Biometric Passport for USA – Validity, Where to Apply, FAQ

by Petr Novák, ? The accuracy of the information provided in this article was last verified on this date. If you spot any errors, please let us know in the comments. Thank you. :-) Updated 04/09/2024 Before Departure, Tips & Tricks

The cardinal rule when applying for a passport is: Apply on time. My friend was planning to travel to the USA for a month-long, all-expenses-paid training camp. Unfortunately, he couldn’t. At first, he didn’t have a valid biometric passport, then he broke his arm. The time limit for issuing passports varies from country to country.

1. Table of Contents

   1. Basic Facts About the Biometric Passport
   2. FAQ About Travel Documents

   Basic Facts About the Biometric Passport

   How to Recognize a Biometric Passport?

   A biometric passport has a rectangular symbol at the bottom of the front cover with a circle in the middle. You can see it in the picture above.

   What Is the Validity of a Passport With Biometrics?

   The usual validity of a passport for people over 15 years of age is 10 years in most countries. Passports for children under 15 are valid for 5 years. It is not possible to extend the validity of a passport.

2. FAQ About Travel Documents

   What Kind of Passport Do I Need for the USA?

   The passport for travel to America must be biometric. Your fingerprints don’t need to be recorded on it, as they will be taken at the entry interview. You cannot travel to the USA with a passport lacking machine-readable data.

   Is a Biometric Passport Required for Stopovers in the USA?

   Yes, a biometric passport is mandatory when making a stopover in the USA and using ESTA travel registration.

   Where Can I Apply for a Passport?

   Citizens of the USA, UK, Canada, Ireland, and several other countries can apply for a passport online using iVisa.