Key Points
- DOS is extending a temporary measure allowing US citizens to enter the country with expired passports
- The measure was set to expire on March 31, 2022, but it will be extended through June 2022
- Individuals whose passports expired on January 1, 2020, or later can enter the US through June 30, 2022, with their expired passport
- The extension makes entry into the US easier for citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic
- The temporary measure applies to inbound travel only; expired passports cannot typically be used to enter a foreign destination
- US citizens can renew their passports through the DOS website
Overview
The Department of State (DOS) will extend a temporary measure allowing US citizens to enter the United States even if they hold an expired US passport.
What are the Changes?
US citizens whose passports expired on January 1, 2020, or after that date may still use their expired passport to enter the US through June 30, 2022. This authorization, which is granted through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and DOS, expires on March 31, 2022. However, it is now extended through June 2022 so that US citizens can return to the US more efficiently, given the travel challenges attributed to COVID-19.
Travelers should note that the extension applies to inbound air travel only. Individuals returning to the US can use an expired passport to make a connecting flight in transit to the US or a US territory. Still, they cannot travel from the US to any international destination with an expired passport.
COVID-19 requirements still apply to travelers entering the US. All air travelers must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test. Test results must be obtained within 24 hours of departure to the US.
Looking Ahead
Returning travelers can renew their passports upon returning to the US. Current passport processing times are available on the Department of State’s website.
Written by: Lucy Halse, Content Marketing Associate, Envoy Global
Edited by: Dmitri Pikman, Supervising Attorney, Corporate Immigration Partners
Source: US Department of State
