A passport question

[PJMcK]

Recently, I received my new U.S. passport and the State Department returned my old cancelled document.

Do I have to keep my expired passports or can I shred them?

Thanks. in advance.

[MineralMan]

1. Keep Them. They're Fun as History.

I've had one since the late 1960s. The photos alone make them worth preserving. And back then, they got stamped when you traveled. Not so much anymore.

[PJMcK]

2. Thanks

Actually, I'm trying to downsize my life and getting rid of my mountains of memorabilia is part of my goal!

Enjoy your weekend.

[MineralMan]

4. That works, too.

[underpants]

3. Should I Keep an Old and Expired Passport?

Yes, besides being a keepsake, an expired passport has a few functions and should always be kept in a safe place. There are a few crucial reasons why you should keep your passport:

Visas are Still Valid
Even though your passport is expired and canceled, other countries still accept visas from your excursions abroad, especially those taken within the past ten years. Some of these countries include Russia, Italy, and Brazil.

When you travel to another country, investigate the country’s rules for entry. Some may accept a new passport and an old visa, while others need copies of old visas, along with possession of a new visa.

It Confirms Your Identity

More

https://www.passporthealthusa.com/passports-and-visas/blog/should-i-keep-an-old-and-expired-passport/

[PJMcK]

6. Thank you

After I posted, I looked further and found the information you quoted. Very helpful!

Have a great weekend!

[Footay]

5. Either is fine, but...

Make sure you keep the old one in a place where it won't be mistaken for the new one.

Last month, I had a client (travel advisor) who showed up for his trip with his expired passport. The rest of his party left for Mexico, while he returned home for his passport and basically missed the entire first day of their vacation. Plus, he had to buy a new flight out of pocket, as travel insurance does not cover incorrect documents! I don't think he'll be doing that again.

[carpetbagger]

7. All the reasons in the article and...

...an old passport might come in handy at a land border or consulate if things get so bad that passports are seized from dissenters.

[sinkingfeeling]

8. Keep them. You might have a multi-year visa in the old one.