Even if your passport is technically valid, you could be denied entrance to the United States of America after a new passport rule went into effect. If you’re traveling under the Visa Waiver Program, you’d better take a look at your passport.
As of April 1, 2016 anyone entering the US must have a modern biometric e-passport or they will be turned away under the Visa Waiver Program that was signed into law on December 18, 2015. To verify that your passport has been modernized, look for the small biometric symbol on the cover beneath the word “PASSPORT.” If you’re missing the small rectangle with a circle in the middle, you won’t be traveling to the US any time soon.
Travelers have had the option to purchase a biometric passport for nearly a decade, but only recently have they become mandatory for anyone traveling under the Visa Waiver Program. Older passports are still valid, but they will not grant entry to the United States from some countries. Check with your travel authority and confirm your passport is in compliance with the latest laws before traveling to the US as it may take weeks to receive a replacement.
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