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Papaludo

RegularLot et Garonne · 199 posts

2025-06-20

Hi, My passport is valid until February 2026. I’d like to book a flight to Rwanda for September, but they require a passport valid for 6 months after entry—which mine won’t be. It takes me a month and a half to get a new passport, and I’d like to buy my ticket now with my current passport. What’s the solution? Thanks for your help! Daniel

Poser ses rêves sur une carte est un moment magique

EACitizen Veteran ·2025-06-20

Renew your passport now. And only book your flight ticket once you’ve got your new document. Even last-minute—if you’re not picky about the airline—tickets are cheap. If you try with your old passport, you’ll be stuck at check-in and won’t even leave your departure airport.

One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki

Papaludo Regular ·2025-06-21

Hi, Thanks for your reply—I’ll go ahead and apply for a new passport then.

Poser ses rêves sur une carte est un moment magique

Rotsaka Globetrotter ·2025-06-21

Good evening, The best thing is to do as EACitizen said.

However, for many airlines, the passport number is required at check-in, not at booking. So what’s crucial is to have your number when you check in (usually within the 24 hours before the flight).

For good deals, check out Rwandair. Even if you book the flight not too long in advance and especially off-season, you can find fares around 450/500 €.

Happy planning

EACitizen Veteran ·2025-06-22

Hello, thanks for your reply, so I’ll ask for a new passport

As Rotsaka mentioned, (very) few airlines require the passport number at booking. After checking your previous message, it turns out RwandAir does. That’s a shame and really inconvenient in your case. 😕

If you’re sure about traveling on specific dates and you’ve got a little cash to spare 😉, then for extra security: Book a flexible and refundable ticket with the airline of your choice. Once your new passport is ready, if the last-minute ticket price is still lower than the cost of your flexible ticket, ask for a full refund.

One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki

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