Travel Alert: Souvenir Passport Stamps Risk Border Crossing Issues
LONDON, UK – Travelers are being warned that seemingly harmless souvenir stamps collected at tourist destinations can lead to important problems at border crossings, possibly requiring passport replacement. The warning comes as unofficial stamping practices continue at popular sites worldwide, despite potential security concerns adn official disapproval.
The practice of collecting unofficial stamps is widespread, found at locations like Machu Picchu in peru, the Welsh town of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, and Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin, Germany. These stamps are often offered as mementos, applied alongside genuine immigration stamps.
However, these stamps are not endorsed by any official immigration authority. Several countries now view them as a form of passport tampering, raising security flags. Jamie Fraser, director of the Wildpacks American summer camp, notes the stamps have become a “badge of honor” for some travelers, adding to the perceived adventure. He emphasizes that only immigration officials are authorized to stamp passports.
According to a report by Mirror.co.uk, Fraser stated that any unauthorized markings on a passport leave travelers vulnerable to varying interpretations by border control agents.”for something that only takes up one square inch, that can cause a lot of trouble,” he cautioned.
What Constitutes Passport Damage?
A passport with unofficial stamps is considered damaged or altered, triggering the need for replacement. This classification is consistent with other forms of passport damage, including torn or missing pages, illegible information due to fading, ink stains, water damage, or a detached cover. The U.S.Department of State charges a $130 fee for expedited passport replacement in cases of damage, and processing times can vary substantially.
Travelers are advised to request souvenir stamps on postcards or separate pieces of paper rather of their passports. Even seemingly minor markings, such as scribbles or personal messages, can be deemed damaging.The UK’s HM passport Office explicitly advises against writing on or altering passports in any way.
Before international travel, meticulously inspect each passport page for any unauthorized marks, stamps, or stains. If any are found, it’s recommended to replace the passport promptly to avoid potential delays or denial of entry. The U.S. State Department received 17,889 reports of lost or stolen passports in fiscal year 2023, and a significant, though unquantified, number of replacements were due to damage.
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