In recent years, many countries, including Malaysia, have been shifting away from the traditional ink stamp system and adopting digital immigration records. It's all part of a global push towards contactless, data-driven travel, changing the way we cross borders.

The government shutdown, which began on Oct. 1, 2025, has impacted many federal services, but passport processing hasn't been affected—yet.

The United States passport is no longer among the top 10 most powerful passports, according to a group monitoring global travel. It’s now ranked 12th on the Henley Passport Index, which ranks passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.

According to the department's website, North Carolina Central University will be hosting passport acceptance fairs at the NCCU Passport Office (511 Nelson St, Durham, NC 27707) Monday, Nov. 17 and Tuesday, Nov. 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Even if no one suspects wrongdoing, an unauthorized mark can still violate the passport’s terms of issuance. Because assessments are subjective, one border or airline official might overlook it, while another could label the document “damaged” and refuse it entirely.

Several all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. and territories offer luxurious, passport-free vacations with diverse amenities, from outdoor adventures to spa treatments.