Cancelled Passport: Can I Still Travel Internationally?

Travelling with a cancelled passport is not advisable. In most countries, your old passport is automatically cancelled when a new one is issued. However, some countries allow citizens to hold two physical copies of the same passport. In the US, for example, an expired passport can be used as identification for a notary or for a passport renewal application. In some states, an expired passport can be used for identification for three years after it expires.

Travelling with a cancelled passport: allowed or not?

When it comes to travelling with a cancelled passport, the general consensus is that it is not advisable and, in most cases, not allowed. A passport is an official government document used to verify one's identity and citizenship and is required when entering another country. While the specific consequences of travelling with a cancelled passport may vary depending on the country and circumstances, it is generally considered a violation of immigration laws or regulations.

In some cases, individuals may be denied entry into the country they are travelling to and may even face fines or other legal penalties. Additionally, they may not be allowed to board airplanes or other transportation, and could encounter difficulties with consular services if they require assistance while abroad.

It is worth noting that some countries may allow the use of an old passport if it contains valid visas. For example, if an individual has a US visa that is still valid, they may be able to use it along with their new passport when travelling to the US. However, this is not a common practice, and most countries require individuals to renew their visas when they renew their passports.

To avoid any issues, it is recommended to always carry a valid passport when travelling and to renew one's passport in a timely manner. While it may be tempting to try to use a cancelled passport, especially if the new one has not been received yet, it is important to remember that doing so could result in significant complications and is not worth the risk.

In summary, travelling with a cancelled passport is generally not allowed and can lead to various issues and legal consequences. It is crucial to plan ahead, ensure that one's passport is valid, and renew it if necessary before travelling to avoid any unnecessary difficulties.

Cancelled vs expired passports: what's the difference?

A cancelled passport is one that has been invalidated, usually by the issuing government, and cannot be used for travel. This often happens when a new passport is issued, with the old passport being marked as cancelled in relevant databases. Some countries may physically mark the old passport by punching a hole in it, cutting off a corner, or adding a 'cancelled' stamp. Attempting to travel with a cancelled passport is very risky and will likely result in being refused travel.

An expired passport, on the other hand, is one that has passed its date of expiry. While an expired passport cannot be used for travel, it still has some functions and can be useful to keep in a safe place. For example, visas in an expired passport may still be valid, and an expired passport can be used as proof of identity and citizenship.

When applying for a new passport, it is generally recommended to do so before the old one expires. This helps to ensure that you always have a valid passport for travel. In some cases, you may be able to hold two physical copies of the same passport, but this depends on the country and specific circumstances.

In summary, the key difference between a cancelled and expired passport is that a cancelled passport has been officially invalidated and cannot be used for travel, while an expired passport has simply passed its expiry date but may still have some valid visas and can be used for identification purposes.

What to do with a cancelled passport

A cancelled passport is not valid for travel, but there are several other uses for it.

Proof of Identity and Citizenship

An expired passport can be used as proof of identity and citizenship. This can be useful when applying for a new passport, driver's license, or when travelling and your valid passport is lost.

Visa Application

If you have a valid visa in your old passport, you may be able to use it for travel. Check with the relevant foreign embassy or consulate. If the visa is still valid, you will need to travel with both your new and old passports.

Sentimental Value

Many people keep their old passports as a memento or time capsule of their past adventures.

Record of Travel

Old passports can help you remember all the countries you have visited and when.

Replacement Passport

When you renew your passport, your old passport will be returned to you, typically with a hole punched in it to indicate it is no longer valid. This is useful if you need to apply for a replacement passport and have lost your valid one.

What Not to Do

• Do not travel with a cancelled passport. You will be refused travel.
• Do not throw your old passport away. This increases the risk of identity theft.
• Do not cut up or burn your old passport. Modern passports are very durable and contain personal information that is difficult to destroy. Instead, send it to the relevant passport agency and request that they destroy it for you.

Travelling with a valid visa on a cancelled passport

If your passport has been cancelled, it is generally not advisable to travel with it, even if you have a valid visa. The responsibility to comply with immigration procedures falls on the traveller, and attempting to travel on a cancelled passport can lead to refused travel. Many countries will mark or punch a hole in your old passport when issuing a new one, and the document will no longer be valid for travel.

However, there are some instances where individuals have been able to travel with a valid visa on a cancelled passport. This may be possible if the passport was not physically marked as cancelled and was not reported as lost or stolen. In such cases, the traveller must carry both the new and old passports when travelling to the region where the visa will be checked.

It is important to note that the regulations regarding this issue may vary by country. For instance, Germany allows travel with a new passport and a valid visa in a cancelled passport. It is recommended to double-check with the embassy or consulate that issued your visa to confirm their specific requirements.

While it may be tempting to travel with a cancelled passport, especially if your new passport has not arrived, it is a risky endeavour. It is always best to ensure that your travel documents are in order and comply with the requirements of your destination country to avoid any issues during your trip.

Consequences of travelling with a cancelled passport

Travelling with a cancelled passport can have serious consequences. Once a passport application has been received, the old passport is immediately cancelled and cannot be used for travel. If you try to travel with a cancelled passport, you will be refused travel and entry or boarding will be denied. Your travel document will be seized to prevent its future use.

If you have reported your passport lost or stolen and then subsequently find it, you should report this to the issuing authority and apply for a new one. Do not attempt to travel on a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. Cases have been reported where travellers who have previously reported their passport missing or stolen but then found and used it to travel have had their passport seized by immigration upon arrival.

Frequently asked questions