Last reviewed: August 25, 2026. Postal prices can change; verify unusual pieces with USPS before mailing.
A Global Forever stamp is worth $1.75 in 2026 and covers one machinable 1-ounce First-Class Mail International letter or qualifying postcard from the United States to a country where that single-piece rate applies. Heavier, oversized, rigid, or nonmachinable pieces need more postage.
Global Forever versus regular Forever
| Stamp | 2026 value | Designed to cover |
|---|---|---|
| Global Forever | $1.75 | Base 1-ounce international letter rate |
| Regular Forever | $0.82 | Base 1-ounce domestic letter rate |
Both stamps can contribute their current values toward eligible U.S. postage. The Global stamp is simply a convenient exact-value choice for the basic international letter.
What one Global Forever stamp covers
- A machinable international letter weighing no more than 1 ounce, within the applicable size standards.
- A qualifying international postcard at the base rate.
- Mail originating in the United States; it is not return postage for another country’s postal system.
Canada has its own weight table in USPS Notice 123. See our detailed Forever stamps to Canada guide for exact combinations. Large envelopes and packages use different schedules and may require customs documentation.
When you need more postage
Add postage when the letter exceeds 1 ounce, triggers a nonmachinable surcharge, or falls into the large-envelope or parcel category. Do not multiply a general country price without checking the destination group and weight step. Use the USPS International Price Calculator for the actual item.
For merchandise, valuable contents, tracking, or delivery confirmation, the correct service matters as much as stamp value. A Global Forever stamp by itself does not include tracking.
Addressing and customs checks
- Write the recipient name and delivery address clearly.
- Put the destination country in capital letters on the final line.
- Leave room for postage and any required labels.
- Review USPS country conditions for prohibitions and restrictions.
- Ask at a Post Office when sending goods or when customs requirements are unclear.
Frequently asked questions
Do Global Forever stamps expire?
No. Genuine unused Global Forever stamps remain valid for the current base international one-ounce letter value.
Can regular Forever stamps replace one Global stamp?
Yes, if their combined current value meets the price. In 2026, three regular $0.82 stamps provide $2.46 and cover a $1.75 base international letter, but overpay.
Can I use one Global stamp on a domestic letter?
It provides more than enough value, but it overpays substantially. A regular Forever stamp is the suitable base denomination.