What happens to my old passport when I renew?

Asked by: Prof. Crawford Fadel Jr.  |  Last update: October 25, 2022
Score: 4.7/5 (28 votes)

Yes, in most cases, we will return the old, canceled passport to you. The old passport may be sent separately from your new passport. We recommend keeping your old passport in a safe place as it is considered proof of your U.S. citizenship.

Why I didn't get my old passport back when renewing?

The cancelled passport will be sent separately from the renewed one. Because they are sent separately, the two documents usually arrive on different days. If the renewed passport arrives first, don't get anxious about getting the old passport back. It should arrive within a day or two.

Do I have to turn in my old passport when renewing?

You must submit your most recent passport with your application. Please note: Your U.S. passport book and/or card must meet all of the requirements listed at the top of this page. Your old passport book and/or card will be returned to you, but generally it will come in a separate mailing from your new passport.

Is there any reason to keep old passports?

An Old Passport Serves as Validation

If you lose a passport and need to get a new one, an expired one can prove your legal status and identity. You can also submit a birth certificate but these don't contain a photo. Old passports have the same information plus a photo.

What should I do with my old passport?

Travel history is considered as an important parameter during the Visa Application process or immigration. The old passport serves as a document for verification of your travel history for both visa application and immigration. A strong travel history enhances a traveler's chances of acquiring a visa.

When Renewing A Passport, Always Get The Old One Back!

40 related questions found

Can you use an old passport as ID?

We can only accept a passport that is valid and within its expiry date. This would be the same for any Identification documents. All would need to be within their expiry dates.

Can I use my old passport while waiting for new one?

Use your old passport and you will be able to travel anywhere as long as there is 6 months validity remaining. Might be different for each country. In the US they take your old passport while processing the new one. They send both to you, but the old one has holes punched in it to invalidate it.

How long does it take for old passport to be received?

The vast majority of all passport applications are being dealt with well within 10 weeks. However, a passport can only be issued once all the checks have been completed satisfactorily and will take longer if applications are submitted with missing or incomplete information.

How long does it take to get a renewed passport?

While the standard timeline for receiving the normal passport is 30 days from the date of submitting the application, typically it takes two to three weeks to get a fresh passport or get your passport renewed. If applying for Tatkal, you can get a passport within one to three days.

Does passport number change after renewal?

So what happens when you renew or update your existing passport details? Your passport number will change, as the number is allocated to the passport rather than the person, when every single document is produced.

Can I get my passport in one day?

Worry not: You can actually get a passport in 24 hours. The newest (and possibly easiest) option is to step into one of 2,000 FedEx locations across the country. FedEx has teamed up with RushMyPassport to offer a speedy new passport or a renewal in as little as one business day.

What is the fastest way to get a passport?

Best way to apply for your passport

If you need to submit extra documents, the ten days processing time starts when we receive them. If you have already submitted a paper application, you cannot apply online. Passport Online is the fastest way to apply for or renew your passport.

What happens if my passport doesn't arrive in time?

Answer: Please call 1-877-487-2778 8 AM to 5PM or 202-647-4000 after hours to secure an appointment at a regional agency. An agency should be able to issue the passport in 24 hours or less.

How long do you need on your passport to travel to Spain?

Your passport must be: issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the 'date of issue') valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the 'expiry date')

Do I have to send my old passport when renewing UK?

If you're renewing or replacing a passport

You must bring your old passport to the Post Office if you still have it.

Will my new passport have the same passport number?

Do not book travel until you have a valid passport - your new passport will not have the same number as your old one.

Should I destroy my old passport?

Never simply throw a passport away. Even if the government has canceled it, it could still be used by thieves to commit forgery or identity theft. Do not destroy a passport unless it has been officially canceled. Even if it is expired, you may need to present it to a passport agency in order to obtain a replacement.

Can I use my expired passport to fly?

If you are overseas and your U.S. passport expired on or after January 1, 2020, you may be able to use your expired passport to return directly to the United States until June 30, 2022. You qualify to travel by air on your expired passport if all the following are true: You are a U.S. citizen.

Can you accept an out of date passport as right to work?

However some circumstances require the passport to be current. For example, if the passport contains evidence that the individual has obtained Indefinite Leave to Remain or if the passport includes an endorsement confirming the right to work.

Is 8 weeks enough time to get a passport?

The State Department says routine passport processing times are estimated to be eight to 11 weeks – still above the pre-pandemic average of six to eight weeks but much better than the 18-week wait travelers faced last summer.

Why does it take so long to renew a passport?

Due to increased demand, a shortage of appointments and delays with the U.S. Post Service, the State Department now says that those applying for a new or renewed passport should expect to wait up to 18 weeks for their document.

Can I travel internationally without a passport?

Passport. A passport is required for all international travel. If you're traveling anywhere overseas, you need a passport to board an international flight and to enter the country. Passport cards will not be accepted as form of I.D. for international air travel.

How long does a passport renewal take online?

How long does a passport renewal take? The actual process of filling out the form online should take you no more than 20 minutes. Once you've submitted all your information – provided there's no mistakes – your passport should be with you within 3 weeks.

Can you speed up passport process?

Passports can be issued quickly in an emergency - such as ill health or death - but forgetting to allow adequate time for an application to go through is not seen as an emergency by the Passport Office. The only way to speed up the process is to pay for it.

Can I collect my passport in person?

After having tracked online whether your passport is ready for collection, you can collect your passport in person at the end of the visa application process.