Should I renew my passport before I depart for Germany?

by Gab
(Texas)

Question: I'm 17 years old and I'm going on a 55 day trip to Germany. But I have heard that when you are 18 years old you must renew your passport. I'm leaving the beginning of June and returning the beginning of August, but the problem is that my 18th birthday occurs during my stay in Germany. What do I need to do with my passport status?

Answer: You are not required to renew your passport just because you complete your 18th birthday. What you need to be concerned about is the date of expiration of your passport in relation to your trip to Germany.

Germany is party to the Schengen Agreement and, as such, requires visitors to possess passports that have at least 3 months validity beyond their intended stay. If your passport will expire more than 3 months after you exit Germany, then you do not need to renew it until your return to the United States. If it will expire prior to completing 3 months beyond your exit from Germany, then you need to apply for a new passport before you depart.

Passports issued to minors cannot be renewed by mail. You must appear in person at an acceptance facility to submit the application for a new passport. If you need to do this, click the link below for a complete list of requirements.

New Passport Requirements