So Your Passport Is About to Expire: How to Book Flights Safely

Most countries require at least 6 months of validity on your passport beyond your date of departure. If you are within that window, do not book until you have either renewed your passport or confirmed the specific entry requirements for your destination via the IATA Travel Centre.

  1. Check the 6-month rule. Almost every international destination requires your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return date. Visit the IATA Travel Centre website, input your destination and passport details, and verify if they enforce this rule strictly.
  2. Use placeholders if the airline allows. If you absolutely must book before your new passport arrives, check if your airline allows you to book without passport details. If they do, enter '000000000' or similar placeholders, but ensure you update these details in the airline's 'Manage My Booking' portal as soon as your new passport number is issued.
  3. Update your APIS data. Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) data must match your travel document. Once your new passport arrives, log in to your airline account immediately to update your document number, expiration date, and country of issue to avoid being denied boarding at the gate.
  4. Keep the old passport handy. If you are renewing and travel soon, keep your expired or cancelled passport with you until you receive the new one. Some airlines and customs officials appreciate seeing the old document to verify the name and original citizenship record.
Can I travel if my passport expires in 3 months?
Only if your destination country does not have a 6-month validity requirement. Check the IATA Travel Centre tool to confirm, but generally, you will be denied boarding by the airline.
Will my flight booking be cancelled if I update my passport number?
No. Airlines expect passport details to change due to renewal. As long as your name remains exactly the same as the original booking, updating the passport number is a standard procedure.
What if my name changed on the new passport?
If your name changed (e.g., due to marriage), you must call the airline immediately. Name changes on bookings are strictly regulated and may require a copy of your legal name change document.