U.S. extends policy allowing some U.S. citizens to return to U.S. on expired passports

The State Department has extended a temporary policy that allows some U.S. citizens to return to the U.S. on an expired passport. The policy was set to expire on Dec. 31, 2021, and will be extended until March 31, 2022.

Key Points:

• Under the policy, U.S. citizens currently aboard whose passports expired on or after Jan. 1, 2020, may be able to return to the U.S. using their expired passport.
• Certain criteria may apply, and travelers are encouraged to confirm their eligibility on this website before finalizing travel arrangements.
• Travelers cannot use expired passports to travel from the U.S. to a foreign country. They also cannot use expired passports to travel from one foreign country to another for any length of stay longer than an airport connection en route to the U.S. or a U.S. territory.
• The policy was first implemented in May 2021.

BAL Analysis: While the extension will ease travel procedures for some U.S. citizens returning to the U.S., it only applies to a limited number of travelers. BAL continues to urge individuals to consult their BAL professional before planning international travel, as this policy may change with little notice and could affect travelers’ ability to re-enter or return to the U.S.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.