You do not want to be the couple that showed up at the airport for their dream Caribbean getaway and got denied boarding. Why, you ask? Something as simple as a little water damage on one page of their passport.
Let’s make sure this never happens to you.
Check your passport right now for these four things
Expiration date
It needs to be valid at least 6 months past your return date. A lot of destinations enforce this strictly, and it doesn’t matter how excited you are, they will not budge.
Blank pages
You need 2 to 3 empty pages for entry stamps. If your passport looks like a scrapbook of your last decade of travel, it might be time for a new one.
Damage
Water stains, torn corners, loose binding. Anything that makes an agent take a second look is a problem.
Photo and markings
If your photo has faded, or there is any doodling, coffee staining, or toddler art in there, it is time to renew. Yes, this happens more than you’d think.
How long renewal actually takes
- Standard: 6 to 8 weeks
- Expedited: 2 to 3 weeks (extra fee)
- Emergency: same day, for urgent travel only
Don’t panic, just check
Passport problems are almost always avoidable, you just have to look before you book, not the week of your trip. The real tragedy isn’t a slightly damaged passport. It’s not having a trip (or two) on the calendar at all.
Is this your first international trip? No need to panic, read my tips to get prepared.