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U.S. Tightens Passport Rules, Ending Automatic Renewal for Older Documents

Border officers are rejecting expired or damaged passports at air, land and sea entry points.

Overview

  • The State Department confirms passports issued more than 15 years ago, notably those from 2010 or earlier, are no longer eligible for routine renewal.
  • Other cases blocked from renewal include passports issued before the holder turned 16, those reported lost, damaged or stolen, and documents with unverified name changes.
  • Impacted travelers must file a DS-11 as new applicants, appear in person with proof of citizenship and photo ID, submit a new photo, and pay the required fees, reported at $195 for book and card.
  • Officials state the policy is in effect nationwide with no exceptions or grace periods.
  • U.S. border authorities are enforcing stricter document checks and denying entry to travelers, including those with valid visas, who present expired or damaged passports.