Why would a traveler need a second passport?
Frequent international travelers may benefit from having a second passport which can be granted at the discretion of the U.S. Passport Agency based on justifiable need. Frequent business travel as evidenced in a company letter or needing to travel while the passport is undergoing lengthy processing of a visa are generally considered justifiable reasons for obtaining second passports. The original passport must also be submitted during the application process. When approved, second passports are usually only issued for two years but may be extended. Please see the CIBT website for detailed instructions. TIP OF THE WEEK: When planning travel for non-US passport holders, it is important to verify US visa status. Few consulates will issue visas for travelers without proof of eligibility to reenter the US. Some consulates will accept copies of green cards and INS documents while others require the original document.
Frequent international travelers will often need a second passport. The U.S. Passport Agency reviews these requests carefully and has final say over which requests will be granted. Evidence, such as numerous visas or airport stamps in the existing passport, must be shown to validate a request. Another common reason for a second passport would be for travelers who have Israeli stamps but who also need to travel to Arab countries. (Certain Arab countries will deny entry to any traveler with an Israeli stamp.) When approved, second passports are usually only issued for two years but may be extended. If you are a frequent traveler and Israeli stamps are not an issue, simply ask for a 48 page U.S. passport instead of the standard 24 page passport on your application.
Second passports are often requested by those who travel frequently. If you are unable to wait for a visa to be issued you may request a second passport in order to travel while getting a visa for your next destination at the same time. Another reason to apply for a second passport is for travelers who have Israeli stamps in their current passport but who also need to travel to countries where any evidence of travel to Israel will bar you from entry. When approved, second passports are usually only issued for two years but may be extended.
Related Questions
- Why does AmericanPassport.com ask for two dates on the submission sheet - the date the passport must be back in our possession and the date of the travelers next international trip?
- Why does ZVS ask for two dates on the submission sheet - the date the passport must be back in our possession and the date of the travelers next international trip?
- Can a VWP traveler with more than one passport travel to the United States on the passport that was not used when applying for an ESTA?
