Passport Damage: Can I Still Travel Internationally?

A damaged passport can cause serious issues, and it's usually costly to fix. Even a small amount of damage can render your passport unusable or unable to be processed by the country you're seeking to enter, and you can subsequently be denied entry. The line between normal wear and tear and genuine damage can be blurred, and the final judgment call comes down to the individual examining your passport. If you're worried about whether your passport is too damaged to travel, it's best to replace it as soon as possible.

What constitutes passport damage?

A damaged passport is one that has been physically impaired to the extent that it is no longer in a condition suitable for use as a valid travel document.

According to the UK government, a damaged passport is one where:

• The personal details or observation page are unreadable
• The laminate is peeling or lifting away from the personal details page
• There are unreadable security details
• There are missing or detached pages
• The front, back, or personal details page has been cut
• There is damage or discolouration caused by chemical or ink spills, tears, rips, or bite marks
• On a blue e-passport, the perforated passport numbers have been torn or the personal details page is broken or cracked
• The chip or antenna shows through the endpaper on the back cover of a burgundy e-passport or the personal details page of a blue e-passport
• The passport chip is identified as damaged

The US Department of State considers the following as unacceptable damage:

• Significant tears or perforations to either the visa pages or the cover
• Water damage, including significantly curled edges caused by humidity
• Unofficial markings or stickers on any pages
• A loose or missing passport cover or binding
• Damage to the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip

In general, any form of damage that hampers the passport's integrity or prevents it from being a legible form of identification will render it invalid.

What to do if your passport is damaged

Don't panic

It's important to keep a cool head if you discover that your passport is damaged, especially if you're abroad. Take a moment to assess the situation and make a plan for getting a replacement.

Determine the extent of the damage

Normal "wear and tear" of a passport—such as folded pages or a small bend—is usually not considered damage and should not hinder your travels. However, significant tears or perforations, water damage, curling edges, unofficial markings, loose or missing covers or bindings, or damage to the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip are all considered forms of unacceptable damage. If your passport photo or personal information page is affected, you will likely need to get a new passport.

Apply for a replacement passport

If your passport is damaged, it is considered invalid and must be replaced. You will need to apply for a new passport in person at a passport processing facility, embassy, or consulate, depending on your location. Bring your damaged passport, a passport application form, a statement of damage, a DS-11 form, evidence of citizenship, and a photocopy of your evidence of citizenship. There may be additional requirements, so be sure to check with the specific office before your appointment.

Expedite the process if necessary

If you need to travel urgently, you may be able to expedite the passport replacement process for an additional fee. Contact the relevant office to inquire about expedited services and any associated costs.

Take steps to prevent future damage

Invest in a passport cover or case to protect your passport from spills, tears, and water damage. Store your passport in a safe, dry place, out of the reach of children and pets. If you're travelling to a destination with inclement weather or a beach or snowy location, consider leaving your passport in a safe place and carrying coloured copies of your passport with you instead.

How to replace a damaged passport

A damaged passport can be a stressful situation, especially if you have a trip coming up. The first thing to know is that normal "wear and tear" such as folded pages or a small bend does not count as damage. Damage includes stains from a liquid, a significant tear, unofficial markings on the data page, missing visa pages (torn out), or a hole punch. If your passport is damaged, it is considered invalid and you will need to apply for a new one. Here is how to replace a damaged passport:

Determine if your passport is damaged:

According to the U.S. Department of State, normal "wear and tear" of a passport—such as a gentle fold in its spine from being in your pocket or the visa pages fanning out from being opened and closed many times—should not hinder your travels. The following are considered forms of unacceptable passport damage:

• Any significant tear or perforation to either the visa pages or the cover.
• Water damage. Significantly curled edges caused by humidity are also a no-go.
• Any unofficial markings or stickers on any pages.
• A loose or missing passport cover or binding.
• Any damage to the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip.

Do not try to fix it yourself:

Once the passport has been physically altered, it is considered invalid as per federal law.

Apply for a new passport:

If you are in the United States, the process to replace a damaged passport is similar to applying for a new one. You will need to apply for a new passport book in person at your nearest passport processing facility (this can be a post office, a public library, or city hall). Fill out Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport) and bring a copy of your government ID, a passport photo that's less than six months old, and the relevant fees (currently $130 for adults and a $35 processing fee). If you’re in a rush, expedited passport services cost $60 per application.

If you are travelling abroad and notice that your passport has been damaged, you can apply for a new passport at your nearest U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate office. The process is similar to applying for a passport domestically, and you will need to show up in person. To cut down on wait times, appointments can typically be made online. Processing times for Embassies and Consulates tend to be fairly quick.

Travelling with a damaged passport

The definition of "damaged" can vary from place to place, and even within the same country, the decision about whether your passport is too damaged rests with the official examining it. This could be an airline employee or an immigration officer. Generally, normal wear and tear, such as folded pages or a small bend, are considered acceptable. However, any damage to the passport photo or data page—the one with your personal information and photo—will likely render it unusable.

Other types of damage to avoid include:

• Stains from liquids
• Significant tears
• Unofficial markings on the data page
• Missing or detached pages
• Water damage
• Frayed or loose binding
• Damage to the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip

If your passport is damaged, you will need to apply for a new one in person at a passport office, acceptance facility, or agency. You will need to bring your damaged passport, a passport application form, a statement of damage, evidence of citizenship, and a photocopy of that evidence. If you are abroad, you will need to go to the nearest embassy or consulate to start the replacement process.

To prevent damage to your passport, be sure to store it in a safe place, preferably in a protective case that is waterproof or water-resistant. If you are travelling with children, keep your passport out of their reach, and consider leaving it in your hotel room or accommodation if you do not need it on your person.

How to prevent passport damage

Passports are essential travel documents, and keeping them in good condition is crucial to ensure smooth travel experiences. Here are some detailed and direct instructions to help you prevent damage to your passport:

Safe Storage:

Keep your passport in a dry, secure, and designated compartment within your carry-on bag or personal item. Choose a safe place that is out of the reach of children and pets. This simple yet crucial step ensures that your passport remains protected from accidental damage or tampering.

Invest in a Passport Cover:

Passport covers are not just stylish accessories; they provide a layer of protection for your passport. A cover helps safeguard your passport from tears, spills, and water damage. It also keeps the pages neat and prevents them from fanning out or getting bent.

Waterproof Protection:

If you're planning a beach vacation or any trip that involves water activities, invest in a waterproof dry bag or pouch. This extra layer of protection ensures that your passport stays dry and secure. It's a small investment that can save you from the hassle of replacing a water-damaged passport.

Avoid Unofficial Markings:

Refrain from making any unofficial markings, doodles, or stickers on your passport pages. This includes refraining from letting children use your passport as a colouring book or stamping unofficial tourist "passport stamps" on the pages. Such markings can invalidate your passport.

Regular Inspection:

It's a good idea to inspect your passport periodically, especially before and after international trips. Check for any signs of damage, such as tears, water damage, or loose binding. By catching issues early, you can take preventive measures or replace your passport before it becomes a problem for your next trip.

Clear, Coloured Copies:

Consider making clear, coloured copies of your passport before your trip. Carry these copies with you instead of the original document, especially if you're visiting areas with inclement weather or high risks of damage. This way, you protect your actual passport and still have a backup in case of loss or theft.

Remember, even a small amount of damage to your passport can render it unusable or lead to issues at customs. Taking these preventive measures will help ensure that your passport remains in pristine condition, allowing you to focus on enjoying your travels worry-free.

Frequently asked questions