Archive for the ‘Passport Renewal’ Category

« Older Entries

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.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Passport Renewal | No Comments »

Easy Passport Renewals

Monday, December 26th, 2011

Passport renewals are simple most of the time. Most can be done by mail but you will not be required to appear in person. There are, however, some conditions that must be fulfilled if done by mail.

Conditions

Several conditions must be met if you plan to send your request by mail. These include being able to submit your latest passport in an undamaged condition with your application. It must have been issued within the last fifteen years and you must have been older than sixteen when it was issued. If your name has changed since its issue, you must be able to provide documentation proving the change.

Form DS-82

If you meet the above qualifications and you are able to use form DS-82, you can get the new passport. This is true even if this will be your first passport. If you do not meet the requirements, you will have to apply in person.

Expedited Service

If you need an expedited document, it is possible to get one within two to three weeks. This may be necessary when you plan to travel soon or when you need to get a foreign visa within four weeks. The cost will be higher and you will need to be sure and mark “expedite” on the outside of the envelope. You will also need to add the cost of overnight shipping both ways to the overall cost.

Appearance Required

If you plan on travelling within fourteen days or need a foreign visa in less than four weeks, you must apply in person and pay a higher fee to get your document. You must have all necessary documentation upfront to get this service. You should apply at a center designed for this type of transaction.

Name Change

For a name change due to a court order or marriage, you must officially change it on your document. To do this, you will need a copy of the court order or marriage license, whichever applies. You will need your original passport, a certified copy or original of the name change documentation, the appropriate form and a color picture. There is no charge for this service.

Errors

Changes that are due to error can be corrected at any time using appropriate forms. There is no charge for these changes. These include things like typos and errors in listing date of birth. It is a simple matter to send the proper form and get the corrections made.

Mailing

There are a number of circumstances in which you may need to make corrections or additions. Because all documents must be in an undamaged condition, it is advised to send them in an envelope large enough to prevent folding and to use a strong envelope for greater protection.

Passport renewals are not the only service you may need. However, renewals and other services are relatively simple if a few basic procedures are followed. Starting early will save you money but it is possible to get expedited services for an additional fee. In addition to renewing passports you can also get a kids passport as well as a replacement for your lost of stolen passport.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Passport Renewal | No Comments »

How To Renew A Passport

Friday, December 16th, 2011

Many people have a hard time understanding what they need to do in order to renew passport that has exceeded its expiration date. In fact, it’s common for some to put off the task until the very last minute, which can often put them into a state of panic. Fortunately, several things can be done in order to ensure that your paperwork is in the proper order and turned in on time; however, a lot can also depend on one’s circumstances.

Documentation

Individuals can generally order new documentation by mail while living in certain locations, providing that it is previous passport is undamaged. The person trying to renew one will need to send theirs in with an application or form, which can one can usually find online. Other factors may also be involved, making it important to research any other requirements ahead of time.

Mail-In Requirements

As an example of certain mail-in requirements within the United States, any expired documentation will need to have been issued within the last 15 years. The same documentation will also have to be something that was issued to someone when they 16 years of age or order during the time that they initially received it.

Name Change

If an individual is planning to get a renewed document through the mail, they will also need to ensure that their name is the same as when they first received their original. If their name has changed since receiving their last one, the new name will need to have been changed legally and with the proper legal documentation. An example of this would involve if a person were to get married and take on their spouse’s name.

National Passport Processing Center

You can usually find an address to send for your new passport online. For instance, those who live within the United States can send their papers to the National Passport Processing Center, which is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

DS-11

If you find that you don’t meet the requirements to send for your document through the mail, you can also choose to process your paperwork in person. This can be done by filling out the necessary forms such as the Form DS-11. However, it’s important not to sign the document until you’re at the place.

Photo ID

Generally, those applying for up-to-date documentation will also need to bring their government-issued photo ID. They may also need to bring a photocopy of the ID. Individuals will also want to have two, appropriately sized photos. Evidence of citizenship will be needed as well such as a birth certificate. You can often find local places to renew your document such as through a number of related agencies or acceptance facilities.

Individuals who happen to be in a rush can also seek help from professional services. Services like this can be ideal for getting a renew passport quickly – sometimes even within a 24-hour period. Generally, those who lack the time or who have last-minute travel arrangements to contend with tend to prefer this method the most. Other people tend to prefer to use services such as this in order to eliminate the hassle that can often be involved with the overall process. This can particularly be the case when it comes to the time-consuming task of mailing things or visiting a facility in person.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Passport Renewal | No Comments »

Processing Your Passport Renewal Application

Saturday, November 12th, 2011

Passport renewal is simplest to get it done by mail. It is also completed in person. In order to meet what’s needed to renew by mail, you must have been more than 15 years old when the existing passport was issued, the existing passport must be un-damaged, and it must be less than 15 years old. The ultimate requirement of United States online passport renewal by postal mail is that a person should never have had an identity change since the previous passport was issued.

The Application

You can obtain an application for a passport card, if it’s your first passport card by mail and if you meet all the mail-in qualifications. If you’re behind in child support, you won’t be capable of getting your own passport. If you are mailing your papers, it’s always best to mail them inside a secure package. You will also want to mail them in a traceable manner.

A lost, damaged or stolen passport can not be renewed through the mail. It must be done in person. You need to complete an application except for the signature blank which will be completed in the presence of the passport agent. Your social security card must be presented for proof of identity.

Prove Citizenship

The next step in the application process is to prove your citizenship. You can do this through many different means. One of the easiest is with a previous passport; if this is not available, a certified birth certificate will do. A naturalization certificate or a certificate of citizenship is also a way of proving your citizenship status for your passport applications.

Forms Of Identification

You will have to provide forms of personal identification. This identification can be a current driver’s license, a current military ID, a government ID, a naturalization certificate or an undamaged passport. Whenever you do not have a primary form of ID, there are several secondary forms of ID that are acceptable. These require someone with ID to vouch for you.

All forms of identification must be photocopied on white 8.5-inch by 11-inch paper. The ID can be expanded to fit the paper size, nevertheless the ID can’t be decreased to a smaller size. Each form must be presented on a separate piece of paper. You can not use both sides of the paper.

Other Information

The passport fees must be sent in with the passport renewal application. These fees vary and you need to understand them. In order to purchase additional services related to the receipt of the passport, you will need to add additional fees. Some of the extra services include overnight delivery fees and expedited fees. Checks, credit cards and money orders are accepted forms of payment.

To complete your United States online passport renewal, you must also enclose a 2-inch by 2-inch color photo. It must be a full face with no head gear and must be a frontal view. The background must be either off white or white. The photo for your passports can not be older than six months. Whenever you usually wear glasses, you should wear glasses within the picture. The same goes for hearing aids, a wig or a hairpiece. You cannot wear tinted glasses unless you have a medical certificate stating that you need them.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Passport Renewal | No Comments »

See How Easy It Is To Renew Passports

Wednesday, November 2nd, 2011

Renewing the U.S. Passport is not a time-consuming procedure. Occasionally, passport holders may renew pasports entirely via mail. You will find only a few quick steps and the turnaround can also be expedited by using an independent service. The passport holder will then be on that dream vacation in the flash of an eye!

Renewing a passport through the mail is probably the most sought after method of renewing. This is just due to the headache associated with locating a governmental facility and then going to the facility to stand in line. Although this is not necessarily that dreadful, it would be much easier for an individual to use the mail system to renew his or her passport. Regrettably, only certain individuals will meet the requirements.

Renewing Process Defined

If the individual decides that she or he wants to renew his or her passport by mail, they simply need to go online and find the application for this. The actual form is Form DS-82. If someone does not have the opportunity to use the internet, a trip to a local government office might prove to be fruitful.

Passport Pictures

Passport pictures ought to meet specific requirements. The pictures have to be in color and measure 2×2 inches. They must have been obtained in the last six months and really should reflect the applicant’s current appearance. The photo must reflect an individual’s full face from the front view and contain a plain or off-white background. The face area may measure between 1 and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head. The person must be dressed in normal street attire. Hats and dark non-prescription glasses with tinted lenses are not acceptable unless they are needed for medical reasons.

Sending In Your Forms

Our recommendation is that the envelope be sent by mail using some type of traceable delivery service. This will enable the applicant to track the package and provide proof of mailing, should the package become lost and need to be traced. The package material should be made of a durable substance in order to prevent it from coming open or getting damaged.

Expedited Passport Services

The individual who desires the expedited government USA passport service will need to label his or her envelope as such. In regards to time, the expedited service will cut the time it takes for the new passport to be issued in half. While this is pretty fast, an independent expediting service can return the passport renewed in 24-48 hours.

Instructions For Minors

There are special passport renewal rules for minors. All minors whose initial passport was issued when they were under age 16 must renew the passport in person. The renewal process is similar to those renewing via mail. The minor must complete a passport renewal application, return the expired passport, provide two identical passport photos, and pay a fee. If the minor wishes to have the passport expedited, the options of the government expediting and independent expediting services are available for additional fees.

It requires as much time for you to renew United States Of America passports through the mail as it does to pay bills through the mail. Only certain individuals are permitted to renew their passports this way. If an individual finds him or herself unsure if they will be permitted to renew through the mail, then he or she should check the government’s Web site regarding the matter or sing up with a pass port service to expedite the process.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Passport Renewal, Passport Services | No Comments »

USA Passport Renewal Simplified Online

Monday, October 31st, 2011

Once the topic to getting a passport or United States passport renewal is pointed out, some people may roll their eyes as though it is the most detrimental process that they’ll undertake. To be honest, the possibilities of standing in line after lines are certainly not appetizing to any person. These days, the whole process continues to be streamlined thanks in part to the web.

At this point prior to getting too enthusiastic about how easy the process is becoming, there are a few stipulations. After all, what would life be without a few catches? Above all, the actual passport should still be in good shape and undamaged. It must also be for an adult and also the name that is being placed on the renewed passport has to be exactly the same name which was on the original.

Finding The Right Forms

Any form that is needed for any passport renewal can be readily located online. The federal government internet sites which might be connected with passports will obviously have them, as will many of the private agencies specializing in expedited passport services. The forms readily available for download as well as completed easily.

Because the forms are getting ready to be mailed out, it is best to consider using an overnight service. The two reasons behind this: speed as well as security. A lot of the files that will be sent by mail are going to be very sensitive. To be able to protect them from damage or theft, it is advisable to use an overnight shipping service that will provide proof of delivery and tracking information.

Renewing

A passport renewal is a reasonably pain-free course of action, provided you don’t mind having your photograph taken. Every renewal application has to be supported by a minimum of two color pictures which may be obtained by visiting a local passport authorized photographer. You can find links on a lot of the web sites to these locations or just conduct another look for one in the region.

As soon as the details continues to be received for the American passports by the administrating agency, it will usually take a little less than 8 weeks to receive back. In the event that time frame is unacceptable, there are other services that may quicken things considerably. There are even 24 hour solutions, but be prepared to search hard into the wallet in order for something like that.

Costs Incurred

Costs charged through the government for passport services are standard and can be found right on the State Department website or the post office internet site. Private companies that offer quicker services make up their own fee schedule, so it is best to check their site or call to find out exactly how much they will charge for the quick turnaround time.

Online Services

By going online and conducting a comprehensive search, all of the choices for pass port renewal might be identified. The most difficult choice will be on which approach to choose for the time that is available. These web sites all possess a frequently asked questions section that may help to make the decision which passports service to use much easier.

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Passport Renewal | No Comments »

Renewing An Expired Passport Is Simple

Sunday, October 30th, 2011

Soon after people acquire their passports, they will either use them continuously or simply throw them into the back of their desks, keeping them for the day when they eventually take that dream vacation in another country. If that day comes, the individual frequently opens the passport book only to find that the passport has expired. An expired USA passport doesn’t have to be a cause for stress simply because they can easily be renewed either via mail or perhaps in person.

One method to determine how long a passport is valid is to determine when the passport was originally issued. If an individual was issued a passport when they were sixteen or older, then the passport is good for ten years. If, however, the individual had been fifteen or much younger, then the passport is only good for five years. Since some countries do not accept newly issued or re-issued passports, it would be a good idea to renew a passport many months in advance. The typical is nine months.

Your Passport May Be Expired

An expired passport must be renewed if someone really wants to travel abroad. The individual can go about this process in one of two ways. A person might do this through the mail if they meet certain requirements. For instance, a person’s soon-to-be expired passport will have to be undamaged and sent in the mail. Coinciding with this, the passport has to have been issued 15 years ago or earlier. The name on the passport must be the same as the person’s current name, as well. Those that were under fifteen when they acquire their passport do not qualify for the mail-in option.

Finding Application Forms

To find the correct forms and conditions and terms with regard to renewing the brand new passports by mail, an individual only has to go online and perform a quick search. Possibly the forms could be completed electronically, on your computer, or they may be printed out to be filled out with pen. When the time comes for to send the whole package off, it must contain the form, the most recent passport, two copies of the same photograph, money for the fees, and, if it be the case, legal documentation regarding a name change.

If the person doesn’t meet the specific requirements needed to be able to renew by mail, then the individual will need to appear in person to complete the process. Through seeking on the internet, the person will find the proper office to appear at, but before venturing to the office, an individual needs to make sure that he or she has all the essential documents. Check online to see a list of acceptable forms of documentation.

The standard processing time for passport renewal or re-application is four to six weeks. The government offers an expedited delivery service that will process the renewal application within two to three weeks. Another alternative is to use an independent expediting service that can process the renewal within as little as 24 hours for an additional charge over the government fees. The independent expediting service can accommodate applicants who must renew in person, but applicants must first present the required documentation to the Passport Acceptance Facility or Agency.

Canada Residents

U.S. citizens who reside in Canada may renew their passports by mail. U.S. citizens residing in other countries excluding Canada must renew their passports at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. A directory of the locations of these facilities may be found online.

Bear in mind, simply because you have an expired American passport, does not mean that the vacation will have to be missed. Simply go online to find the appropriate steps to complete the process. For the situations when American passports renewal needs to be quick, a private expediting service should be considered.

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in New Passport, Passport Renewal, Passport Services | No Comments »

Different Ways to Renew Your US Passport

Tuesday, October 18th, 2011

Need to renew an american passport? There are several options of doing this, including visiting your nearest US Embassy (for those living outside the United States). You can also do it by mail. Choosing this option helps confirm the delivery of your mailing. From there, the steps on how to renew a passport by mail would depend on several factors. First of all, you need to meet the requirements of passport renwal by mail.

Qualifications

Who can renew their passports by mail? Those who can do this are people whose recent passports are in good condition, issued when they were 18 years old or over, issued anytime within the last 15 years, or those that contain the passport holder’s current legal name. Should the last requirement not apply to you, you should at least be able to legally document the change in your name.

However, if all the instances above do not apply to you, you should personally appear at the United States passport office to renew your passport. Personal appearance is required in several instances including a damaged passport, and passports that have been issued more than 15 years ago. This is an additional step, but this just ensures that the correct passport is issued to the right person.

Ways To Renew

As mentioned earlier, US citizens living in the US or in Canada are allowed to renew their passports by mail. If you wish to do this, you need to fill up the Form DS-82, then mail it to the corresponding passport agency. You have the option of filling this form online, or downloading it and filling it in by hand.

To ensure a hassle-free passport renewal, you are advised to mail your application in a manner than can be traced. There are courier services that can do this for you. Also, make sure that you place your documents in a secure envelope, as sensitive information are contained in that document, such as your personal details.

Now what if you are living outside the US or Canada? You will be required to visit your nearest US Embassy. The embassy will then help you renew your passport.

Time Frame

Currently, passport processing times take 4-6 weeks. But not everyone has the time to wait this long for their passports. If you need to get your passport quickly, you have an option to expedite the processing, which depends on several requirements. You will be allowd to have the process expedited if you need the passport within 2 weeks for foreign travel, or within 4 weeks when you’re applying for a foreign visa. Visit your Regional Passport agency for expedited passport renewal.

The easiest way to renew the United States passport would be to send it by mail, or have it expedited. This enables you to have your passport processed minus the hassle of going to the passport agency’s office yourself. Now you know how to renew a USA passport.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Passport Renewal, Passport Services | No Comments »

Learn Where To Re New Your Expired Passport

Sunday, October 2nd, 2011

If you’re not certain about where to re new your expired passport, there are sources of information available. The answers you need can be found by contacting a local agency or by searching the Internet for information. Anyone who wishes to visit different countries can always be prepared.

Where To Renew

When you see the expiration date approaching, it is possible to renew by mail, in person or online. Those who wish to use regular mail will need a copy of the proper form, which is called a DS-82. It’s easy to pick up this form at a local agency or you can get a copy online. The form must be printed and filled out in black ink, signed and dated.

By Mail

To submit the form by mail, it will be necessary to include your old passport, which must be undamaged. It is also important that it was issued within the last fifteen years and you must have been 16 or older when it was issued. The last thing you’ll need in the package is two photos and there are photographers who know the requirements for taking those photos.

Form DS-11

Those who prefer to take care of their renewal in person must use a form DS-11, which can be found online or at a local agency. The same requirements for a mailed renewal will apply but some might go in person because they have lost their previous passport. If that is the case, it will be necessary to provide identification as well as proof of citizenship. A certificate of birth or naturalization are examples of documents that will be sufficient for that purpose. You’ll need a copy of the document, front and back, as well as the original.

Online Application

An online application is used by those who have an urgent need for renewal. You’ll be able to fill out the forms on the Internet but it will still be necessary to provide the proper documents. Those documents include your current passport, or, lacking that, proof of citizenship. Additional documents needed are photos, an intent to travel and of course the application.

Expedited Renewal

Online renewal is for emergency needs and therefore it is more expensive. Options available are next day, twenty-four hours or simply expedited passports. It can take up to two months for processing of a regular application so it’s best to plan ahead. However, if you’re surprised by a need to travel outside the country, the online method is the way to go.

Fees

The regular cost for adult renewal is $135. It is lower for children or higher if you also wish to receive a card, which looks similar to a driver’s license. Fees for online renewal are higher because of the expedited status. The cost of the card alone is only $30.

You’ll be ready for any trip out of the country and around the world if you know where to re new your expired passport. The excitement of travel can sometimes be distracting so if your time to renew your passport is approaching, it’s a great idea to get started now.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Passport Renewal | No Comments »

Renew US Passport Online – The Advantages

Tuesday, September 20th, 2011

Citizens of the United States are very lucky compared to some of our neighbors. When they apply for a book to travel, they know that it is good for traveling abroad for the next ten years. Most other countries do not give the same length of time. In addition to this, you also have the convenience to renew US passport online.

Renew Online

Knowing that you can renew in this manner should give you peace of mind. While you are in the United States and when it is due to expire, renewing is as simple as turning on a computer. This is a convenient option that is available to any American.

Ten Year Period

Just knowing that you do not have to visit a facility with all of your documents can give you a great peace of mind. And you will receive the same ten-year period when you renew. You can do this if you have a book or card that is not more than fifteen years old.

Simple Process

When you renew this way, the process is much simpler than applying for the first time. The application form that needs to be filled out is the DS-82. This is required to be filled out online. When you are filling out the form, be sure that it has a barcode. If it does not, you could be filling out an incorrect form, this will delay receiving your new book. After you have filled the application in, you need to print it, then sign and date it.

New Photos

For the renewal process, you also need two photos taken. They must be recent, and they must be identical. Do not use a picture vending machine. Use a photographer who is familiar with this type of photo. That person will know the required sizes and backgrounds.

Turn In Old Passport

You must also be able to turn into the agency your expired passport. This must have been issued within the last fifteen years and at that time, you were sixteen years of age or older. If you had a name change since it was issued, proof of the name change will be required. The book or card must also be undamaged.

Other Documents

In some instances, you will be required to hand in a travel itinerary or a copy of your plane ticket with your papers. If you are traveling for business, they could ask you to provide a letter from your employer. This must be on company letterhead, listing the country to be visited.

Fees

You will also be required to send your expired one with the paperwork along with a certified check or money order to cover the renewal cost. Many of the online businesses that assist with your renewal process will have a fee for their services. This will vary from company to company so doing a bit of research well before travel time could save you money.

This gives you the convenience to renew US passport online and have it sent directly to your home. You do have the option to pay an extra fee to have passport expedited, as well. When the application has been processed you will receive your new passport. At this time they will also return your old book.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Passport Renewal | No Comments »

« Older Entries