Can I renew my passport early?

by Shibu
(Pa)

Question: My US passport expires only on January 2017, but can i renew it now, as of March 2011? What are the advantages and disadvantages of doing so and what happens to all the valid visas that I have on my current passport when i get a new one?

Answer: You can renew your passport whenever you want if you have good reason to do so. You should include a letter explaining the motive for the request along with the renewal application if it is submitted more than 9 months prior to the expiration date.

There are three main disadvantages to applying for a passport renewal so early. One is the cost. You will be required to pay the renewal fee of $110. Two, you will lose the remaining validity in your current passport. Three, you will probably be required to apply for new visas to replace the ones that are currently in your passport.

There are a couple of exceptions. Brazil allows visitors to present a Brazilian visa in an expired or invalidated passport along with a valid passport. India only requires you to apply to transfer the visa to the new passport. There is a fee for this service but it is less than the fee for a new visa to India. Other countries require you to apply for a completely new visa.