U.S. Passports Are Being Completely Revamped

If you've recently applied for a new or renewed U.S. passport, you might notice that it looks quite different from the traditional version. This change is due to the U.S. State Department's introduction of new Next Generation Passport books.

The launch of the Next Generation Passport started in 2021, and by the end of 2022, all passport agencies will be providing these updated books, according to the State Department. Unfortunately, you can't specifically request a Next Generation Passport at this time, and there's no assurance that the passport you receive will be one of the new designs—at least for now. However, starting next year, all newly issued passports should be of the Next Generation variety.

The most striking change in the revamped passport is the enhanced data page, which features a traveler’s name, photo, date of birth, and nationality. The photo is now a laser-engraved black-and-white image, and the page is designed to be much more durable, incorporating advanced imagery.

According to a U.S. State Department spokesperson in a statement to Dinogo, "The Next Generation Passport incorporates advanced technologies to create a more durable passport with improved security features, including a polycarbonate data page, laser-engraved personal details, and refreshed artwork." They described the Next Generation passport as "a modernized U.S. passport book—redesigned to be smarter, safer, and better."

The Next Generation Passport showcases enhanced visuals of U.S. history, culture, and traditions on its visa pages, along with a new perforated passport number. In these new passports, the number starts with a letter followed by eight digits.

Slightly smaller than its predecessor, the Next Generation Passport contains 26 pages in a standard edition (down from 28) and 50 pages in an expanded edition (down from 52), which is available for frequent travelers upon request.

The State Department is currently issuing only Next Generation Passport books, but plans to eventually upgrade passport cards as well.