In the new year, there will be many changes when you apply for a U.S. passport, as well as new passport rules and requirements for international travel.
The State Department is overhauling the U.S. passport application process and design, partly for security and partly to support administration policies. These new rules could affect your travel privileges as a citizen. Finally, travelers to 29 European Union countries should know what to expect in the updated entry process.
New Passport Application Process
On September 29, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that applicants can soon file passport applications entirely online. Although the State Department’s current passport site allows some users to enter information online, the actual filing has required more. Those making first-time passport applications or renewals long past the expiration date have had to file in person at a passport agency. All applicants have needed government-standard photos from an authorized provider.
According to Secretary Rubio, applicants will be able to file for passports next year through america.gov, the new AI-powered government portal for citizen use. Applicants will sign in through login.gov, which dozens of government websites already use. In-person visits will no longer be necessary, and users will be able to take their own passport photos with a smartphone. With this new way to renew and apply, users can pay with a credit or debit card rather than a check.
New Passport Design
Secretary Rubio also unveiled a new passport book design called “Flight of the Eagle.” The new features include commemorative artwork of American achievements and a flipbook effect that shows the eagle in flight. The draft of the new design shown to the press has Donald Trump’s portrait on the inside of the book. However, the State Department did not confirm that the image would be part of the final design. Secretary Rubio says the redesigned passport is anticipated in 2028, but it is unclear when it could go into production.
Policy Changes for U.S. Passport Holders
Whether planning travel or currently abroad, American travelers should watch the news for policy changes that could affect their passport use.
Introduction of ConfirmID
Anyone without a RealID, passport, or passport card on hand for travel can now use ConfirmID, an official short-term alternative. ConfirmID is ideal for emergencies when a RealID or passport is lost, stolen, or unavailable. Travelers can apply online at the airport with their legal name, address, and date of birth; the process costs $45. ConfirmID is valid for 10 days of airport security use.
Revocation of Passport for Outstanding Child Support
To qualify for a passport, anyone with child support obligations cannot owe over $2,500 in outstanding support. The law allows the State Department to revoke the passports of anyone who does, but until recently, the Department waited until passport holders applied to renew before enforcing the rule. Since May, the Department has stepped up enforcement of this law on current passport holders, working to collect child-support data from state agencies. Parents who have been in arrears should address any possible issues before they travel on their passport.
Elimination of Gender Markers on Passports
The administration has made multiple executive actions that can complicate or bar travel for some, such as the discontinuation of the X marker on passports. Any new or renewed passports must show an individual’s sex assigned at birth. Some organizers and activists for progressive causes have also encountered difficulties, with their passports allegedly being flagged as “agitators.” However, rulings in ongoing litigation may change policies as well.
Revocation of Dual Citizenship Proposal
Currently, it is legal for American citizens to be a dual citizen of another country. The Exclusive Citizenship Act of 2025, if passed, would require Americans to renounce any other citizenship. Those who failed to do so would lose their U.S. citizenship, which would of course invalidate their passport.
Although the bill is a long shot and considered unlikely to pass, the issue is worth watching, especially if the administration should choose to take an executive action instead.
Recent E.U. Entry Changes
Passport-stamping is on its way out. The 29 European countries in the Schengen area have switched to the European Entry/Exit System (EES), replacing the stamp with data registered in a central system. The EES requires an official to take a photo and fingerprints (for non-visa travelers), but once the biometric data is registered, it will remain in the system for future border crossings. Passengers may be able to complete part of the EES process online, depending on their destination; otherwise, they may use kiosks. However, travelers do report some long lines for EES processing.
Travelers should also check the status of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a separate screening process for visitors to the E.U. The ETIAS is not yet in use, but it was intended to be operational this year, and it may be by the time of a trip planned for 2027. An ETIAS authorization will allow visa-exempt visitors (which can include Americans) to make short-term trips to countries within the E.U. for three years.
Understanding these changes to passport services processing and rules for international travel will help travelers prepare for their next trip. You can find more information with the U.S. Department of State. If your passport is delayed, denied, or held up by citizenship issues, contact a local immigration attorney for assistance.
