Don’t get stuck at the airport! Passport rules you simply must know

Rules on international travel have tightened for everyone. U.S. citizens can no longer cross borders with just a birth certificate and photo ID and having a passport is becoming more important than ever.

Here are a few rules to know to help get you through the airport and on to your next destination.

Six month validity rule

If you’re embarking on international travel, it’s critical that you have more than six months left before your passport’s expiration date. Many people don’t think to check, but if you’re traveling to a country with a validity rule and you’re within the six months of your expiration date, you won’t be leaving the airport, other than to return home.

Brazil, China, French Polynesia, Jamaica, Mexico, St. Lucia, and Thailand are just a few of the popular vacation destinations that require passports to have six months validity at entry, so make sure you check the rules on your specific destination country.

Schengen borders agreement

Americans traveling to one of the 26 European countries known as the Schengen Area also have special requirements. These rules may apply even if you are simply transiting from a Schengen Area airport to a non-Schengen Area airport.

All European Union countries except Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Romania and the United Kingdom are included in the Schengen Borders Agreement. Additionally, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are also included.

Your passport must also be valid for more than six months before expiration date and for at least three months beyond the expected departure from the Schengen Area.

Travelers from specific countries to the U.S. have similar rules. You can view the complete list of countries here.

Recognizable passport photo

A different hair color or length won’t hold up the line at airport security but if you’ve changed quite a bit since your passport photo it’s time to get a new passport. A gender transition, significant weight loss, the removal of facial piercings or even cosmetic surgery can make your appearance drastically different.

Make sure to double check your passport photo for believability and your destination country’s rules before your next trip to ensure a smooth departure and arrival.

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