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Why You Should Never Put a Souvenir Stamp in Your Official Passport

Novelty and souvenir passport stamps are a popular trend popping up around the world. Here's why you should think twice before putting one in your official passport.

Tina Sibley, a woman in her sixties from the United Kingdom, thinks of herself as a well-traveled person. And really, she's got the ticket stubs and passport stamps to prove it. However, as she learned in February 2020 while attempting to board a Qatar Airways flight in Thailand, some of those stamps can really get you into trouble.

"An excited traveler, I presented myself and my passport at Qatar Airways last night to be told I couldn't fly because of the Machu Picchu stamp in my passport," Sibley shared in a Facebook post . "I thought the guy was having a laugh. But no."

Dismayed, Sibley proceeded directly to the British Embassy in Thailand to make her case, only to be shot down once again.

"The embassy heard my plight and said that it was rubbish," she wrote. "My passport was valid and as such, they couldn't issue a replacement. They told me to explain that to Qatar Airways and if they wouldn't take me, to go with another airline."

However, back at the airport, it turned out neither Qatar Airways nor Emirates would take her, so it was back to the drawing board. The source of all this frustration: A silly little novelty stamp from Machu Picchu .

It does appear that in this particular case, everyone was confused about the validity of the souvenir stamp that likely thousands of other travelers also happen to have in their passports. Beyond that famed stamp that visitors can give to themselves in Machu Picchu, hardcore travelers also hunt down and collect others — the "Checkpoint Charlie" stamp from Berlin , the Antarctic Heritage Stamp from a pilgrimage to Antarctica , or the Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch passport stamp from Wales — to add to their official collection. That said, let Sibley's stressful experience, and page five of all United States passports, serve as a warning to never put these souvenir stamps in your official document.

On page five of each and every U.S. passport, international travelers will find a note saying that the "Alteration or Mutilation of Passport," is unauthorized and "only authorized officials of the United States or of foreign countries may place stamps or make notations or additions to this passport."

Those officials include U.S. State Department staff, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officers, diplomatic and consular officials of foreign countries, and immigration officers at international borders. In other words, sorry, but giving yourself a stamp at Machu Picchu simply doesn't count.

"The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid the use of novelty stamps in the U.S. passport. The Department could potentially consider novelty stamps as 'damage' to the U.S. passport," a State Department official told Travel + Leisure. "We cannot comment on what passport damage or alteration might cause the Department of Homeland Security or the government of a foreign country to prevent entry at the border."

However, that doesn't mean you need to forgo getting these kinds of novelty stamps altogether. Rather than mark up your official documents, though, pick up a journal and keep all your souvenir stamps and memories from your trip in there instead. That way, you'll always be able to get home on time and have a special keepsake to remember your travels by.

As for Sibley, she did finally get an emergency passport after a bit of back and forth begging and pleading with the embassy. And this time, it won't be filled with anything but official stamps.

Think Twice Before Putting Souvenir Stamps In Your Passport

If you're a world traveler, your passport more than likely looks like a kaleidoscope of varying inks, designs, and shapes revealing what countries you've been to and when. In all essence, your passport is your travel memoir on paper: a detailed recording of every country you've ever been to, and a proud reminder of all you've experienced.

But have you also collected in your passport what is commonly referred to as "souvenir stamps?" According to the Robb Report , these novelty stamps are given to international travelers when they arrive at locations such as "Checkpoint Charlie" in Berlin, or Machu Picchu in Peru, perhaps even the Galápagos Islands, or Easter Island — to name a few.

While commemorating your journey to any of these locations is indeed a highlight in your lifetime, before you head out on your next big adventure overseas, doing a full review of the stamps in your passport, ensuring you don't have any souvenir stamps, could save you unexpected delays and possibly being banned from traveling to your destination.

Souvenir stamps: The official rules to your issued passport

Applying for, and receiving a passport marks a sense of accomplishment and freedom. But honestly, how many have actually read the "Important Information" on pages 5 through 7 in their U.S. passports? If you're one of many who haven't, the U.S. government has outlined some priority topics that bear reviewing.

For instance, page 5 outlines several, bold-faced, warning statements officials want the holder to be firmly aware of. One being, that your passport is "U.S. Government Property." Meaning, you may have paid for your small booklet to travel abroad, but you don't own it. Your passport is an official government document, and by law you must surrender it upon request. You also cannot and should not deface it any way.

The second notification: "Alteration or Mutilation of Passport." But how could a souvenir stamp be classified as altering or mutilating a passport, you ask? Quite easily actually. Within the fine print of that notification statement, it clearly states, "Only authorized officials of the United States or of foreign countries may place stamps or make notations or additions in this passport."

So, that Sherpa standing next to a Llama in Galápagos that is grinning from ear-to-ear to eagerly stamp your passport with his handmade stamp — unfortunately, he's not an authorized official, and anything he adds to your passport can quite literally invalidate it, leaving you stranded on your trip, and quite possibly facing unexpected expenses — as reported by The Sun happening to a British woman back in 2020.

Alternative options for collecting souvenir stamps

Bear in mind, it's not just U.S. passports that these warnings are for. If you're the holder of a foreign passport, such as an Australian passport as reported by The Daily Mail , and you have any of these stamps in your passport booklet, you risk potentially being banned from your flight as well.

If you should find, while reviewing your passport pages, that you have one or more of these novelty stamps affixed, and you're planning a new trip abroad, consider applying for a replacement passport with clean pages before you leave. Not only will this ensure that your new passport is not invalid in any way, it brings you peace of mind as well that your trip will be successful.

And, if you want to commemorate your travels to any of these unique sites with souvenir stamps, opt for bringing your old, canceled passport you're no longer using, or better yet, a travel journal or diary. Utilizing any of these alternative options are both legal and worry-free.

Why Passport Stamps Could Soon Disappear

By Rachel Chang

With the advent of  biometric facial recognition and digital passport control, high-tech methods of border control are speeding up the way we enter and exit countries around the world. But as immigration lines shrink, another aspect of the process is also starting to disappear: passport stamps.

Once the international standard for crossing borders, the analog process of immigration officers flipping through each traveler’s passport book to hand-stamp official ink entries—while an exciting step of the process for many international passengers to document their travels—is no doubt time-consuming and not the most reliable method for providing border clearance. 

“Stamps often aren’t the best solution,”  Sally French , a travel expert at NerdWallet, says. “If they’re printed poorly, they can be tough to access later on. They’re often placed randomly in passport books which can make them tough to find—and they can also be easily counterfeited.”

While the U.S. has been moving toward  more simplified digital processes with electronic  I-94 entry records and speedier Global Entry processes, one the most significant changes is coming later this year across the Atlantic.

The European Union is preparing for a  November roll out of its  Entry/Exit System (EES) , which will automate the border crossing process and eliminate passport stamping all together. For those who require a visa for entry, facial recognition will be used, since their fingerprints have already been taken during the visa application process, and for those who don’t need a visa, they'll have to log in four fingerprints and facial recognition.

The system will apply to those who are not a citizen of an E.U. country, who are traveling for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, and will be in use in 29 countries, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France , Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal , Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Sandra Weinacht of  Inside Europe , who has been traveling through the continent this week, said that some airports already have the electronic stamp-less systems, with an immigration officer at Germany’s Nuremberg airport telling her that it has been in place for “months now.” But when she got to Italy’s Pisa airport, she met American travelers who had arrived via London’s Heathrow (the U.K. won't be part of the new program) and proudly showed her their stamps in their passports, noting they were some of their “most treasured keepsakes.”

That sentiment holds true for traveler Lee Abbamonte , who has visited every country in the world and owns the equivalent of more than 25 passports, with five old passports getting stuffed with extra pages five to six times each. Among his most beloved stamps are the most remote ones, like at South Pole Station, Pitcairn Islands, Tokelau, Ogasawara, Ascension, and St. Helena islands, as well as the harder-to-obtain ones at the time he visited, like Iran, Angola, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Yemen, Syria, and Cuba.

“Passport stamps were the only souvenir I would usually have from my travels that took me to every country,” Abbamonte says. “I loved them and would actually point to the immigration officer where they should stamp to avoid stamping over another or taking up unnecessary space so I could get more stamps in my passport.”

But even so, he understands where things are headed. “Digital and virtual stamps have been coming for years and started a while ago,” he adds. “I’ve never liked it for the simple reason I love actual passport stamps, but it’s hard to argue it’s not more convenient or efficient.”

French notes that the reality is that old passports can be hard to hang onto, especially since the State Department requires sending them in when renewing them. Though they promise to return old passports, “many travelers report never getting their old one back.” And she says it’s not exactly a comprehensive record anyway, especially within Europe’s Schengen zone—consisting of 27 countries , including Croatia, which just joined this year —where you only get a stamp for the first entry and last entry points, and not every country.

As our world gets more digitized, French suggests considering other ways to collect records of where you’ve been, whether it’s by geotagging photos, using an app to put digital pins in the countries you’ve been, or even turning to tourist souvenir shops that sell faux passport stamps.

“There’s a sort of dreamy nostalgia that comes with passport stamps,” she says, noting they can serve as "tangible evidence of those world-traveling experiences.”

But even for a global traveler like Abbamonte, he knows it's a sign of the times. “As I’ve gotten older I don’t care as much,” he admits. “But I still love scrolling through pages to see the stamps as they bring back memories of trips."

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U.S. Visa Stamp Explained

Home » U.S. Visa Stamp Explained

July 25, 2021

If the U.S. embassy or consulate granted you a U.S. visa, the officer likely placed a visa stamp inside your passport. The U.S. visa stamp is the physical document that is placed in your passport by the consular officer.

With a valid, unexpired U.S. visa stamp, you may apply for admission to the United States of America at a port of entry. At the port of entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will review the visa in the passport and all supporting documents to determine if you may enter.

How to Read a U.S. Visa

The U.S. visa stamp provides the inspecting CBP officer at the port of entry with the information necessary to admit you to the U.S. under a specified visa status and for a specific period of time. Inaccuracies or incorrect information can lead to significant problems. Therefore, its vital that you inspect the visa at the time issue to ensure everything is correct. This article will help you understand the various information so that you know how to read a U.S. visa stamp. Refer to the sample visa below to follow along.

Mistakes on USCIS forms can cause costly delays or a denial.

Some people don’t need a visa stamp to visit the united states.

Not everyone requires a visa stamp in their passport to come to the United States. Certain foreign citizens are allowed to enter the U.S. without a visa for a limited period of time.

Visa Waiver Program

Visitors from U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries may visit for a period of up to 90 days. The purpose of travel must generally be pleasure/tourism or medical treatment (reasons consistent with a B-2 visitor visa). Before traveling to the U.S., VWP visitors must receive permission to enter the U.S. through the United States’ Department of Homeland Security’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

RECOMMENDED: Adjustment of Status for Visa Waiver Program Entrants

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Again, if traveling for general pleasure purposes, citizens of Canada and Bermuda to not require a U.S. visa stamp when visiting the United States. Unless ineligible for a visa under U.S. immigration law, or have previously violated the terms of their immigration status in the U.S., Canadian and Bermudian citizens may enter the U.S. with only their passports. When traveling for more than 180 days or for reasons inconsistent with a B-2 visa, visitors from these countries may require a nonimmigrant visa.

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Understanding Entry-Exit Stamps: Your Guide to Travel Documents

Entry-exit stamps are an essential part of travel documents and serve as proof of legal entry and exit from a country. These stamps are typically placed in a traveler’s passport by immigration officers upon arrival or departure and are sometimes referred to as passport stamps , immigration stamps , or border control stamps . Understanding these stamps is critical for a hassle-free journey and avoiding potential complications.

Entry-exit stamps come in various forms, including travel document stamps , visa stamps , and customs stamps . They serve as a record of a traveler’s entry and exit dates, allowing authorities to keep track of visitor statistics and enforce immigration regulations. Some countries may require specific visas or permits, which are usually indicated through entry-exit stamps , and customs stamps can indicate the declaration of goods.

There are two types of entry- exit stamps : entry stamps and exit stamps . Entry stamps are typically placed upon arrival in a country, while exit stamps are obtained when leaving. These stamps may include information such as the date of entry or exit, the name of the border control officer, and the name of the airport or port of entry. It’s important to have a passport with visible and legible entry-exit stamps to ensure a smooth travel experience.

During the immigration process, travelers are usually required to present their passports to immigration officers who inspect and stamp them. The officer may verify travel documents, check visa validity, ask questions about the purpose of the visit, and record necessary information before stamping the passport. Cooperating with immigration officers is crucial for a seamless process.

While entry-exit stamps are essential for travel, common issues can arise. Illegible or missing stamps may cause problems during subsequent travel or visa applications. Incorrect stamping or recording of dates can lead to confusion or potential penalties. It’s essential to preserve entry-exit stamps, and travelers should handle their passports with care, avoid excessive exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures, and use protective covers or sleeves to prevent accidental smudging or fading.

With digitalization on the rise, some countries are implementing electronic systems that reduce the need for physical entry-exit stamps. Digital stamps or records may be accessible through online portals or biometric scanning. While digitalization may bring benefits, such as faster processing times, concerns about privacy and security must be addressed.

In conclusion, understanding and preserving entry-exit stamps is crucial for hassle-free travel. Familiarizing oneself with entry-exit requirements and ensuring passports have visible and legible entry-exit stamps are essential. Entry-exit stamps capture the memories of exploring the world, making them valuable travel mementos.

The Purpose of Entry-Exit Stamps

Entry-exit stamps are essential for travelers as they serve as a record of their legal entry and exit from a country. These stamps are travel document stamps that immigration officers place in a traveler’s passport upon arrival or departure. They can include visa stamps , customs stamps , entry stamps , and exit stamps, which serve different purposes in the entry-exit process.

One of the primary functions of entry-exit stamps is to keep track of visitor statistics and enforce immigration regulations. By recording a traveler’s entry and exit dates, authorities can monitor the length and purpose of the visit, identify overstay cases, or track potential security concerns. Additionally, some countries may require specific visas or permits, which are often indicated through entry-exit stamps. These stamps can also include customs stamps, which indicate the declaration of goods and are necessary for tax and duty purposes.

It is crucial to comply with immigration requirements and ensure that your passport has appropriate and legible entry-exit stamps. Failure to comply with immigration regulations can lead to complications during travel or potential penalties. Moreover, missing entry or exit stamps can raise questions about the traveler’s legal compliance, and incorrect stamping or recording of dates may lead to confusion or potential penalties. Therefore, understanding the purpose of entry-exit stamps is crucial for a smooth travel experience.

Different Types of Entry-Exit Stamps

Entry-exit stamps are essential travel documents that allow travelers to prove their legal entry and exit from a country. These stamps are generally placed in a traveler’s passport by immigration officers upon arrival or departure. There are two types of entry-exit stamps: entry stamps and exit stamps.

Entry stamps are typically placed upon arrival in a country, whereas exit stamps are obtained when leaving. These stamps may include information such as the date of entry or exit, the name of the border control officer, and the name of the airport or port of entry.

Passport stamps , also known as entry and exit stamps, are important travel documents that serve as proof of a traveler’s legal entry and exit from a country. Travelers must ensure that their passport has visible and legible entry-exit stamps to avoid complications during subsequent travel or visa applications.

Preserving entry-exit stamps is crucial, as they serve as mementos of travel experiences. To ensure their preservation, travelers must handle their passports with care, avoid excessive exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures that could damage the stamps, and use protective covers or sleeves for passports to prevent accidental smudging or fading of the stamps. Additionally, travelers can make photocopies or digital scans of their passport pages with entry-exit stamps as an additional backup.

How Entry-Exit Stamps are Processed at Immigration

Upon arriving at a foreign country, one of the first points of contact is generally with the immigration officer. The immigration officer’s primary responsibility is to verify the traveler’s identity, check entry requirements and visa validity, and determine the purpose of the visit. Entry-exit stamps are usually placed in the traveler’s passport once the immigration officer has verified all necessary information.

Immigration stamps are usually placed in the passport upon arrival, and another stamp is placed upon departure. Immigration officers may use different entry-exit stamps, but the essential information usually included contains the date of entry or exit, the name of the border control officer, and the name of the airport or port of entry.

When obtaining entry-exit stamps, it is essential to present your passport to the immigration officer and answer questions truthfully and accurately. The process can vary between countries and different points of entry, but it generally follows similar procedures.

Entry-exit stamps are essential for travelers, as they serve as proof of legal entry and exit from a country, and compliance with immigration requirements. Therefore, it is essential to keep the passport well-organized and the stamps visible and legible. Failure to comply with the regulations can result in complications during subsequent travel or visa applications.

How Entry-Exit Stamps are Processed at Immigration: Tips for Travelers

• Be cooperative with immigration officers and follow all instructions.
• Provide accurate information and answer questions truthfully.
• Keep your passport well-maintained, ensuring entry-exit stamps remain visible and legible.
• Familiarize yourself with the entry-exit requirements of your destination country.
• Ensure compliance with immigration requirements to avoid complications during subsequent travel or visa applications.

Common Issues with Entry-Exit Stamps

While entry-exit stamps serve an essential purpose for travel, there are common issues that can arise with these stamps. It’s important to be aware of these issues to avoid complications during subsequent travel or visa applications.

Unclear or Illegible Stamps

One common issue with entry-exit stamps is that they may be unclear or illegible due to smudging, fading, or poor stamping. This can cause problems during subsequent travel or when applying for visas, as it may raise questions about the traveler’s compliance with immigration regulations. To prevent this issue, handle your passport with care and protect it from moisture or extreme temperatures. You can also consider using protective covers or sleeves for passports.

Missing Stamps

Another common issue is missing entry or exit stamps. This can happen if the immigration officer forgets to stamp your passport or if the stamp is accidentally covered or removed. Missing stamps can raise questions about the traveler’s compliance with immigration regulations and may cause issues during subsequent travel. To avoid this issue, ensure that you receive an entry and exit stamp every time you cross a border and check that they are visible and legible.

Incorrect Stamping or Recording of Dates

Incorrect stamping or recording of dates can also cause problems for travelers. This can happen if the immigration officer makes a mistake or if there is confusion around time zones. Incorrect dates can lead to confusion or potential legal penalties, so it’s important to double-check your passport stamps and address any discrepancies with immigration authorities.

By being aware of these common issues, you can take steps to ensure that your entry-exit stamps are clear, complete, and accurate. If you do encounter any issues with your entry-exit stamps, be sure to address them with immigration authorities promptly to avoid further complications.

Tips for Preserving Entry-Exit Stamps

If you’re an avid traveler, you know how much a passport filled with entry-exit stamps can be a proud testimony of your voyages. To make sure your passport stamps remain visible and legible, while also safeguarding it for future use, here are some practical tips:

• Handle with care: Keep your passport in a dry and cool place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid stuffing it into your pockets or bags with other items that can damage the passport or stamps.
• Use protection: Cover your passport with a protective sleeve or holder to prevent accidental smudging, scratches, or water damage. This will also help keep your passport clean and organized.
• Make copies: Photocopy or scan your passport pages containing entry-exit stamps, and keep them in a secure location separate from your passport. This will provide an additional backup in case of loss or damage.
• Display your stamps: If you want to showcase your passport stamps, you can frame them, create a scrapbook, or digitize them into a photo album. This will allow you to revisit your travel memories while also preserving your passport in its original condition.

Remember, a well-preserved stamped passport can be a cherished travel memento and a reminder of the adventures you’ve undertaken. By following these tips, you can ensure your entry-exit stamps remain a tangible proof of your global explorations.

Entry-Exit Stamps and Digitalization

As technology advances, there is a growing trend towards digitalizing entry-exit stamps. Some countries are implementing electronic systems, such as e-passports or visa waivers, which can reduce the need for physical entry-exit stamps in passports. These digital systems may record the traveler’s entry and exit dates, name of the officer, and other relevant information.

With digital entry-exit stamps, travelers may be able to access their travel records through online portals or biometric scanning. This can provide convenience and efficiency, as travelers no longer need to worry about losing or damaging their physical passport stamps. However, it is important to note that not all countries have adopted digital systems, and travelers should ensure they comply with the immigration requirements of their destination country.

Despite the benefits of digitalization, there are also concerns about privacy and security. Travelers’ personal information may be stored in electronic systems, which could potentially be accessed or misused. For this reason, travelers should take precautionary measures, such as protecting their devices with passwords and avoiding sharing sensitive information online.

Entry-exit stamps play a crucial role in international travel and serve as proof of legal entry and exit from a country. Understanding the purpose and significance of entry-exit stamps can help ensure a hassle-free journey.

Remember to comply with immigration requirements and cooperate with immigration officers when processing entry-exit stamps at checkpoints. Common issues with entry-exit stamps, such as illegible or missing stamps, can cause problems during subsequent travel or visa applications. Therefore, it is advisable to handle passports with care and preserve entry-exit stamps using protective covers, digital scans, or photocopies.

Digitalization of Entry-Exit Stamps

As digitalization becomes more prevalent, entry-exit stamps are also being digitized in some countries. While this may reduce the need for physical stamps, it presents challenges related to privacy and security. It is important for travelers to stay informed about the entry-exit requirements of their destination country and any potential digitalization measures.

Ultimately, entry-exit stamps not only serve as travel documents, but also capture the memories of exploring the world. So, don’t forget to appreciate and cherish these valuable travel mementos.

Q: What are entry-exit stamps?

A: Entry-exit stamps are stamps placed in a traveler’s passport by immigration officers upon arrival or departure from a country. They serve as proof of legal entry and exit and are also known as passport stamps, immigration stamps, or border control stamps .

Q: Why are entry-exit stamps important?

A: Entry-exit stamps are essential for travelers as they verify their legal entry and departure from a country. These stamps serve as an official record and can be used to enforce immigration regulations, track visitor statistics, and ensure compliance with visa requirements.

Q: What information is included in entry-exit stamps?

A: Entry-exit stamps may include the date of entry or exit, the name of the border control officer, and the name of the airport or port of entry. These stamps distinguish between entry stamps, obtained upon arrival, and exit stamps, obtained when leaving a country.

Q: How are entry-exit stamps processed at immigration?

A: Travelers present their passports to immigration officers who inspect and stamp them. The officer may verify travel documents, check visa validity, ask questions about the purpose of the visit, and record necessary information before stamping the passport.

Q: What are common issues with entry-exit stamps?

A: Common issues with entry-exit stamps include unclear or illegible stamps, missing stamps, and incorrect stamping or recording of dates. These issues can cause complications during subsequent travel or visa applications.

Q: How can I preserve entry-exit stamps?

A: To preserve entry-exit stamps, handle your passport with care, use protective covers or sleeves, and avoid exposure to moisture or extreme temperatures. Make photocopies or digital scans of passport pages with stamps for backup.

Q: What is the impact of digitalization on entry-exit stamps?

A: Some countries are implementing digital systems such as e-passports or visa waivers, reducing the need for physical entry-exit stamps. Digital stamps or records may be accessible through online portals or biometric scanning.

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Beyond borders: 14 places you can collect extra passport stamps

Usually collecting passport stamps requires entering a new country. From the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador to the United Nations in New York City, here's a list of places where you can collect extra stamps for your passport within a given country. (Just be sure to remember to bring your passport to each location.)

This South American country is known for its biodiversity, and for travelers it's a great place to collect extra souvenir stamps in addition to the one you'll get for entering the country.

#1-3 The Galápagos Islands (and attractions)

You can collect extra stamps for visiting the Galápagos Islands themselves and for going to two popular attractions, including the Rancho El Chato Reserve and the Charles Darwin Research Station.

#4 The equator, aka "La Mitad del Mundo"

Back on the mainland, you can take up even more space in your passport with an extra stamp at the equator, known locally as "La Mitad del Mundo" ("the Middle of the World"). While there's a visitor's center, monument, and a souvenir line painted to mark the equator, it's worth noting that the real equator is actually located several hundred feet away , unadorned.

Two of Peru's top attractions, and places to immerse yourself in the country's rich history, are also sites where you can collect extra stamps for your passport.

#5 Machu Picchu

Once you collect your stamp upon entering Peru, don't forget to bring your passport with you as you head to the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. You can get a stamp at no extra charge at this UNESCO World Heritage site when you enter the historic sanctuary.

#6 Islas Uros/Floating Islands

If you make it to Peru's border with Bolivia, Lake Titicaca — believed to be the cradle of Andean civilizations — is a must see, as are the lake's celebrated Uros floating islands, made by hand out of locally growing totora reeds by the indigenous Uros people. While you're learning about the Uros culture that predates Incan times, you can pick up an extra souvenir stamp.

#7 Easter Island/Rapa Nui

One of TPG's favorite passport stamps is the one he collected while visiting the remote Easter Island, located more than 2,000 miles (or a five-hour flight) away from mainland Chile. Head to the local post office to collect this brag-worthy stamp.

In Argentina

With many sought-after destinations located all over the map in Argentina, two favorites are also places where you can acquire more stamps to commemorate your far-flung travels.

#8 Iguazu Falls

If you head to the country's famed Iguazu Falls, be sure to ask the park staff for a commemorative stamp for your passport.

#9 Ushuaia/"El Fin del Mundo"

Known as the end of the world and located at the southern tip of South America, Ushuaia may feel as far away as Antarctica, but technically it's still located in Argentina. No matter, if you visit the tourist information office, you can pick up an extra stamp for your effort.

In the United States

#10 The United Nations

If New York is on your itinerary, head to the U.N. headquarters to get a commemorative stamp in your passport to mark the date of your visit.

#11 Churchill, the "Polar Bear Capital of the World"

Located in northern Manitoba, Churchill is known, as its nickname suggests, for its polar bears. So much so, that if you visit the local post office, you can get a stamp in your passport (or on a postcard) that says "Polar Bear Capital of the World."

#12 Checkpoint Charlie

Now a historic landmark that commemorates what was once the best-known border crossing checkpoint between what used to be East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War, when East Germany and West Germany were two separate countries, this site is one of Berlin's top attractions and a place where you can collect souvenir passport stamps. Donations accepted, but not required .

#13 Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, or "Llanfair PG" for short (Wales)

This one's a 58-letter mouthful, and one you'll want to show off to your friends. Apparently the village with the longest name in the U.K. is the result of a publicity stunt (one that appears to have paid off). While you're here, ask the tourist information office staff how to pronounce the name (they get asked this a lot) and a local souvenir store will gladly stamp your passport so you can always remember your trek to this Welsh village with the unforgettable (if also unpronounceable) name.

#14 In the 26-member countries of the Schengen Area

Once visitors enter the Schengen Area in Europe, travelers can pass between the borders of these 26-member countries freely, meaning you'll likely acquire fewer passport stamps than you think when exploring Europe. One pro tip? Simply ask immigration officers for a stamp when you're at a border crossing. If you're lucky, you'll be able to collect those extra souvenirs for your passport.

It's worth noting that souvenir passport stamps are unofficial, and while they aren't likely to lead to problems, they could lead to extra questioning from border security staff.

For passport mistakes to avoid, check out our guide to 6 Very Important Things to Know About Your Passport .

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Temporary I-551 Stamps and MRIVs

A machine-readable immigrant visa (MRIV) usually has the following text on it: “UPON ENDORSEMENT SERVES AS TEMPORARY I-551 EVIDENCING PERMANENT RESIDENCE FOR 1 YEAR.” When a new immigrant first enters the U.S., U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will stamp the passport with an admission stamp that indicates the immigrant has permanent resident status and has the date the new immigrant entered the U.S. The employee’s foreign passport with the MRIV is evidence the employee has permanent residence status for 1 year from the date of admission. Even if the MRIV is issued without the statement “FOR 1 YEAR,” employers should treat the MRIV as an acceptable List A document valid for 1 year from the date of admission.

Here is an example of an immigrant visa with the CBP endorsement:

If the stamp in the passport is endorsed and is near but not on the immigrant visa, it is still a valid endorsement.

Atlas & Boots

The UK's most popular outdoor travel blog

16 unusual passport stamps of the world

Some unusual passport stamps to collect on your travels, from breakaway republics to the northernmost and southernmost post offices

It may be unfashionable but I’m a bit of a box-ticker when it comes to travel. I’m working my way through the seven summits , the highest mountain on every continent (four down, three to go); I have a list of the countries I’ve visited (94 and counting!); and I keep track of memorable places such as the  highest, lowest and driest  spots I’ve visited.

I’m also rather proud of my passports (past and present) that have filled up with the various stamps I’ve collected. The standard entry and exit stamps from most countries are fairly mundane.

Unusual passport stamps of the world

However, beyond the typical destinations are some unusual (and brag-worthy) passport stamps to collect on your travels including microstates, geographical landmarks, inaccessible lands  and a range of historical sights. As such, we’ve compiled a list of unusual passport stamps for you to collect on your travels.

 1. Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin, Germany

Symbolic of the Cold War and a divided Europe, Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin was the best-known border crossing between East and West Berlin throughout its 28-year active life.

The checkpoint has not been in use since the official reunification of Germany in October 1990. Tourists today can visit the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie museum and have a range of unofficial passport stamps to choose from at a cost between €1 and €3.

2. Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, Quito, Ecuador

From the end to the middle of the world, the South American continent has quite a few claims to fame. Located 26km north of Quito is  Ciudad Mitad del Mundo  (Middle of the World City), where the equator passes through Ecuador .

There is some confusion about exactly where the equator lies. Apparently, the equator is actually where the Ethnographic Museum Monument is located, about 240 meters north of the marked line and pyramidal monument at the official site. Both sites have the means to stamp your passport – the cost is included in the entrance fees.

3. North Korea

Only around 1,500 Western tourists visit North Korea every year, making it one of the least-visited countries in the world . Moreover, it is the political and social opposition to entering such a closed-off and undemocratic country that makes this crossing such a prize for travellers.

Tourists must join a pre-planned tour with two North Korean guides. The guides have to be specially appointed by the country’s Ministry of Tourism and it can take around six to eight weeks to organise. Passport stamps are issued upon entry.

4. The polar bear capital of the world, Churchill, Canada

The small town of Churchill  in northern Manitoba is on the west shore of Hudson Bay. Every autumn, its large population of polar bears move toward the shore from inland, inspiring the name ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’.

The polar bears spearhead the region’s growing ecotourism industry where tourists can visit a polar bear jail in which bears that persistently loiter in or close to town are held pending release back into the wild in winter. In Churchill’s post office, you can have your passport unofficially stamped with a polar bear.

5. Machu Picchu, Peru

Most tourists to Peru will want to visit  Machu Picchu , one of the new seven wonders of the world . In the 15th century, the Incan Emperor Pachacútec built a city in the clouds on the mountain known as Machu Picchu (old mountain).

As you enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site via the world-famous  Inca Trail  there is an opportunity to get your passport stamped (included in the park entrance fee). If you miss this opportunity or don’t fancy the trek, there is also a small office just inside the entrance to the actual Inca ruins where you can also get your stamp.

6. Llanfairpwllgwyngyll-gogerychwyrndrobwll-llantysilio-gogogoch, Wales, UK

This large village in Wales with 58 characters has the longest place name in Europe and the second longest official one-word place name in the world.

The small shop next to the train station is one of Llanfairpwll’s (short name) main tourist attractions and can stamp your passport with the full Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch name. (We had to hyphenate the title to fit it onto the page!) You can also buy a novelty train ticket featuring the platform name, also record-breaking in length.

7. Port Lockroy, Antarctica

Not the easiest place in the world to access and for good reason: it is Earth’s southernmost continent and contains the South Pole. Most tourists visit from either Chilean or Argentine Tierra del Fuego, but some make the epic journey from New Zealand or South Africa .

Antarctica is managed by more than 50 nations via the Antarctic Treaty System, so there are no official passport stamps. However, tour operators can arrange to visit scientific stations where visitors can get souvenir stamps. One of the most popular stops for visiting cruise ships is the world’s southernmost post office at the historic British base of Port Lockroy on the Antarctic Peninsula.

8. Ny-Alesund, Svalbard

From one extreme to the other, Ny-Ålesund on the island of Spitsbergen in  Svalbard ,  Norway , is the world’s northernmost permanent settlement. While there are research stations further north in Canada, Russia and Greenland, these are either unoccupied for part of the year, or occupied by revolving teams of researchers. Ny-Ålesund, in comparison, has a permanent population: 35 year-round and 114 in the summer.

It’s also home to the world’s northernmost post office, a fading cyan building straight out of a Wes Anderson movie. This post office is no longer active, so those hoping to send a postcard must take a short trip to the nearby shop and use the postbox there.

9. El Fin del Mundo, Ushuaia, Argentina

It’s not called the end of the world for nothing. We have visited the southernmost part of Argentina twice now. Ushuaia is not quite the southernmost population on the continent (that would be Puerto Williams on the Chilean side of Tierra del Fuego) but it is the most dramatic.

The windswept town has a picturesque setting between the Martial Mountains and the choppy seas of the Beagle Channel. Visit the tourist information centre on the waterfront to choose between several passport stamps.

10. Republic of San Marino

We visited San Marino last year during an extended European rail trip and couldn’t resist grabbing a passport stamp. Apart from the Vatican (where you can’t get your passport stamped), San Marino is Europe’s smallest state and the fifth smallest in the world. The Republic of San Ma rino is an enclaved microstate just over 60km 2 in size.

Surrounded by Italy on all sides and with a population of 34,000, San Marino claims to be the oldest surviving sovereign state and constitutional republic in the world. Citizens of the EU will need to pay €5 to get their passport stamped at the tourist information office. Visitors from outside the EU will automatically get a stamp on entry.

11. Greenland

An autonomous country within Denmark, Greenland  is geographically part of North America but politically part of Europe, although not part of the EU. Greenland is described as a country within the Kingdom of Denmark, despite it being 50 times the size of the “motherland”.

Its somewhat idiosyncratic political and geographic status is what makes this passport stamp unusual – not to mention the isolation, pristine glaciers and bracing clean air.

12. Tristan da Cunha, South Atlantic Ocean

Tristan da Cunha in the South Atlantic Ocean is 2,434 km (1,512 miles) from Saint Helena, 2,816 km (1,750 miles) from South Africa, and 3,360 km (2,090 miles) from South America. With a population of approximately 270, the main island of Tristan da Cunha is also the remotest inhabited island in the world.

It has no airport, so all travel must be by boat, making it the most remote inhabited place by transport time as well. Boat travel to the nearest scheduled airport in South Africa takes five days. On arrival, visitors have to get a landing stamp, one of the world’s hardest passport stamps to get. If you make it here, you’re either very dedicated or very lost.

13. Principality of Liechtenstein

The Principality of Liechtenstein is a landlocked country in Central Europe bordering Austria and Switzerland . Home to just 39,000 people, Liechtenstein is the world’s sixth-smallest sovereign state by area.

Not only is the tiny state landlocked but it’s also one of just two doubly landlocked countries in the world ( Uzbekistan being the second) being surrounded only by landlocked countries and requires the crossing of at least two national borders to reach a coastline.

14. Easter Island, Chile

Easter Island is a  long  way from anywhere. In fact, it is one of the  most remote communities  in the world. Its closest inhabited neighbour is Pitcairn, 2,000km (1,200mi) to the west while the nearest continental land lies in  Chile  at a distance of 3,700km (2,300mi).

Additionally, Motu Nui, an islet just south of Easter Island, is one of the closest landmasses to the  oceanic pole of inaccessibility  – one of the hardest-to-reach places on the planet. In short, it’s not a short hop. Therefore, if you make it out here, make sure to get your passport stamped at the Rapa Nui post office.

15. Pitcairn Islands, UK

The British really don’t know what to do with this island of unruly residents. With a population of just 47, it is the world’s least populous national jurisdiction. This secluded island group should be known for its fantastic history of mutiny or the fact that it was one of the first territories to give women the vote (in 1838 some 80 years before the rest of the UK). Unfortunately, this was all overshadowed by a shocking child-sex scandal .

The islands are one of the most remote places on Earth. There is no airport so supply vessels and the occasional cruise ship are the islands’ only connection to the outside world. As such, its passport stamp, which features the iconic HMS Bounty, is among the rarest on the planet.

16. Republic of Užupis, Vilnius, Lithuania

The self-declared breakaway Republic of Užupis in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius is one of the smallest republics in the world, covering less than 1 sq km. The republic celebrates its independence on 1 April – known locally as Užupis Day – or April Fools Day.

While it’s not officially recognised by any state, it does have its own flag, currency, president, government, constitution and crucially, its own passport stamp. Visitors can get them stamped as they cross the “border” into the republic which is located on the unguarded bridge.

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Passport stamps being phased out around the world as paper-free travel technology moves closer

Passport stamps have been considered a souvenir of sorts for decades but if you have been on a trip overseas recently you might have noticed some countries are no longer inking your passport.

Soon, some, including Singapore, will do away with physical passports entirely .

It's left some travellers feeling nostalgic as they face the prospect of a blank or completely digital passport in the near future.

"It's heaps of fun to sort of go back through your passport," Sydney-based travel blogger Michael Turtle said.

After needing to renew his passport recently, Mr Turtle said he counted 155 stamps accumulated over 10 years.

"I look at my old passports and there are a lot of happy memories there. You know, the stamps often remind you of trips that you'd kind of forgotten about."

Australia was the first country to remove the physical entry and exit stamp system in December 2012, replacing it with the SmartGate system.

SmartGates allow passengers to be processed through passport control automatically using facial recognition technology and the passport's electronic chip.

Israel, Argentina, Hong Kong, Singapore and Macau are the other countries that have stopped using stamps when people arrive or depart.

Next in line to remove them is the European Union (EU).

Why the change?

Border security expert from Macquarie University Dalbir Ahlawat said it was all about making travel safer as stamps could be tampered with or counterfeited.

But he said they were not the only parts of a passport that could easily be manipulated.

"I have seen the passports where they have replaced the picture, they've taken the visa label from one passport to the other, passports are stolen, they are tampered with, or pictures are removed or added," Dr Ahlawat said.

In a statement, a European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper said the EU was in the process of "modernising" its system to improve border security.

"[We are] saying goodbye to manual passport controls and welcoming electronic checks [to] speed up queues and improve security," she said.

The Entry/Exit System will allow the EU to access more reliable data on border crossings and provide automatic detections of overstayers.

End of paper passports?

Singapore has recently announced it is introducing "automated, passport-free immigration clearance".

Dr Ahlawat said it was likely physical passports would be entirely phased out around the world in the future.

"It appears that in the next 10 years, the physical passport can be replaced, at least on a trial basis, with a digital passport," he said.

However, he said it was unlikely our passports would be uploaded to our mobile phones like our credit cards have been.

"Because your battery may go flat, you may lose your mobile phone, [or] you may not have internet access in some of the countries," he said.

He said advancements in using "biometrics" to confirm a person's identity could remove the need for a passport altogether.

"Your picture is being taken, palm prints are taken, and fingerprints," he said.

"For people who are lost then there will be DNA sampling also.

"So, it will be a complex dataset and this dataset has to match [the records]."

But he admitted there was still a lot of work to do before the entire world moved away from the stamping system. So, don't throw out your passport yet.

"Mainly in Africa, Asian countries and Latin America more work needs to be done," he said.

"And whether all countries would like to join or not is also an issue. Some countries are involved in their own national security challenges or economic challenges."

A bittersweet farewell

Australian travel blogger Jarryd Salem said he would be sad to see passports phased out.

"Even though social media and blogs create long-lasting memories, we still consider passport stamps to be one of our favourite souvenirs; they are unique and tangible," he said.

"There's something special about a passport that you can physically touch and flick through."

Mr Turtle said as a frequent traveller, passports could be a "hassle" because it did not take long for his to fill up with stamps.

He said a move away from them would be "bittersweet".

"There is some very happy memories in here but there's also a bit of a logistical issue," he said.

"So you know, it'd be nice not to have that anymore."

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Everything You Need To Know About The National Parks Passport

By: Author Mark and Kristen Morgan

Posted on Published: October 24, 2022  - Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories North America Travel Blog

If you are heading to any of the US National Parks , you should consider purchasing a national parks passport to help document your adventure.

But what is a national parks passport and why should you buy it?

A national parks passport is a great way to support the US National Parks. After you purchase the initial guidebook, its completely free to collect the popular ink stamps at each park you visit.

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know, including:

• What is a national parks passport and cancellation stamp ?
• Where to buy a national parks passport and accessories
• The 4 different types of national parks passports with pros and cons
• How to find cancellation stamp locations

Now, let’s shop for a national parks passport!

Disclaimer : We received a National Parks Passport in order to share our opinion about this product but this is not a sponsored post.

What Is A National Parks Passport?

A national parks passport is a small guidebook featuring blank spaces where you can add stamps for each national park visited as well as commemorative stickers issued each year.

If you have a passport to travel internationally , you are already familiar with how a passport system works. The national parks passport system is set up in a similar way, but is not stamped for entry like a regular passport.

In 1986, the non-profit Eastern National, now known as America’s National Parks , created the Passport To Your National Parks® program.

Their goal with this program is to help visitors preserve memories and experience the beauty of the US National Parks. This mission also aligns with the “take only pictures, leave only footprints” practice.

The idea of the program is extremely simple. The only cost to you will be the initial cost of the passport book as the stamps are completely free to collect.

However, if you choose to collect the commemorative stamp sets, these will also be a small fee for each new set.

All net proceeds from the passport system are donated back into educational and interpretative programs managed by the National Park Service.

So not only are you able to document your travels to each national park, but you are also supporting the national parks with every purchase.

What Is A Passport Cancellation Stamp?

You are probably familiar with cancellation stamps used by the modern day post office.

A cancellation is a marking applied to the top of a previously used stamp on a piece of mail to signal the stamp has already been used. These cancellation markers can be found on any letter you receive.

The national park cancellation stamps are round 32mm ink-based stamps used in a very similar way to the postal service. These passport cancellation stamps record the name and date of the national park you visited.

What makes national park cancellation stamps unique is they have the park name listed across the top with the park location with city and state along the bottom of the stamp.

You can change the date, which is found in the center of the stamp, to the date of your visit.

To stamp your passport, you need to find the passport stamp cancellation station (which are often near the bookstores). National park cancellation stamps can be found in visitors centers and sometimes in ranger stations.

Looking for National Park inspiration? Don’t miss our popular national park quotes guide to inspire your wanderlust.

How Many National Park Passport Stamps Are There?

Passport stamps are the perfect souvenir when visiting the nationals parks across the United States. You can collect stamps from over 400 national parks, monuments and historical sites.

Once you purchase a national park passport, you will receive a detailed map showcasing 400+ parks across the entire NPS system. Use this map as a starting point when you begin collecting stamps.

Each visitor center location will have their own unique stamp with other stamps sometimes available. So you can assume each national park will have at least one cancellation stamp.

However, many of the larger national parks have multiple collection stamps at various locations throughout the entire park.

For example, Yellowstone National Park has 15 official stamps along with numerous bonus stamps found in the park.

After researching many databases online, we found varying numbers on how many national park stamps currently exist.

But we can conclude there are over 3,000 official national park cancellation stamps and about 490 anniversary stamps . If you have a Junior Ranger, there are another 485 stamps to collect.

Planning to camp in a National Park?  Take advantage of our exclusive  30 day free trial of The Dyrt PRO  to snag a reservation at sold out campgrounds by using a fantastic new feature called Dyrt Alerts. These alerts will notify you about cancelations at the most popular US National Park campgrounds. Try it for free today!

Stamps, Stamp Series And Single Stickers

The verbiage can be confusing because stamps, stamp series and stickers are sometimes used interchangeably. Just to be clear, these are three different items you can collect with your passport.

• Cancellation Stamps – These are the free stamps you receive at each visitor center and must be physically stamped into the blank sections of your passport.
• Stamp Series – Each year since 1986, a new series of passport stamp set has been released. This annual set includes 10 stamps with one national and nine regional locations all on one sheet.
• Single Stickers – These are individual self-adhesive stickers featuring a specific park with additional informational text that is not included in the passport or as part of the stamp sets.

Passport single stickers are $2.95 and currently include the following locations:

• Acadia National Park
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Cape Hatteras National Seashore
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park
• Cowpens National Battlefield
• Flight 93 National Memorial
• Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
• Lincoln Memorial
• Monocacy National Battlefield
• Thomas Edison National Historical Park
• Wright Brothers National Memorial

Planning to visit several US National Parks in one year? Purchase an America the Beautiful Pass to save money on entry.

What To Do If You Forgot Your Stamp At The Park

If the visitor center was closed or you couldn’t access the stamp station during you visit, you can also access blank cancellation stamps online at the NPS website so you never miss a stamp.

Locate the national park location on the NPS website and head to the stamp page.

• Right click the blank image of the stamp
• Print the image from the webpage
• Add the date of your visit
• Cut out the stamp
• Tape it into your passport

Where To Buy National Park Passports

National park passports can be purchased through America’s National Parks store online or onsite at most national park visitor center stores.

We recommend you purchase your national park passport online in advance from America’s National Park prior to your trip.

If you wait to purchase your passport at a park, stock may be limited or sold out. So in order to guarantee the edition you want, be sure to buy your passport online.

This way you can also familiarize yourself with the book before heading to any of the national parks.

Travel Tip : Want to save 15% on your first purchase? Use code WELCOME at checkout at the America’s National Park store .

4 Different Types Of National Park Passports

There are four different types of national park passports. Depending on how many parks you plan to visit, a different edition may suit your needs.

Classic Edition

This is the smallest passport available with 112 pages. But its small size packs a big punch with need to know information about each park and color coded regional maps.

The classic edition is a practical and economical way to get your passport stamps. This edition also comes with an official NPS map featuring all 400+ park sites.

Classic Edition dimensions : 6″ x 4″

Current Price : $12.95

Pros to the classic edition:

• Lightweight and postcard size is perfect for travel
• The soft cover is durable and pages are firmly attached
• Spiral bound spine makes it easy to add extra pages
• This is the cheapest edition option

Cons to the classic edition:

• 112 pages only gives you 4-5 pages for each individual region
• Expander packs will be required if visiting many national parks
• Would need about 4 books if collecting from every national park
• Limited information about the national parks

>> Buy the Classic edition here .

Collector’s Edition

The Collector’s Edition is a larger passport book with 192 pages and a dedicated space for each national park stamp. This is a great option for those who frequent the national parks.

Similar to the classic edition, a map featuring the 400+ parks is included along with a checklist of all the national parks in each region.

This edition includes official pages for annual National Stamps though 2029 with updated maps, site listings and park designations.

Collector’s Edition dimensions : 7.5” W x 10” H

Current Price : $29.95

Pros for the Collector’s Edition:

• Additional information about each park compared to the Classic Edition
• Extra space for cancellation stamps in each region
• Dedicated area for each national park stamp
• Weather resistant cover makes it durable for travel

Cons for the Collector’s Edition:

• Bigger and more bulky compared to the Classic Edition
• Only room for two stamps and sticker per national park
• Will eventually run out of room if planning to visit many parks
• Depending on time of publication, this edition may not be up to date

>> Buy the Collector’s edition here .

Explorer Edition

The Explorer Edition is best for those who plan to visit many national parks. We like this edition because it is jammed packed with information about each park and allows the most creative freedom.

This edition has a 3 ring binder making it very easy to add and arrange the pages anyway you want. There are also two mesh pockets so you can keep your collectables safe.

Explore Edition dimensions : Portfolio binder with 3 rings about 11’’ x 8’’

Current Price : $69.95

Pros for the Explorer Edition:

• Best for the frequent travelers and road trippers
• Extremely durable due to the weatherproof portfolio
• Includes space for all 400+ national parks
• Extremely customizable

Cons for the Explorer Edition:

• Most expensive edition option
• Large size is bulky and not as travel friendly compared to other editions
• Will still need a few expander packs if visiting all 400+ parks
• Can be heavy if loaded with collectables and pages

>> Buy the Explorer edition here .

Junior Ranger Edition

The Junior Ranger edition is perfect for your little explorer. This kids passport was designed in collaboration with the National Park Service and is loaded with vibrant illustrations by Dave Klüg.

This edition includes a free set of stickers and blank spaces for specially designed Junior Ranger cancellation stamps which are earned after completing a park’s Junior Ranger program.

Junior Ranger Edition dimensions : 9’’ x 7’’

Current Price : $14.95

Pros for the Junior Ranger edition:

• Perfect for kids of all ages
• Incudes educational content created just for kids
• Passport is small and easy to transport
• Great way for kids to learn about US national parks

Cons for the Junior Ranger edition:

• Kids may outgrow this edition in time
• Does not have room for all 400+ parks
• Can be time consuming to collect with Junior Ranger programs
• Text may be difficult for younger children

>> Buy a Junior Ranger edition here .

How To Get National Park Passport Stamps

Hopefully, we have convinced you to travel with a national parks passport by now. It is the perfect way to share national park experiences with your loved ones.

So what are your next steps?

• Purchase the edition of your choice from the America’s National Parks online store
• Travel to your first national park
• Head straight to the visitor center (or ranger station)
• Find the cancellation stamp station
• Open the page to that specific park
• Check the date is correct on the stamp and that the stamp is right side up
• Stamp your passport (or participate in the Junior Ranger program)

And then all you need to do is visit another national park, monument or historical site to repeat the process.

If you forget your passport, the stamp station will also have extra pieces of paper for you to stamp. You can then just tape this into your passport when you get home.

National Park Passport Stamp Locations

Let’s quickly discuss how to find the specific stamps for each new location you visit.

The best way to find the exact stamp station for each location is the America’s National Parks website.

Click here to find Cancellation Stamp locations .

This link will give you the official list to every cancellation stamp supplied by the Passport To Your National Parks® program.

The list is updated every month and new listings are highlighted in red.

Tips For Stamping Your Passport

Here are a few important tips to consider when collecting your stamps:

• Check the information before you stamp – Make sure you have the appropriate stamp and adjust the date as needed.
• Complete a test stamp – Before you add the stamp to your passport, utilize the stamp testing area to ensure the stamp and ink are working correctly.
• Larger parks have many stamps – If you are visiting a larger park, do your research beforehand so you know exactly where to find all the stamp stations.
• Be respectful of others – There may be a small line while other people collect their stamps too. Be patient and take this time to compare stamps with others around you.
• Close the ink pad – This way the ink won’t dry out for others who visit after you.

Don’t know which National Parks you should visit? Check out the 20 best National Parks in the US .

Pros And Cons For Purchasing A National Park Passport

If you are still on the edge, here are a few reasons why you should or shouldn’t purchase a passport.

Pros to purchasing a National Park Passport :

• Cancellations stamps are completely free to collect
• Passports are compact (or you can travel with just a few pages)
• Your purchase supports the US national parks
• Preserve memories with your loved ones by a chronological record
• A passport stamp cuts down on waste of trinket souvenirs

Cons to purchasing a National Park Passport :

• Initial cost of passport

Which National Parks Passport Do We Have?

We started visiting the US National Parks in 2019 when Mark immigrated to America and didn’t know about the national parks passport system right away.

But we started using the classic edition to collect stamps and stamp sets in our passport in 2021.

However, we have quickly outgrown this edition because we frequently visit the national parks.

So we have just upgraded to the explorer edition at the end of 2022 and look forward to many more years of exploring our national parks.

Passport To Your National Parks Accessories

If you want to jazz up your passport with some fun accessories, shop popular options below.

• Classic Expander Pack – 20 additional pages (16 for cancellation stamps, 2 for national stamps and 2 for regional stamps).
• Classic Leather Cover – Give your passport some extra protection with this stylish leather cover.

Collector’s Ediiton

• Collector’s Expander Pack – 20 additional pages (14 for regional stamps, 2 for national park stamps and 4 for cancellation stamps).
• Collector’s Leather Cover – Add some durability with this leather cover.
• Explorer Expander Packs – 36 additional pages for all your needs.

Miscellaneous accessories

• Passport Camp Mug – This cute tin mug is perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
• Stampable Sticker Sets – Round sticker sets that can be stamped in case you forget your passport.
• Passport Journal – A cool place to write down your favorite memories and experiences.

Or maybe you are looking for a specific national park? Click here for a complete list of alphabetical park stores .

FAQ’s About The National Parks Passport

Let’s take a look at some of the frequently asked questions about the national parks passport and stamp sets.

The national parks passport ranges in price from $12.95 to $69.95 depending on the edition purchased. If you are on a budget, consider the classic edition which costs $12.95. But if you plan to visit many national parks, the explorer edition is what you need which costs $69.95.

You can get a national park passport cancellation stamp at most national park visitor centers. Bring your passport to the stamp station in the visitor center and be sure to check the date on the stamp before placing it in your book.

Yes, you can buy passport stamp books at national parks but we would recommend you purchase your national park passport online in advance from America’s National Parks .

Yes, all national parks have at least one cancellation stamp while larger parks have multiple stamps to collect.

Our Popular National Park Guides

• Acadia – 17 best things to do in Acadia National Park
• Badlands – 32 amazing things to do in Badlands
• Capitol Reef – 22 stunning things to do in Capitol Reef
• Grand Canyon – Best things to do at Grand Canyon South Rim
• Yellowstone – How to spend 4 days in Yellowstone National Park
• Grand Teton – An epic Grand Teton National Park itinerary
• Yosemite – The perfect Yosemite National Park itinerary
• Zion – One amazing day in Zion National Park

National Park Hiking Guides

• Mt Rainier – 23 best hikes in Mt Rainier
• Zion – 20 best hikes in Zion National Park
• Grand Canyon – 17 best hikes at Grand Canyon South Rim
• Acadia – 10 best hikes in Acadia National Park
• Arches – The best hikes at Arches National Park
• Badlands – Easy hikes in Badlands National Park

Want more National Park content? Head over to our US National Parks travel guides to read all about the most popular parks in America.

We hope this guide featuring the National Parks Passport helps with planning your visit to the any of the US National Parks!

Please let us know if you have any questions about visiting the US National Parks below in the comments and have a great trip.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy This NP Passport Guide? Pin It For Later!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

Share this article!

Thursday 7th of September 2023

How do you get to the blank cancellation page for each park

Friday 8th of September 2023

@Mark and Kristen Morgan, I mean how do you get blank cancellation stamps I went to each parks page and can’t find them. I just need the ones I went to before I got the passport book Thanks

Mark and Kristen Morgan

Hi Lisa, you can purchase expander packs for the Classic, Collector's or Explorer Passport. Depending on the pack you purchase, this will give you extra space for official cancellations, regional stamps and national stamps. Here are the current expander packs: https://bit.ly/3P67FLT

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Coolest Passport Stamps to Collect on Your Travels

Passport stamps are still the most coveted item for a traveler. Getting one’s passport “tattooed” gives a sense of accomplishment and achievement, as well as a way to look back on trips and memories long gone.

While some countries no longer stamp passports and are turning to a virtual system, there are still far-out places and territories offering unique passport stamps only available to the most adventurous globetrotters. Here is a list of our favorites.

Tristan De Cunha

Tristan da Cunha is a group of volcanic islands in the South Atlantic, the most remote archipelago in the world, still inhabited.

A British Overseas Territory 1,732 miles off the coast of Cape Town, being so remote it’s no wonder this is one of the most difficult and coveted passport stamps in the world.

Falkland Islands

2,487 miles off the coast of Tristan de Cunha are the Falkland Islands, another very remote group of islands in the South Atlantic 300 miles off the coast of Patagonia in Argentina, and only 752 miles from the northern tip of Antarctica.

Famous for its five different species of penguins, it’s one of the coolest-looking and rarest passport stamps one can possess.

Arctic Circle, Finland

While Finland is obviously not the only place in the world where you can access the Arctic Circle, it seems like one of the few if not only countries that give out a passport stamp on arrival.

Timbuktu, Mali

While it may be famous for the “Here to Timbuktu” saying, meaning in the middle of nowhere, turns out it still exists in the middle of the Sahara Desert.

This may be the most interesting stamp you could receive in your passport, think of all the stories you’d have just to get this passport stamp.

Great Wall, China

Cook Islands

Isla Hornos, Chile

North Korea

When we say North Korea passport stamp we don’t mean the one received by going to the DMZ. Actually go to North Korea for a few days and earn your stamp.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoc, Wales

The longest town name in the world, can you try pronouncing it?

Peru Stamps

Peru has some of the coolest stamps in our opinion. From the spectacular and remote Rainbow Mountain to Machu Picchu and of course the Nazca Lines further south, there is no shortage of awesome and unique passport stamps in Peru.

Middle Earth, New Zealand

Fin Del Mundo, Argentina

Easter Island, Chile

You may wonder why this is on the list since it’s now impossible to obtain. Hong Kong removed its passport stamp in favor of a simple paper card.

In either case, some people still have these in their passports from years past, and if we may say so ourselves, it’s one of the nicest, classic-looking passport stamps.

Guantanamo Bay, Cuba

Probably a passport stamp you’ll never obtain unless you’re an American with a specialized military passport involved with business at the prison – no? Didn’t think so.

If you’re in love with travel and passport stamps, you’ll for sure love our new passport stamp scratch-off posters! Check them out here .

**Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. When booking through one of our links, we earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running.

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An electronic Visa or e-Visa is an official document that permits people to enter and travel within a country. To apply for an e-Visa, people have to visit the Visa issuing website of the country they wish to visit. Evisa is received via an email, unlike stamping visa which is stamped on the passport.

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Coolest Passport Stamps in the World That Are Quite Rare

T here’s something inherently sentimental about flipping through an old passport. Each stamp, stain and dog-eared page evokes memories of past trips and bragging rights among fellow well-traveled friends.

Sure, a stamp from France will draw memories of croissants and coffee along La Seine, and a bright green stamp from Mexico might evoke the taste of smoky mezcal and mole, but the real brag-worthy stamps don’t usually come with an all-inclusive vacation. They’re more often than not the countries and attractions that draw thrill-seekers and travelers looking for a remote experience.

Here, we’ve rounded up some of the coolest, most-coveted and difficult-to-collect passport stamps — from Antarctica to Bhutan and beyond.

Although Antarctica is not technically a country, the coveted seventh continent is a must-see destination for many travelers looking to tick every continent off their bucket list. 

While it doesn’t technically have an official passport stamp, visitors can obtain souvenir stamps at a variety of science stations based in the icy region.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobw-llllantysiliogogogoch

Yes, you read that right. This village in Wales has the longest name in Europe and the second longest in the world. 

The novelty stamp, available at the James Pringle Weavers shop fits all 58 characters in one long-winded arch.

North Korea

While we don’t necessarily recommend chasing this passport stamp, there are still about 1,500 tourists per year that visit North Korea despite the risk and tight requirements to enter. 

In order to receive this elusive passport stamp, travelers must book a tour with an approved tourism company and prepare to have two supervising tour guides for the duration of the trip.

Akhzivland is a micronation located on the northern Mediterranean coast of Israel between Nahariya and the Lebanese border. 

Founded by Eli Avivi in 1971, the small country is home to just two residents and is only 2.5 acres, but it still has its own passport stamp for travelers who opt to pass through en route to Israel or Lebanon.

Ushuaia, Argentina

The Argentinian city of Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world with its own passport stamp, a nod to its unique positioning on Earth. 

While Ushuaia is a popular destination for those boarding a cruise to Antarctica, its local culture and food scene have legs of their own.

Tristan Da Cunha

Tristan Da Cunha is a remote group of volcanic islands in Saint Helena, considered to be some of the most remote in the south Atlantic Ocean. 

Travelers hoping to secure this passport stamp embark on a five-day boat ride from South Africa before making it to the isle — making this stamp one of the most difficult to collect.

Easter Island

The Easter Island stamp is arguably one of the most visually striking. The charming stamp sports the internationally recognizable Moai monolithic human figures carved by the Rapa Nui people and is available for travelers to collect at the Rapa Nui post office. 

Note that the local post office holds strict hours — you’ll want to double-check it’s open before visiting.

Cook Islands

Upon arrival at the Cook Islands, you’ll receive a run-of-the-mill passport stamp, so you’ll want to head to the island of Atutaki to get the truly coveted one. 

Known as “One Foot Island,” this popular destination within the larger Cook Islands boasts sparkling tropical waters, white sands and one of the coolest passport stamps on this list, which, you guessed it, comes in the form of a literal footprint.

What makes Iran’s passport stamp particularly noteworthy isn’t necessarily the design or that it’s difficult to collect. It’s actually the date that border security uses. 

Depending on your date of entry, the stamp will actually follow the Solar Hijri Calendar, rather than the traditional Gregorian Calendar. This means that rather than reading as the year 2020, the date on your stamp would be 1441.

While Cuba is becoming more and more accessible for American travelers, it’s not necessarily why the Cuban passport stamp has made the list — it’s the festive design. 

The only passport stamp in the world to stray from more traditional ink colors, Cuba opts to use a highlighter-pink hue that matches its colorful streets and zest for life.

The South Pole

Sure, the South Pole isn’t necessarily a country, but making the trek to the southernmost point on the surface of Earth is no small feat — and deserves recognition. 

Adventurous travelers can collect a commemorative novelty stamp at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, a United States scientific research base.

Machu Picchu

A bucket-list destination for many travelers across the globe, this UNESCO World Heritage site in Peru offers commemorative novelty stamps at the entrance of the 15th century Incan citadel ruins. 

The highly detailed stamp depicts the ruins from above and is usually in a bright purple ink.

Republic of San Marino

No, the Republic of San Marino doesn’t require the same sense of adventure or endurance as some of the other stamps on the list, but it’s still an impressive spot to commemorate. 

Located in north-central Italy, San Marino is a mountainous microstate and one of the world’s oldest republics.

Guantanamo Bay, Cuba

Now, this is different from the colorful pink stamp you get upon arrival in Cuba. In fact, obtaining a stamp from Guantanamo Bay remains highly elusive for the average traveler. 

Only Americans with military passports and business at the prison are allowed — and will receive both inbound and outbound stamps with every visit.

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands, particularly Grand Cayman, have become a popular tourist destination, largely thanks to the luxurious white-sand beach resorts and world-class scuba diving and snorkeling activities. 

However, the passport stamp is worth a trip to the islands all on its own. Rather than a typical all-business design, this passport stamp features Sir Turtle, a character designed by Suzy Soto that represents the sea turtle, which has been linked to the culture of the Cayman Islands since 1503.

Is Greenland in Europe or in North America? Located between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans, Greenland is considered to be the world’s largest island. 

While the autonomous country is geographically part of North America, in terms of politics, it’s curiously part of Europe within the Kingdom of Denmark.

Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin

Checkpoint Charlie was the colloquial term given to the Berlin Wall crossing points between East Berlin and West Berlin during the Cold War. Today, the checkpoint is seen as a symbol of divided Europe.

While it has not been used in over 30 years, tourists still visit the symbolic checkpoint, where they’ll find a range of novelty passport stamps at the Haus am Checkpoint Charlie museum.

Ciudad Mitad Del Mundo, Quito, Ecuador

Located approximately 16 miles north of Quito is Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, otherwise known as the Middle of the World City. It’s here that the equator passes through Ecuador, making it technically the exact middle point on Earth. 

Travelers can have their passports stamped at the exact monument or at the nearby Ethnographic Museum Monument.

Churchill, Manitoba, Canada

Dubbed the Polar Bear Capital of the World, the small town of Churchill on Hudson Bay in northern Manitoba is home to a large population of polar bears that can be seen moving toward the shore from inland every autumn (hence the nickname). 

The town is home to just 900 permanent residents but draws thousands of tourists who come to witness “bear season” and get a cheeky unofficial polar bear stamp from the local post office.

The Galápagos, Ecuador

Located in the Pacific Ocean, The Galápagos Islands is a volcanic archipelago known for its biodiversity — the islands are home to more than 1,300 different species of fauna and flora. 

While the lush islands don’t have an official passport stamp (they’re technically part of Ecuador), the tourist information centre in Puerto Ayora issues a variety of novelty stamps for anyone looking to commemorate their time on the isolated terrain.

Svalbard, Arctic

Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago nestled in between Norway and the North Pole. Known as one of the world’s last wildernesses, the region is actually home to more polar bears than humans. 

While the population sits at just over 2,000, the archipelago is a popular port for expedition cruises and boasts the world’s northernmost church, hospital and tourist office — which is where you’ll find the coveted souvenir passport stamps.

Turkmenistan

If you pride yourself on obtaining passport stamps from the path less traveled, consider booking a flight to Turkmenistan, the seventh least-visited country in the world. The central Asian country receives just 7,000 visitors per year — largely due to the fact that visitors can only receive a tourist visa if they hire an approved tour guide. 

If you do manage to be one of the 7,000 international visitors curious about the country’s main draw, the ancient Silk Road trade route, that passport stamp deserves its bragging rights.

Known as the happiest nation in the world, the South Asian country is the only nation on Earth that values its Gross National Happiness over its Gross Domestic Product. While this sounds like the trip of a lifetime in the making, it’s notably difficult to plan and execute a trip to the country, which is why its passport stamp is so elusive. 

Not only are travelers required to book with authorized Bhutanese travel agents, the country’s positioning among the Himalayan Mountains makes it one of the most treacherous airports for pilots to land, and only a select few pilots are authorized to do so.

Ask any frequent flyer, and they’ll likely admit to having a serious soft spot for Japan. Between the food, the shopping, the history and culture, the coastal country has something for everyone and is generally quite easy and safe, even for first-time travelers. 

A Japanese passport stamp is not elusive or difficult to obtain, but it’s one of the most unique stamps. Rather than a regular ink-to-paper stamp, Japan issues a landing permission sticker that outlines two symbolic Japanese icons: Mount Fuji and a cherry blossom in full bloom. It’s truly a unique souvenir in and of itself.

Speaking of Japan, while the country’s official passport stamp is pretty cool, getting the elusive stamp from Chichijima, the largest of the Ogasawara Islands, is no small feat. While the region is gorgeous and well worth the trip, getting to the region requires a 26-hour ferry ride from Tokyo that only departs once every six days. 

Travelers receive a commemorative stamp upon arrival and departure — and after the harrowing ferry ride, you’d better be bragging about it.

The Marshall Islands

Tucked in between Hawaii and the Philippines, The Marshall Islands are well-loved by divers for their crystal-clear waters and impressive collection of preserved “ship graveyards” from World War II. 

Unfortunately, due to climate change, the chain of volcanic islands is at risk of sinking below sea level, and curious travelers should collect the elusive passport stamp before it’s too late.

Montserrat, a British Overseas Territory

While Montserrat may be a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean, the island is actually rich with Irish heritage, dating all the way back to the 17th century when Irish Catholics were persecuted for their faith on other Caribbean islands. 

To this day, many permanent residents claim they have Irish ancestry, and the territory’s architecture, especially St. Peter's Anglican church, looks as though it was pulled straight from Dublin.

Aruba may be a popular vacation destination, but its beyond-cheeky landing permission stamp merits a spot on the list. 

The Dutch Caribbean island’s stamp boasts playful word art at the top of the design with its national flag and “One Happy Island” at the bottom.

The Seychelles

Is it a peach? Is it a peach emoji ? Nope! The stamp is actually in the shape of a coco de mer (sea coconut), which grows from an endangered species of palm tree that’s native to the Seychelles islands. 

The cheeky nod to the coco de mer is arguably one of the most unique shaped stamps in the world, and the meaning behind it makes it even more memorable.

Most frequent flyers already have at least one or two Mexico stamps in their passport — but have you ever taken the time to look at it? 

While the landing permission stamp seems like just another design at first glance, it’s actually pretty impressive. The unique use of ink resembles the flag of Mexico, thanks to the red and green hues.

Caribbean Netherlands

The Caribbean Netherlands have one of the most unique and charming landing permission stamps — depending on your point of entry, your stamp will feature either a cluster of palm trees, a starry sky or a striking flamingo. 

Note that the exit stamps match, so if you don’t want a matching set, consider exiting via a different island.

Algeria may not be necessarily difficult to visit, but its passport stamp still makes the list because of its lettering.

The entire passport stamp is written in Arabic, making it a beautiful reminder of your time in the North African country.

Located on the west coast of Southern Africa, Angola is the seventh-largest country on the continent. At first glance, its passport stamp looks similar to that of France or England with a basic airplane and landing information.

But upon closer inspection, you’ll notice the bright red airplane is a detailed 747, flanked by a circular design in a soothing green hue.

No, it’s not necessarily the stamp’s design that makes the Guatemala landing permission so cool. It’s actually the creative use of ink. 

While it varies day to day, the Guatemala border security uses a color gradient ink pad, which ranges from shades of purple and red to blues fading into greens.

While Palestine is not technically a country, the region is recognized officially as the State of Palestine. The region is at the intersection of both Judaism and Christianity and has an unfortunately long and treacherous history. 

Because Palestine is not technically an independent country, it doesn’t have an official passport stamp, but a variety of novelty stamps are available at tourist shops.

*Note: Due to the current Israel-Palestine conflict, it is not advisable to travel to the region at the moment.

April 9, 2024

U.S. Postal Service Recommends New Prices for July 2024

%news-subheading%

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the U. S. Postal Service filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission of mailing services price changes to take effect July 14, 2024. The new rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp from 68 cents to 73 cents.

The proposed adjustments, approved by the governors of the Postal Service, would raise mailing services product prices approximately 7.8 percent. If favorably reviewed by the commission, the price changes would include:

The additional-ounce price for single-piece letters increases from 24 cents to 28 cents. The Postal Service is also seeking price adjustments for Special Services products, including Certified Mail and money order fees. Notably, there will be no price increase for Post Office Box rental fees, and the Postal Service will apply a price reduction of 10 percent for postal insurance when mailing an item.

As changes in the mailing and shipping marketplace continue, these price adjustments are needed to achieve the financial stability sought by the organization’s Delivering for America 10-year plan. USPS prices remain among the most affordable in the world.

The commission will review the changes before they are scheduled to take effect. The complete Postal Service price filing, with prices for all products, can be found on the commission’s website under the Daily Listings section . The Mailing Services filing is Docket No. R2024-2. The price tables are also available on the Postal Service’s Postal Explorer website at  pe.usps.com/PriceChange/Index .

Postal Products

Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps , by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon .

The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to 167 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America , to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America’s most valued and trusted brands.

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom . Follow us on X , formerly known as Twitter; Instagram ; Pinterest ; Threads and LinkedIn . Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel and like us on Facebook . For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com .

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Travel expert warns of little-known passport rule that could have you turned away at the airport

Uk holidaymakers have been warned about the rule as it sees people turned away at the airport.

Rhiannon Ingle

Unpredictable traffic, bag limits, cramming all your liquids into those tiny plastic bags - it's clear that travelling can be a proper faff at the best of times and downright chaos at the worst.

And, naturally, the last thing you want to be fretting about when it comes to jet-setting is a whole load of passport drama - just ask Vicky Pattison .

So, to help ease the inevitable pandemonium of the airport process, one travel expert has issued an urgent warning of the little-known passport rule that could have you turned away at the airport altogether.

The experts at SkyParkSecure have partnered up with a former flight attendant, Suzanne Bucknam, to share just how important is it to not have a damaged or expired passport.

Suzanne shared: "If you’re traveling with a damaged or expired passport, you may very well be turned away by TSA."

The former flight attendant went on to reveal that she has been part of 'many international experiences' where someone had a ripped picture or incomplete information on their passports and they were forced to leave to 'procure one that wasn’t damaged'.

"The same goes for expired passports," she carried on.

"Always check the expiry date on your passport before flying because you will get turned away by security."

Suzanne added: "These dates and protocols exist for a reason, so don’t be the one holding up the line because you’re having issues with your passport."

Well, that was unfortunately the case for Geordie Shore's Vicky Pattison who branded easyJet the 'destroyer of dreams' after they turned her away from her flight due to her damaged passport.

"I've been travelling with my passport all year and no one's said anything, but it's definitely well travelled to be fair Company policy is company policy and I get it, I'm just beyond gutted you know??" she wrote on Instagram.

According to the Gov.uk website, if your passport is damaged you must replace it as you 'may not be able to travel' with a damaged one.

HM Passport Office will consider your passport damaged if; you cannot read any of your details, any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing, there are holes, cuts or rips in the cover, the cover is coming away and if there are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage).

So, if that sounds like you, then be sure to act swiftly and replace your passport.

You can either do it online, which will set you back £88.50 , or you can sort it old-school using a paper form which is a tad more spenny at £100.

Topics:  Travel , Advice , Real Life , Life , UK News , News

Rhiannon Ingle is a Journalist at LADbible Group. She graduated from the University of Manchester in 2021 in English Literature. Alongside her studies, she was the Lifestyle Editor of The Mancunian, the largest student newspaper in the United Kingdom. Her favourite topics to write about include sex and relationships, bizarre lifestyle trends and all things travel.

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Visa, immigration status, and entry stamp.

What is a Visa?

A visa, or visa stamp, is a physical stamp or sticker in your passport that is issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate outside of the U.S. It indicates that you are eligible to apply for entry to the U.S. in a specific immigration category such as J-1 or H-1B scholar. Please note that Canadian citizens are not required to have a U.S. visa, but are required to have all other documentation.

See the  U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs website  for more information about different U.S. visas.

What is Immigration Status?

The maintenance of immigration status refers to the responsibilities that an individual has while in the U.S. These will differ according to your visa type. Immigration status also represents your legal permission to remain in the U.S. under specific conditions as defined by an  immigration document :

• J-1 scholars have a Form DS-2019
• H-1B scholars have a Form I-797

In most cases, the immigration document is (or will be extended to be) valid for a longer period than the visa.

What is an Entry Stamp?

Upon entering the U.S. a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official will:

• Review your immigration document, visa, and other documents
• Authorize your status in the I-94 system
• Put an ink entry stamp in the passport

The I-94 record includes the length of time you may remain inside the U.S. Scholars should always print their I-94 record so that they have evidence of their immigration status.

For more details on what happens upon arrival, see our Arriving in the U.S.: Immigration Inspection page. 

What Does 'D/S' Mean?

F-1 and J-1 visa holders will see the notation 'D/S' on their entry stamp and their I-94. D/S stands for 'duration of status' and refers back to the expiration date on the immigration document. When your status is D/S you can stay in the U.S. as long as your immigration document (DS-2019, I-797, etc.) is accurate and unexpired. 

What If My Visa Expires While I Am in the U.S.?

A visa in your passport issued by from a U.S. consulate does not determine how long you can remain in the United States; it is only an entry document. Therefore, you may stay in the U. S. beyond the expiration date of a visa as long as you are maintaining your  J-1 or H-1B status and the immigration document (DS-2019, I-797, etc.) remains valid.

For most international travel the immigration document, passport and visa must be valid and unexpired. If the visa is expired it will be necessary to apply for a new visa, through the same process as your initial visa application, at a U.S. embassy or consulate outside the U.S.

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• Travel Tips

Number Of Stamps Per Page In A Passport

Published: December 11, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Jerrilyn Barbour

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Essentials & Accessories

Introduction

Welcome to the fascinating world of travel! If you are a frequent globetrotter, you know how important a passport is in documenting your adventures. Each time you travel to a new country, you have the opportunity to add a stamp to your passport, creating a visual tapestry of the places you’ve been. However, have you ever wondered how many stamps can fit on a single passport page?

In this article, we will delve into the factors that determine the number of stamps you can place per page in a passport. We will also explore guidelines and regulations for stamp placement, as well as provide tips on efficient use of passport pages and avoiding damage to your valuable travel document.

So, whether you are an avid backpacker, a business traveler, or simply curious about the intricacies of passport stamps, let’s embark on this journey together and unravel the mysteries of the number of stamps per page in a passport.

Factors Determining Number of Stamps per Page

The number of stamps that can fit on a single passport page is influenced by several factors. Understanding these factors will help you plan your stamp collection and make the most out of your passport pages.

1. Size and Design of Stamps: The size and design of the stamps vary from country to country. Some stamps are small and compact, while others may be larger and more intricate. The size of the stamp will determine how many can fit on a single page.

2. Layout and Formatting: Each passport page has a specific layout and formatting that includes designated areas for personal information and immigration stamps. The number of available spaces for stamps will depend on the layout of the page.

3. Visa Requirements: Some countries require a visa to enter, which often occupies an entire page or a significant portion of a page. The presence of visas can impact the number of available spaces for additional stamps.

4. Travel Frequency: The more frequently you travel, the higher the likelihood of obtaining more stamps. However, it’s important to note that frequent international travel may also require more visa pages, resulting in fewer spaces for regular entry stamps.

5. Departure and Arrival Stamps: Depending on the country, you may receive both departure and arrival stamps when crossing borders. These stamps will take up separate spaces on your passport page.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that the number of stamps per page can vary greatly depending on the above factors. Some passport holders may have pages filled with stamps, while others may have plenty of space left even after multiple trips.

In the next section, we will explore the guidelines and regulations for stamp placement to help you organize your passport stamps efficiently.

Guidelines and Regulations for Stamp Placement

When it comes to placing stamps in your passport, there are certain guidelines and regulations that you should follow to ensure accuracy, readability, and compliance with immigration authorities. Here are some important considerations:

1. Use the Designated Areas: Each passport page has designated areas for stamp placement. These areas are usually marked with lines or boxes. It’s crucial to place the stamps within these designated areas to avoid any issues or confusion.

2. Avoid Overlapping or Covering Important Information: Be mindful of the entry and exit fields on your passport page. Make sure that the stamps do not overlap or cover crucial personal information or other stamps, such as visa information or arrival/departure stamps.

3. Avoid Smudging or Bleeding: Ensure that the ink used for stamping is dry before closing your passport. Wet or smudged stamps may cause the ink to bleed onto adjacent pages, making them illegible or causing damage to your passport.

4. Follow Immigration Officer’s Instructions: During the stamping process, it’s important to follow the instructions given by the immigration officers. They may instruct you on where to place the stamp and provide guidance on any specific requirements or regulations.

5. Consider Using Stamp Protector Sleeves: If you are particularly concerned about the longevity and preservation of your passport stamps, you may consider using stamp protector sleeves. These transparent sleeves fit over the stamped pages and provide an additional layer of protection against wear and tear.

By adhering to these guidelines and regulations, you can maintain the integrity of your passport while creating a visually appealing collection of stamps from your travels around the world.

In the next section, we will explore tips on how to make efficient use of your passport pages to maximize the number of stamps you can collect.

Efficient Use of Passport Pages

As a travel enthusiast, making the most out of your passport pages is essential to accommodate as many stamps as possible. Here are some tips to help you efficiently use your passport pages:

1. Plan Ahead: Before your trip, take a look at your passport and assess how many empty pages you have available. Consider the number of stamps you anticipate receiving during your trip and plan accordingly. If your passport is running low on pages, you may need to apply for a new one.

2. Consolidate Stamps: Whenever possible, try to consolidate multiple entry and exit stamps on a single page. This can be achieved by overlapping stamps or placing them close together, while still maintaining readability and adhering to the guidelines mentioned earlier.

3. Maximize Space: Make use of every available space on a page. Place stamps in the designated areas without leaving excessive blank spaces. Be creative in organizing the stamps to make the most efficient use of the page.

4. Utilize Visa Pages: If your passport has dedicated visa pages, make sure to utilize those pages primarily for visa stamps. By using visa pages for visas, you can reserve regular pages for entry and exit stamps, allowing for more space.

5. Consider Digital Options: Some countries now offer digital stamps or e-visas, which eliminate the need for physical stamps. While digital stamps may not provide the same nostalgic charm as physical ones, they can help conserve space in your passport.

By following these tips, you can maximize the number of stamps per page in your passport, keeping your travel memories neatly organized and preserving space for future adventures.

Next, we will discuss how to protect your passport and stamps to ensure their longevity.

Avoiding Damage to Passport

Your passport is not only a valuable travel document but also a treasured keepsake of your global adventures. To ensure the longevity and protection of your passport and its stamps, it’s important to take preventive measures to avoid damage. Consider the following tips:

1. Use a Protective Cover or Sleeve: Invest in a passport cover or sleeve to shield your passport from scratches, spills, and other unforeseen accidents. These protective accessories are widely available and come in various designs and materials.

2. Avoid Excessive Handling: Handle your passport with care and avoid unnecessary bending, folding, or crinkling. Excessive handling can weaken the binding and cause damage to both the passport cover and the pages.

3. Store in a Safe Place: When you are not actively using your passport, keep it in a secure location. Choose a dry and protected area away from direct sunlight, humidity, or extreme temperatures. Avoid storing your passport near liquids or sharp objects.

4. Be Mindful of Ink and Moisture: Keep your passport away from sources of ink, water, or other liquids. Even a small spill or accidental contact with ink can render your passport invalid and damage the stamps and pages.

5. Make Copies: Create digital or hard copies of your passport’s identification and visa pages. In case of loss or damage, having copies can help expedite the process of obtaining a replacement passport.

6. Avoid Detachable Holders or Adhesive Items: Do not attach sticky notes, adhesive flags, or detachable holders to your passport. These can damage the pages or leave residue, potentially leading to issues with immigration authorities.

By being mindful of these precautions, you can protect your passport from unnecessary wear and tear, ensuring that your cherished travel memories remain intact and your document remains valid for future adventures.

Now that we’ve explored the importance of safeguarding your passport, let’s conclude this article with a summary of the key points we’ve discussed.

In conclusion, the number of stamps per page in a passport can vary depending on factors such as stamp size, layout, visa requirements, travel frequency, and the presence of departure and arrival stamps. Understanding these factors allows you to plan and manage your passport stamp collection more effectively.

Adhering to the guidelines and regulations for stamp placement is crucial to ensure the accuracy, readability, and compliance of your passport with immigration authorities. By using the designated areas, avoiding overlapping or covering important information, and following the instructions of immigration officers, you can maintain the integrity of your passport and its stamps.

Efficiently using your passport pages is essential to accommodate as many stamps as possible. Planning ahead, consolidating stamps, maximizing space, and utilizing visa pages can help you make the most out of your passport, creating a visually appealing collection of travel memories.

To protect your passport and stamps from damage, consider using a protective cover or sleeve, avoid excessive handling, store it in a safe place, and be mindful of ink and moisture. Taking these preventive measures will help preserve your passport’s condition and prolong its lifespan.

By adhering to these guidelines and practices, you can ensure that your passport remains in good condition, allowing you to continue your travel adventures and collect stamps from around the world.

Remember, your passport is not just a travel document but a record of your global explorations. Treat it with care, protect it, and cherish the stamps that tell the story of your journeys.

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Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags:

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's vice president of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.

Britons could be denied boarding due to passport issue as easyJet gives warning - what you need to do

Britons may find they are turned away at airports if their passport does not meet requirements

By Anna Barry

Published: 16/04/2024

Holidaymakers must ensure their passports are not damaged before they head to the airport

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Britons heading abroad have been warned that their passports should be intact if they wish to board a plane.

After a recent instance where a holidaymaker was not able to catch her flight because her passport was damaged, easyJet cautioned travellers.

A spokesperson said: "At easyJet, we work closely with the authorities and comply with their guidance to ensure the safety and security of all passengers and staff.

"As such, we cannot allow any passenger to travel on their planned flight with documentation damaged to such a degree that its authenticity is brought into question.

'If your passport is damaged you must replace it. You may not be able to travel with it'

"It is the passenger’s responsibility to have suitable documentation for travel," they told The Standard.

Britons intending to fly should ensure that their passports are undamaged. The UK Government has guidance on how Britons can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged passport.

GOV.UK stated: "If your passport has been lost or stolen, you must cancel it before applying for a replacement.

"If your passport is damaged you must replace it. You may not be able to travel with it."

HM Passport Office will consider your passport damaged if:

• You cannot read any of your details
• Any of the pages are ripped, cut or missing
• There are holes, cuts or rips in the cover
• The cover is coming away
• There are stains on the pages (for example, ink or water damage)

Britons who need to renew or replace their passports can do so online or via a paper application form.

Britons were recently issued a passport warning as a little-known rule may mean you are denied boarding.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• Britons told how to deal with a 'crisis' overseas as holidaymakers issued UAE travel warning
• British tourists given a fresh travel warning if visiting Egypt and Morocco
• 'Anti-British? Holiday elsewhere!' Britons fume as tourists in Spain warned of new rules

EasyJet said: 'It is the passenger’s responsibility to have suitable documentation for travel'

And according to data from the Home Office, this could leave 32,000 people vulnerable.

Consequently, Simon Calder told Britons they should make two important checks to ensure they will be allowed to fly.

Firstly, your passport "can't have had its 10th birthday on the day you want to leave for the European Union".

Secondly, "on the day you plan to come back from the European Union, it has to have at least three months before the expiry date".

In other travel news, Britons have been warned that Spain holidays could get more expensive as the Canary Islands consider a tourist tax .

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