Water damaged passport replacement

So I somehow ended up accidentally getting my passport put into the wash with my clothes. It looks pretty much completely ruined. I need to know if I should replace it or can I still use it since it doesn't expire for another 8 years.

The photo and information is still visible but the visa pages are wrinkled and discolored. Do you know the wait time to get it replaced?



ANSWER:

Hi there,

Sorry to hear about that unfortunate accident. It happens often though as the Passport Agency has exact procedures in place to handle damaged passports.

You will definitely need to replace it as the authorities you will face while traveling will not accept a damaged passport as being valid. Even though you have eight years left of validity, you will have to pay the normal fee for a brand new passport which will be valid for ten years.

If you are traveling soon, try using a passport expedite company. They are very experienced at quickly replacing damaged passports. You will have to jump through some hoops though since replacing it will be pretty much the same as applying for a first-time passport. In addition, you will have to submit your damaged passport with a letter explaining what exactly happened to it.

Flickr: Photo by themaxsons