 7(2) of the Passports Act).

Other reasons the Minister may refuse to issue an ATD include reasons relating to are:

children without parental consent or a court order permitting issue (section 11 of the Passports Act)
law enforcement and security (sections 12 to 14 of the Passports Act)
repeated loss or theft, consular debt or concurrently valid or suspended ATDs (sections 15 to 17 of the Passports Act).

If a delegate has reasonable grounds to suspect fraud or dishonesty in an application for an ATD, the application will not be processed and a decision on entitlement will not be made (section 19A of the Passports Act).

Lost or stolen Australian travel documents

Lost or stolen Australian travel documents (ATDs) must be reported as soon as practicable and cancelled immediately. Repeated loss or theft may result in a Reduced Validity Passport.

Lost and stolen travel documents can provide criminals with the potential to assume another identity, to carry out criminal activity in another name and to travel illegally. Fraudulently obtained travel documents are a key enabler for serious crime such as drug trafficking, people smuggling and terrorism.

The legislation and policy in relation to lost and stolen ATDs aim to encourage persons to take all reasonable steps to protect their ATD and to report any lost or stolen ATD immediately. ATDs reported as lost and stolen are cancelled immediately to help protect the holder’s identity and prevent the document’s illegal use.

The Australian Government has a Memorandum of Understanding with some countries and Interpol which allows the sharing of information on lost and stolen travel documents. ATDs that have been reported as lost or stolen are regularly reported to Interpol and appropriate border control authorities.

Where a person has had more than one ATD lost or stolen in a 5 year period, they will only be entitled to a Reduced Validity Passport, unless they can demonstrate they took all reasonable steps to protect their ATD and the loss or theft was out of their control.

For customers with repeated lost or stolen travel documents, subsection 17(2) item 10 of the Australian Passports Determination 2015 mandates a reduction in validity to a maximum of:

five years where the customer has lost or had stolen two travel documents in the previous five years
two years where the customer has lost or had stolen three or more travel documents in the previous five years.

This is a legislative requirement. The relevant ordinary passport application fee applies, even if the passport is to be issued with reduced validity.

Information on lost and stolen passports is also available on the passports website.

Damaged Australian travel documents

An Australian travel document (ATD) is an important document and all due care should be taken to ensure it is protected. Damage can cause delays while travelling or render an ATD invalid.

For the purposes of subsection 20(2) of the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act), section 18 of the Australian Passports Determination 2015 provides that an ATD ceases to be valid if it is damaged such that the Minister (or delegate) is satisfied that it is no longer usable:

as evidence of the identity and citizenship of its holder or
to facilitate international travel.

Section 24 of the Passports Act authorises an officer (as defined in section 6 of the Passports Act) to demand the surrender of an invalid ATD, including a damaged document, particularly if the damage is serious or suspicious.

This is intended to protect the holder from experiencing potentially costly and distressing delays if prevented from entering a country due to the condition of the document while travelling and to mitigate fraud.

An ATD that is badly damaged and cannot be recognised as an ATD or presented at lodgement, will be treated as lost or stolen.

A travel document with only minor damage may continue to be used, but the holder may encounter difficulties, particularly if the condition of the document deteriorates while travelling. Customers should be advised to replace it as soon as possible.

A damaged passport may be used to support a streamlined renewal application, or an application for a minor damage replacement, provided it is not so badly damaged that it cannot be used to confirm the identity of the holder (or the damage is suspicious).

The damaged passport must also have more than two years validity remaining to be eligible for the lower cost replacement passport (with the same expiry date as the passport being replaced).

An ATD that is found to be faulty, for example to have a faulty chip, will be replaced without the need for a new application or application fee.

If the ATD or chip has been damaged while in the control of the customer, unless exceptional circumstances exist, the customer is responsible for the replacement.

Information on damaged and faulty passports is also available on the passports website.

Invalid Australian travel documents

An Australian travel document (ATD) ceases to be valid on the date specified (the expiry date) or when it is cancelled or in certain circumstances. These circumstances may be specified in an observation on the document (for example, valid for one-way travel only). They also include where the document is seriously damaged or the holder loses their Australian citizenship or dies.

Under section 20 of the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act), an ATD ceases to be valid when the first of the following occurs:

at a time or when a circumstance occurs that is specified by the Minister in the Australian Passports Determination 2015 as invalidating an ATD (such as serious damage to the travel document or death or loss of citizenship of the holder)
at the time specified on the document (that is, the expiry date) or
when the document is cancelled.

An ATD is not valid while it is suspended under section 22A of the Passports Act. See: Suspended Australian travel documents below.

It is important to remove invalid travel documents from circulation so that they cannot be used for illegal activities.

Where a document ceases to be valid at a time or in a circumstance specified in the Passports Determination as invalidating an Australian travel document, the document must be recorded as invalid in the passport system.

It should also be recovered and cancelled wherever possible. This protects the integrity of Australian travel documents and enhances national and international security. Where a document expires or is cancelled the risk of misuse is lower.

Cancelled Australian travel documents

Australian travel documents (ATDs) may be cancelled by an appropriate delegate under the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act) for specified and unspecified reasons.

Subsection 22(1) of the Passports Act provides a broad discretion for the Minister (or an appropriate delegate) to cancel an ATD in unspecified circumstances.

Subsection 22(2) of the Passports Act sets out a number of specified circumstances in which the Minister (or delegate) may cancel an ATD.

These include where:

the document is still valid when the holder applies for, or is issued with, another Australian travel document
the document has been lost or stolen
the holder dies
a competent authority requests the document be cancelled
the Minister (or delegate) becomes aware of a circumstance that would have required or permitted the Minister to refuse to issue the travel document had the Minister been aware of the circumstance immediately before the document was issued.
circumstances specified in the Passports Determination exist (paragraph 22(2)(g)).

Most of the Minister’s powers to cancel an ATD under section 22 of the Passports Act are delegated. However, these delegations vary depending on the reason for the cancellation. Before cancelling an ATD, officers must ensure they have the appropriate delegation to cancel the document for the relevant reason.

A decision to cancel an ATD under section 22 of the Passports Act is reviewable (paragraph 48(c) of the Passports Act).

Australian Travel Documents (ATDs) must be cancelled in the passport system. They are no longer physically cancelled. Cancellation in the passport system remains the single source of truth.

Where a travel document is not sighted prior to cancellation, it must be voided (electronically cancelled in the passports system) and marked for impound (‘V and I’ status).

Section 22AA of the Passports Act provides that the Minister must cancel an Australian passport that has been issued to a reportable offender where a competent authority makes a refusal/cancellation request in relation to the person.

A decision to cancel an Australian passport under section 22AA of the Passports Act is not reviewable (as there is no discretion in this decision).

Suspended Australian travel documents

Provisions under the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act) and the Foreign Passports (Law Enforcement and Security) Act 2005 (the Foreign Passports Act) mitigate the security risk to Australia and Australians from persons travelling overseas to engage in terrorist activities.

An Australian travel document (ATD) may be suspended for 14 days based on a request by the Director-General of Security of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) relating to security risk (section 22A of the Passports Act).

Similarly, a foreign travel document may be demanded up for 14 days based on a request by the Director-General of Security relating to security risk (sections 15A and 16A of the Foreign Passports Act).

These provisions enable the Australian Government to proactively mitigate the security risk to Australia and Australians from persons travelling overseas to engage in terrorist activities.

Demand for surrender

Under the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act) and the Foreign Passports (Law Enforcement and Security) Act 2005 (the Foreign Passports Act) authorised officers may demand the surrender of Australian travel documents (ATDs) and impound them in specified circumstances.

Sections 23 to 25 of the Passports Act and sections 16 to 17 of the Foreign Passports Act provide for an officer under the Passports Act or an enforcement officer under the Foreign Passports Act to demand the surrender of a person’s travel documents in specified circumstances.

Once surrendered, the travel documents are impounded—that is taken into the Australian Government's possession.

The ability to demand the surrender of a person's travel documents:

supports Australian and international law enforcement
helps protect children from international parental child abduction
protects the security and integrity of the Australian passports system by preventing the illegal use of Australian travel documents.

It is an offence if a person does not immediately surrender their Australian and/or foreign travel documents if demanded to do so by an authorised officer. Penalties can include imprisonment or a fine, or both.

Under section 26 of the Passports Act, a Customs officer may also seize an ATD or other document that is not in the possession or control of any individual and the officer suspects on reasonable grounds that the document is suspicious.

Offences under the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act) and the Foreign Passports (Law Enforcement and Security) Act 2005 (the Foreign Passports Act) carry penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment or 1,000 penalty units or both.

Offences relating to Australian travel documents (ATDs) are provided for under Part 4 of the Passports Act.

Offences relating to foreign travel documents are provided for under Part 3 of the Foreign Passports Act.

The offence provisions are intended to:

combat the trafficking of lost, stolen and false travel documents for use in connection with criminal activities, such as people smuggling, drug smuggling and terrorism
prevent fraud concerning the issuance and use of ATDs
deter the abuse of public office in the issuance and administration of ATDs.

In some instances, penalties for the offences are cumulative. For example, if a person sells two genuine or false ATDs, the maximum penalty set out in section 33 of the Passports Act is doubled (i.e. 20 years imprisonment or 2,000 penalty units or both).

These penalties are consistent with other offences in the Criminal Code Act 1995 and the Migration Act 1958 that aim to prevent the use of false identity and citizenship documents in Australia.

In addition to the criminal aspects, people who are victims of passport and identity crime often suffer emotional and financial costs. For victims of identity crime, IDCARE is available for support and advice.

Privacy and disclosures

The Australian Passport Office (APO) handles and protects the personal information of customers in accordance with the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act), the Privacy Act 1988 (the Privacy Act), the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) and the Freedom of Information Act 1982 .

An officer who breaches the provisions in the Passports Act or the Privacy Act may face a criminal or civil penalty, or both. DFAT’s Privacy Policy and systems also protect personal information from misuse, interference and loss, and from unauthorised access, modification or disclosure.

The collection, use and disclosure of personal information is permitted under the Passports Act:

in relation to the operation of the Act (for example to establish identity, citizenship and entitlement to an Australian travel document (ATD))
to mitigate the risk associated with lost, stolen or otherwise suspicious ATDs
for specified purposes such as law enforcement, family law and related matters and to assist border management and facilitate international travel.

Customers applying for an ATD must declare they have read the Notice about the collection, use and disclosure of their personal information, which sets out how their information may be collected, used or disclosed according to the law.

Information about Collection, Use and Disclosure of Personal Information is also available on the passports website.

Review of decisions

Only those decisions specified as reviewable under passports legislation are eligible for administrative review. Certain decisions are not reviewable. A person affected by a reviewable decision made by the Minister or following internal review may request review by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).

Section 48 of the Australian Passports Act 2005 and section 30 of the Australian Passports Determination 2015 set out the decisions relating to Australian travel documents (ATDs) that are reviewable.

Section 23 of the Foreign Passports (Law Enforcement and Security) Act 2005 sets out the decisions relating to foreign travel documents that are reviewable.

These decisions are reviewable under administrative law, either by the department or the AAT. The department and the AAT can only review those decisions that the law specifically states are reviewable.

Review under administrative law is merits based, that is, the decision can be overturned if the reviewer does not think the original decision resulted in the best outcome, even if the decision was legally made. This differs from judicial review, which looks only at the legality of a decision.

Some decisions are specifically not reviewable. Where the legislation specifies that decisions are not reviewable, it is usually because they are procedural in nature and not discretionary. However, certain decisions relating to children are also not reviewable. These are matters better dealt with by the Family Court than the administrative appeals regime.

Information on Review of decisions is also available on the passports website.

Delegations and authorisations

The Minister is designated to exercise most of the powers and functions under the Australian Passports Act 2005 (the Passports Act) and the Australian Passports Determination 2015 (the Passports Determination). Most of these functions are delegated to officers in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade under the Minister’s Authorisations and Delegations instrument.

Section 51 of the Passports Act provides that the Minister for Foreign Affairs (the Minister) may delegate to an officer (as defined in section 6 of the Passports Act) any or all of the Minister’s powers and functions under specified provisions of the Passports Act.

Section 52 of the Passports Act provides that the Minister may also, in writing, authorise other persons to perform specified functions of an officer under the Passports Act.

Section 29 of the Passports Determination specifies further powers and functions that the Minister may delegate.

Section 23A of the Foreign Passports (Law Enforcement and Security) Act 2005 provides that the Minister may delegate one power under that Act to a Senior Executive Service (SES) officer only.

Endorsements and observations

An endorsement or observation may be used to provide information relevant to the identity of the holder and/or the purpose of their travel. It must not alter any details on the Australian travel document (ATD).

Section 55 of the Australian Passports Act 2005 authorises the Minister (or delegate) to endorse, make an observation or specify such particulars on an ATD as the Minister (or delegate) thinks fit (section 26 of the Australian Passports Determination 2015).

An endorsement or observation may be used to provide information relevant to the identity of the holder and/or the purpose of their travel.

An endorsement or observation must not conflict with, or be used to try to alter, any personal details on the bio-data page of the ATD.

An endorsement or observation may be printed directly onto the observation page when the ATD is issued. It may also be printed on a label that is placed on the observation page of an ATD with a stamp/seal after the ATD has been issued.

A fee applies to applications for observations that are made after an ATD has been issued. See also: Passport fees .

Fees, waivers and refunds

Unless a fee waiver applies, application fees must be paid at lodgement for an application to be accepted and processed.

The Australian Passports (Application Fees) Act 2005 (the Application Fees Act) imposes fees in relation to Australian travel documents (ATDs) and for related purposes.

Sections 5 and 6 of the Australian Passports (Application Fees) Determination 2015 (the Application Fees Determination) set out the application fees for ATDs and additional fees for priority processing and overseas lodgement.

Passport fees are adjusted on 1 January each year, in line with the movement in the Australian Consumer Price Index (CPI). The amount of each fee is worked out with reference to an indexation factor set out in Section 5 of the Application Fees Determination.

Section 56 of the Australian Passports Act 2005 and Sections 27 and 28 of the Australian Passports Determination 2015 provide for the waiver or refund of these fees in certain circumstances.

Passport application and other fees may be refunded due to an administrative error, including where an incomplete application has been accepted that cannot be processed.

Fees charged in error are generally Refunded under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act (administrative Refunds).

Information on passport fees and refunds is also available on the passports website.

Priority, compelling and compassionate issue

In Australia, customers with compelling or compassionate circumstances may qualify for priority processing (two business days) for an additional fee. Customers with urgent travel in other locations and who have compelling or compassionate circumstances may apply for an Emergency Passport.

Eligible customers in Australia can pay the Priority Processing Fee (PPF). This ensures their Full Validity Passport will be ready to collect (or for the Australian Passport Office (APO) to send to them) within two business days of the APO receiving the application and all required documents. This is provided all requirements are met.

Customers in Australia who need a passport more urgently (that is, in less than two business days ) due to compelling or compassionate circumstances can contact the Australian Passport Office Contact Centre (APOCC) to discuss their circumstances. If they meet the compelling or compassionate criteria, an urgent passport will be issued as soon as possible. Again, this is provided all requirements are met. The PPF still applies in compelling cases, but does not apply in compassionate circumstances.

Depending on the circumstances and urgency, Overseas posts will usually be able to issue an Emergency Passport (EY) on the same or next business day, once the customer has provided all of the required documentation.

Emergency passports are not issued in Australia. Overseas Posts only have the capability to print emergency documents and cannot issue a Full Validity Passport in two business days, as these are produced in Australia.

Information on urgent applications is also available on the Passports website.

Alerts are internal notifications of information that might affect entitlement to an Australian travel document (ATD). They do not prevent travel.

An alert is an internal warning or notification placed on a customer’s record to draw attention to a matter that may affect the person’s entitlement to be issued an ATD at their next application.

Alerts can be placed on a customer’s record for a wide variety of reasons. If an individual does not have a passport record, one can be created for the purpose of adding the alert.

If an alert has been placed on a person's record and the person applies for a travel document, the alert warns the officer processing the application that certain information must be considered or that a travel document must not be issued.

Alerts must be actioned or resolved before an ATD may be issued.

Alerts relate only to the issue of an ATD. They have no relevance to a person's movements in or out of Australia. They cannot prevent travel where a person already holds a valid Australian or foreign travel document or is able to obtain a foreign travel document.

Most alerts have an expiry date. When alerts are created, a period of time must be specified. For example, a child alert that is not supported by a court order will expire after 12 months. A child alert that is supported by a court order will expire at the time specified in the order or, if no time is specified, when the child turns 18.

Information on child alert requests is also available on the passports website.

Note: A child alert relates only to the issue of an ATD, it does not prevent travel .

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade RGOB

Notification on issuance of Ordinary Passport

November 30, 2022

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to notify the general public that the Ministry will resume the issuance of Ordinary Passport from 03 November 2022 . In view of the sheer volume of Passport applications received so far (backlog since 20th August 2022) and the need for the backlog to be cleared first, the Ministry will issue Passports in the following manner for the month of November 2022:

The online and offline applications received till date have been verified and based on this only two hundred (200) Passports can be issued per day in the order of the date of submission of application (first-come-first served basis) ;
Fifty (50) in-person applications per day will also be accepted on the basis of an appointment and the appointment can be made through https://www.mfa.gov.bt/appointment/ starting from Thursday, 03 November during business hours from 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM. This is to facilitate urgent travel for those who have not yet applied online and the applicant must visit the Passport Office at Changangkha to submit the application on the day of appointment upon confirmation. The Ministry requests the understanding and support of the public to avail of this facility only for urgent travel; and
Passports can be collected from 02:00-05:00 PM during the weekdays, upon receiving the confirmation through SMS;

Further, with regard to the Travel Document issued in lieu of an Ordinary Passport, the Ministry is pleased to announce that it will facilitate the replacement of Travel Document from 01 December 2022 . The replacement will be facilitated without the requirement of any payment and a separate application.

The Ministry would like to humbly appeal to the general public for its kind understanding and cooperation and only visit the Passport Office at Changangkha as per your date of appointment for the submission of application and to collect the Passport upon receiving SMS. This will greatly assist the Ministry in avoiding disruption in the extension of the Passport services and overcrowding at the Passport Office.

The Ministry regrets any inconvenience caused.

Notification.

January 3, 2023

Notification: Update on Passport collection timing and in-person application via appointment system.

December 18, 2022

Notification : Replacement of Travel Document

Passport Types

The Passport Act 1974, Passport Rules 2021 and Passport Amendment Rules 2021 regulate the issuance of passports.

Passport Policy

General requirements for machine readable passport.

Passport Application Process
Regional Passport Offices
Zones of DGI&P
Bank Branches

Fast Track Passport Service

Download passport related acts & rules, cancellation of multiple passports.

The Passport Act 1974 , Passport Rules 2021 & SRO No. 1139(1)/2023/Passport Amendment Rules, 2021 regulate the issuance of passports. There are four types of passports being issued:

Ordinary Passport

Official passport, diplomatic passport, emergency travel document, 1. ordinary passport.

Ordinary Passport is issued to all Citizens of Pakistan for travel abroad, subject to completion of all codal formalities.

Requirements for Ordinary Passport

2. Official Passport

Official Passport is issued to, in pursuance of Para-9 of Part-I of Passport & Visa Manual, 2006. Read More

Official Passport is issued in pursuance of Schedule-III of Passport Rules 2021 & SRO No. 1139(1)/2023/Passport Amendment Rules, 2021 . Read More

3. Diplomatic Passport

The Diplomatic Passport is issued to dignitaries of the State and Diplomats in pursuance of Schedule-IV of Passport Rules 2021 & SRO No. 1139(1)/2023/Passport Amendment Rules, 2021 . Read More

4. Emergency Travel Document

Emergency Travel Document (ETD) is issued to Pakistanis abroad in case of emergency, in order to travel back to Pakistan one time. For more information see SOP of Emergency Travel Document (ETD).

Last modified: 3 June 2024 9:36 am.

Security Alert May 17, 2024

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

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After You Get Your Special Issuance Passport

You can learn more about your regular (tourist) passport on our After You Get Your Passport page.

*You will not be able to access the pages linked on this site if you're not browsing on a U.S. government-issued computer or mobile device.

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About Your Special Issuance Passport

Special issuance passports (i.e., official, diplomatic, service, or no-fee regular) are used for travel when the bearer is on official business for the U.S. government. Special issuance passports may not be used for personal travel other than entering or exiting your country of assignment.

A passport at all times remains the property of the United States and must be returned to the U.S. government upon demand.

A special issuance passport may be used only as long as you retain the position or status for which it was issued. A special issuance passport must be returned to the Department of State upon the termination of the bearer’s official or diplomatic status or at such other time as the Department may determine.

Department of State personnel may return their passport to the Special Issuance Agency directly or via their bureau’s executive office. If you work for another federal agency, contact your agency’s p assport office.

Bearers of special issuance passports must use that passport when entering or exiting their country of assignment abroad and for return to the United States. Regular (fee) passports must be used for personal travel except when entering or exiting the country of assignment abroad.

A special issuance passport DOES :

Attest that the bearer is traveling on official or diplomatic business for the U.S. government or is an accompanying family member of such a person. It implies no other status.

A special issuance passport DOES NOT :

Provide diplomatic immunity;
Provide exemption from foreign laws, including customs, immigration, or labor laws;
Allow the bearer to carry classified or sensitive material across international borders;
Allow the bearer to avoid questions by foreign immigration officials or to ignore security checkpoints;
Provide a shield from arrest;
Shield the bearer from the hazards of war, criminal violence, or terrorism;
Grant benefits to which the bearer is not otherwise entitled.

A special issuance passport MAY :

Subject the bearer to increased scrutiny by foreign governments and other entities.

Special issuance passports carry the same message from the Secretary of State as appears in a regular (fee) passport requesting that the bearer be permitted “to pass without delay or hindrance” and given “all lawful aid and protection.”

In addition, each special issuance passport carries an endorsement indicating that the bearer is abroad on an official or diplomatic assignment for the U.S. government. While traveling abroad, each traveler with a special issuance passport has a special obligation to respect the laws of the country in which they are present as well as U.S. government and agency-specific standards of conduct.

Additional Visa Requirements for Special Issuance Passports

Many countries have visa requirements for official and diplomatic passport holders that are greater than the requirements for regular (fee) passport holders. You may have to obtain an official or diplomatic visa depending on the countries to which they will travel. Note that the placement of an official or diplomatic visa in a passport does not result in diplomatic status or immunity in the host state.

For more information on visa requirements for federal employees (with the exception of the Department of Defense), please refer to Official and Diplomatic Visa Information. If you do not have access to OpenNet on your device, please click here: SIA Contact Us Portal .

Preventing International Parental Child Abduction

It is a crime for a parent to take a child outside of the United States without the other parent’s approval.

To prevent abduction, enroll in the Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program . We will let you know if someone submits an application for your child. We will ask you to approve the passport issuance.

If you have questions, call us at 1-888-407-4747 if you are in the United States or at (+1) 202-501-4444 if you are in a foreign country.

Tips for Travel

You must sign your full name in your passport in black or blue ink. Parents may sign on behalf of their children under 16 and should note their relation to the child.

Keep your special issuance passport in a safe location while at home and abroad. If your special issuance passport is lost or stolen, report it immediately by one of these methods:

Call 1-877-487-2778 ; 1-888-874-7793 (TTY)
Report it online
If overseas, contact the nearest embassy or consulate .

Passports reported lost or stolen are invalidated. DO NOT attempt to travel on a passport your reported lost or stolen as foreign immigration authorities will not permit you to enter.

Why would a special issuance passport be placed on file at SIA?

To save money and time, just in case the special issuance passport is needed again in the future.

As long as the special issuance passport is still valid, it can be retrieved from SIA and returned to your federal agency in the event the employee needs to travel. This prevents (a) the customer from needing to complete a new application, (b) SIA from needing to process a new application, and (c) the federal agency retrieving the passport from needing to reimburse the Department of State for the cost of processing a new application.

Can any type of passport be filed at SIA?

No. Only diplomatic, official, or service passports valid for one year or more at the time the request to file the passport is made.

If a valid regular passport is mistakenly sent to SIA for filing, SIA will make every reasonable effort to return the regular passport to the customer or federal agency. If that is not successful, the regular passport may be destroyed.

If a valid no-fee regular passport is mistakenly sent to SIA for filing, SIA will likely destroy the passport without notification to the employee or the federal agency.

What if a passport expires while on file at SIA?

Periodically, SIA reviews its passport files and pulls those passports that have only 6-months validity remaining. These passports are destroyed, most often without notification to the employee or the federal agency. If your passport in destroyed in this manner, you must submit Form DS-11 to get a new special issuance passport.

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Going and being abroad
Types of British passports: caseworker guidance
HM Passport Office

Types of British passports (accessible)

Updated 18 November 2022

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/types-of-british-passports/types-of-british-passports-accessible

Version 5.0

This guidance tells His Majesty’s Passport Office staff about the different types of British passports they may receive as part of a passport application

About: Types of British passport

This guidance tells His Majesty’s Passport Office staff about the different types of British passports that customers send in as part of a passport application. It explains what the passports look like and some of their identifying features.

If you have any questions about the guidance and your line manager or senior caseworker cannot help you or you think that the guidance has factual errors then email Guidance & Quality, Operating Standards.

If you notice any formatting errors in this guidance (broken links, spelling mistakes and so on) or have any comments about the layout or navigability of the guidance then you can email Guidance & Quality, Operating Standards.

Publication

Below is information on when this version of the guidance was published:

version 5.0

published for Home Office staff on 14 November 2022

Changes from last version of this guidance

This guidance has been updated to reflect the change from Queen’s Messenger Service to King’s Messenger Service.

Types of passport

This section tells HM Passport Office staff about the types of British passports that we issue to British nationals, including passport features and who can hold these documents.

The British passport is an international travel document that meets the recommendations and standards of the International Civil Aviation Organisation convention. Machine readable British passports follow a common format (layout) used by many countries.

During 2020 the UK prepared to leave the European Union (EU) and we changed our passports from EU and non-EU burgundy coloured passports to non-EU passports with a blue (soft) cover . A phased roll out of the new passport meant customers could receive either type of passport with added immigration observations where needed.

The British passport is now a non-EU passport with a blue (soft cover) and a gold Royal crest.

British passports are:

available in 2 sizes - standard (34 pages) or Frequent Traveller passport

valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children

Passports may have an expiry date that is less than the standard 5 or 10 years, if:

we have issued the passport with a restricted validity (for example, if the customer has lost multiple passports)

we have issued a passport with the validity remaining from a previous passport (for example, when we have corrected a passport error)

the passport is a Diplomatic or Official passport

If a customer applied to renew their passport before September 2018, any remaining months (up to a maximum of 9 months) were added to their new passport. HM Passport Office stopped adding the remaining months from 10 September 2018.

Blue British passports

During 2020, HM Passport Office started to issue a (non-EU) passport with a blue soft cover and a gold Royal crest. These passports have the holder’s personal details and their photo added to a polycarbonate page at the back of the passport.

As we phased in the issue of the blue passport during 2020, any customer may have received one regardless of their nationality and immigration status.

After 31 December 2020 (following the end of the transition period after the UK left the EU) all customers receive a blue (non-EU) passport.

Holders of the blue passport may have immigration observations added to their passports, depending whether the passport was issued before or after 31 December 2020. See Immigration and Right of Abode and Observations in passports.

Burgundy British passports

Before the end of 2020 our machine readable passports were issued in an EU and non-EU common format which used a burgundy cover. The use of a burgundy coloured cover to identify EU member states was agreed in 1981 by the European Community member states.

We stopped issuing burgundy passports before 31 December 2020 (the end of the transition period following the UK’s exit from the EU).

Burgundy non-EU common format British passports

We issued non-EU passports to British nationals who were not entitled to hold an EU common format passport (CFP), (for example, British subjects without the right of abode in the UK).

Non-EU passports are similar to the EU common format passport but do not have ‘European Union’ on the front cover or the first page. No other European language except English and French were used in the passport.

Who we issued non-EU common format passports to

We issued non-EU common format passports to:

British Overseas citizens

British Overseas Territories citizens (not connected to Gibraltar) who do not live in a British overseas territory

British Overseas Territory citizens living in the Falkland Islands

British Protected Persons

British Nationals (overseas)

British Subjects who do not have the right of abode in the UK

These passport holders may have other immigration observations added to their passports. See Immigration and Right of Abode and Observations in passports.

HM Passport Office stopped issuing these passports before 31 December 2020 (as the blue passport was phased in, and before the end of the transition period following the UK’s exit of the EU).

Burgundy EU common format passports

‘European Union’ (EU) is written at the top of the front cover and on page 1 if the customer (the intended passport holder) was entitled to certain privileges under European Treaties (for example, free movement and the right to work). Passport information is given in each of the official languages of the Member States (see the PRADO website).

Who we issued EU common format passports to

We issued British EU common format passports (CFPs) to customers who were British nationals for European Union purposes, including:

British citizens

British subjects with the Right of Abode in the United Kingdom

British overseas territories citizens with a connection to Gibraltar

British citizens from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man

These passport holders may have other immigration observations added to their passports. See additional guidance in Immigration and Right of Abode and Observations in passports.

HM Passport Office phased out the issue of these passports during 2018, as we approached the date for the UK leaving the EU. We stopped issuing these passports before 31 December 2020.

Channel Islands and Isle of Man passports

Passports issued in the Channel Islands or Isle of Man , are similar in style to those issued in the UK.

These passports are also CFPs, except the name of the territory (for example, Isle of Man) is used instead of the words ‘United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland’ on the passport cover and page 1. The salutation (greeting) on the inside of the front cover will be in the name of the relevant lieutenant governor or governor instead of the reigning monarch. See Knowledge base examples.

British citizens from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man may not have had the right to free movement for employment or establishment in other European Union countries. Before 31 December 2020 (when the transition period ended following the UK’s exit from the EU) we added an observation to an EU CFP when a British citizen did not have the right to free movement in the EU. See Immigration and Right of Abode and Observations in passports.

British overseas territory variant passport

Customers who are eligible to hold a British overseas territories citizen (BOT) passport and who are living in a BOT (except those living in the Falkland Islands) must apply for a variant passport from their local government office.

Variant passports are similar to passports issued in the UK (blue or burgundy coloured covers), except the name of the territory (for example, Anguilla) is used instead of the words ‘United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland’ on the front cover and page 1 of the passport.

The salutation (greeting) on the inside of the front cover will be in the name of the relevant lieutenant-governor or governor, instead of the reigning monarch. See examples in the Knowledge base.

Diplomatic and Official passports

Diplomatic or Official passports look like standard passports ( blue or burgundy EU passports ) but have additional gold lettering on the front cover saying ‘Diplomatic’ or ‘Official’.

Older passports may only show the words ‘Diplomatic’ or ‘Official’ written above the photograph on the personal details page. The system will add an automatic passport note to the Main Index to confirm whether the passport is a ‘Diplomatic’ or ‘Official’ passport.

We strictly control the issue of Diplomatic or Official passports (see Diplomatic and Official passports and observations).

King’s Messenger Service passports

We issue King’s Messenger Service (KMS) passports (previously Queen’s Messenger Service until 14 November 2022) to Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) staff members who act as diplomatic couriers, transporting government documents overseas.

Prior to 2014 Queen’s Messenger passports were Old Blue style hardback passports, which had ‘Queen’s Messenger Service’ printed in gold letters on the front cover. Since 2014, HM Passport Office issue Messenger Service staff Diplomatic passports that have an observation showing the holder is a King’s Messenger (see Diplomatic and Official passports and observations).

Collective passports

We issue collective passports to groups of young people under the age of 18 years, such as students and recognised youth organisations (for example, Scouts and Guides) who are travelling for educational or cultural purposes.

We issue two types of collective passports:

Collective Passports for Young People

Council of Europe Collective Passport for Young People (issued under the European Agreement on Travel by Young Persons on Collective Passports)

A collective passport is only valid for travel to and from the UK to certain European Union countries. We do not accept applications for a collective passport from overseas.

Specimen passports

Specimen passports are genuine British CFP used for training purposes and fraud prevention by other UK government departments or foreign governments. We also provide them to entertainment companies (film, theatre or television) to be used during productions or filming.

Old Blue (hardback style) passports

The passport known as Old Blue (hardback style) passports was first issued in 1920 and:

followed a standard internationally agreed format

was dark blue (almost black) in colour

had a hardback cover

had 30 pages (in a standard passport) or 94 pages in a Frequent Traveller passport (Frequent Traveller passports were introduced in May 1973), the number of pages changed to 32 and 48 in August 1988

was printed in English and French

was personalised by hand with the customer’s details

See Knowledgebase – United Kingdom for examples of this document.

British visitor passports

British visitor passports (BVP) were introduced in March 1961. Customers could obtain BVP’s from the Post Office quickly and easily. They were considered a cheap alternative to a full British passport.

The customer applied for a BVP from the Post Office and was required to provide a birth certificate and any change of name document (for example a marriage certificate). The BVP was:

made of card folded into 3 parts

hand written and contained a photo of the customer

used for travel to specified European countries

only used for holidays and private visits abroad (not over 3 months)

valid for 1 year

not a secure document

BVP’s were available to customers living in the UK for over 8 years, who were also:

British Dependent Territories citizens

HM Passport Office withdrew the BVP on the 1 January 1996, because of concerns about its easy availability and the security of the document.

Dealing with a BVP

HM Passport Office staff must never accept a BVP as evidence of nationality, identity or entitlement. Examiners must ask the customer for other nationality and identity documentation.

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Passports and Travel Documents Information

Passport is one of the very sensitive document issued by the government to its citizens so as to allow them to travel outside the country for various purposes. Tanzania government issues various types of passports and other travel documents as provided for by the Tanzania Passports and other Travel documents Cap 42 of 2002 and its Regulations of 2004.

The passport pages for the current electronic passport contains various images and drawings which explicates the country’s history and tourist attractions.

With exclusion of Geneva Convention travel document and Certificate of Identity, all other types of passports including Emergence Travel Documents may be applied online through the following link:

APPLY PASSPORT NOW

APPLY EMERGENCY TRAVEL DOCUMENTS NOW

After accomplishing to fill the form online and make payment, applicant is required to print and submit the form along with the required attachments to the nearest Regional immigration Office, Immigration Headquarters, Immigration Head Office in Zanzibar as the case may be or at the relevant Tanzanian Embassy If the applicant is outside the country.

General Requirements for Application of Passports

An application for a passport shall be accompanied by the following:

A Birth Certificate or Affidavit of Birth or Certificate of Naturalization of the applicant (In case the applicant is a citizen by naturalization).
A birth Certificate or Affidavit of Birth or Certificate of Naturalization of the applicant's parent or parents'
National Identity Card,
Recent, clear 1 passport size photo (to be uploaded online)
A fee of 150,000 for passport and 20,000 for Emergence Travel document.

In case the applicant is below the age of 18 years, the parent's or legal guardian must accompany the applicant and submit a written consent regarding the applicants’ trip outside the country

Passports and Travel Documents
Ordinary Passport
Service Passport
Diplomatic Passport
Emergency Travel Document
Certificate of Identity
Geneva Convention Travel Document
Supporting Documents for Specific Trips.
Application for Replacement of Passports and Travel Documents.
Requirements for Replacement of Stolen or Lost Passports.
Revocation of a Passports and Travel Documents
Application Fee for Electronic Passports and Travel Document

Trump Has Been Convicted. Here’s What Happens Next.

Donald J. Trump has promised to appeal, but he may face limits on his ability to travel and to vote as he campaigns for the White House.

Share full article

Donald J. Trump in a dark suit, red tie and white shirt.

By Jesse McKinley and Maggie Astor

May 30, 2024

The conviction of former President Donald J. Trump on Thursday is just the latest step in his legal odyssey in New York’s court system. The judge, Juan M. Merchan, set Mr. Trump’s sentencing for July 11, at which point he could be sentenced to as much as four years behind bars, or to probation.

It won’t stop him from running for president, though: There is no legal prohibition on felons doing that . No constitutional provision would stop him even from serving as president from a prison cell, though in practice that would trigger a crisis that courts would almost certainly have to resolve.

His ability to vote — for himself, presumably — depends on whether he is sentenced to prison. Florida, where he is registered, requires felons convicted there to complete their full sentence, including parole or probation, before regaining voting rights. But when Floridians are convicted in another state, Florida defers to the laws of that state, and New York disenfranchises felons only while they are in prison.

The Trump Manhattan Criminal Verdict, Count By Count

Former President Donald J. Trump faced 34 felony charges of falsifying business records, related to the reimbursement of hush money paid to the porn star Stormy Daniels in order to cover up a sex scandal around the 2016 presidential election.

“Because Florida recognizes voting rights restoration in the state of conviction, and because New York’s law states that those with a felony conviction do not lose their right to vote unless they are incarcerated during the election, then Trump will not lose his right to vote in this case unless he is in prison on Election Day,” said Blair Bowie, a lawyer at the Campaign Legal Center, a nonprofit watchdog group.

Mr. Trump will almost certainly appeal his conviction, after months of criticizing the case and attacking the Manhattan district attorney, who brought it, and Justice Merchan, who presided over his trial.

Long before that appeal is heard, however, Mr. Trump will be enmeshed in the gears of the criminal justice system.

A pre-sentencing report makes recommendations based on the defendant’s criminal record — Mr. Trump had none before this case — as well as his personal history and the crime itself. The former president was found guilty of falsifying business records in relation to a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels, a porn star who says she had a brief sexual tryst with Mr. Trump in 2006, in order to buy her silence.

At the pre-sentence interview, a psychologist or social worker working for the probation department may also talk to Mr. Trump, during which time the defendant can “try to make a good impression and explain why he or she deserves a lighter punishment,” according to the New York State Unified Court System.

The pre-sentencing report can also include submissions from the defense, and may describe whether “the defendant is in a counseling program or has a steady job.”

In Mr. Trump’s case, of course, he is applying — as it were — for a steady job as president of the United States, a campaign that may be complicated by his new status as a felon. Mr. Trump will likely be required to regularly report to a probation officer, and rules on travel could be imposed.

Mr. Trump was convicted of 34 Class E felonies, New York’s lowest level , each of which carry a potential penalty of up to four years in prison. Probation or home confinement are other possibilities that Justice Merchan can consider.

That said, Justice Merchan has indicated in the past that he takes white-collar crime seriously . If he did impose prison time, he would likely impose the punishment concurrently, meaning that Mr. Trump would serve time on each of the counts he was convicted of simultaneously.

If Mr. Trump were instead sentenced to probation, he could still be jailed if he were later found to have committed additional crimes. Mr. Trump, 77, currently faces three other criminal cases: two federal, dealing with his handling of classified documents and his efforts to overturn the 2020 election , and a state case in Georgia that concerns election interference.

Mr. Trump’s lawyers can file a notice of appeal after sentencing, scheduled for July 11 at 10 a.m. And the judge could stay any punishment during an appeal, something that could delay punishment beyond Election Day.

The proceedings will continue even if he wins: Because it’s a state case, not federal, Mr. Trump would have no power as president to pardon himself .

Jesse McKinley is a Times reporter covering upstate New York, courts and politics. More about Jesse McKinley

Maggie Astor covers politics for The New York Times, focusing on breaking news, policies, campaigns and how underrepresented or marginalized groups are affected by political systems. More about Maggie Astor

Our Coverage of the Trump Hush-Money Trial

Guilty Verdict : Donald Trump was convicted on all 34 counts of falsifying records to cover up a sex scandal that threatened his bid for the White House in 2016, making him the first American president to be declared a felon .

What Happens Next: Trump’s sentencing hearing on July 11 will trigger a long and winding appeals process , though he has few ways to overturn the decision .

Reactions: Trump’s conviction reverberated quickly across the country and around the world . Here’s what voters , New Yorkers , Republicans , Trump supporters and President Biden had to say.

The Presidential Race : The political fallout of Trump’s conviction is far from certain , but the verdict will test America’s traditions, legal institutions and ability to hold an election under historic partisan tension .

Making the Case: Over six weeks and the testimony of 20 witnesses, the Manhattan district attorney’s office wove a sprawling story of election interference and falsified business records.

Legal Luck Runs Out: The four criminal cases that threatened Trump’s freedom had been stumbling along, pleasing his advisers. Then his good fortune expired .

COMMENTS

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Official passports. Diplomatic passports. Service passports. Passport cards. Passport types in the U.S., recapped. MORE LIKE THIS Travel. If you thought all U.S. passports were the same, think ...
What Is the Difference Between a Travel Document and a Passport
A travel document is an official document issued by a country that verifies the identity and nationality of the holder. It is primarily used for international travel when a passport is not available or cannot be obtained. On the other hand, a passport is a government-issued document that serves as proof of identity, nationality, and citizenship ...
U.S. passports
Lost or stolen passports. If your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the State Department right away. How you replace it depends on if you are inside or outside the U.S. Find out how to apply for or renew a passport for an adult or a minor under 18. Know what to do if a passport is lost or stolen.
Passport vs Travel Document: Difference and Comparison
A passport is a government-issued document that verifies a person's identity and nationality. In contrast, a travel document is a broader term encompassing any official document used for international travel, including passports, visas, and refugee travel documents. Passports are widely recognized and required for international travel as ...
Types of Passports for Americans
This type of passport is limited to land and sea travel to Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean region, and Mexico. The validity of the passport card is 10 years for an adult applicant and 5 years for minors under age 16. The fee for this type of passport is $30 for an adult and $15 for a minor. There is an execution fee of $25 for first-time applicants.
U.S. Passports
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 ...
United States passport
The capital letters of "DIPLOMATIC" are somewhat smaller than the capital letters of "PASSPORT". A Travel Document, in both forms (Refugee Travel Document and Permit to Re-Enter), features the seal of the Department of Homeland Security instead of the Great Seal of the United States. Above the seal the words "TRAVEL DOCUMENT" appears in all ...
Types of passports and travel documents
We issue regular (blue) passports to Canadian citizens for casual travel, such as. vacations. business trips. The regular passport has 36 pages. The validity depends on the age of the passport holder: adults age 16 years or older can choose a 5-year or 10-year passport. children aged 0 to 15 years are issued passports for a maximum of 5 years.
Types of Travel Documents for Entering and Departing the U.S
Valid passport. S. Passport Card. Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) Card (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry, or FAST) Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) If entering by land or sea, Americans may also show the following types of travel documents, where applicable: S. Military ID card, when traveling on maritime business.
What is a 'Type P' Passport?
A Type P passport is the standard passport that Americans use as identification when traveling internationally. This government-issued identification can also be used within the United States as ...
Travel document
In general, a passport is a travel document that also serves as proof of nationality from the issuing country. ... In the Soviet Union, there were several types of international passport: an ordinary one, a civil service passport, a diplomatic passport, and a sailor's passport.
Passport
Clockwise, from top left: Dutch ordinary, Nepalese diplomatic, Chinese service, and Polish ordinary passports. A passport is an official travel document issued by a government that contains a person's identity for international travel. A person with a passport can travel to and from foreign countries more easily and access consular assistance.A passport certifies the personal identity and ...
Passport vs Travel Document: Understanding the Difference in Numbers
Passport numbers are unique identifiers for citizens, while travel document numbers are for non-citizens unable to obtain a passport. Passport numbers are used for international travel, while travel document numbers provide special provisions for non-citizens. Knowing where to find and using the correct number is crucial for booking flights and ...
What Type of Passport is Best?
Ordinary Passport. Also called a "regular passport" or "tourist passport," this is the most frequently issued type of passport. It is issued to citizens of a country and allows for international travel. In the US, ordinary passports are usually valid for 10 years if the passport holder is 16 or older, and five years if the passport ...
Passport
A Reduced Validity Passport is an ordinary passport issued with a reduced maximum validity, determined by legislation, following the loss or theft of 2 or more of the customer's travel documents in the 5 years immediately prior to making the application (subsection 17(2) item 10 of the Passports Determination).
Notification on issuance of Ordinary Passport
Further, with regard to the Travel Document issued in lieu of an Ordinary Passport, the Ministry is pleased to announce that it will facilitate the replacement of Travel Document from 01 December 2022. The replacement will be facilitated without the requirement of any payment and a separate application.
Passport Types
There are four types of passports being issued: Ordinary Passport. Official Passport. Diplomatic Passport. Emergency Travel Document. 1. Ordinary Passport. Ordinary Passport is issued to all Citizens of Pakistan for travel abroad, subject to completion of all codal formalities. Requirements for Ordinary Passport.
After You Get Your Special Issuance Passport
You can learn more about your regular (tourist) passport on our After You Get Your Passport page. *You will not be able to access the pages linked on this site if you're not browsing on a U.S. government-issued computer or mobile device. Your new passport book is a Next Generation Passport. Visit our FAQs page to find out more about the new ...
Types of British passports (accessible)
The British passport is an international travel document that meets the recommendations and standards of the International Civil Aviation Organisation convention. Machine readable British ...
List of passports
A passport is a booklet issued by countries to their citizens, permitting the person to travel to other countries. In some cases countries issue travel documents similar to passports to their residents. International organizations also issue travel documents, usually called laissez-passer, to their staff.This article shows images of the various passports currently issued.
Everything You Need To Know About Passports and Passport ...
Passport is an internationally accepted identity document used while traveling abroad. Issued by authorized institutions on demand. People can apply for a passport online or through institutions. Passport applications and fees are regulated by the law. Passport fee and to be 25 years old condition is required for some passports.
Passports and Travel Documents Information
National Identity Card, Recent, clear 1 passport size photo (to be uploaded online) A fee of 150,000 for passport and 20,000 for Emergence Travel document. In case the applicant is below the age of 18 years, the parent's or legal guardian must accompany the applicant and submit a written consent regarding the applicants' trip outside the country.
What Happens Now That Trump Has Been Convicted ...
The conviction of former President Donald J. Trump on Thursday is just the latest step in his legal odyssey in New York's court system. The judge, Juan M. Merchan, set Mr. Trump's sentencing ...