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What to do if…
your passport is hole-punched, clipped, or marked by mistake and you are worried it may not be accepted

Short answer

Treat this as a damaged passport and apply for a new passport now. If you travel internationally within 14 calendar days (or need a foreign visa within 28 calendar days), try to get a passport agency/center appointment.

Do not do these things

  • Do not try to repair it (no tape, glue, lamination, trimming, erasing, or covering marks).
  • Do not add any extra marks, notes, or “explanations” on the passport.
  • Do not mail an application if you are very close to departure without checking the official urgent options first.
  • Do not pay third-party “expediters” you found via ads unless you have independently verified what you’re buying and the risks.
  • Do not discard the passport; you will typically need to submit it as part of replacement.

What to do now

  1. Treat a hole punch / clipped corner / markings as “replace it” damage unless it’s clearly normal wear. The U.S. Department of State says to replace a passport if there is:

    • a hole punch
    • unofficial markings on the data page
    • missing pages (torn out, ripped, or cut)
    • a significant tear
    • water damage, including mold/stains
      Normal wear (small bends, minor fraying) is different — but a hole punch is specifically listed as replacement-worthy.

  2. Take clear photos for your own records.

    • Front cover, data page, and close-up of the hole/clip/mark.
    • Save proof of travel dates (this determines urgent appointment eligibility).

  3. Apply in person for a new passport as a damaged passport (DS-11 path).

    • Use Form DS-11 (damaged passports are handled as a new application).
    • Submit the damaged passport and a signed statement explaining the damage.
    • Follow the standard DS-11 in-person requirements (photo, evidence, fees as applicable).

  4. If you travel within 14 calendar days (or need a foreign visa within 28 days), try for a passport agency/center appointment.

    • Passport agencies/centers serve customers by appointment only in those urgency windows.
    • Appointments are not guaranteed to be available, so try immediately and be flexible about locations.

  5. If you’re traveling in less than 2 to 3 weeks, avoid slow routes that can strand you.

    • The State Department notes total time includes processing and mailing, and they do not recommend mailing your application or applying at an acceptance facility if you are traveling in less than 2 to 3 weeks.
    • Shift to the agency/center appointment route as soon as you are eligible.

  6. If you’re abroad and your passport may not be accepted for onward travel, contact the nearest U.S. embassy/consulate.

    • Embassies/consulates can issue an emergency passport if you have urgent travel.
    • Destination/transit acceptance can vary, so verify requirements before relying on an emergency document for complex itineraries.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide whether the airline “should” accept it — assume they might not and get onto an official replacement/urgent track.
  • You do not need to pursue refunds or complaints today; first secure a valid travel document plan.
  • You do not need to perfectly label it “damage vs wear.” A hole punch or data-page marking is enough reason to act.

Important reassurance

This feels scary because the passport may look usable, but small physical changes can trigger refusal at check-in or inspection. Starting replacement/urgent steps now is the fastest way to reduce the chance of a last-minute denial.

Scope note

First steps only: stabilise, reduce travel risk, and connect you to the correct official route (replacement, urgent appointment, or embassy/consulate help). It does not cover disputes, compensation, or long-term planning.

Important note

This is general information, not legal advice. Airlines and border authorities can refuse travel if a passport appears damaged, altered, or cancelled. Requirements and processing options can change.

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