Do I Get My Old Passport Back When Renewing?
Passport renewal is a common process for travelers who need to update their passport for various reasons, such as expiring soon or needing extra pages for visas. However, many people wonder whether they will get their old passport back when renewing. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the country’s regulations and the type of renewal process.
In the United States, for example, when you renew your passport through the mail using Form DS-82, you will receive your old passport back with your new one. This is because the old passport is considered proof of your identity and citizenship, and it will be cancelled and returned to you with your new passport. However, if you renew your passport in person at a passport agency or center, your old passport will not be returned to you, as it will be cancelled and sent to the U.S. Department of State for disposal.
Similarly, in countries like Canada and the United Kingdom, when you renew your passport by mail, you will receive your old passport back along with your new one. However, if you renew your passport in person at a passport office, your old passport will not be returned to you, as it will be cancelled and disposed of by the passport office.
There are some exceptions to this rule, such as if your old passport is damaged or if it contains a visa that is still valid. In these cases, you may be able to keep your old passport, but you will need to provide a valid reason and additional documentation to support your request.
It is important to note that holding on to your old passport can be useful in certain situations, such as when you need to transfer visas or provide proof of travel history. However, it is also important to ensure that your old passport is kept in a safe place and that it is not used for travel, as it will be invalid after the renewal process.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “do I get my old passport back when renewing” depends on the country’s regulations and the type of renewal process. In most cases, you will receive your old passport back along with your new one if you renew by mail, but you may not get it back if you renew in person. It is important to consider the implications of keeping your old passport and to ensure that it is kept safe and secure if you choose to do so.
