Passport broken

AngeGal

Mods - Not sure if this is the correct forum or not, feel free to move obviously.

I have no idea how this can even happen but the biometric page/card on my passport has broken. Took it out to check into accomodation and just under passport number it had snapped clean off. I have taped it back together and it looks alright but if it gets closely examined it would be obvious.

This is more complicated as I am currently in America for a few weeks so I guess I'm asking do I need to make my way to an embassy and get a new one? Or will I be alright because the part that's scanned at the bottom is fine and they are a little more relaxed when leaving I think?

I plan to go to an airport over the weekend and ask security there. Also does anyone know if I do get a new passport is there any problems booking in with a different passport no.etc?

Thanks for any help.

Aard

AFAIK, if you lose your passport an embassy can issue some sort of document in its place. It's not reusable, nor is it a passport as such. I'd give them a ring ASAP. I don't think going to the airport would be of any use. The fact that's it's snapped off and taped back together would set off all sorts of alarm bells for US security, which is a totally OTT bitch even when leaving.

Breezer

Aard wrote: »

I don't think going to the airport would be of any use. The fact that's it's snapped off and taped back together would set off all sorts of alarm bells for US security, which is a totally OTT bitch even when leaving.

Seconded. I wouldn't go near airport security with it, even if not actually boarding a plane.

LXFlyer

Absolutely agree with this.

Contact the Department of Foreign Affairs immediately - the details of US points of contact are here.

slimjimmc

^^
+1
Officially your passport is defaced and is now invalid. The Embassy or Consul will issue an Emergency Travel Document to allow you return to Ireland.

AngeGal

Thanks for all responses, made it home safe and sound yesterday.

In case anyone else finds themselves in this situation, it was actually quite straightforward, rang the Consulate, explained and they sent me out a form I had to fill in and get notarised. I had to send this back to them along with copy of my travel tickets, photocopy of damaged passport and a money order for $34. Once they get and approve this, they fedex you an emergency passport which is good for one trip only.

Got to say, impressed with the service, I was worrying about having to spend days in the consulate, getting birth certs faxed over,etc.

-Chris-

Great info, thanks for the update!