Planning an international trip generally takes a lot of time, effort, and money. So, it would be really disappointing to be denied boarding just minutes before your flight takes off—and yes, you might be surprised to learn that this situation can, and does, occur.
The one reason you would be denied boarding an international flight from O’Hare or Midway Airport? If your passport expires too soon after your trip dates, which is known as the “six-month rule.”
What does the six-month passport validity rule entail?
The “six-month rule” requires that your passport remain valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
Airlines and authorities generally check this requirement before you board, which means you could be turned away even after purchasing your ticket.
This longstanding rule applies at any airport with international flights, including Midway and O’Hare.
However, not every destination follows the six-month rule. Some accept three months of remaining validity. Others allow entry as long as your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. You can visit the State Department and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website to learn more.
What should travelers check before flying?
Before your trip, check your passport’s expiration date and confirm whether your destination falls under exceptions to the six-month validity rule.
