Official Information | The United States will reject all passports that display any of these stamps

Keeping the passport valid and in good condition is very important in order to prove identity and access international travel. It is precisely because of its role as legal identification that any modification, mark, or deterioration beyond what is allowed can cause problems.

According to what is established by the Department of State, passports that show unauthorized marks such as tourist souvenir stamps, can affect the passport’s validity and prevent boarding due to a lack of validity on international trips.

What happens with unauthorized stamps and signatures in the passport?

The Department of State clarifies that no non-official stamps, marks, or inscriptions should be added to the passport pages, including tourist or souvenir stamps that some sites offer to visitors.

Although these marks may seem decorative and look aesthetically pleasing, they are not permitted. The authorities recommend avoiding:

• Placing souvenir or tourist stamps that were not issued by an immigration authority.
• Writing messages, notes, or making drawings on the pages.
• Adding signatures in spaces where they do not belong.
• Including any other mark not used officially during the trip.

Keeping the passport in good condition: How can it be protected from serious deterioration?

The official recommendations from the authorities are:

• Store it in a cool, dry place, and avoid bathrooms or environments with high humidity. Otherwise, use desiccant packets to reduce the risk of mold growth.
• Do not expose it to the sun for extended periods.
• Do not leave it near radiators, vents, or other heat sources.
• Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

If the passport has unauthorized marks, serious deterioration from humidity or other factors, or physical damage such as tears or torn-out pages, a new passport must be requested through Form DS-11.

Rules for signing the passport: details everyone should know

The Department of State indicates that the holder must sign their full name using only black or blue ink. In the case of minors under 16, the parent or guardian must write the minor’s name, place their signature next to it, and indicate the relationship.