Passport office secrets: what happens to your old passport? find out the surprising answer!

When applying for a new passport, one of the questions that often arises is: “Does the passport office keep your old passport?” Understanding the answer to this question is crucial for ensuring a smooth and hassle-free passport renewal process. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of passport retention policies and provide a detailed explanation of what happens to your old passport after you apply for a new one.

What Happens to Your Old Passport?

In general, the passport office does keep your old passport after you apply for a new one. This practice is followed for several reasons:

• Security: Old passports can be used for identity theft or other fraudulent activities. Retaining them helps prevent these crimes.
• Verification: The passport office may need to refer to your old passport for verification purposes, such as when you apply for a visa or travel to certain countries.
• Historical Record: Passports serve as a historical record of your travels and identity. Keeping them allows the government to maintain an accurate database of your international movements.

Exceptions to the Rule

There are a few exceptions to the general rule of passport retention:

• Damaged or Lost Passports: If your old passport is damaged or lost, you will need to report it to the passport office. They will cancel the passport and issue you a new one. In this case, your old passport will not be retained.
• Diplomatic Passports: Diplomatic passports are issued to government officials and their families. When they expire or are no longer needed, these passports are typically returned to the issuing authority, not the passport office.
• Special Circumstances: In rare cases, the passport office may decide to return your old passport to you. This could happen if you provide a compelling reason, such as a need for it for sentimental or historical purposes.

What to Do with Your Old Passport

If the passport office retains your old passport, it will be securely stored and eventually destroyed. However, you can take steps to protect your personal information before surrendering your passport:

• Remove Sensitive Documents: Make copies of any important documents, such as visas or entry stamps, that you want to keep.
• Black Out Personal Information: Use a black marker or pen to black out any sensitive information, such as your Social Security number or travel itinerary, that you do not want to be retained.

Renewal Process and Old Passport Submission

When applying for a passport renewal, you will need to submit your old passport along with the required application materials. The passport office will then cancel your old passport and issue you a new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get my old passport back after it has been canceled?

In most cases, no. Old passports are typically destroyed after they are canceled. However, you may request a special exemption from the passport office if you have a compelling reason.

2. What should I do if my old passport is lost or stolen?

Report the loss or theft to the passport office immediately. They will cancel the passport and issue you a new one.

3. Can I use my old passport as a form of identification?

No. Once your old passport is canceled, it is no longer a valid form of identification.

4. What happens to the information stored on my old passport’s chip?

The information stored on the chip is erased when the passport is canceled.

5. Can I keep my old passport for sentimental reasons?

In rare cases, the passport office may allow you to keep your old passport for sentimental reasons. You will need to provide a compelling reason and submit a written request.