Must my passport be valid for 6 months into the future when I enter the U.S. from abroad?

U.S. federal regulations require that a passport “must be valid for a minimum of six months from the expiration date of the contemplated period of stay” [INA 212(a)(7)(B); 8 USC 1182(a)(7)(B); 8CFR214.1(a)(3)(i)]. There has been inconsistency as to whether or not this regulation applies to every entry to the U.S. or just the initial entry, but students are advised to follow this regulation.

However, the U.S. has agreements with some countries that provide for an exemption to this 6 months validity into the future requirement (provided the passport is valid at time of entry).  A list of eligible countries is available at the U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual [9 FAM 403.9-3(B)(2)].  

Students should contact their ISO Advisor if any questions arise.