A damaged passport can disrupt your upcoming travel plans. When a passport is severely damaged, it loses its validity, rendering it unusable for travel and identification purposes. Passports that are badly damaged enough to be considered mutilated need to be replaced before international travel.
Common Types of Passport Damage
Determining whether your passport qualifies as mutilated can be challenging, as wear and tear from extensive travel may mimic damage. Even if the harm isn’t severe, it’s advisable to consider a replacement. Worn-out passports can be renewed through an early passport renewal process.
Passport Cover Damage
- Loose or detached passport cover
- The passport cover has hanging threads at the edges
- Passport cover has been cut or trimmed
- The passport cover is bent or curved
Damage to the Information Page
- Peeling lamination plastic on the information page
- Unauthorized markings on the information page
- Water damage on the information page
Damage to Internal Pages
- Torn or cut pages
- Unauthorized markings
- Worn or curling page edges, while not considered mutilation, indicate a need for renewal
What Happens When You Replace Your Damaged Passport?
When replacing a damaged passport, submission of the mutilated passport and an explanation of the damage is required. Appearance at a Passport Acceptance Facility is mandatory for identity and citizenship verification.
While you’ll receive a new passport, your damaged one will not be returned as it is considered compromised.
Why Damaged Passports Are Not Returned
A damaged passport is deemed compromised, posing a risk of fraudulent alterations. Retaining the damaged passport prevents potential misuse, aligning with enhanced security measures post-redesign.
What if There are Valid Visas in a Damaged Passport?
A few countries, most notably Brazil, China, and India, issue long-term multiple-entry visas to US citizens. These visas may be valid for as long as ten years. Even after passport renewal, these visas may remain valid.
Simplify the Passport Application Process
We understand that the passport application process can be complex. G3 Global Services has experts across the country who are available to review and submit your requests, letting you focus on travel plans. Get started on replacing your damaged passport today!