Passport validity: five checks to make before booking a trip

A five-minute document review can help surface expiry, condition and destination-rule issues early.

1. Read the expiry date

Start with the obvious: confirm the passport will still be valid on the date of travel. Some destinations apply additional validity rules, so check the destination’s official entry requirements as well.

2. Inspect the condition

Look for torn pages, water damage, a lifting photo page or other physical changes. If a passport is damaged, use official guidance before travelling.

3. Confirm the name matches the booking

The traveller name on tickets and reservations should be consistent with the travel document used for the journey.

4. Leave time for replacement

If renewal or replacement is needed, avoid assuming that the fastest service will always be available. Processing and delivery conditions can change.

5. Verify through official channels

Use Canada.ca for Canadian passport services and the destination government’s official site for entry rules. Avoid sending identity-document details to unofficial sites that claim to “check” a passport.