Can a U.S. citizen return to the US with a passport that expires in less than 6 months?


Can a U.S. citizen return to the US with a passport that expires in less than 6 months? Full information about the countries you wish to visit can be found at travel.state.gov. Please note: The six-month validity requirement does NOT apply to an American citizen using a U.S. passport to enter the United States or Canada. He/she may do so up until the date of expiration of the passport.


How long should your passport be at least be valid?

As a general rule, passports must be valid for six months beyond the date the traveler will exit the United States. However, the United States has signed agreements with a number of countries to waive this requirement.


What if my passport is less than 6 months?

Be aware of passport expiration rules for your destination Some countries and airlines will not allow a U.S. passport holder to enter if their passport expires in less than 6 months. Check your destination country's U.S. passport expiration rules on the Department of State's country information page.


What happens if I dont have 3 months left on my passport?

Yes, you will be denied entry abroad if your passport is about to expire. Additionally, if you need a visa, you won't receive one with a valid passport of less than six (sometimes three) months. For this reason, you have to make sure that your passport is up-to-date before you travel.


What does a US citizen need to reenter the US?

All U.S. citizens need U.S. passport books if re-entering by air. Land and sea border crossings accept additional travel documents, such as U.S. Passport cards and Trusted Traveler cards. Child travelers have additional options - see the Traveling with Children section.


Can I travel to Europe if my passport expires in 3 months?

Many European countries (the Schengen states) require that your passport be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.


What is the penalty for US citizens entering leaving the US on a foreign passport?

Thus, the penalty is the possibility of denied or delayed entry into the US, as well as the associated costs (e.g. missing connecting flights or meetings).


Can I travel back to US from Mexico with a passport that expires in 2 months?

Visitors traveling to the U.S. are required to be in possession of passports that are valid for six months beyond the period of their intended stay in the U.S.


How strict is the 6 month passport rule?

In normal circumstances, you can't travel with a passport that expires in less than six months. However, a country with an active agreement with your destination country may allow it. You may even enter with an expired passport in some countries as long as you still have the document with you.


Can I travel while waiting for my passport?

If your passport's time is almost up, don't wait — start the renewal process now. You can't travel while your renewal application is being processed, and you need to make sure your travel documents are valid for at least six months past the dates of any planned international trips.