Can I use my post-dated passport? - ESTAForm.org

Can I use my post-dated passport?

In this article

If you are a UK citizen and have a post-dated passport that won’t be valid until a certain date (due to name change for example), you will not be able to apply for ESTA, as you need to apply using a passport that is valid at the time the application is submitted. Since a post-dated passport is only valid from the date of the detail change (i.e. marriage, divorce, gender change or civil partnership ceremony), you will not be able to use it to apply until that day.
You should check the validity of your passport before you apply for ESTA and well in advance of the day you travel to make sure that everything is in order. It is always recommended that you travel with a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of your travel.
If you are worried that you might not have time to complete the application between your wedding ceremony (or getting your official documentation for any other change in detail) and your flight to the US, then you can ask a third party to submit your ESTA on your behalf. The application process is usually completed in a few minutes, but it is recommended that you leave more time in case there are any delays.
You will need to apply for ESTA again if you have a new passport issued or if you’ve changed your name since your original application. If you do not have a new passport but have changed your name or gender, you can still use your old passport to travel but using your new full name or gender. You may also travel with a ticket issued in your new name/gender and the passport under your old name/gender. You must ensure that you have all the necessary documents with you to prove your identity at border control.
These include documents such as:
  • A copy of your marriage licence
  • Divorce decree
  • Document showing a legal change in name/gender or
  • Any other legal document linking your new name and/or gender to the one on the passport.

Written by Abisola Fikayomi

Abisola is an accomplished writer interested in US Travel, immigration, passports and visas. She’s passionate about exploring new places and cultures and willing to share her experiences, expertize and findings with others. That is her primary drive for specialising in this industry.

Related FAQs


Why isn’t my ESTA valid for 2 years?

If you have obtained your ESTA authorisation, but your passport is due to expire before the end of the 2-year validity period, then your ESTA will expire automatically with the expiration of your passport.

Read More..

How Do You Fill Out an ESTA Application?

Filling out an ESTA application is a fairly quick process but there are some questions and parts of required information that can complicate the application more if the applicant does not have the information, or is not sure which information to provide.

Read More..

Is my ESTA still valid?

You can check the status of your ESTA at any time. You can contact us at any time to check on its status. If it has been less than two years since you applied, and your passport is still valid, then your ESTA should be valid too.

Read More..