How to keep visas when changing passport

Your passport has expired, but there are still open visas in it, which can still be used to cross the border for a long time? Don't panic, we know what to do in this situation. Keep in mind that all cases are individual, and the ways to solve the problem depend on both the person's citizenship and the laws of the host country.

We tell you how to keep your visas when changing your passport. Is this problem not relevant for you? Then start booking tickets for a new trip or corporate trip . If you need help getting a business visa , use the feedback form with the manager on TravelHub.

Is it possible to keep the old passport when replacing it with a new one?

In most cases, yes (again, it all depends on the country's legislation). When the passport expires, the visas in it do not lose their validity and retain all their characteristics. To use them to cross the border, you need to have both the old document with stamps and the new one. Pay attention to this when planning business trips .

Calmly hand over your expiring passport to the authorized body for replacement, and after receiving a new one, write a statement that you want to take the old one too, so that you can use the visas in it. When the need for both documents disappears, hand it back. Keep in mind that you may be denied issuance of your old passport. It is better to clarify all the details of the procedure before the document expires.

Is it possible to transfer a visa to a new passport?

Transferring an old visa to a new passport is the second option, but keep in mind that not all countries allow this. This path will require more bureaucratic actions. You can find out more about how to transfer a visa to a new passport at the embassy of the country that issued the entry permit.

Usually, you first need to submit an application to the consul. After that, the visa from the old passport will be cancelled, and in the new one it will be put with the remaining period. If you choose this method, deal with the issue as early as possible, because the queue to see the consul is often several months. Have you managed to do everything? Then start buying airline tickets online .

What if both options are not possible?

If you can neither get the old document nor transfer the visa, the only option is to reapply with a valid passport for a new entry permit. However, this method will take the longest and there is no guarantee that the coveted stamp will be approved.

The nuances of maintaining a visa are especially important when planning business trips. TravelHub employees can help with solving problems that arise. Use business travel services to save time and money.