So, I had to hand over my passport to US Pretrials last year because of a case. My sentencing was October 1st, and now Pretrials sent it to the Department of State. My lawyer and probation officer are asking the Courthouse about getting it back. But do you think the Department of State might’ve already destroyed it? It expired back in June, but there’s a valid Chinese Visa in there until 2026.
Oh man, that’s tricky! I think they might take a while before they destroy it. Maybe a few months? Did the Department of State give you any info?
Wade said:
Oh man, that’s tricky! I think they might take a while before they destroy it. Maybe a few months? Did the Department of State give you any info?
Yeah, they just told me they won’t return expired passports. I mean, it only expired in June. Really hoping they haven’t trashed it yet .
Wade said:
Oh man, that’s tricky! I think they might take a while before they destroy it. Maybe a few months? Did the Department of State give you any info?
Wait, so if it’s expired they might just toss it? Even with a valid visa?
@Dara
Pretty much. My probation officer’s on it, but I’m low-key worried they’ve already ditched it.
@Dara
That’s frustrating. I had no idea they’d do that. Did you try reaching out directly?
I’d be worried about the visa too! I think it’s weird they’d destroy it if it’s got a valid visa in there.
Reagan said:
I’d be worried about the visa too! I think it’s weird they’d destroy it if it’s got a valid visa in there.
Exactly! I’d have to apply for a whole new Chinese visa if they did. It’s such a hassle.
Reagan said:
I’d be worried about the visa too! I think it’s weird they’d destroy it if it’s got a valid visa in there.
Can you just apply for a new passport and get the visa transferred?
@JuristJourney
I thought about that, but getting a new Chinese visa could take forever too.
Do you think your lawyer or probation officer has more pull in getting it back?
Valen said:
Do you think your lawyer or probation officer has more pull in getting it back?
Honestly, I’m hoping! But the State Department seems to be super slow about processing requests.
Valen said:
Do you think your lawyer or probation officer has more pull in getting it back?
Yeah, the government’s not exactly known for being speedy. 
Maybe you’ll get lucky and it’s still sitting in a pile somewhere? They’re usually pretty backed up.
Stevie said:
Maybe you’ll get lucky and it’s still sitting in a pile somewhere? They’re usually pretty backed up.
That’s what I’m hoping. It’s only been with them for a few weeks, so fingers crossed!
Stevie said:
Maybe you’ll get lucky and it’s still sitting in a pile somewhere? They’re usually pretty backed up.
Just curious, how long did it take for them to process it initially?
@Harmon
Oh, it’s been ages! Had to give it up last year, but they only just sent it to the State Department after my sentencing.
Could you try to apply for a new passport in the meantime, just to be safe?
Kai said:
Could you try to apply for a new passport in the meantime, just to be safe?
Good idea, but then I’d need a new Chinese visa too. Trying to avoid that if possible.
Kai said:
Could you try to apply for a new passport in the meantime, just to be safe?
Yeah, makes sense. Dealing with visas is a pain .