Is it illegal to photocopy a passport? Continental Airlines advise it is, French Consulate suggests you do?

Answer 1

It's not only perfectly legal, it's advisable! You should carry the copy as well as the original with you when you travel, but in different places (the original on you, the copy with your bags). In the event of loss, it's much easier to replace if you have the copy.

I had some personal items as well as my wallet stolen while I was out of the country. I encourage you to copy the contents of your wallet, both sides. Not only does that give you the emergency credit card numbers to call, but it also simplifies replacement when you get home. How many of us actually remember everything we had in our wallet? (I didn't).

Answer 2

It is obviously illegal to forge a passport. And trying to use just a photocopy would be a sure way to get turned back at the airport.

Photocopying (or scanning and printing) the page with your photo' and personal info', etc. is a VERY good idea - in the event of your passport being stolen whilst abroad, it could be a life-saver. (Mental note - must do my new one!)

I wonder if Continental Airlines is getting confused - mind you, if the US had their way, it would be illegal for any non-American to travel!

Answer 3

When travelling it is advisable to take a photocopy of your passport with you as well as the original and also to give a photocopy to someone back home for safe keeping in the event of an accident etc.

Banks are rquired to photocopy your passport if it is used as identification.

Mortgage providers and lenders will often request a certified copy of your passport for identification purposes.

So no it is not illegal to photocopy your passport.

Answer 4

Yes, every traveller is advised to have the first two pages of his/her passport pohotocopied. First of all you keep the original passport in a safe of the hotel and carry with you just the photocopy so in case anyone snatches your purse or steals your things at least you have your original passport in a safe place. Second, in case you do lose your passport, its much easier to claim a new one at your embassy/consulate.

Answer 5

No,it is not illegal and is advised so that should you lose your passport whilst abroad, you at least have a copy with the correct number, expiry date etc to make it easier to get a replacement. It is also advised that you photocopy your credit/debit cards for the same reason .

Answer 6

this is what the state department advises:

Tips for Traveling Abroad


If you are traveling abroad here are the top 10 tips you need to make your trip easier:
1. Make sure you have a signed, valid passport and visas, if required. Also, before you go, fill in the emergency information page of your passport!

2. Read the Consular Information Sheets (and Public Announcements or Travel Warnings, if applicable) for the countries you plan to visit.

3. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries to which you are traveling. Remember, the U.S. Constitution does not follow you! While in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws.

4. Make 2 copies of your passport identification page. This will facilitate replacement if your passport is lost or stolen. Leave one copy at home with friends or relatives. Carry the other with you in a separate place from your passport.

5. Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

6. Do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas. Do not accept packages from strangers.

7. Prior to your departure, you should register with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate through the State Department’s travel registration website . Registration will make your presence and whereabouts known in case it is necessary to contact you in an emergency. In accordance with the Privacy Act, information on your welfare and whereabouts may not be released without your express authorization. Remember to leave a detailed itinerary and the numbers or copies of your passport or other citizenship documents with a friend or relative in the United States.

8. To avoid being a target of crime, try not to wear conspicuous clothing and expensive jewelry and do not carry excessive amounts of money or unnecessary credit cards.

9. In order to avoid violating local laws, deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money or purchase art or antiques.

10. If you get into trouble, contact the nearest U.S. embassy.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Answer 7

It is not illegal to photcopy a passport and is advisable to do in case of loss. It is illegal to use a photocopy (although authorities are likely to be sympathetic if using to obtain a new passport in the event of loss).

Answer 8

you must and should copy your passport when traveling
it is so advised by the immigration :
infos form the us gov immigration :

Bring travelers checks and one or two major credit cards instead of cash.Pack an extra set of passport photos along with a photocopy of your passport information page to make replacement of your passport easier in the event it is lost or stolen.
))

Answer 9

It's not illegal.
I always keep a photocopy at home incase I lose my passport.

Answer 10

It isn't illegal to copy your passport, but you cannot use it to travel. You MUST have the original.

If you're traveling abroad, take two copies of your passport and leave one with a family member or friend in the US. Also make copies of your credit cards and photo ID and take copies with you and leave one with a trusted friend or family member.