Are you planning to travel internationally this summer? Then do yourself a favor and do this ASAP. Last year, I wrote a post titled: 12 Passport Tips that Will Save You Time, Money and Headaches

My first tip in that article is probably the most valuable, and even more so this year for a couple of reasons. The number one thing you should do if you’re planning to travel internationally this summer is check your passport’s validity. If you’re planning to travel out of the country, find your passport now and make sure it’s valid.

Remember: Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months after your arrival date before they’ll grant entry into their country. It doesn’t matter if you’re only going for a day. If you don’t have at least six months validity, you could, and probably will, be denied entry. Before you have to pay to expedite the process, renew or apply for a passport now. Here’s how.

I was reminded of this tip by a tweet the State Department sent a few days ago, which stated: “Apply for your passport now if you plan to travel this spring or summer. Remember: you must apply in person for your first passport, or if you were younger than 16 when you got your last passport.”


I also learned that because the U.S. has hit the debt ceiling for the first time since 2011, it will affect passport applications. Here’s ⁠why it’s so urgent, according to an Instagram post The Points Guy shared:

“The Treasury Department can take ‘extraordinary measures’ to move money around and ensure the nation doesn’t default on its bills. But each day will be like a ticking clock — Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen estimates she’ll have run out of tricks to help the government avoid default by early June,” Foster said.⁠ ? If this June default happens, the federal government might fail to extend funding for certain government programs, potentially affecting travel if you want to visit a national park, renew your passport or Global Entry membership and more.⁠” They also went on to say: “Trusted Traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, are operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Any pause in funding could curtail the ability to process applications. Plus, the government is already facing a pandemic-induced backlog of applications and is currently warning of extended wait times.”

 

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A post shared by The Points Guy (@thepointsguy)


Unfortunately, Congress has elected some members who have no problems shutting down the government. In fact, it seems like they’re keen on it so if you want to make sure you’re not held prisoner for those exciting international travel plans this summer or fall, I suggest you make sure your passport is valid or get it renewed ASAP.

RELATED:
US State Department Launches Pilot Program to Renew Passports Online
My Wife Lost Her Passport in Estonia

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