Having a damaged or mutilated passport will prevent you from leaving the country if you use it to travel
. So, to avoid getting turned away, apply for a replacement before your trip. The process to replace your current passport can take time.
What qualifies as a damaged passport?
Damage that might require you to replace your passport includes
water damage, a significant tear, unofficial markings on the data page, missing visa pages (torn out), a hole punch, or other injuries
. Normal ‘wear and tear' of a U.S. passport is expected and likely does not count as ‘damage.
Can you use damaged passport as proof of citizenship?
Previously-issued, fully-valid U.S. Passport (Mutilated, altered, or damaged passports are
not acceptable
as evidence of U.S. citizenship.)
How fast can I replace a damaged passport?
Replace a Damaged Passport Fast
The application to replace a damaged passport using standard service takes
4-6 weeks
to process. You can accelerate the process by requesting expedited service. The replacement passport should be delivered to you within 2-3 weeks.
Do I have to replace a damaged passport?
You must replace your passport if it has more than reasonable wear and tear because you may not be allowed to travel with it
.
Is a damaged passport valid?
A severely damaged passport is no longer valid
. It can't be used for travel, and it can't even be used to prove your identity and US citizenship. Passports that are badly damaged enough to be considered mutilated need to be replaced via the Mutilated Passport procedure.
What are the documents required for damaged passport?
- Proof of Present Address.
- Proof of Date of Birth.
- Affidavit stating how and where the passport got lost/damaged (Annexure ‘F')
- Police report in original.
- Self-attested photocopy of first two and last two pages, including ECR/Non-ECR page of old passport, if available.
- Original EC/Seizure Memo.
How do I get a new passport if mine is damaged?
- Your damaged passport.
- A statement explaining how the damage occurred.
- A completed DS-11 Form.
- Proof of Citizenship: Birth Certificate. Certificate of Naturalization.
- Proof of Identity: Photocopy of Driver's License or State-issued ID.
Can a water damaged passport chip?
If these appear ruined in any way, you'll probably need a new passport.
Other signs of damage include water damage
, a significant tear or tears, torn out or missing visa pages, and unofficial markings.
What is considered a damaged US visa?
Exposure to the elements, such as water or heat
, can damage your visa. if your visa is damaged, faded or otherwise unreadable in any way, you may consider replacing it.
Is police verification required for reissue of damaged passport?
No PV:
Police Verification (PV) is not necessary in case of renewal/reissue of passport
, if the passport application is submitted before expiry or within three years of expiry of the Passport, provided the system shows clear PV and nothing adverse is noticed.
How do I fill Annexure F for a damaged passport?
- Applicant's name, Father's name and address.
- How and when the passport was lost has to be mentioned in detail.
- FIR details.
- Name and address of the police station where the FIR is filed.
- Number of passports that were damaged or lost earlier.
What is mutilated passport?
Mutilated Passport:
A passport that is intentionally and materially changed in physical appearance or composition by the bearer
.