Archive for the ‘Passport Services’ Category

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Rushing A Passport

Friday, February 3rd, 2012

Travel planning by its very definition can be stressful. There are so many things to do, especially when talking about international travel. The trip taker must pack for different climates, get plane tickets, their passport and many other things. Often times, people are prepared but for those who forget, there may be the need for a passport rush.

You Need A Passport

Because of changes to national security, getting a passport has grown increasing more important for international travel. Historically, one could take a cruise or visit Mexico or Canada with merely a driver’s license and birth certificate. That is no longer the case.

You Need An Itinerary

Today, one is required for any travel outside of the US borders or territories. This means a spontaneous traveler may need to get an expedited passport. The first thing you may need to do is to put your itinerary together. You will need this information to go forward with any kind of rush on passport, according to the US State Department. They also state the normal wait time to get one can take 4-10 weeks. This means following the guidelines of getting a rushed one is very important.

You Need Help

While the US government is trying to change things to make it easier to obtain these in shorter amounts of time, it may still be much faster to get an outside agency to assist. The federal government suggests visiting a passport agency, mailing in your application to the U. S. Department of State, visiting a local post office or checking with your county clerk.

You Need Documents

Whether you choose to take the steps to get one yourself or hire a third party to do it for you, the traveler must have the following items: the proper form from the US government, proof of citizenship, a valid photo ID, two passport photos, your social security number and the application fees. You may also be required to provide travel ticket information or your itinerary.

You Must Pay The Fee

If the traveler chooses to handle the matter personally, the application fee may be expensive for anyone over 18 years of age. For anyone under 18, it may cost a bit less. Expedited passports cost more than the regular ones, however. Payment methods depend on whether you mail your application materials or visit an agency.

You Need A Speedy Delivery

If the traveler chooses to hire an outside agency, there may be even greater chance of getting the document faster. Some websites offer services ranging from the normal speed to 24 hours. The costs associated reflect the speed at which you would like the ID delivered.

You Can Track The Progress

Travelers handling their own passports can begin tracking them a week after applying. The State Department notes travelers should consider paying for overnight shipping of the documents to and from them to ensure timely delivery. Any special needs or requests should be stated at that time as well.

If you are planning to travel outside the US, it is a good idea to get your passport, as you can’t travel internationally without it. A passport rush can be accomplished but there is no guarantee unless you use a private company to help you. No one wants to be stuck at home or lose out on a big promotion because they didn’t do their passport in time to travel the same goes for other passport services such as a passport name change or passport renewal.

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Add US Passport Pages Quickly

Wednesday, February 1st, 2012

People who frequently travel to other countries are well aware of how quickly their pages can fill up, especially if they tend to travel relatively often. Timing can also be an issue for individuals who frequently travel. This can lead many to wonder how they can add US passport pages quick.

Things To Consider

You can add more pages to your passport in several ways, although much can depend on certain factors. For instance, the amount of time that you have to wait for your items to arrive can be important. The amount of money that you’ll be willing to spend can also be another deciding factor.

Application

The right application needs to be completed and mailed to the appropriate address in order to receive new pages. This usually entails the DS-4085 form, which is specifically meant for this goal. However, individuals will also need to mail in their current passport and application fees. Due to this, it’s usually recommended that individuals mail these items through mail services that they can track.

Forms

To be applicable for the DS-4085 form, individuals will need to have fewer than 4 pages remaining. Frequent travelers may also want to consider getting an entirely new book, especially if they plan to travel extensively in the near future. A new book will usually require specific fees, along with the DS-82 form, providing that they’re eligible to mail in their items. Those who need to visit a facility in person will typically fill out a DS-11 form.

Mail Time Frame

Generally, most people prefer to mail in the necessary paperwork and fees. However, this is something that can take more time to process. As a result, this particular method may not be very convenient for those who have to deal with certain time constraints. The general time frame for regular application processing and delivery is said to take around 4 to 6 weeks. However, this is something that can sometimes vary. Due to this, it’s good to try to verify this ahead of time.

Cost

Individuals can also choose to pay an extra fee on top of the regular application fee in order to have expedited services. This service will typically cost $60 and it generally takes 2 to 3 weeks for this type of processing. People can also choose to pay an additional fee to have their items sent by overnight delivery.

Online Agency Help

Those who don’t have two or more weeks to wait for their items can use a qualified passport agency. These types of companies can be found both offline and online. Oftentimes, these services can significantly reduce the wait time for items to be delivered if one is willing to pay an additional fee.

Those who want to add US passport pages quick will sometimes use a company that specializes in this particular area. These companies are more suitable for individuals who need their items sent within a few days, rather than a few weeks. It’s also important to keep in mind that you might have to pay significantly more in order to benefit from this type of time frame. Even so, most people who are in a rush often find that it’s well worth the price in order to have peace of mind. Depending on the amount of pages and the expiration date, you may want to apply for a passport renewal instead.

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How To Add Passport Pages

Monday, January 30th, 2012

For people who travel extensively for either business or pleasure, understanding how to add passport pages will eventually become a necessity. Most transactions can take place via mail, although orders may be placed in person if people have to travel within a short period of time. Travelers have the option of either processing their documents themselves or utilizing an expediting service.

Less Then 4

The U. S. State Department recommends adding new pages when residents have fewer than four left. People must mail their current valid passport as well as the applicable fee and complete Form DS-4085. The correct address for mailing in the form is written on the top of DS-4085. The U. S. State Department recommends that all documents be mailed in a secure envelope. The State Department also suggests using a traceable delivery method to ensure that the items arrive at their appropriate destination in a timely manner.

Appointments

Citizens abroad who are traveling within a week should visit their local consulate. Appointments may be made by telephone or via the Internet, depending on the location. To the appointment, applicants should bring a current and valid passport and a completed DS-4085. Fees may be paid in U. S. or local currency or by credit card. Most documents are mailed back within a few business days but travelers with emergency travel requirements may be able to pick up their materials at the consulate.

Pages

Offices will not add more than three additional pages. If applicants already have three additions to their book, they will have to obtain a new passport. In addition to mailing the appropriate fees and form DS-82, applicants should include a signed and written request for additional pages if they travel extensively.

Bio-metric Document

For applicants needing a new book, the U. S. and most other countries now issue bio-metric documents. Bio-metric documents contain a radio frequency identification chip that has a chip identification number and a digital signature. This information is stored in a secure government database along with the applicant’s personal information.

Service Available

People who are too busy to complete all of the steps may employ a passport service. A service will guide applicants through each step and take care of all of the processing. Also, a service may be handy if applicants need their materials to be expedited. Services may be able to obtain additional pages within one to 10 days, depending on the applicant’s next date of travel.

Verification

Before using a service, travelers should take several precautions. If applicants find a service online, they should scroll down to the bottom of the home page, find the service’s contact information and call the telephone number to verify the service’s validity. Also, customers should take the time to compare costs and should ensure that the service will be able to obtain the additional pages in time.

For travelers who have filled up their books, the process to add passport pages is simple and straightforward. Travelers must remember to give themselves plenty of time before their next travel date. However, even for people in a rush, the State Department and expediting services will ensure that travelers get to their destination on time whether its expedited passport pages or a passport renewal.

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Renewing Your US Passport

Saturday, January 28th, 2012

If you’re planning on traveling internationally, your United States passport renewal is important. Check the date on the data page and if it’s about to expire, it’s time to renew. The form you need can be found online and printed and you can fill it out by hand. Or, fill it out on your computer and it will be ready to print and send. If you prefer to bring it in person, it’s easy to find the phone number for your local agency and call for an appointment.

Application

The form you need is the application. The applications are different for each type, whether it is a renewal, first or replacement passport, or a name change. Once you have that form filled out, you’ll be able to bring it in person or mail it.

Identification

You’ll also need to have two pieces of identification. One is proof of identity, for example your old passport, a valid driver’s license, government or military ID, or a certificate of naturalization. The other ID you’ll need is proof that you are a U. S. Citizen and the list is similar to the identity documents but a birth certificate will also suffice. It is necessary to bring a copy of each form of ID you provide.

Photos

The last items you must have are two copies of a color photo of yourself showing your full face. If everything is in order, all that’s left is to pay the applicable fee. It usually costs between $110 and $140 for adults and under $100 for children.

Passport Cards

It’s also possible to purchase a passport card, which looks similar to a driver’s license. This is preferred by those who travel often between the U. S., Mexico, and Canada. It can also be used for travel to Bermuda or the Caribbean. It’s easy to carry and it’s less expensive but it cannot be used if you’re traveling internationally by air. Fees range from $30 to $55, based on whether it is new or for adults or children.

Expediting

It could be that an emergency has arisen and you need a renewal quickly. In that case, you can expedite the process for an additional $60 fee, plus the cost of two-day postal service. You can bring it in personally but it will have to be mailed back. If you choose to mail it in, it’s advisable to also use two-day delivery, and mark “expedite” on the envelope. It’s also a good idea to opt for mail tracking.

Online Help

For more information about official travel, how to obtain proof of citizenship and more, check online. All the details are provided about getting additional visa pages, what to do if your passport is lost or stolen and more. There are also instructions for filling out the application forms.

The process for a United States passport renewal is not complicated. It’s a good idea to get started early because some countries require that it is valid for at least six months after you travel. Just like passport replacements can be expedited, like in the case of a lost  passport, renewals can be expedited as well, so plan ahead.

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What To Do When Your Passport Is Stolen

Thursday, January 26th, 2012

Passports are important travel documents issued by the United States that should be safeguarded at all times. Should you experience a stolen passport, you have to take immediate action. A number of steps should be taken in following legal procedure to replace the travel document as fast as possible.

Step 1

The first step to take if you have been a victim of theft is to report the travel booklet as stolen. In the United States, one would visit the State Department, Embassy or Consulate for reporting the item as missing. This is especially true for individuals who are traveling abroad and have has their legal document illegally taken from them.

DS-64

The DS-64 form is usually required to be completed and must be done as soon as possible. The specific form is necessary in recording your statement, which will document that it has been lost as a result of theft. The alternative to filling out the necessary documentation is to contact the Passport Services of the United States that will invalidate the document.

Invalid

If the legal document has gone missing and is invalidated, it cannot be re-validated. Those who have become a victim of theft and are in another country should visit the nearest U. S. Consulate or Embassy as soon as possible. Remember that one must first notify the State Department of your loss by completing the DS-64 form and mailing it to the designated address.

Accuracy

Always proof read the forms to ensure that all items have been correctly answered which is important for processing the particular application. Often a police report is required to be submitted with the particular documentation that states the situation in which the specific item was taken from you. Once all details have been documented, the forms may be posted to the Passport Services of the United States Department.

Loss of a Valid Passport

If your legal document was valid at the time that it went missing, the DS-11 and DS-64 forms will have to be completed and submitted together. This is because one will have to apply for a new legal document, which is the reason that the DS-11 form is needed to be completed and delivered to relevant authorities. A number of specific documents are necessary when applying to replace the important travel document.

Identification

One will need to present a certified birth certificate issued in the United States or Certificate of Naturalization. An identification driver license or government issued identification card is necessary as well as 2 photographs that are passport size. A fee is charged when applying for a new legal document and additional charges apply to expedited passports.

Once the item is reported as a stolen passport, it will be invalidated and the document can no longer be used for travel purposes. The application process for obtaining a new legal document requires that you appear in person. The procedure for a stolen passport requires that individuals complete designated forms for reporting the incident and then applying for a new document to replace it. Whether it’s stolen or damaged you can request an expedited damaged passport if you need it quickly.

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Replacing A Passport

Tuesday, January 24th, 2012

On average, the passport replacement process takes up to 8 weeks to have the application completely processed enabling you to get a new document. This document could require replacing as a result of its loss, expiration or theft. A valid document is a prerequisite for every traveler and lack of it for whatever reason will cause you problems. The standard processing time for a replacement by the government is 6 to 8 weeks, which can be very inconveniencing to people whose travel plans are immediate.

Use The Internet

For travelers with urgent travel plans who require the passport quickly, an Internet search is a good option. There are a number of companies available online that offer these services. These providers can deliver a new document within a very short time, as short as 24 hours. However, it should be noted that these companies charge an additional fee for urgent documents. The additional charges can be as high as 300 US dollars but it varies depending on the urgency. Those processed in a longer time will have lower fees.

The Government Connection

The expedition companies work in collaboration with government agencies in charge of issuing passports. This gives them an advantage over individual applicants because they can push through the application fast. The best individual applicants can try do is hurry the application through government agencies but the process will still take about 3-4 weeks.

Your Responsibility

When an applicant works with an independent processing company, he/she will bear some responsibility. All the government application standards must be completed in addition to completion of all the forms required by the service company. The government application forms can either be obtained from the governmental site or that of the company. Just like the government, the company issues a set of instructions in regard to form completion.

Passport Photos

A new document will require photographs that have been taken according to the required measurements. This will be two, 2×2 inch photographs taken from a frontal view and in full color. You should follow the guidelines for requirements because there will be additional requirements such as those addressing the permitted attire and eyewear. To avoid rejections, hire a professional photographer to take the photos.

Submission

After all the above is done, you now have to submit the photos, application and any other required identification documents to the processing company. You should mail these documents in one parcel to the company using a mailing service that allows parcel tracking. This assures you of a safe delivery.

Return Old Passport

When replacing your passport, the old one should be returned together with the renewal paperwork. The old document is then canceled by the government and given back to the holder. Once this document is canceled, it is not invalid for use but can be retained with the holder’s records.

Finally, recovered lost or stolen passports should be returned to the government for cancellation. Once they are reported, they are recorded as such and this makes them invalid instantly. The process of passport replacement is simple if the correct procedure is followed and becomes quicker if an independent processing company is used.

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How To Obtain An Expedited Passport For a Newborn

Sunday, January 22nd, 2012

There was a time in the United States when a baby or a small child could travel on the passport of one of their parents, usually the mother. Nowadays, however, even a newborn infant must have a passport of their own. When travel is urgent or imminent, an expedited passport for newborn may be obtained. Parents may go through the procedure themselves or they may avail themselves of the services of a specialized agent.

Requirements

There is a lot more involved in obtaining an infant passport than for an adult.  Some requirements include a birth certificate or other proof of American citizenship, parental consent, parental identification, parental Social Security Number and proof of intent to travel.  Then you must fill in a form, pay the fee and send a couple of photographs. The reality is somewhat more complicated. It gets worse if one of the parents is absent or uncooperative. There are five child passport levels. These are Expedited, Rush, Priority, Next Day and 24-Hour. The expedited passport takes up to two weeks to process and the passport is mailed directly to the parents

DS-11

The necessary form, DS-11 – Application for a Passport, may be completed online and then printed or it may be downloaded, printed and then completed by hand. Form DS-11 is also available at a passport agency or from an Acceptance Facility. It is important not to sign the form until instructed to do so.

Submission

The application must be submitted in person. The baby must also be present and the passport is valid for five years and may not be renewed.

Photos

Requirements for the two passport photographs are rather stringent. They need to be 2 inches by 2 inches in size with a white or whitish background. The head size has to be between 1 and 1.375 inches with no had or anything else worn on the head. It must be taken no more than six months before the date of the application.

Photo Requirements

In the photograph, the baby must have a ‘natural’ expression. They must not be smiling, laughing, crying or screaming. They must have their mouth closed and must not contain a pacifier. The baby must be facing forward and looking at the camera. Only the baby must be in the picture, no parental hands, face, arms or even a car seat. Sometimes it is easier just to pay a professional photographer to get this done.

Citizenship

Parental proof of American citizenship is specifically required.  This documentation may take the form of a certified birth certificate, a valid passport, Form FS-240 (Consular Report of Birth), Form DS-1350 (Certification of Report of Birth) or a certificate of naturalization or citizenship.

If both parents cannot be present at the time of application for an expedited passport for newborn, it is necessary to complete a Form DS-3053 (Issuance of a Passport to a Minor Under Age 16). A notarized written statement from the absent parent is acceptable. Remember that children’s passports aren’t valid as long as adults passports are. it is important to pay attention to dates and get a passport renewal if needed.

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Information Regarding Children’s Passports

Friday, January 20th, 2012

If you are planning on traveling abroad with your family you will need to fill out applications for children’s passports as well as your own. Children must have their own passport. There are several things to keep in mind when applying for passports for your children. These are the nine basic steps you must follow.

Form DS-11

Complete Form DS-11 for each child. The application will need to be submitted in person to an acceptance facility. The child and both parents must appear in person when submitting the application. Most post offices act as acceptance facilities. Check with your local post office to see if they are authorized to accept passport applications.

Proof of Citizenship

Along with the application you will need to submit proof of US Citizenship for the child. There are very strict rules on what is an acceptable form of documentation. A birth certificate needs to be certified, which means it is an original with the registrar’s impression or multi-colored seal and also includes their signature. This will be returned to you when you receive your passports. If the child was born out of the country, a “Report of Birth Abroad” can be presented in lieu of a certified birth certificate.

Proof Of Parental Identification

Parents must submit evidence of their relationship to the children. Having each parent named on the birth certificate or the “Report of Birth Abroad” will satisfy this requirement. For single parents, you will need to submit a court order that proves you have custody of the child. Adoptive parents will have to provide a copy of the Adoption Decree that shows both of the adopting parents’ names.

Parental Identification Documents

As the parents, you will also need to provide a photocopy of your identification. Acceptable forms of identification include a previously issued passport, a naturalization certificate or a valid drivers license. City, state or federal employees may use their employee ID or military ID, which are also acceptable. If you are applying for multiple children, a copy of your ID must be submitted with each application.

Payment

You will need to pay two separate fees for each passport. For a minor, there is a ninety-five dollar fee for the application plus an additional charge of twenty-five dollars for the execution fee. These need to be paid separately and can be paid by check, money order or credit card. Some facilities may accept the exact amount in cash depending on the acceptance facility you use.

Photos

The final step is to provide two passport photos. The passport photo must be 2 x 2 inches in size and printed on quality paper. The background must be white or off white and the picture needs to be a full-face view with dimensions of the face no smaller than 1 inch from the chin to the top of the head. Most post offices will also offer passport photo services.

Stop! Don’t Sign It Yet

Decide what location you are going to use for submission of your documents and inquire about their hours of operation. Make an appointment if they are available to help speed the process along. Once you have all the information gathered and your photocopies made, you are ready to submit your application. It is important to note that you are not to sign the application until in the presence of the acceptance agent.

Traveling abroad with your kids can be very exciting for the whole family. The time it takes to get your children’s passports will be well rewarded with the wonderful memories made during your travels. Don’t forget to check the dates on your children’s passport, you may nee to apply for a passport renewal at some point.  Once you have your passport in hand, you will be ready for the adventure and excitement of discovering the world.

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Discussing Key Aspects Relating To US Passports

Wednesday, January 18th, 2012

A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies your identity. In addition, it’s a document that requests another government to allow you to visit their country and be afforded assistance and protection. US passports are issued by the US government through the State Department.

When Is It Needed

First, when is a US Passport needed? Basically, it’s necessary when travelling outside the United States and its territories. Even when travelling to Mexico or Canada, there are certain requirements that a passport can satisfy because all persons entering Canada must show proof of identity and citizenship.  US Citizens, including children, who want to travel past the “border zone” and into the interior of Mexico also need a valid US Passport.

How Do You Get A Passport

How does one go about getting a US Passport? The first step is applying for one. Forms for passport application can be found online as well as at the US Department of State. The website lists specific instructions for first time applicants and for those who simply need to renew their passports. As of August 2007, the US has only been issuing e-passports. These are the same as the traditional ones with the added inclusion of a small computer chip.

Download Your Application

The passport application can be downloaded and filled out online and then printed or printed and filled out by hand. Other locations where passport applications may be found include US Post Offices and libraries. No matter where you acquire and fill out your application, it is important to note you do not sign it until instructed to do so by the passport acceptance agent.

US Citizenship

The application must be submitted in person, even by minors under 16. These can be submitted to any of the passport acceptance facilities and passport agencies. These locations can be found through an online search. Evidence of US citizenship must be presented. This can be through a certified birth certificate or a previous passport. If you don’t have the primary documents, secondary evidence may be submitted.

Primary Identification

Acceptable identification must also be submitted such as a driver’s license or an undamaged, previously issued US Passport. Government or current military identification is also accepted as primary identification. Once again, if you don’t have a primary identification document, there are several secondary ones from which to choose.

Secondary Identification

Secondary identification must be a combination of documents such as a social security card plus a credit card, employee I. D. or library card. You may also bring an identifying witness who has valid primary identification. A photocopy of identification documents also must be submitted, showing the front and back of your document. Fees are then paid and you will provide two passport photos, which must meet passport photo requirements.

If you need a passport quickly, there are ways to expedite the process, which are explained on the State Department website. US passports are valid for ten years, for minors, five years or until they are sixteen. Once you receive your passport, you are free to enjoy your travel plans! Special instructions for passport renewal can be found on the official website along with information regarding lost or stolen passports.

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A U.S. Passport Gives You Access To The World

Monday, January 16th, 2012

If you are planning to travel out of the country, a U.S. passport is a necessity. The business of your trip does not matter. You could be planning an exotic getaway, studying for a semester in another country, or traveling internationally for business. Whatever the case, you will need this to enter any other country. It Is smart to plan and apply for your passport ahead of time.

Benefits

The benefits to having this document are vast. Without one, there are many places in the world that you will not be able to travel to. This is particularly true in the world today. In the past, without passports you could enter countries such as Canada. Presently, however, this is not possible. Any type of international travel requires that you carry this with you.

Easy To Obtain

Luckily, it is not too difficult to obtain passports. In most cases, you will be able to submit your application locally. It is a little more complicated if your travel dates are near. If you are planning to travel internationally in fewer than two weeks, you will be able to schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency. You can even obtain one from outside of the United States by contacting the embassy or consulate.

Valuable Document

You may believe that it is not necessary to have one at all times. In fact, it is recommended that those who have family living or traveling abroad, are considering a vacation internationally, or have a job that could lead to international travel always maintain their passports and make sure theirs is valid. Already having a valid document will save you substantial time and money in the event of an unexpected business trip, a family emergency, or even in the event you come across a great airline deal.

Foreign Country Requirements

In fact, some countries need you to have yours valid at least six months beyond the dates of your planned travel. Because of this, it is recommended that you renew approximately nine months before the expiration date. This way, you will avoid any unforeseen problems.

Valid Period

Your document is valid for ten years if you were over 16 when it was issued. It is valid for five years if you were fifteen or younger. In order to keep your passport valid you must keep track of the dates of issuing.

Emergency Situations

If there is an emergency, there are still solutions available to you. If you do not have a valid document and a life or death emergency involving death or serious illness or injury occurs to someone in your immediate family in a country that requires a passport, you can appear in person at a passport agency for emergency service. You may have to provide documentation about the emergency.

Having a valid U.S. passport allows you to easily travel the world. By applying for one even if you don’t need it right away, you will save yourself time and energy in the long run. You will now be prepared for any unforseen circumstances including business or personal. There are also passports for children, while applying for yours you can start the process for a child passport as well.

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