What if my passport doesn't arrive before my flight?

Contact the passport agency for emergency processing if your trip is within 14 days. You can also try walk-in appointments at regional passport agencies. As a last resort, some airlines allow full refunds for unused tickets if you can't travel due to missing documents.

Can I use my old passport number when booking?

No, never use an expired passport number. Airlines verify passport validity at check-in. Use placeholder information instead and update with your new passport details when it arrives.

Do I need my passport number for domestic connections on international trips?

Yes, even domestic segments of international itineraries require passport information. The airline needs consistent documentation for the entire journey, including any domestic connections.

How long before departure can I update passport information?

Most airlines allow updates until 24 hours before departure through their website. After that, you'll need to call customer service or handle changes at the airport, which may incur fees.

How to book international flights before your passport arrives

You can book international flights without having your passport in hand by using placeholder information and updating it later. Most airlines allow passport number changes up to 24 hours before departure, though some charge fees for modifications.

Book with basic personal information. Use your full legal name exactly as it appears on your passport application. Enter 'TBA' or '000000000' in the passport number field if required. Most booking systems will accept this placeholder.
Save all booking confirmations. Keep your confirmation email and booking reference number. You'll need these to update your passport details later. Screenshot or print the booking page as backup.
Check airline passport policies. Review your specific airline's policy on passport number changes. Most major carriers (United, Delta, Lufthansa, Emirates) allow free updates online up to 24 hours before departure.
Set passport arrival reminder. Mark your calendar for the day your passport should arrive. Plan to update your booking information within 2-3 days of receiving it, not at the last minute.
Update passport information online. Log into the airline's website using your booking reference. Navigate to 'Manage Booking' or 'My Trips' and enter your passport number, issue date, and expiration date.
Verify all details match exactly. Double-check that your name on the booking matches your passport exactly. Any discrepancy, including middle names or suffixes, can cause problems at check-in.

What if my passport doesn't arrive before my flight?: Contact the passport agency for emergency processing if your trip is within 14 days. You can also try walk-in appointments at regional passport agencies. As a last resort, some airlines allow full refunds for unused tickets if you can't travel due to missing documents.
Can I use my old passport number when booking?: No, never use an expired passport number. Airlines verify passport validity at check-in. Use placeholder information instead and update with your new passport details when it arrives.
Do I need my passport number for domestic connections on international trips?: Yes, even domestic segments of international itineraries require passport information. The airline needs consistent documentation for the entire journey, including any domestic connections.
How long before departure can I update passport information?: Most airlines allow updates until 24 hours before departure through their website. After that, you'll need to call customer service or handle changes at the airport, which may incur fees.