5 Reasons to Check Your Passport's Validity Before Travel

A passport is one of the most essential items you need when traveling internationally. Not only does it prove your citizenship, but it also allows you to enter and exit other countries freely. However, passports don't last forever. In fact, most passports expire within 10 years. That's why it's important to check the expiration date on your passport before booking any international travel. Here are five reasons why:

You Might Need a Visa: Depending on the country you're visiting, you might need a visa in addition to a passport. Visas are usually required for stays longer than 90 days, but requirements vary from country to country. If your passport is set to expire within three months of your planned arrival date, you might have trouble getting a visa. 

It Could Cause delays at Immigration: When passing through immigration, an officer will likely stamp the date you'll need to leave the country in your passport. If your passport is close to expiration, they might give you a shorter duration than usual. This could cause problems if your plans change and you need to stay longer than anticipated. 

Renewing it Takes Time: It can take up to six weeks to receive a new passport, so if yours is close to expiration, you might not have enough time to renew it before your trip. 

There's a Cost Associated with Renewing: In order to get a new passport, you'll have to pay a fee. As the fee is $110 for adults and $80 for children under 16. 

Your Passport Could be Invalid: Even if an expiration date says otherwise, your passport could technically be invalid long before that date arrives. That's because many countries require that passports be valid for at least six months after your planned departure date even if you're only staying for a week or two. So if your expiration date is close to the six-month mark, you might have trouble entering some countries. 

 

Checking the expiration date on your passport should be at the top of your list when preparing for international travel regardless of how long ago you got it or how frequently you've used it in the past. By taking a few minutes to verify that your passport is still valid, you can avoid potential delays and hassles while abroad.

Texas Passport Center provides passport services, passport renewal, lost passport, add pages, name change, and minor's passport services. If you want to Renew an Expired Passport in Houston, then our professionals are well-versed in the details of the passport application process. We have in-depth knowledge and experience in handling every aspect of your US passport application. 

Name: Texas Passport Center

Address: 410 Pierce St.Suite 310, Houston, Texas

Phone: 713-730-4530