Depending on the number of pages, a passport book is divided into large and standard passport books. You have to choose it on the application form, which is designed for different uses. This passage will discuss the difference between large passport book vs standard passport book and how to choose between them.
What Is a Large Passport Book?
A large passport book, also known as an extended passport, is a booklet with more pages than a standard one. The US standard passport book features 28 pages while the large one has 52 pages. They look similar on the cover but differ in the number of blank pages for customs stamps, visa stickers, and other forms of international travel history.
Difference & Similarities between Large Passport Book vs Standard
To find out which passport book suits you, here is a thorough comparison between US standard and large passport book.
Difference Between Large Passport Book vs Standard Passport Book
| Types of Passport Book | Large Passport Book | Standard Passport Book |
| Page Count | 52 pages (44 visa pages) | 28 pages (20 visa pages) |
| Size | 5×4 inches | 5×3.5 inches |
| Weight | Heavier & thicker than the standard book | Approx. 125g (4.4 ounces) |
| Application Process | Check the “Large Book (Non-Standard)” box at the top of the DS-11 form | Check the “Regular Book (Standard)” box at the top of the DS-11 form |
Similarities Between Regular vs Large Passport Book
| Types of Passport Book | Large & Standard Passport Book |
| Validity | 10 years (for adults) or 5 years (for minors) |
| Appearance | A blue cover with “PASSPORT”, the national symbol of the country, the name of the issuing country, and a biometric chip (for biometric passports) |
| Information Page | lPage 1: Message From the Secretary of State;lPage 2: bio-data information & passport informationlPage 3: SignaturelPage 4: Urgent contactlPage 5-7: Safety tips. |
| Cost | $130 (for adults) or $100 (for minors) |
| Uses | International travel, proof of citizenship & identity |
| Security Features | Laser engraving, holographic image, multi-layered printing, etc. |
Is a Large Passport Book More Expensive?
It varies from country to country. In the United States, the cost of a US passport book is subject to the age of the applicant and whether you need regular or expedited processing. Therefore, extended pages will not lead to extra fees. That’s why many international travelers tend to obtain an extended passport book as the pages of a standard passport will run out soon and they have to pay frequently to renew the passport.
Does a Large Passport Book Take Longer?
No. The processing time depends on the number of applications that the passport office receives and whether the applicant orders expedited services. Whether you are applying for a large or standard passport book, it usually takes 4-6 weeks for routine services and 2-3 weeks for accelerating services
What to Consider When Choosing a Regular vs Large Passport Book
If you are stuck in a dilemma when picking the type of passport book, the following tips will help you.
- Travel Frequency
The more frequently you travel internationally, the more passport pages you will need. You have to choose a standard or large passport book according to how often you travel overseas.
- Visa Requirements
Most countries require a specific number of blank passport pages for visa application or visa-free entry. If you travel frequently, a passport with extended pages will be more suitable. Otherwise, you can stick to a standard type.
- Cost
Some countries have different prices for passports with different pages. As there are fewer pages, the cost of a standard passport book is lower than a large one. Please apply for a proper one according to your budget.
- Convenience
Having a passport with ample space is one of the entry requirements of a foreign country. If you travel to some visa-free or visa-on-arrival countries, you can depart as soon as possible instead of wasting time on passport renewal.
- Portability
The standard passport book is lighter and smaller than the large passport book, making it easier to fit a pocket or bag and carry around. Backpackers would prefer a portable one.
- Destination
If you often travel to visa-required countries, you must get a visa stamp or sticker on the passport, so passport books with enough pages are more suitable. If you travel to visa-free countries, a regular booklet with smaller pages is enough.
How to Apply for a Regular vs Large Passport Book
No matter which type of passport book you want, you will go through the same procedures.
- Fill out the application online print it or download the form and fill it by hand. Make sure to choose proper forms and select between “Large Book (Non-Standard)” or “Regular Book (Standard)” at the beginning of the form.
- Prepare the required documents, including a passport photo, a valid photo ID, and proof of citizenship.
- Submit the application by mail or in person. Please note that passport renewal applications can be submitted online.
Benefits of Getting a Large Passport Book
With more blank pages, large passport book holders can enjoy the following benefits.
- Have enough pages for visa stamps or entry permits.
- Travel to multiple countries and territories within the validity of the passport.
- Reduce the number of times to renew your passport.
- Pass customs checkpoints more quickly as it can show all destinations you have traveled.
- Be used for longer time than a standard passport book as it will not run out of pages quickly before it expires.
- Plan for a long or temporary trip with enough blank space on a large passport book.
FAQ
What if I run out of pages in my passport?
As you cannot add blank pages to the current passport even if it is still within validity, so please apply for a new passport. It is suggested to apply as soon as possible in case of delaying your trip.
Can I switch to a large passport book if I already have a standard one?
Yes. You should file an application for a new passport, but the old one might be invalidated.
Will a large passport book fit in the same passport cover as a standard one?
No. The large passport book size is thicker than the standard one, so their covers are not compatible.
Is there any advantage to choosing the standard passport book?
A standard passport is smaller and more portable.
Can minors get a large passport book?
Yes. Large passport books are available for minors with parental consent.
Summary
Both standard and extended passport books are designed for international trips. The biggest difference between regular vs large passport book is the number of pages. When deciding which type you need, you have to consider travel frequency, entry requirements, portability, and destinations. Generally, a standard passport book suits most travelers due to its compact size, versatile use, and lower cost. A large passport book is designed for those who travel frequently or have extensive travel histories.