Posts Tagged ‘passport renewal’

How To Get An Urgent Passport

Monday, May 16th, 2011

There are plenty of citizens who travel to different places often enough to become familiar with the standard documentation that is needed. Others don’t repeat the procedures enough to get familiar with the ins and outs. As soon as there are circumstances that make it a “special case”, the nightmare begins. Oftentimes there is a crisis in someone’s life that requires that they get an urgent passport.

Travel Documents

In situations where their existing travel document has been lost or stolen or the expiration date has crept by without being noticed etc., it is of utmost importance to know how to set about getting a replacement passport quickly. A person could need this inside of one day or within two weeks. These deadlines are likely to be a problem if handling the situation through the normal avenues.

Crisis Situations

When the crisis hits, the affected person often is uncertain about what to do. Establishing where to start can in itself take a lot of time. In times like this, wasting unnecessary hours is undesirable. The individual has to find out very fast all that is required for getting their new document. They must also find time to complete the application forms, get it to the correct venue, take along photographs, etc.

Company Services

It is an advantage to know about companies that handle these situations. These are competent to deal with the individual’s needs because they are familiar with everything that is involved. Once they get started, the traveler can begin to reduce their stress levels.

Category Requests

All businesses handling this sort of situation will place the request into a particular category and deal with it accordingly. There are time limits set for each one so the customer knows what to expect. The fee charged usually gets higher for more time-sensitive applications.

Applicant Assistance

The 24-hour turnaround time option is sometimes called “urgent” or it could be “express” in which case the time frame ranges from two to nine working days. The applicant should bring as much evidence as possible as to the urgency of their predicament. They must have receipts for booked accommodation, itineraries, tickets for buses, trains or airlines etc. They may even need to produce a report from the police.

Required Checklist

The ability of the company assisting the customer to keep to the time frames they laid out depends to a large extent on the customer themselves. Without effective coordination between the two, delays can occur. It is paramount that the person works through the checklist issued by the company so they do not miss handing over anything that is required.

Passport Denial

Sometimes, the prospective traveler may be wanted for arrest, to appear in court, or be on probation. They may even be required for extradition. Such an individual will find that their online passport is denied. They will also stand to lose the money they paid for this item. Thus, is necessary for anybody making an expedited American passport application to know all that is involved at the outset, without overlooking the matter of getting the necessary visas.

Gibraltar – An English Territory With A Unique Spanish Touch

Tuesday, May 10th, 2011

Gibraltar is known as a very unique patch of land that is home to English citizens but features a unique Spanish twist, thanks to its location on the Iberian peninsula. The people who live here are British, contrary to many people thinking it is simply a region in Spain. Located at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar is a unique little spot that makes for a great vacation getaway if you are looking for something a little bit different. There is certainly no shortage of things to do, and it would even make a great stop if you were visiting nearby. Before you go however, you will have to get a passport, a replacement passport, or a US passport renewal from the passport office.

Passport Services

If you require any of these services, you no longer need to wait at a passport or post office. Instead, you can access an online passport office that helps you address any sort of passport issue you might have. From these sites, you can complete any application, meaning you can get your application, fill it out, and have it submitted all in the same day. The sites specialize in passport expediting, which means you can get your passport within weeks or days instead of waiting the traditional time of two months or so.

“The Rock”

The most recognizable feature of Gibraltar is the rock, and the area is often referred to simply as “The Rock.” The inside of this rock is a maze of tunnels and caves, and this is one of the most recommended activities to do while in Gibraltar. St. Michael’s Cave is great one to explore, as there are many interesting and beautiful formations. Interestingly, they have discovered rock art within the caves, suggesting habitation by prehistoric humans. Early human skulls have even been excavated here. One cave with a little bit of a different history is the Siege Tunnel. The main tunnel is 60 km long and was used as a defense system by the British. Going on top of the rocks is a different story altogether, with beautiful views of the Mediterranean.

Main Street

Another great place to visit during a trip to Gibraltar is Main Street. There are lots of great shops, cafes, and street performers, and it provides a great way to get to know the are without having to go too far out of the way. Everything is tax-free, and much of the stuff – including designer products – are cheaper than in other places. There are even special shopping tours that take people to Gibraltar to capitalize on the great deals.

Barbary Apes

Easily one of the most popular attractions in all of Gibraltar are the Barbary apes. They are literally all over the city and won’t think twice about hopping aboard your tour bus or greeting you at a cafe. Because these little apes are always in contact with human beings, they aren’t scared to approach you or even touch you, which can be a little unnerving at first, but then very exciting.

Fascinating Location

There is plenty to do during your visit to Gibraltar, as it is such a unique and fascinating location. Just don’t forget to log on to an internet passport office to get your passport. Remember that they can handle everything – from US passport renewal to replacements to expedited passports – no matter what sort of service you need.

The Maldives – The Location For The Ultimate Beach Vacation

Wednesday, May 4th, 2011

Who doesn’t dream of a beach vacation? It’s true; there are tons of gorgeous places in the world to relax on the beach, but not everyone has the ability to travel and visit all of these different places. If you are looking for a beach vacation to beat all beach vacations, consider traveling to the Maldives. Located just off the coast of the Indian subcontinent, this little cluster of islands is world-famous for their breathtaking beaches. A quick search online will show you just how gorgeous they actually are. Before you can be on your way to the islands, however, you will need to fill out a passport application form.

Passport Services

Getting a passport can be quick and easy if you do it online. Every sort of passport service is accessible from your computer, and the amount of effort is decreased, as are levels of frustration. These online passport service sites offer everything from how to renew US passport, get a replacement passport, get a passport for your children, and much more. Their specialty is passport expediting, which means you can order a passport and have it at your door that same week.

Coral Formations

The Maldives are comprised of twenty-six atolls. Atolls aren’t islands or archipelagos, but actually rings made of coral formations that look like little scattered islands. The names of these atolls are intense, like Maalhosmadulu Uthurubur for example, but they are often referred to by geographical region as opposed to individual atolls. For example, the previous example referred to as Raa for most of the time. There are many other atoll-regions, with some being more tourist-oriented than others. The airport is located on the southernmost atoll, Senu.

Capital City

The capital city and largest city in the Maldives is Male. The city itself takes up an entire island, but the island itself is only 1.7 by 1.0 kilometers, making it a crowded place for the 100,000 people who live there. Nevertheless, it is a colorful city with rich Islamic heritage. There is a lot to do in this city, such as visiting Friday Mosque. Non-Muslims are not allowed inside, but the outside is beautiful enough in itself. The Islamic Center is a very culturally relevant building in Male, and is very recognizable with its large golden domes.

Water Activities

As you can imagine, the main activities tourists do in the Maldives involve the water. Snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, swimming, and sunbathing are popular activities. One popular option is taking the Whale Submarine. The submarine takes you under the water off the coast of Male, where you will see all sorts of marine wildlife, including the possibility of seeing whales. Snorkeling and scuba diving are exceptional here, as the water is extraordinarily clear, thanks to the distance from any major landmass. Even around the capital city you will experience great diving.

Beautiful Vacations

The Maldives is easily one of the most beautiful vacation destinations on Earth. If you are looking for the ultimate beach vacation – whether it’s to surf, dive, or just lounge in the sunshine – you can be sure to find it in the Maldives. Just don’t forget about your expedited passport application form. Go online ad look up how to renew US passport and get your vacation started.

Crucial New Passport Information For Travelers

Sunday, April 24th, 2011

Not that many years ago, it was possible for U.S. Citizens to travel to and from many countries with nothing more than a drivers license and perhaps a birth certificate. Those days are gone, apparently forever. While a passport is not required for trips to U.S. Territories, such as Puerto Rico, they are necessary for virtually every other trip abroad. What follows is a summary of information on the passport application form and application process that you may need to know.

Passport Card

One new offering is an US passport card. These will fit in your wallet, and cost less than a full passport, or passport book. They are valid only for travel to select nations within the western hemisphere, if said travel is by land or sea and not air. They are useful for cruises to the Caribbean or cross border trips to Canada and Mexico. However, it is best to review the entry laws for the specific nation to which you plan to travel, since some will require further documentation.

Passport Book

Most international travelers will need a passport book. This is the standard documentation for travel between countries. Under certain circumstances, you may be able to renew a passport by mail. However, all new passports must be requested in person at the regional agencies operated by the government or supplemental stations, such as post offices.

Identity And Citizenship

Regardless of where or how you apply, you will need to provide proof of citizenship and identity. You must also provide two quality photographs in full color, and there are size and background requirements that apply. Vending machine photo booths cannot provide pictures that will meet the restrictions. Many post offices can provide the service, and so can a number of business stores that offer printing and shipping services.

Proper Scheduling

Summer is the busiest time for passport issuance, and during that time it may take up to 3 months to get your passport. You should plan to make your application in plenty of time to receive it well ahead of your scheduled departure. Even during off-peak times, it can still take a month to a month and a half for processing. If you need to trim about half of the wait time from your process, apply for an expedited passport.

Passport Protection

When you are in a foreign country, be sure and guard your passport. Should it be stolen or lost, report it immediately to the U.S. Consulate or embassy. They can help you obtain another passport or provide the documentation you will need to exit the country and return to the U.S. Since this is not normally an easy chore, you should make every effort to avoid.

Custody Disputes

A parent behind on payments for child support may find his or her application for a passport denied. A child may not be allowed to exit the country during a custody dispute. In addition, unless the mother or father has proof of a court decree granting sole custody, both parents must sign a child’s passport application. Every child, even an infant, must have his or her own passport. Getting a passport for a child is not much different in terms of the documentation required. But the parent must also establish proof of the child’s relationship.

Immediate Travel

In the event of a true emergency requiring immediate travel, application must be made in person at one of the regional agencies. In addition to the information normally needed for a passport, be prepared to document the emergency. This may be a death certificate or other official notification that states the circumstances of the situation. You may have to prove kinship to the person identified in the notice.

Outdated Processes

In the last few years,  most information regarding the  US passport renewal process has become outdated. It always pays to be sure you have the most current facts. You should review the travel restrictions for your destination, since they can change quickly. Plan to receive your passport in plenty of time for your departure date. And if you are mailing in a renewal request, be sure that you have included all the documentation requested. All of this will help make your replacement passport process, and your whole trip, a much more pleasant experience.

An Overview Of The US Passport Application Process

Saturday, April 23rd, 2011

Applying for a passport can be a mysterious process for those who have never held one. Many applications are turned down due to errors made by the applicant. Arriving at the passport agency without the proper documents is one key reason for rejection. The information presented here will help you to get your passport application approved without a frustrating waste of time.

Renew By Mail

First of all, consider whether you can renew your passport by mail. If your current passport is less than 15 years old and is undamaged, you may qualify. However, you must be at least 16 years old now and when the original passport was issued. If your current name differs from your passport, you can still renew by mail but you must provide legal proof, such as a marriage license, that documents your new name.

Expedited Service

Renewals by mail usually take a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks to process unless expedited service is requested. During summer months, the time can stretch to 10 or 12 weeks. The passport application expedited should be mailed using a method that allows you to verify delivery. It is also recommended that you use a waterproof mailer that will protect all items from damage and weather. Expedited renewals are normally processed in half the time as standard applications. There is an additional charge of $60 for expedited services.

Applying In Person

If you are applying for your first passport, or if your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago, you must apply in person. This condition also applies if you are under the age of 16 or if you were under 16 when your previous passport was issued. You must also make a personal application if your passport is damaged or was lost or stolen. Those with name changes that cannot be legally documented must also apply in person.

Application Offices

The most popular places to apply in person are county clerk offices and post offices for a first time passport or for a passport renewal. Regional passport agencies can also issue passports, but many states do not have an agency. Each type of operation will have different business hours, but all will require that you furnish the same documentation. Proof of citizenship is one requirement. This can be provided in the form of an official birth certificate (the type with an embossed seal) or a certificate of naturalization or citizenship. Your old passport can be accepted if it is undamaged. For U.S. citizens born abroad, a consular report or certificate of birth can be used.

Identity And Citizenship

You will also be required to prove your identity. A passport can serve for this purpose as well as your proof of citizenship. The most common documentation is a current driver’s license or state issued identification card. If your license was issued by a state other than the one in which you are making your application for passport, you will need a second form of identification. The agency will accept your social security card, your credit card, or your employer identification card. You must also provide a copy of all identification used for the passport application. This cannot be a duplex copy, or copy with dual sided printing.

Photo Attachments

Photographs are one area that lead to many rejections. You will need two identical photos, each 2 x 2 and in color. They cannot be more than 6 months old and should show how you currently appear. They must be full face frontal views. The space between the bottom of the chin and the top of the head must fall between one inch and one and three-eighths inches. You should wear your normal style of dress and pose against a white or near-white background. If you normally wear glasses or a wig, you should wear them in the picture. No hats are to be worn, and ladies should refrain from hair trims that hide the hair or hairline.

Special Passports

There are different requirements for special passports, such as for children or dignitaries. However, most adults who need passports should now have a good idea of what will be required to complete a United States passport renewal. Accurately completing the application to passport renewals and providing the proper documentation are the most crucial elements for success.

Renew Your U.S. Passport

Wednesday, April 20th, 2011

A passport gives you the right to travel and show you are a citizen. It can be easy to obtain, but you will need to allow several weeks before you need to have it. The passport renewal through passport expediting services should be done when you have a name change, it has been lost or stolen or if it is expiring.

Process Involved

You need to be aware of the time involved in getting one, especially if you are planning on traveling soon. Many countries require the passport to be issued at least 6 months from the time of entry into their country. You also want to make sure you are at no risk of it expiring while you are gone since it can make travel and leaving the country hard, as well as causing problems trying to reenter the US.

Filing Application

Mail is one option you have to renew your USA passport through a passport expedite process. There are criteria to meet, and if you can do so this can be quick and easy for you to get a current passport. You must have your passport included with your paperwork, and it must be undamaged and in your current name. It also has to have been issued in the last 15 years, and after you were 16 years of age.

First Passport

You may have to do this in person if it is your first passport. You have to go if you are under 16 as well, or your passport was issued before you were that age. You will have to do id you do not have yours due to loss theft or damage or the one you have is more then 15 years old.

Secure Packaging

If you do mail your application, then you need to make sure you include your passport in the envelope. You should make sure that the package is protected from the elements since they will not accept any damage to it at all and that you have a way of tracing it through the mail. You also must send this from the US and have a return one in the States or Canada.

Passport Agency

If you go in person, you must go to an agency or facility and fill out the right forms. You need to make sure you bring all the documentation required with you; including your social security card and birth certificate as well as any other ID they want. You will need to wait to sign the forms until you are told to by an agent in your interview.

Application Fees

Fees must be paid at the time of application no matter what method you choose to do. If you mail it, you will need to include payment along with your passport and application. At the facility, you must pay for it before your interview. You can find the schedule of fees, forms, location of the facilities and the address to mail the application to can be obtained from the government website on the internet.

Emergency Abroad

If you need an emergency fast passport renewal while abroad, contact the local US consulate for assistance. If you need one for international travel in two weeks, or to obtain a foreign visa in 4 weeks, then contact your regional United States passport agency for assistance. These places will help you to the best of their ability in an emergency.

Marseille – A Gorgeous City On The Mediterranean Sea

Wednesday, April 13th, 2011

Vallon des Auffes

It’s hard to deny that France is one of the most beautiful countries on Earth. Among its most interesting cities is Marseille. Marseille is the second most populated city in France, right after the capital, Paris. Marseille is very different though, as there are so many different cultures and backgrounds that intermingle in the city. If you are thinking of traveling to Marseille, you will need to get a passport first. If you already have a passport and it’s just expired, than getting a American passport renewal is your next step.

Visiting Is Not A Hassle!

Generally, the thought of having to get a new passport or renew a passport evokes groans, and for good reason. Not only is the entire process one big hassle, but it’s also very time consuming. However, there is a new alternative that takes the aggravating old process and replaces it with something much easier and much quicker. Online passport services are the way to go if you need any sort of passport service completed. They handle everything from getting your first passport to an emergency children passport renewal.

The History

As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Marseille has a long and interesting history that is still evident in the city today. Beginning with the Phoceans who inhabited this region in 600 BC, the area has grown and molded into the city we know now. This history can be seen not only in museums, but by simply walking through the streets. Many churches, monuments, and other significant places are there for you to see, including Notre Dame de la Garde. Notre Dame de la Garde stands as a very recognizable symbol of Marseille and a point of reverence for sailors. It stands at the top of a huge hill that overlooks the city, and it is said that this spot has always served as a lookout point, some say even in prehistoric times.

The Harbor

One of the best places to start your adventure in Marseille is Vieux-Port, or the Old Port. This is the main harbor in the city, and it provides a glimpse into the historical influences in Marseille. On either side of the Port are two fortresses, Fort St. Nicolas and Fort St. Jean. There are also plenty of places to stop and eat and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. A great place to shop is Noailles. Noailles is an area lined with Arabic and Indo-Chinese shops, making it feel like a bazaar in Morocco. Another great hangout spot is La Plaine, which features book stores, art, fountains, and little cafes and restaurants.

Natural Beauty

Believe it or not, Marseille is also naturally beautiful. One stunning natural formation is The Calanques. The Calanques are a series of beautiful white limestone cliffs that stand right over the ocean. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Boat rides and cruises on the turquoise Mediterranean Sea are also a great option.

Your Next Vacation!

Marseille is a great place to visit for your next vacation. Just don’t forget to get your passport or passport renewal; if you need to expedite passport service, you can. Remember that you are able to do everything straight from your computer, including emergency children’s passport renewal.

How Kids Passport Applications Work for Kids 16-17

Monday, April 11th, 2011

Minors applying for a passport for the first time have special requirements they need to fulfill in order to have their child or infant passport approved. These special requirements are fulfilled on top of the basic ones that all passport applicants need to meet. Minors who are 16-17 years old have a slightly different set of special requirements from those under 16. We’ll be dealing with the requirements of the former group, and provide you with a guide to applying for a passport for the first time.

Basic Requirements

Let’s first talk about the basic requirements. It should be said that these are the same requirements fulfilled even by adults applying for a passport for the first time. So, if you’re ready, then let’s proceed to the basic requirements.

DS-11 Form

The first of these basic requirements is the Form DS-11. This is the form that you need to fill in if you are applying for a passport for the first time. Also, this is the form filled in by passport applicants who were under 16 when their last passport was issued, or those whose passports were issued more than 15 years ago. The DS-11 is also a form you need to submit in person. It is therefore important you make sure you have fulfilled all the requirements before proceeding so as to save time.

Citizenship Proof

A proof of citizenship is also required for first time passport applicants. To do this, you need to submit any document that’s prescribed by the passport office. You can choose from any of these documents to submit: your birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, certificate of citizenship, or the consular report on your birth if you were born outside the US.

Proof Of Identity

You also have to establish your identity. You can do this by presenting your ID when you submit your documents in person. Aside from that, you also need to photocopy that ID that you will be presenting. And finally, two passport photos are also required. The US Department of State has very specific guidelines for your passport photos and the photocopy of your ID. So, if you’re unsure of what the exact guidelines are, then you should take the time to confirm these with the passport office nearest you or the US Department of State’s website. Once you have fulfilled all those requirements, you can pay the applicable fees.

Special Requirements

Now let’s move on to the special requirements. These requirements should be submitted along with the basic requirements that we talked about in the last several paragraphs. The first one of these requirements is that the applicant should appear in person for the application. Once again, applying for a US next day expedited passport for the first time requires a personal appearance.

Parental Consent

There’s also the requirement to establish parental consent. Parental consent is needed if it wasn’t implied in the application. While the minor is required to submit an ID, he/she can present that of his/her parent. At the same time, a photocopy of that ID is also required.

Child Passport

That’s everything you need to know about child US passport application if you are 16-17 years old. The guidelines are pretty easy and straightforward to follow so you can easily get a passport application by yourself. However, should you need assistance, you can always ask your parents about it.

Need an Emergency U.S. Passport?

Saturday, April 9th, 2011

Sometimes you are forced to leave the country unexpectedly, and realize that you still need to apply for a passport or renew your expired one. In this case, going through the routine passport application wouldn’t be an option. Currently, you’ll need to wait four to six weeks to have your passport processed for routine applications. But you’re in a rush to get your passport, so make sure you take a look at your options for a passport replacement.

Family Emergencies

In family emergencies, you wouldn’t be able to wait that long for your passport to arrive. This applies to family emergencies where you’ll need to travel out of the country as soon as possible. Good thing there’s an option for you to get a passport faster than is regularly allowed. For family emergencies, you’ll need an emergency passport.

Overnight Passport

Emergency overnight passport service USA is designed for those facing family emergencies outside the country and need to leave in 48 hours or less. At times when your loved ones can’t wait, this is the passport you’ll need. Applying for this type of passport ensures you are able to leave the country as soon as possible.

Emergency Passport

Now let’s discuss on how you can acquire an emergency passport. To get one, you’ll need to get in touch with the National Passport Information Agency (NPIA). They are the ones tasked on assisting people like you who need emergency passports. Call them any time of the day, and they’ll help you schedule an appointment with the passport agency nearest you. The passport agency will then help process your emergency passport.

Customer Service

However, there are instances where you might be unable to set a schedule with a passport agency. In cases like this, just hang in the line and your call will be forwarded to a customer service representative (CSR). From there, the CSR will provide you with other options to get your emergency passport.

Expedited Passport

However, if your reason to leave the country isn’t as urgent as a family emergency, there’s still an option for you to speed the process up. You can choose to get an expedited passport. This is ideal if you need to leave the country within the next four to ten weeks.

Passport Priority

The expedited passport option is a kind of a value-added service. And because of this, your passport application will be given priority over the routine passport applications. Thus expedited passports are a lot faster to process. And as a value-added service, you can expect an expedited passport to have an extra fee added to the regular passport application fees you need to pay. This is a non-issue, of course, if you need to get your passport quickly and don’t want to break a sweat doing it.

Additional Fee

If you need to be with your family in family emergencies outside the country, you have the option of getting an emergency passport. Having an emergency American passport will enable you to leave the country in as little as 48 hours or less. However, if you can wait for at least 2 weeks, you have the choice of having your USA passport application expedited instead. This comes with an additional fee, but you get speed and a quick response in return.

Need A Passport Card Or A New US Passport?

Wednesday, April 6th, 2011

Whether you are applying for a new passport, passport renewal, or want to replace your lost or stolen passport, it’s important you know what you need to get a new passport. This helps keep you from wasting your time fumbling around about what you have to do. This is especially important if the procedure requires you to make a personal appearance at the passport office.

First Passport

We’ll show you how to get your first passport, renew your expired passport, and apply for a passport card. That sounds a lot of stuff you need to learn about, but don’t worry, as we’ll keep things as simple as possible. So read on and learn more.

Passport Application

First off, let’s talk about first-time passport applicants. If you are applying for a passport for the first time, you will need to fill in the DS-11 form. Aside from this, you will also need to submit other requirements needed from first-time passport applicants.

Establish Citizenship

You will also need to submit a proof of your US citizenship. To do this, you can present any of the following documents: your birth certificate, your certificate of citizenship, your certificate of naturalization, or a consular report of your birth if you were born abroad. Your document will be returned to you by mail along with your new passport. There are instances, however, when it is mailed separately.

Submit Identification

When submitting your passport application in person, you will be required to present your ID at the passport office. Also have that ID photocopied and submit it with the other requirements. Then you also need two color passport photos attached to your documents. Once you have fulfilled all the requirements, you have to pay the applicable fees.

Passport Renewal

Now let’s deal with renewing your expedited passport. You need to have your passport renewed once it expires. You can then request for passport renewal by mail if you fill in Form DS-82. However, if you are based abroad, you will have to visit the nearest US embassy or consulate to have your passport renewed. Simply submit it to them and they will help you with what you need.

Passport Card Areas

Finally, there’s the passport card. You can use the passport card when traveling to these Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative areas: Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean, and Mexico. If you currently have a US passport, or at least were a previous passport holder, then you can apply for a passport card by mail. Simply fill in Dorm DS-82 then send it by mail. Otherwise, you will have to submit the DS-11 form in person.

Simple Process

Simply put, you’ll only need two types of passport forms when working with a passport application form. You have to use the DS-11 if you are getting a passport for the first time, along with the other required documents. On the other hand, use the DS-82 if you are renewing your expired USA passport. Follow the same instructions when applying for US passport card.