This has been a prominent topic lately as everyone is ready to get out and travel again, and not everyone is checking if they “can”. As a public service announcement, I am trying to remind everyone that I know to check their passports. Do you have an expiring passport?
Long Wait Times
Currently if you need to renew your passport, the wait times for regular speed is about 6 months and expedited service is about 3 months. Many clients think that they can just go into the passport offices and renew quickly, but unfortunately, that is not the case. Of course, Covid has backlogged passports like all other things over the last year and a half.
How Long Do You Need?
How much time do you need on your passport? Also, a great question. Most places (and as a rule of thumb) will require you to have 6 months validity past your return date. So, if you are traveling in June, you passport needs to be good through December of that year. There are a few places that only require 3 months, but better safe than sorry!
Other Factors
Another factor, which happened recently to a groom going to his destination wedding. He had a tear on his passport, and they wouldn’t let him travel. This is obviously another thing that could keep you grounded. You need for most countries at least 2 blank pages in your passport as well. I do not know about you, but my goal is always to fill the pages in my passport, but keep in mind this could cause you problems if you don’t have the extra space.
Thinking of Traveling?
If you are thinking about traveling, now is a great time to pull out the passport, dust it off and see if you have an expiring passport. If it’s close… it might be time to go and get it renewed so you can travel should you decide to. Do you need some inspiration? Follow along on my Facebook and Instagram pages for some great ideas! I am keeping my passport filled and dusted!
Check out my other blog posts:
BEST GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
