When planning an international flight, many elements need to be taken into account to guarantee a hassle-free journey. By taking advantage of low-season discounts, you can avoid surge pricing by making your reservation early. On the other hand, the majority of people frequently learn that their passports have expired or are soon to expire. Sometimes, their passports are stolen or lost, so they don't even have them.
Many individuals are aware that traveling abroad requires a passport. You need a valid passport not only to clear immigration but also to board an aircraft. But Do you need a passport to book an international flight online? This complete guide will help you answer that question and learn how to apply for a new or renewed passport easily.
Do You Need A Passport To Book An International Flight?
For short-haul and local international travel, you typically don't need a passport to buy an international ticket. However, the majority of foreign airlines may request that passengers provide their passport number when purchasing a ticket for an international flight. In this instance, you must present the necessary documentation and have a valid passport.
For instance, European countries require passports to be valid for at least six months. Otherwise, you won't be allowed to board an aircraft to travel to the region's countries. Other countries have different laws and regulations. Therefore, before departing for overseas, confirm the requirements of your trip on the U.S. Department of State website.
What Passport Information Is Required by the Airline to Make a Reservation?
The need for immigration control and adherence to foreign travel laws makes passport information crucial. The specific passport information required may vary depending on the airline and your country's destination, but generally speaking, it includes the following:
- Passport Number: This is your passport's special identification number.
- Date of Expiration: Given the regulations for entry and exit, it is essential to ensure that your passport is valid for the duration of your trip.
- Complete Name: Your passport's first and last names as they appear on it.
- Date of Birth (DOB): This information is used to identify passengers.
What Additional Information Is Required To Make An International Travel Booking?
In addition to a passport number, the following information is usually needed when purchasing a ticket for an international flight:
- Passenger information: Full name, gender, and date of birth
- Contact Details: Phone number with the correct country code and email address.
- Travel Details: Travel dates and departure/arrival information
- Nationality and Citizenship: Your nationality and country of residence
- Special Requirements: Seat preferences, meal preferences, wheelchair services, and Additional services such as travel insurance, checked baggage, or seat upgrades
Can I Fly Internationally Without A Passport Or An Expired Passport?
No, you cannot fly internationally without a valid travel document (passport). Airlines require you to submit details from a valid passport during the booking process to comply with immigration and security regulations. Thus, an expired passport is no longer considered a valid travel document.
Certain nations have unique regulations regarding the validity of passports, such as the need for them to remain valid for six months beyond the intended departure date. Therefore, before making a reservation for an international flight, you should ensure that your passport satisfies the standards of the country where you plan to travel. As a result, if your passport has expired or is near expiration, you have to renew it before booking an international flight.
Can You Check-In Online Without A Passport For An International Flight?
No, airlines typically require passport information during the online check-in, especially for international flights. In such cases, you will need your PRN or passport number. As a result, To check in online, you must have your PNR number, which has all your personal information. Also, you have to always carry it with you.
Do You Need A Passport To Fly To Canada Or Mexico?
In addition to flying from the US, one can enter Canada or Mexico via land. However, in these cases, the answer to "Do you need a passport to book an international flight?" is still yes. This is because you can also obtain a passport card. Although the card is marginally less expensive, it can only be used for land travel—you cannot fly to Canada or Mexico.
In summary, most airlines these days won't even let you reserve a seat if you don't have a valid passport. But remember, even in that case, you'll need to obtain your passport as soon as possible. Without one, you still won't be able to board the aircraft in the first place.
Also Read: Unveiling The Best 6 Airline Lifetime Passes of 2024
Consider The Tips On Booking An International Flight
Finding cheap flights and ensuring a hassle-free travel experience might be difficult when booking an international ticket, but it can be done successfully with the appropriate tactics. These pointers will assist you:
- Find a flight far in advance, particularly if you intend to go during a busy time of year. Booking early increases your chances of discovering great deals and more available options.
- Use airline websites or flight search engines with flexible date options to compare prices with different platforms and find affordable flights.
- Check for flights from nearby or secondary airports
- By assisting online travel agents or using flight search tools, compare costs across several airlines and booking websites.
- Subscribe to fare notifications or sign up for travel website newsletters.
- Check for layovers or connecting flights.
- Understand the baggage allowance and any additional charges associated with your chosen airline.
- Ensure you have the necessary paperwork and are aware of any travel limitations and visa requirements for the place you visit.
- To protect yourself against unanticipated circumstances like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or misplaced luggage, think about getting travel insurance.
- Before making a reservation, check all the details, including the dates, times, passengers' names, and passport details.
U.S. Passport Application: How To Apply?
If you recently become a U.S. citizen, you may wonder how to apply for a U.S. passport. Hence, follow the steps at a passport acceptance facility for an in-person application:
Step 1: Fill Out The Ds-11 Application Form
If you are applying for a passport for the first time or for your child under the age of 16, the application form for a U.S. passport should be completed. Note that children under the age of 16 cannot renew their passports and must apply using the DS-11 form.
Step 2: Gather The Required Documents
You will need to provide proof that you are a U.S. citizen. Most people use a birth certificate. You will also need to present other papers, like a driver's license or other valid government identification, and evidence of citizenship. It is also necessary to provide photocopies of the front (and back, if there is printed information there) of any identification you give, as well as proof of your U.S. citizenship.
Step 3: Obtain A Passport Photo
A passport-style photo must be included with your passport application. The photograph must be clear of your face and was taken within the last six months. It is not advised to utilize social media filters that are often used.
Step 4: Prepare To Pay The Applicable Charges
You will have to pay an application fee and the execution fee. As a first-time applicant, the fee will be between $135 and $165 if you use standard return shipping. However, the fee varies depending on the shipping method and your age.
Step 5: Submit Your Application In-Person
After confirming that you have everything listed above and double-checking the U.S. Department of State requirements, you can submit your application. Those applying for the first time must do it in person at an authorized facility.
How To Renew A U.S. Passport?
Renewing a U.S. passport requires sending an application by mail. A passport acceptance facility is not where you can renew a U.S. passport unless you are not eligible for a mail-in renewal. In order to qualify for a mail-in passport renewal, the following conditions must be met:
- Along with your application, you can send your previous passport.
- There is no damage to the passport.
- No reports of it being lost or stolen exist.
- It was issued in the last 15 years
- You had to be 16 years old or older to receive it.
- It was issued in your current name.
- Due to various problems with loss, theft, or damage, the passport was not restricted to a period of less than ten years.
Note: Once your passport is renewed, you will get a new passport number. Therefore, if you saved your passport number in a frequent flyer account, you must update the number and expiration date before you can check in for an international flight.
You can also read: Flight insurance policy
How Long Does It Take To Make A U.S. Passport?
According to the U.S. Department of State, the standard processing timelines for a new passport or passport renewal are as follows:
- Routine Processing: Six to eight weeks
- Expedited Processing: Two or three weeks
Note: You must also calculate mailing times, which are not factored into these estimations. To put it briefly, if you want to obtain it before the trip, you will need lots of advance notice.
How Much Does A Cost of a U.S. Passport?
The cost of a U.S. passport depends on whether you are applying for a new one or renewing an expired one. First-time adult applicants will pay the following amount for a new U.S. passport:
- Passport Book: $130
- Passport Card: $30
- Passport Book and Card: $160
- Execution Fee: $35
First-time applications must pay the acceptance and execution fees, so first-time passport applicants can expect to pay around $165. Applicants who renew their passports will pay less because the acceptance fee doesn't apply. They will just pay the cost of the passport book or card listed above. Fast turnaround is available for an extra $60 for expedited processing and $19.53 for two-day delivery.
Final Verdict!
You don't need a passport number to reserve an international flight. However, you have to present it when checking in for your flight. Ensure you leave enough time for a passport renewal or new passport application, as they can take a while to process. While applying for a passport, if you need any help or are confused about the process, talk with an online travel agency expert at +1-800-865-1848, who will assist you anytime.
