It is because airlines have to transmit information on the passengers including the passport info to various government agencies well in advance of your flight. Getting that information when you show up at the airport is too late. See US APIS.

Is it safe to give your passport number?

Your passport number can be used to steal your identity. While your passport number alone may not be that useful in itself, it could still be used by someone in fraudulent transactions by providing your passport number instead of giving theirs.

Why is passport number important?

Before biometric encryption microchips were embedded in passports, the passport number was important for traveler identification. Customs officials use this number to match travelers with their passport and keep tabs on them.

Do you need to put passport details when booking a flight?

No, you don’t. You can buy the ticket. You will need to include the passport details as soon as they are available, and apply for ESTA in good time if that is applicable. But as long as everything is in order before you fly, it’s fine to book the tickets now and provide passport details later.

Do travel agents help with passports?

The Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA) is responsible for protecting U.S. citizens and their interests abroad, issuing passports and other documentation to U.S. citizens and nationals, supporting U.S. border security, facilitating legitimate travel to the United States, and fostering economic growth.

What does your passport number reveal?

What is a passport number? According to the Social Security Administration, a passport number indicates which passport office the passport was issued in. By looking at a passport number, you can tell where it was issued and possibly where it was applied for.

What happens if someone has my passport information?

If your passport number was stolen in a data breach, but you still have your passport in your possession, there is no way to flag your passport to alert authorities. Passports numbers can be used in conjunction with other pieces of personally identifiable information (PII) to commit criminal identity theft.

What can someone do with a passport number?

There isn’t anything that can really be done with just a passport number-you need to have the actual document to do any damage. If your passport is lost or stolen, here’s how to go about getting a new one: Report your passport lost or stolen by calling 1-877-487-2778. Apply in person for a new passport.

Why do you need a passport to travel?

Passports are necessary if you’d like to travel abroad as they verify your identity and nationality. They grant the bearer safe passage and protection in a foreign land. You typically must present your passport several times at the airport if you are flying, and at the border if you are travelling by car.

How do fake passports work?

A fake passport is a counterfeit of a passport (or other travel document) issued by a nation or authorised agency. Its purpose is to be used deceptively as if it were a legitimate travel or identity document. A passport obtained from an authorized issuer by providing false information may also be considered fake.

Can we book international ticket without passport?

No, you can make a booking without your passport details. Your passport number may, however, be needed at the time of online check-in.

Can you book a holiday without passport?

No you don’t need your passport to book a holiday, though it is wise just to check spelling of names, as they need to match the passports.

Can you get on an international flight without a passport?

A passport is required for all international travel. If you’re traveling anywhere overseas, you need a passport to board an international flight and to enter the country. Passport cards will not be accepted as form of I.D. You may be denied boarding if you travel with a passport that appears damaged or altered.

Are passport agencies reliable?

A registered passport expediting service is a legitimate option to cut down on the stress and waiting associated with getting a passport. There are plenty of reputable sources (including this site!) that stand by the service passport expeditors provide to thousands of travelers each year.

Do travel agents get visas?

Travel agents end up in the middle Experienced travel agents work with a visa and passport services company like Lee’s, but that can place them in between their client and the processing entities.

What documents do I need to travel internationally?

U.S. passport cards are not valid for air travel outside the United States. For more details, review the Document Requirements for Air Travel information published by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Customs and Border Protection.