passport expired emergency travel

How to Get a Same Day or Emergency Passport

Passport panic here’s how to navigate getting a passport in under 24 hours..

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Losing your passport, having it stolen, or realizing it has expired just before a trip can be a stressful experience. The State Department says it takes six to eight weeks for a standard passport application to be fulfilled in normal circumstances. However, due to a pandemic-related backlog , the current wait time for a passport is expected to be between 8 to 11 weeks . Even expedited passports are currently taking five to seven weeks to process.

Fortunately, there are ways to obtain a same-day or emergency passport that can help you get back on track and on your way. It won’t be easy, but it is possible. Provided you meet the criteria.

Here’s what you need to know about getting a passport in under 24 hours.

Can I get a passport in one day?

The short answer is, yes, you can get a passport in one day. But it will take time, patience, and immediate travel plans.

If it’s a life or death situation, apply for an emergency passport

To qualify for an emergency passport, you’ll need a genuinely life-or-death emergency that requires you to travel internationally. Per the Department of State , that includes having an immediate family member (defined as a parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, sibling, or grandparent) who has died, is dying, or has a life-threatening illness or injury. And you’ll need to prove it with a death certificate, a statement from a mortuary, a letter from a hospital, or similar documentation. That document also needs to be in English (or at least it needs to be translated into English).

You’ll then need to go to one of the 26 Regional Passport Agencies scattered throughout the country, which may not be convenient for most people. Those passport agencies are all located in major cities, such as Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago, and Philadelphia. It’s a good idea to call the Department of State helpline (1-877-487-2778) to make sure you qualify before traveling. Sometimes, the agent on the helpline can schedule an appointment for you, though if not, all of the agencies offer walk-in appointments. Keep in mind the number of walk-in appointments is limited and varies by location. If you’re able to get an appointment, you’ll also need to have a completed passport application, proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or a previously issued U.S. passport), a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license), a passport photo , and proof of immediate international travel plans.

If you don’t have a life-or-death emergency, use Urgent Travel service

If you don’t have a life-or-death emergency, there’s still a way to get a passport in one day. If you’ve already applied for a passport, but it hasn’t arrived in the mail, and your international travel is scheduled within five calendar days, you can use the Urgent Travel service . While it’s not technically an emergency passport, it is generally processed the same day. For this, you’ll need to make an appointment with a passport agency by calling 1-877-487-2778. This service is also available for those without a passport (and who aren’t currently waiting on an application to be processed) and have international travel planned within 14 days.

Last ditch effort: ask your elected member of congress to help

Another option is getting your elected member of Congress to help—some representatives, like Dianne Feinstein and Mike Crapo , share this shortcut on their websites, though success may vary.

How to speed up a passport application

If you have a few weeks and would prefer to put the task into professional hands, you might also consider using an expedited passport service.

Third-party expediter services, such as ItsEasy Passport & Visa Service or RushMyPassport , can assist with rushing your passport application. In a matter of days, they can submit your paperwork on your behalf, pick up your passport, and get it back to you when it’s ready. They charge an additional fee (on top of the standard passport application fee and expedited passport service fee). Still, they can often help navigate the ins and outs of the expediting process.

The fastest turnaround time RushMyPassport.com offers is one week for $799 or a two-week option for $599. ItsEasy Passport & Visa charges $45 for its four-week passport processing service and $895 for one-day service. “One- to three-day passport service requires urgent travel. Please contact us for details,” the agency advises.

However, keep in mind that these services have limited availability because expeditors also rely on the same small clutch of appointments being available.

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Renew an adult passport

Find out if you can renew your passport or have to get a new one. Learn how to renew your passport by mail or in person in an emergency.

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

Determine if you can renew your passport

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

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

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

How to renew your passport and documents you will need

Passports can only be renewed by mail. Online renewals are currently paused. Because it can take up to three months to process your application, it is important to renew your passport before it expires.

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

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

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

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

If you need your passport quickly

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

If you are outside the U.S.

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

If you need to change your name or correct your passport

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

Check the status of your passport renewal

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

Be aware of passport expiration rules for your destination

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

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

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

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

What To Do If Your Passport Expires Just Before You’re Supposed To Travel

Whenever you're thinking about vacationing somewhere international, the very first thing you should do, before absolutely anything else, is check out your passport , specifically the expiration date. Even if you think you have a while before it expires, even if you just used it, even if it's a pain to find it. Trust us: If your passport expires and you need to travel , you are going to deal with a whole slew of problems that no one wants to deal with.

But we all make mistakes sometimes. It can be easy to get caught up in the vacation-planning moment and book plane tickets before making sure your passport is still usable. It's happened to the best of us: you plan everything out, you're ready to go, and sometime in the near future before your trip, you look at your passport and realize it has expired already.

If this happens a few months before, you're probably OK — you can just get it renewed. Even if this happens a few weeks before, it'll be fine — sure, you're going to have spend more money for a rush renewal, but it'll work out. But, if it happens a few days before? Well, that's a whole other story.

Here's the thing when traveling with a passport: if you are flying international, it absolutely cannot be expired. In fact, it can't even be close to expiring: for travel in nearly every other country, including Canada and Mexico, you won't be able to fly if your passport is expiring in the next six months. So, not only do you need to make sure your passport isn't expired already, but you need to make sure it won't expire within six months of your travel date.

If you do notice your passport is expired or expiring soon, is it worth it to still head to the airport and try to get on an international flight? In a word, no. It's really not. Airport security will almost definitely not let you get on the plane, and you'll just end up wasting a lot of time and money. If, for some strange reason, you're able to board with that passport, don't forget that coming home from a foreign country could be a very different story. Do you really want to get stuck in another country without a passport? Probably not.

If you're flying domestic , however, an expired passport shouldn't be an issue, as long as you have another valid form of United States identification, like a driver's license. You don't need a passport to fly within the U.S., you just need a valid ID. So, if your passport is your only ID, and it's expired, then it isn't valid and won't work. But if you have other photo ID, like your license, you'll be fine.

What are you supposed to do if you're flying international and have just realized your passport is no good? You have two options: attempt to get an expedited passport in time, or cancel and reschedule the trip. If you want to get an expedited passport, it's possible - it will just cost you some time and effort.

As soon as you figure out that your passport is expired, try to make an appointment with the U.S. Passport Office (that's if you have more than 18 hours but less than two weeks before your flight). If you can't do that, get to a passport agency immediately. Get ready to wait on a long line and probably do a bit of begging. You should also come prepared: in some states, you will need proof of travel within 14 days. You'll also need to pay , which can vary, but will likely be around $170. Check out the list of agencies on the official government site, because they aren't in every state.

Expediting your passport should work out, but there are no guarantees that you'll get it in time if you are trying to right before your flight. So, it's always best to play it safe! Keep on top of your passport expiration date, and save yourself the trouble.

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How to Get an Expedited Passport

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Say you've booked the perfect international getaway just to find that your passport has expired. Or, perhaps you didn't realize that your travel destination requires that your passport have at least six months of validity. Whatever your case may be, Americans have a few options for getting an expedited passport — whether you're renewing it or applying for a new one.

Here's what you need to know about your options for getting a passport on short notice.

» Learn more: The guide to different types of U.S. passports

How long does it take to get an expedited passport?

U.S. passport processing times vary depending on the current demand for new passports and passport renewals. The currently posted timelines for routine and expedited processing are as follows:

Routine processing: Six to eight weeks.

Expedited processing: Two to three weeks.

Keep in mind that these are just the processing time once your passport application is received. Make sure to factor in that it can take up to two weeks for the State Department to receive your mailed application and up to another two weeks for you to receive your completed passport. You can shorten this mailing time by sending your application by express mail and paying for faster return shipping.

It's worth noting that current passport processing times are far higher than in the past. For reference, in December 2019, routine passport requests only took six to eight weeks. Expediting your passport application slashed that processing time to just two to three weeks — or just eight days if you renewed at a passport agency.

While we wait for processing times to return to those levels, here are your options for expediting your U.S. passport application.

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

How to expedite a U.S. passport application

The best option to expedite your passport application will depend on how quickly you need your passport. The U.S. Department of State currently offers three types of expedited passport application options: Expedited, Urgent Travel, and Emergency.

Here's a breakdown of each option and how to take advantage of each one.

Expedited passport applications

Submit an expedited passport application request if you're traveling in a few months and the current up-to-11-week standard processing time would cut it too close. The process is otherwise identical to a routine application, simply requiring an additional $60 fee on top of standard passport fees.

New passport applicants can submit an expedited application at a passport acceptance facility. Travelers renewing a passport can submit an expedited renewal application by mail.

Note that the State Department has a money-back guarantee on expedited requests. You can apply for a refund of your $60 expedited fee if the agency doesn't process your application within:

35 business days (excluding weekends and holidays) of receiving an application submitted on Oct. 2, 2023 or later.

45 business days (excluding weekends and holidays) of receiving an application submitted on or before Oct. 1, 2023.

Remember to factor in mailing times when figuring whether or not an expedited application will get you your passport in time to travel. If you want to shorten the overall processing time, send your application to the State Department by express mail. You can also include an extra $19.53 with your application fees for expedited 1-2 day return shipping of your completed passport.

» Learn more: How much does a passport cost?

Urgent travel passport appointments

If an expedited passport application isn't fast enough, you'll need to apply for an in-person appointment at a passport agency. You can only schedule an urgent travel application if you haven't yet applied for a passport and you have international travel booked within 14 days.

You can also get an urgent travel appointment if you've applied for a passport but still haven't received it and your travel date is quickly approaching. In this case, you can only schedule an appointment within five calendar days of your international departure date.

To determine your eligibility, you must provide your travel dates and destinations when calling for an urgent travel appointment. Then, bring printed proof of your international travel to your passport appointment. If you don't provide proof of travel, the passport agency may not honor your appointment request.

The State Department operates around two dozen passport agencies across the U.S. If you don't live in a city with a passport agency, you'll need to travel to one of these locations to submit your urgent travel passport application request.

In addition to potential travel costs, you'll need to pay an additional $60 expedited fee to the passport agency at the time of your appointment.

If you qualify for an urgent travel appointment, call 1-877-487-2778 to see what appointments are available. We recommend calling for an appointment as soon as you're possibly eligible — 14 days before departure if you haven't applied yet or five days out if you've already applied — as spots are extremely limited.

» Learn more: 4 times when you should renew your passport

Emergency passport appointments

The U.S. State Department clearly realizes that some situations require special treatment. You can apply for a so-called "life-or-death emergency" appointment at a passport agency if you need to travel internationally within three business days because an immediate family located outside the United States has died, is dying, or has a life-threatening illness or injury.

For the sake of this appointment type, the State Department considers an immediate family member as a:

Parent or legal guardian.

Grandparent.

Travel to visit other family members (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) in these situations or to travel to get medical services for yourself do not qualify for life-or-death emergency passport service.

To get a life-or-death passport appointment, call 1-877-487-2778 between 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time from Monday to Friday. Outside of these hours and on weekends and federal holidays, call 202-647-4000 instead.

» Learn more: How to get a passport in one day

If you need to expedite a U.S. passport…

Options for expediting a passport range from paying $60 more for an expedited application to applying in person at a passport agency in urgent situations.

If you're traveling in the next few months, don't count on getting your passport anytime soon. Routine passport processing takes weeks — and that doesn't include mailing times. Instead, apply as soon as possible and pay for expedited service.

To get your passport back quicker, pay extra for expedited shipping to and from the agency. Then, if you don't receive your passport as your travel date nears, make an appointment at a passport agency within five days of travel to make sure you have a passport in time to travel.

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On a similar note...

You Can No Longer Travel With an Expired US Passport

The pandemic-era policy has come to an end

As of July 1, 2022, the State Department has overturned a pandemic-era rule that temporarily allowed U.S. travelers to return home from overseas with an expired passport.

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

The policy, which applied to passports that expired on or after Jan. 1, 2020, was initially implemented due to "unprecedented [passport] appointment backlogs" and subsequent processing delays. (In July 2021, expecting travelers could wait as long as 18 weeks to get their passports .)

While 18-week-long processing times are fortunately a thing of the past, it's best to fill out your renewal application ASAP if your passport is expired—or if the country you're visiting requires your passport to be at least six months valid after entry or departure. The State Department currently estimates that it can take eight to 11 weeks to process a passport application. However, if your trip is fast approaching, you can pay $60 to get your passport expedited in five to seven weeks.

If you're renewing your passport, you can expect your new travel document to look slightly different than what you're used to . Called the "Next Generation Passport" (NGP), the latest iteration of the U.S. passport will feature improved security features, including "a polycarbonate data page, laser-engraved personalization, and updated artwork."

Application fees for new and renewed passports also cost $20 more than pre-pandemic . As of Dec. 27, 2021, U.S. travelers 16 and up must pay $165 for a new passport (up from $145) and $130 for a renewal (up from $110).

U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica. "U.S. Citizens May Return to the United States on Recently Expired Passports." Accessed July 5, 2022.

U.S. Department of State. "Return Travel on Recently Expired U.S. Passports." May 24, 2021.

U.S. Department of State. "U.S. Passports." Accessed July 5, 2022.

U.S. Department of State. "Next Generation Passport." Accessed July 5, 2022.

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How to Renew an Expired Passport

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

In our over 20 years helping readers with travel document issues, we get this question all the time:

Should I renew my expired passport or apply for a new one?

Once a passport is expired, it has outlived its usefulness. You cannot travel abroad nor apply for a travel visa with an expired passport. This means that if your passport's expiration date has passed and you need to travel internationally, you need to get it replaced immediately.

This leaves travelers with two options: apply for a passport renewal by mail or apply for a new passport . Each has its own procedure, fee, and timing to consider.

The best choice for you depends on 3 factors:

• How old you were when your last passport was issued?
• How much time has passed since the passport's expiration date?

If you can afford to wait, submit your renewal application, existing passport, and supporting documents through the mail. You do not need to visit a passport acceptance facility in person.

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service .

When Can an Expired Passport Be Renewed?

You can apply to get your passport renewed by mail at any time as long as your passport meets all of the following criteria:

• The expired passport was issued not more than 15 years ago
• The expired passport was not damaged
• The expired passport is an adult passport that was issued when the holder was 16 years old or older

In other words, passports issued to applicants age 16 or older can be renewed by mail up to 5 years after the expiration date (as long as the passport is not significantly damaged ).

Can I Renew My Passport Early?

Yes! Even if your current passport is still valid, there are good reasons to renew early:

• Long passport application processing times may mean significant delays when you need to renew a passport. If you wait until your passport is expired, you will have to wait until you complete the entire renewal process to be able to travel internationally or even apply for a visa again.
• Other countries have different validity rules when it comes to passports. This means you could have a valid passport that still does not allow you to travel abroad to some destinations. For example, some countries require three or six months of passport validity for entry.

How Do I Replace an Expired Passport That Does Not Qualify for Renewal?

If your expired passport does not meet the criteria listed above, you need to follow the steps for applying for a new passport to get it replaced.

Note: You will also have to pay the $35 execution fee-even though you paid it when getting your first passport.

The Expired Passport Renewal Process

The passport renewal process has several steps. These vary depending upon the passport services you need and if you can provide proof of urgent travel plans.

If time is not a factor, you can get a passport with routine service by following out guide to renewing an expired passport by mail . You can also use this method to renew a passport card or a passport book through the State Department's expedited passport renewal process.

If you need to renew an expired passport fast , hire a registered passport courier service to help. This is the best, most reliable way to get a passport quickly without having to go through the hassle, time, and extra expenses that come with visiting a regional passport agency on your own. Not only that, these experts ensure your applications and supporting materials are in order so that you don't experience unnecessary passport processing delays .

Either way, if you have the opportunity to renew your passport instead of applying for a new one, do it . Passport renewals are easier and less complicated than restarting the entire application process from scratch.

Even if you do not have current plans to travel internationally, renew your passport while you are eligible to do so rather than waiting until your next trip abroad (when it might be too late).

NOTE: Don't throw away or destroy that expired passport! it is possible to use an expired passport as proof of citizenship when you apply for a new passport. So, if you don't intend to replace your expired passport now, you may want to hold on to it so that it is available when you are ready to get a new one.

The Basic Steps to Renew your Expired Passport

• Complete a passport renewal application " Form DS-82 : Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail."
• Print and sign the passport application form . This is different than a the new passport application process which requires you to sign your application and take an oath in front of a U.S. State Department official.
• Have a new passport photo taken . You can get acceptable passport photos taken at some post offices and retail locations. For more information, check out our complete guide to where to get a passport photo taken .

The payment rules are the same, too. You cannot pay online. You cannot use a credit card, debit card, or send cash. Instead, you must send a check or money order payable to the "U.S. Department of State".

• Prepare your passport renewal documents for submission . Place your signed, completed application Form DS-82, your most recent passport photo, your undamaged passport, and payment for fees in an envelope.
• Include any additional required documents , if applicable. These include items like legal name change documents, a certificate of birth abroad, a marriage certificate, a naturalization document, etc.
• Mail the envelope to the appropriate address on the application form.

Once you have followed these steps, you must wait for your renewed passport book or passport card to arrive. Your supporting documents (including your expired, most recent passport) will be returned to you, as well. Passport applications, themselves, are not returned.

In some cases, these documents will be returned with your passport. Usually, though, they are mailed separately.

How Long Do I Have to Wait for my Expired Passport to be Renewed?

Whether you get a new passport or renew a passport you already have, processing a passport application takes between 6 to 8 weeks for standard service and 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service . These times are subject to change and can take even longer in times of high demand.

If you have a travel emergency and need to get a passport fast expedite a passport renewal , you can make an appointment at a regional agency.

If you don't have the time, ability, or desire to visit the processing center? Get a third party to go for you. You can authorize a relative, friend, family member, travel agent or an express passport courier to make the trip on your behalf.

Expired Passport Renewal FAQ

Is there still an official record of my expired passport?   Question: Hello--I'm applying for a new passport because my former one expired years ago. I can't find my old passport to use as identification, so ...

How long do I have to renew my passport?   Question: I want to confirm what I read. My passport will expire on March 27, 2011. I have no urgent need to renew it at this time. I read that I ...

Can I renew an expired passport by mail?   Question: My passport expired on Feb. 7, 2011. Can I renew it by mail and expedite the processing as I am planning to travel out of the country in a month....

Renewal of 18-Year-Old's Passport   Question: Married parents and 18-year-old's passports all expired Jan 2010. Do both parents need to accompany the child to the USPS passport office to renew a minor's passport ...

Which form do I use to get another passport?   Question: I had a passport but I cannot find it. It got packed away in a move. It is probably almost expired because I think I got it in 2000. Do I apply ...

Renewal of expired official passports   Question: My wife and I both had official (red) passports in addition to our blue tourist passports...while stationed overseas as DOD civilians. The ...

Renewal question for passport that expires soon   Question: My passport expires at the end of this month - if I don't get it to you in time can it still be "renewed" or do I have to go through a different ...

Submitting an Expired Passport for Renewal   Question: Do I have to submit my most recent passport (will expire in 6/2011) when I renew or can I submit a prior passport that expired in 1999? I ...

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

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

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

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Emergency Travel

This page is for noncitizens in the United States who need to travel outside of the United States because of an emergency and are seeking a travel document to authorize their return.  

If you are already outside the United States and need to return, but do not have your reentry permit, Green Card, or advance parole document because it was lost, stolen, or destroyed, see Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) page. 

If you are currently inside the United States and need to leave the United States because of an emergency, you should know what documents you will need to reenter the United States. You also should understand whether leaving the United States could negatively affect your immigration status or pending applications for immigration benefits.  

If you are returning to the United States after temporary travel abroad, you generally must have in your possession either:  

• A valid entry document, such as a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or nonimmigrant visa; or  
• A valid and unexpired travel document, such as a reentry permit, refugee travel document, or advance parole document.  

You generally need to apply for and obtain a travel document before you leave the United States. You may request a travel document by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.  

For more information, see the Travel Documents page.

Expedited Processing of an Application for Travel Document

If you have a pressing or critical need to travel and must leave the United States by a certain date, we encourage you to submit a request to expedite your pending application at least 45 days before the date you intend to leave, if possible.  

You may ask us to expedite adjudication of your Form I-131, Application for Travel Document , by calling the Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833) or by asking Emma. (You can access Emma by clicking on the Ask Emma icon on the top right of this page.) If you have a USCIS online account and access to secure messaging, you may submit your request there by selecting “expedite” as your inquiry type. You will be asked to upload documents in your online account to support your request.  

You may ask USCIS to expedite the following types of travel documents:

• Advance parole documents for noncitizens in the United States seeking to return after temporary travel abroad (including advance permission to travel for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term residents);
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) travel authorization documents;
• Reentry permits; and
• Refugee travel documents.

For more information, please visit the Expedite Requests page and the USCIS Policy Manual Expedite Requests guidance.  

Emergency Issuance of Travel Documents

If you are in the United States and have a pressing or critical need to travel outside the United States in less than 15 days, USCIS may issue an emergency travel document.  USCIS may issue an emergency travel document for an:

• Advance parole document; or
• TPS travel authorization document.  

Examples may include:

• A requestor who has a pressing or critical need to travel to obtain medical treatment in a limited amount of time.
• A requestor who has a pressing or critical need to travel due to the death or grave illness of a family member or close friend.
• A requestor who timely applied for a travel document and requested expedited processing, but their case remains pending, and they now must travel within 15 days for a pressing or critical professional, academic, or personal commitment.

To ask about emergency processing of a travel document, call the Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833) or request an appointment through My Appointment . If your situation qualifies for emergency processing, we will schedule an appointment for you with a local field office.

Required Documents

If you have an appointment with a USCIS field office for emergency issuance of a travel document, you should bring:

• A completed and signed Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with any applicable filing fee (Note: Even if you already have a pending Form I-131, you still need to file a new Form 1-131, with fee, if applicable, during your local field office appointment.);
• Evidence to support eligibility for the travel document (see the form filing instructions);
• Evidence to demonstrate the pressing or critical need to travel (see the Expedite Requests page); and
• 2 passport-style photos.

Any documentation in a language other than English must include a full certified English translation. 

Emergency Travel with an Expired Passport

According to a 2021 Economist/YouGov poll, only one-third of Americans hold a valid passport. What do you do if you need to travel abroad urgently, but your US passport has expired? You will need to follow the official procedures to be allowed to leave or return to the US. 

The first thing to bear in mind is that an expired passport is never considered a valid document and, whatever the case may be, you will need to obtain another travel document.

So, if you are in this situation, read on as we will go over everything you need to know about emergency travel with an expired passport.

Expired passport—what to do

Passport expired emergency—different possibilities, an expired passport—precautions, professional photos for your emergency passport, passport photo in 3s.

Take a photo with your smartphone, upload it to the website, we will convert it to an official passport photo and send you a digital or printed version. Simple? You can’t get more convenient than that!

As stated above, if you find yourself with an expired US passport, you won’t be allowed to board a plane with it and, even if you manage to do so, the port authorities at your destination will send you back to the US on the first available flight.

The first thing you should do if you have enough time is to apply for a passport renewal. The processing time will be between 8 (eight) and 11 (eleven) weeks, plus the time needed to mail the document. See more about passport renewal .

In other cases (such as a life or death emergency or to get back into the US), you can obtain an emergency passport that will allow short-term travel outside the country.

In any other situation, US citizens can only fly internationally with a valid passport book.

Passport nearing its expiry date? Get ahead of the game and up to speed by reading:

• Passport Validity for Travel to India [2024 & Beyond]
• Passport Expiration Rules for Mexico: When Can You Travel?
• Can Venezuelans Travel With Expired Passport?
• Traveling within the US with Only a Mexican Passport [Your Questions Answered]
• Can You Travel With a Damaged Passport? [Ultimate Guide]
• Can I Travel if the Names on My Passport and Green Card Don’t Match?
• Lost Expired Passport—What Should You Do?

Even if the general rule is that travelers cannot travel with an expired passport, there are differences between domestic and international travel, means of transportation (plane, ship, and so on), and countries.

Emergency travel with an expired passport—inside the US

Even for domestic flights, an expired passport will not be considered valid and, therefore, you will not be able to travel with it.

The good news is that you don’t need a passport to travel inside the United States, as many different forms of ID with photos are acceptable. Even if your US passport has expired, you can still board domestic flights with another document, such as a driver’s license.

However starting from May 3 2023, when the Real ID Act takes effect, many documents, such as a regular driver’s license, will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel. Citizens still won’t be required to carry a passport, however, they will need to make sure that the document is considered valid.

You might be interesting in: Emergency Passport in NYC – How to Get It

Emergency travel with an expired passport—international travel

If you need to travel outside the US and your passport has expired, there are a few possible scenarios.

If you want to fly back to the US, the only possible solution is to get an emergency passport—an expired passport or any other kind of ID will not be accepted. To obtain this document, US citizens will need to contact the local US Embassy or Consulate. They will require you to provide:

• a 2×2 passport photo
• another form of photo ID
• proof of US citizenship.

Within a couple of hours, you will be issued an emergency passport that will allow to fly back to the US. You can use this emergency travel document only to travel back home as other countries will not consider it valid. Once you are in the US, you should renew your expired passport to be allowed to travel outside the country in the future.

If you need to travel outside the US, the situation is more complex. However, there are a few cases in which a US emergency passport can be issued. In case of life or death emergency in your immediate family outside US, you can request the document allowing you to travel outside the country for 3 (three) business days.

To issue this kind of passport, the Department of State requires applicants to present the following documents:

• a statement from a hospital detailing the nature of the emergency (translated if issued in a foreign language) as proof of emergency;
• proof that your travel will last no more than 3 (three) business days (for example, airline tickets);
• a passport application form with all necessary supporting documents.

You will be able to get an emergency passport in 72 (seventy-two) hours.

If you can wait from 5 (five) to 7 (seven) weeks, you can request an expedited passport without needing to justify your reasons, and pay an additional $60 fee. This way, you will get a regular US passport.

If you need to travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean by land or sea, you will likely not be asked to show your passport on the way in, just a government-issued ID with a photo (e.g. an Enhanced driver’s license, Trusted Traveler card, passport card).

However, if your need to come back without any issues, you will need to present a valid US passport to be allowed to enter the country. If you don’t have one, border officials might choose to detain you until they can prove the citizenship.

However, there are some exceptions for closed-loop cruises (starting and ending in the same US port) that will allow you to take the trip without the need for a passport.

The first thing you should do to avoid problems with an expired passport is to renew it at least 6 (six) months before the end of its validity. This is a useful practice, especially if you need to travel internationally very often.

To avoid being caught by surprise, you should also keep copies of all the documents that you might need to provide when requesting an emergency passport, such as your birth certificate and any form of government-issued photo ID.

For any passport-related emergency abroad, be sure to note where the nearest US Embassy or Consulate is located and save their information – they will definitely be able to help in most situations.

If you’re in need of an emergency US passport, time is most likely of the essence to you. Why not save time getting compliant passport photos using a reliable and AI-backed app that’s available on both iOS and Android devices?

Passport Photo Online is a friendly and easy-to-use tool that will help you prepare a perfect photo for your document by:

• removing the background and replacing it with a plain white one if necessary;
• removing any unwanted objects (such as hands or toys in case of children’s photos);
• removing red-eye;
• cropping your photo to the correct dimensions of 2×2 inches;
• AI-scanning your picture for even the smallest errors and letting you know about it immediately. 

Each photo is also checked by a human photo expert for extra verification. Passport applicants can opt for a digital photo to be sent to their email or a printed version delivered to their street address. In the unlikely event of the photo not being accepted by the passport agency, you are entitled to a 200% refund from the company.

In this part, we will recap all of the most important information regarding emergency travel with an expired passport. 

Can you travel without a passport in an emergency?

No, a passport is required for all international flights. On domestic flights, you are allowed to use other forms of government-issued photo ID. If you need to leave the country and your passport is expired, you will need to apply for an emergency passport, issued only in some cases by the Department of State.

Can I travel with an expired passport to my country?

No, if your passport expired in another country, you will need to request an emergency passport at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.

Can you travel with a soon-to-expire passport?

For domestic flights, there will be no problem. For international travel, you will need a passport that expires after you reenter your country.

What happens if you travel with an expired passport?

If you attempt to travel with an expired passport, most likely you will not be allowed to board the plane. If you do somehow manage to get to another country, the local authorities will immediately send you back.

What is considered an emergency to travel with an expired passport?

You are never allowed to use an expired passport as a travel document. For a life or death emergency, you can request an emergency passport.

How long does an emergency passport last?

Generally, an emergency passport lasts for 3 (three) business days. If issued by an embassy or consulate, it will only be valid to get back to the US territory.

Emergency travel with an expired passport—summing up

As you can see, an expired passport is never an acceptable travel document. If you have to travel inside the US, you can use a government-issued photo ID to board flights.

For international travel, the only acceptable document is a valid passport book. If it expires, gets lost or is stolen, you will need to obtain an emergency passport.

• [1] https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast/emergencies.html

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Get an emergency travel document, emergency certificate:.

If you have an emergency and you are unable to obtain a regular passport you may apply for an “Emergency Certificate”. An Emergency Certificate is a temporary travel document that is issued for specific travel. This document is subject to acceptance by the respective airlines and country of destination. It is recommended that you contact your airline before applying for this document. Once your airline has communicated their willingness to accept the document you will be required to complete a passport application and submit the following documents:

• Birth Certificate or Expired Passport.
• Two Identical photographs (one should be certified by the certifying official who certified the application)
• Photo identification (if passport is unavailable)
• Processing fee (Three business days $2,500 or next business day $5,000)

Travel Permit:

If you are a national of a foreign country that does not have an Embassy/High commission or a consular representative in Jamaica, you may apply for a travel permit to facilitate return to your country of origin in the case where your passport is lost, stolen, expired or unavailable. A Travel Permit is a temporary document that is issued to foreign nationals to facilitate travel. The following documents will be required:

• A completed Travel Permit Application form
• Birth Certificate or expired passport
• Proof of Immigration Status
• Processing fees (adult – $2,500, Minor – $1,600)
• Processing times -s three (3)business days

Seaman’s Certificate of Nationality:

Seaman’s Certificates are issued to Jamaican nationals who are engaged in seagoing employment or about to be engaged in seagoing employment. The documents required are:

• Current Jamaican Passport and/or Jamaican Birth Certificate
• Completed Seaman’s Certificate application form
• Proof of seagoing employment (letter from shipping company or shipping agent).
• Processing fees (Three business days – $1500, Next Business day – $4000)

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Global Risk & Safety Updates

Health and Safety Updates

April 26, 2024 , Filed Under: General , Safety and Security

Passport Requirements and Emergency Assistance

Passport requirements and recommendations.

Are you planning to travel abroad in the near future? If so, you will need a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months after your anticipated date of return to the United States .

We also highly recommend confirming that your emergency contact person also has a valid passport, in case they need to travel abroad to support you for a medical emergency requiring an extended stay in the hospital.

You can apply for a new passport or renew your existing one at Texas Global ! The Passport Services office is an authorized U.S. passport acceptance facility offering appointment-based services to the public, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit Passport Services at Texas Global for more information.

Insurance and Emergency Assistance

Did you know that all UT Austin students and employees are enrolled in overseas insurance and emergency assistance coverage through On Call International?

This service provides emergency travel benefits to allow your emergency contact person to join you in cases when hospitalization is required for more than 24 hours. Learn more about this policy by visiting the Global Risk and Safety webpage for Overseas Insurance .

If you have any questions or concerns about upcoming international travel, please contact the Texas Global Risk and Safety team at [email protected] .

The 1 Big Mistake You Should Never, Ever Make With Your Passport

Senior Reporter, HuffPost Life

A couple of years ago, I was invited to attend a friend’s July wedding in his wife’s hometown in northern Italy. As the date approached, I remarked to another friend who was also planning to travel from the U.S. for the celebration that I was glad I had just renewed my passport since it was due to expire in May. She responded cheerfully that she was all set because her passport wouldn’t expire until September.

She was mistaken. My friend was not all set because Italy, as part of the Schengen Area of European countries, requires visitors to have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date they intend to depart.

Fortunately, she was able to expedite her passport renewal and make it to the wedding, but her situation highlighted a fairly common misconception about international travel.

Having A Current Passport Isn’t Always Enough

“A lot of us just think we need a valid passport to travel the world beyond our borders, but what many people don’t realize [is] that a current passport alone might not be enough,” said Katy Nastro, a spokesperson for the flight alert service Going .

Indeed, many countries require your passport to have a certain duration of validity remaining beyond the intended dates of your trip. The most common lengths are three and six months past the date you fly back to the U.S.

“A lot of countries, namely in Asia and the Middle East, require six months’ validity beyond your travel dates ― meaning if you take a trip to Vietnam in July, for example, your passport needs to be valid up until at least January,” Nastro explained. “If you arrive at the airport and try to get on your flight, some airlines won’t even let you board without this very important bit of time, in which case you run the risk of not being able to take your trip.”

Each country has a different timeline for passport validity, so international travelers need to familiarize themselves with these policies before booking a trip.

“Some may require three months, while others may require six months or even more,” said David Alwadish, the founder and CEO of the passport and visa service ItsEasy.com. “When some countries also require a visa and grant a multiyear paper visa, they may require at least one year or more [of] validity.”

The specific requirement depends on a variety of factors, including the country’s immigration policies, bilateral agreements and security risk considerations.

“Therefore, it’s crucial for travelers to thoroughly check the entry requirements of the specific country they plan to visit to ensure compliance with passport validity regulations,” Alwadish emphasized.

He and Nastro have both observed a lack of understanding around passport validity rules.

“It’s common for people to be unaware of the three- or six-month passport validity rule, particularly among those who don’t travel frequently or haven’t encountered it before,” Alwadish said. “The rule may not be consistently enforced across all countries, causing misconceptions among travelers. The complexity of immigration policies, which can change, adds to the challenge of staying informed. Lastly, passport validity requirements may not be well-publicized, leading to lower awareness among travelers.”

What’s The Reason For These Requirements?

“These requirements ensure that visitors have a valid passport for the duration of their intended stay, as well as for a buffer period in case of unexpected delays or extensions,” Alwadish explained.

You might’ve planned a two-week sojourn in the South of France, for instance, but maybe after a few days you realize that you actually want to stay for two months. Or perhaps something happens that’s out of your control.

“This is mainly out of precaution,” Nastro said. “Let’s say you fall seriously ill or have an accident and then need to stay in that country longer than intended. If your passport expires during this unplanned time, it can cause a mountain of issues upon trying to exit the country.”

The period of passport validity for international tourists provides an extra cushion in case you sustain an injury that precludes you from flying for a while, or you delay your return for other personal reasons. The point is to account for the fact that plans might change.

“Countries set a minimum of three or six months of passport validity for foreign visitors to facilitate efficient immigration procedures, bolster security measures and improve emergency management,” Alwadish said. “This ensures that visitors have a valid travel document throughout their stay and can respond effectively to unforeseen circumstances. Furthermore, these requirements promote fairness and reciprocity in visa policies, fostering balanced relationships between countries.”

The specific duration varies from country to country, and not every destination has these requirements.

“For example, the Mexican government only requires that your passport is valid during the entirety of your trip versus after the trip,” Alwadish said.

How To Make Sure You’re OK To Travel

“For a lot of folks, it’s not an issue since you get 10 years out of a passport,” Nastro said. “When you realize it’s the year your passport expires, however, you actually might be running against a six-month clock depending on where you are traveling to. It makes sense to just go through the renewal process sooner rather than later.”

She recommended renewing your passport a year before it’s due to expire so that you know it’s all taken care of early.

“With expedited processing and wait times at record lows, you’ll most likely see a new book back sooner than expected,” Nastro added.

When it comes to passports and other important travel documents, advanced planning is the name of the game.

“While some countries enforce uniform rules for all foreign visitors, others may have different requirements depending on the visitor’s nationality or specific visa agreements,” Alwadish said. “It is so vital that travelers check the entry requirements of their destination country to understand any variations based on nationality.”

He recommended reviewing an embassy or consulate website in your home country for the place you want to visit. Most provide detailed information about entry requirements for foreign visitors. You might also consult the State Department’s website or travel advisories from the immigration authority at your destination.

Once you have that information, compare your passport expiration date with your planned travel dates.

“To cross-reference with the country’s validity rules, start from the day you return and add the number of months required for the validity,” Alwadish said. “The rule is usually three to six months from the day you return, not from the day you leave.”

Make sure to check the rules of the airline you’re flying as well, especially if you only have four or five months of validity after the date you return home.

“If you don’t have six months of validity starting from the date you return from the trip, the airline has the power to turn you away, whether they’re right or wrong,” Alwadish said. “You should call them and have them put a note in the system regarding this issue so they’re aware of it prior to your arrival at the airport.”

Confirm that your passport has sufficient blank pages and is not damaged. If you changed your name recently due to marriage, divorce or another reason, your passport will need to reflect that as well. Don’t forget to see if your destination requires a visa or electronic travel authorization.

In the event that an issue arises, there are ways to get your travel documents in a rush , but you can avoid the extra stress and hassle by doing a few extra checks in advance. Then, just relax and enjoy your international vacation.

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Wake County, NC

Passport Fair

About This Event

If international travel plans are in your future, you’ll want to mark your calendar for the Wake County Register of Deeds Passport Fair! The Passport Fair will take place Monday, April 29, in Room 100 of the Wake County Commons Building, 4011 Carya Drive, Raleigh. The fair is open to the public, and appointments are not necessary – you can drop in at any time. Parking is free and easy.

Passports will not be issued on site, but staff will mail your applications and documents to the U.S. Department of State for you. It currently takes about eight weeks for passports to be processed routinely (plus mailing time). Expedited processing and delivery options are available. More details can be found at travel.state.gov .

Who can get a passport at the Passport Fair? To be eligible to participate in the Passport Fair, you must fall into at least one of the following categories:

• You are applying for your first U.S. passport.
• You are younger than 16.
• Issued when you were younger than 16
• Issued more than 15 years ago
• Lost, stolen or damaged.  

If you need to renew your current passport, you can do it by mail. Information is available at travel.state.gov .

What do I need to bring? It’s critical that you bring all required documents, so double check that you have everything before heading over! A complete checklist is available on the Register of Deeds website.

• A completed passport application form
• Proof of U.S. citizenship — certified birth certificate, expired passport or naturalization certificate. If you were born in North Carolina, you may pick up a copy of your birth certificate in our vital records office.
• Proof of identity — driver’s license, military ID or other government-issued ID
• Passport photo — you can bring your own or have one taken at the fair for $12. A list of photo requirements can be found at travel.state.gov .
• Application and execution fees. A full list of passport fees can be found here . Please note that some of these fees can only be paid with a check or money order.  

For more information, visit the Register of Deeds website at wake.gov/ROD or email [email protected] .

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What Should I Do if I Lose My Passport While Traveling?

You will have to replace the passport before returning to the United States. Contact the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate  for assistance. Contact information for U.S. embassies and consulates is also available in our  country information  pages. Ask to speak to the Consular Section to report your passport lost or stolen.

You will have to appear in person at the U.S. embassy or consulate to apply for a new passport. If you are scheduled to leave the foreign country soon, please provide consular staff with the details of your travel. We will make every effort to assist you quickly. If there is not enough time to get you a regular passport, the Consular Section may be able to give you a limited-validity emergency passport, which may be valid for up to one year.

If a loved one tells you their U.S. passport was lost or stolen overseas, you can call the Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747. They will be able to help you put your loved one in touch with the closest U.S. embassy or consulate.

What Do I Need to Replace my Passport Overseas?

Please bring with you to the embassy/consulate:

• One  passport photo  (get it in advance to speed the process of replacing your passport)
• Identification (driver's license, expired passport, etc.)
• Evidence of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, photocopy of your missing passport)
• Travel Itinerary (airline/train tickets)
• DS-11 Application for Passport
• DS-64 Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport

Even if you cannot present all of these documents, consular staff will do their best to help you. They will help you get a new passport quickly. 

Police Report:

A police report is  not  mandatory but can help confirm the circumstances of the loss or theft. If you lose your U.S. passport, we recommend you tell local police. But you can skip the report if you are concerned about delaying your travel.

How Long is a Replacement Passport Valid?

Passports last ten years for adults, five for minors. Need a quick fix for urgent travel? Get a limited-validity emergency passport, which is valid for up to one year. You can exchange it for a full-validity one after your trip. You may also receive a limited passport if you have lost multiple passports or borrowed money from the State Department to fund your trip home. A consular officer can provide additional information.

Are Fees Charged to Replace Lost/Stolen Passports Abroad?

Replacement passports cost the same as any other passport. If you are unable to pay for a new passport, you can give the consular staff the names of people who might help. See our information about  Financial Assistance to U.S. citizens Abroad  and  Sending Money Overseas to U.S. Citizen in an Emergency.

If you have been a victim of a serious crime or disaster and cannot afford a new passport, you may be eligible for a free limited-validity emergency passport. If you want a full-validity passport, the regular fee applies for replacements.

Can the U.S. Embassy Issue a Replacement Passport on a Weekend or Holiday?

Most U.S. embassies and consulates cannot issue passports on weekends or holidays. All U.S. embassies and consulates have after-hours duty officers. They are available to assist with life-or-death emergencies of U.S. citizens abroad. Contact the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate  after-hours duty officer for help. Do this if you have an emergency, need to travel, or have been the victim of a serious crime. In most cases, a replacement passport will be issued the next business day.

Can I travel if I find my passport after reporting it lost or stolen?

No. If you reported your passport lost or stolen, it is no longer valid for international travel. A foreign country may deny your entry if you try to use that passport. Or you might not be allowed to leave if you are already abroad. If you want to travel after reporting your passport lost or stolen, you need to apply for a new passport.

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