Americans love to travel — one report estimates that approximately 38.1 million outbound travelers went overseas in 2022. As all U.S. citizens require a passport to visit international destinations, you will need to apply for one ahead of your trip.
Our guide will provide an overview of everything you need to know about the requirements of a passport — from the six-month passport rule to photo regulations — enabling you to feel more prepared. Read on to discover the passport rules and regulations and travel with ease.
6-Month Passport Rule
Depending on the nature of your trip, you could spend days, weeks or even months in a new country. To help ensure your passport does not expire while you’re abroad, you need to comply with the six-month rule. In some countries, regulations are more lenient, and there is a three-month rule to follow instead. Paying attention to American passport expiration rules will help minimize the chance of complications during boarding.
The six-month passport rule requires your travel documentation to be valid for half a year. The country you are visiting will determine whether the start date for this period is your departure or arrival date. Two factors impact this important travel regulation:
- Your destination: Each country will specify if the passport expiration travel rules allow for six or three months. Some countries may not require a minimum expiration period at all.
- Your nationality: Countries have different agreements with each other, and this impacts passport and visa requirements. Be sure to confirm the regulations before you plan your trip.
Which Countries Enforce the 6-Month Passport Rule?
Multiple countries in the Asia Pacific and Middle East only allow entry if your passport meets the six-month passport rule. Some of the more commonly visited destinations include:
- Mainland China
- Vietnam
- Qatar
- The United Emirates
- Türkiye
If you’re unsure which countries enforce the six-month passport rule, it’s best to check with a travel agent or embassy for accurate information. You’ll then have complete peace of mind when booking your tickets, accommodation and travel activities.
Passport Rules and Regulations
Applying for a passport is as simple as filling out a form and submitting it with your supporting documents. As a passport is valid for 10 years, you also won’t need to repeat this process in a hurry. Simply download the application for a U.S. passport online, complete it in your own time and submit it at your local passport agency or acceptance facility. You will need to provide copies of these documents:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship: You will need to confirm your citizenship status with a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or a consular report of birth abroad. If these documents are unavailable, you can submit a delayed birth certificate or DS-10 birth affidavit form.
- Photo ID: Acceptable forms of photo ID include, a driver’s license, old passport, government-issued ID or certificate of naturalization. Bring the document and a high-quality copy when submitting your application.
- Passport photo: All passports must contain a clear headshot, printed in color.
- Passport fees: The amount you pay will depend if you are an adult or minor and whether you choose a standard or large passport book.
Passport Photo Rules
In submitting your passport application, you will also need to include a color photo of yourself not older than six months. Airport personnel will use this photo to verify you as the passport holder. When taking your picture, keep the following passport photo regulations in mind:
- Choose a plain white or off-white background with a good light source.
- Ask a friend or family member to take the photo, as selfies are not permitted.
- Airport personnel need to see a clear image of your face to verify your identity — take off your hat, eyeglasses and headphones.
- While filters and photo editors help your Instagram photos pop, they alter your appearance. Ensure your passport photo is not digitally enhanced in any way.
- You’re welcome to smile, but your mouth must be closed and your eyes open.
In addition to following these passport photo regulations, you need to comply with the size guidelines. Acceptable U.S. passport photos must be a 2-inch square, and your head must take up between 1 inch and 1 and 3/8 inches of the image.
Baby or Toddler Passport Photos
If you’re planning to travel with your baby or toddler, you’ll need to take a clear photo of them for their passport. Keeping small children in one place is challenging at the best of times, so this is no small feat! Here are some tips to help simplify the process and snap the perfect picture:
- Lay them on a bed: Place a white sheet on the bed and lay your baby on top. Your baby’s head will be supported, and they’re less likely to move around in this position.
- Use a car seat: If your child is a bit older, consider covering a car seat with a white sheet and taking the photo while they’re seated. Like a bed, the car seat will support your child’s head and neck.
Passport Book Sizes
When applying for your passport book, you will need to choose between two sizes — standard and large. Standard passports have 28 pages, while large passports have 48. Consider the following:
- Travel frequency: If you love to travel and plan several international trips a year, a large passport will be your best option. This will also be a good choice if you schedule frequent work trips.
- Nature of travel: Cruises and Contiki-type holidays involve visiting several destinations on one holiday. If this is your preferred way to explore the world, consider getting a large passport to accommodate the numerous custom stamps and visa stickers.
While getting a large passport may seem like the obvious choice, they are generally more expensive than standard books. Large passports are also sometimes too big for covers and purses, making it more challenging to keep them safe.
Apply for Your Passport With 24 Hour Passport and Visas
A passport is your key to exploring fascinating new countries — whether for business or pleasure. Yet passport expiration travel rules sometimes stand in the way of adventure! If you’ve booked your flights and realize you need a new passport in a hurry, using an expedited service is your best bet.
24 Hour Passports and Visas is one of the most reliable U.S. passport and VISA expedition companies in the country. Our experienced team will guide you through the process and are often able to get your travel documents in as little as one day. Schedule an appointment now, or contact one of our agents for more information!
