Posts Tagged ‘United States passport application’

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Easy Passport Application Tips

Sunday, January 8th, 2012

Getting a passport can be either a simple process or a tough one. All citizens in need of traveling abroad are required to poses this vital document. Everyone is required to have this legal traveling document regardless of their age. Note that infants or young ones under the age of 16 have some special requirements needed for them to be issued with one. The passport application process is easy if one follows the necessary steps.

Plan Early

The first step that you need to note is that planning early or ahead is important. Note that the initial process takes four to six weeks, including the delivery process. If you happen to be in a situation where you did not plan ahead, yet you require the traveling document immediately, then you will have to go for expedited services. Though these services are fast, it generally takes two to three weeks and is very costly.

Documents

Another step is to keep important documents close so that if you are requested to present them, you can do so with ease. Such documents include a birth certificate, driver’s license and ID card. These documents help to prove that you are a legal citizen of a certain country.

First Time Applicants

In case you are applying for this document for the first time, you should consider obtaining an application form from the main office or the designated outlet in your city. Availing yourself to the center will enable you to ask questions or even offer helpful information to the agency. Note that you can download the form from the web but visiting the head office is most appropriate.

Complete Forms

Make sure that you fill in all the columns carefully before submitting the form. This form is supposed to be submitted to the passport office in person or via authorized personnel. You can also drop this document at the district collector’s office.

Pictures

Remember to have two passport-sized photographs. Ensure that you position yourself well during the process. This photo is very vital because if not taken properly, you might be asked to retake it. For this reason you should look for a professional photographer who is able to produce high quality work. The expert should also advice you on how to position yourself.

Cost

When in need of this travel document, you should consider the cost of obtaining it. Getting it through the regular process is not as expensive. When you want it urgently, you should go for the expedited services. However, though you can acquire the passport fast, you will be required to pay more for the services rendered to you.

In addition, you can consult your travel agent for more information. He or she will assist you through the entire process. These agents also make sure that one gets the best services they need. They will also be able to tell you if you require further information, or if you can get by with another process, like passport renewal or filing for a passport name change. If you do not have a travel agent, you can hire one to help you at an affordable rate. He or she will speed up the passport application process to enable you to travel without any delays.

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Filing A US Passport Application

Monday, January 2nd, 2012

Filing  a US passport application is the process to get a document needed when a citizen wants to travel to a place outside of the United States of America.  Passports are an important to document that allow citizens to travel in and out of countries with ease. Adults as well as minors need to have their own passport. Minors below the age of sixteen and those of ages sixteen and seventeen have their own special requirements for the application process.

Requirements

The following must apply for this document. One who is getting it for the first time. One who has one that was issued when they were under the age of sixteen. One whose passport has been stolen, is lost or has been damaged. One who has had a it for more than fifteen years, it is only valid for fifteen years. And finally one who has had a name change and they need to get all names in all documentations synchronized.

Citizenship

When making this application one has to show proof of citizenship first. They will need their birth certificate, a previously issued passport which must be undamaged, a naturalization certificate, a report of birth abroad by the responsible consular and a certificate of citizenship. In some cases one may lack all of the above or have unsatisfactory information. Due to that they will have to submit any secondary evidence that proves they are a US citizen.

Proper Information

The forms for the application process have to be filled out with all the correct information. One must sign it in the presence of an agent to verify they wrote the information. This proves that the applicant is who they say they are and are not attempting to falsify documents

Photos

Two photographs have to be submitted for the application. They must be identical two by two inch full color photos. They have to be taken while in casual wear within the last six months. The face must be in full view and the distance between the top of the head and the bottom of the chin must measure not less than an inch and not more than an inch and three eighths. The background can only be either white or off white. No head gear is allowed in this photo. Medically prescribed items such as glasses and hearing devices have to be worn when taking the picture.

Passport Agency

It’s much better to file for an application in person, there are other options though. A certain amount of money has to be paid as fees for the process. If one needs the process to be faster there is an extra fee for that. One can keep checking the status of the application online.

The US passport application process is not as tedious as it once was. Through technology and betters services obtaining a passport is easier than it ever was. There are many services offered now including passport expedition, passport renewal services, name changes, and others that can all be filed online.

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Never Wait Last Minute To Fill Out Your Passport Application

Monday, November 7th, 2011

It could be ideal for each member of a family to get passports before leaving for the airport for your vacation abroad. Whether or not the member of the family is renewing a passport, fixing data for it, or obtaining a passport for the first time, the U.S. passport application is found on the internet and won’t be extremely hard to finish. Anyone may either fill out From DS-11 or Form DS-82, based on his or her situation.

Since these are documents for traveling internationally, the federal government places mandatory rules for getting a US passport. Though Form DS-11 is usually completed digitally, a person will certainly still need to make an in-person appearance at a designated government facility. All of the extra forms need to be brought to the office for verification.

Standard Facilities

Any Passport Acceptance Center can be a federal government run facility, sponsored by the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Passport Services and Customer Service. This can be still rather vague, because most people do not know government offices, but places such as post offices and libraries tend to fit under this office. On the internet, individuals can discover their nearest Passport Acceptance Facility.

Online Agencies

Certain Passport Agencies can be found online, however with these businesses, individuals must make appointments. Those who find themselves in a rush to get their passport due to a departure from the country in the near future should consider a passport expediting service. Within certain situations, these types of services could issue an individual a passport on the day that the individual requested it.

Additional Paperwork Needed

In addition to the application, a person should bring additional documentation towards the facility of his or her choosing. The purpose the extra documents serve is always to act as proof of an individual’s citizenship and proof of an individual’s identity. An individual will likely require a recent photograph and a copy of the recent photograph.

Proof Of Citizenship

The most common proof of U.S. citizenship that people use is their birth certificate, though there are still other forms that individuals may use. With regard to identification, a valid driver’s license is the most popular form, though again, there are other forms that will also be accepted. There are lots of stipulations for the pictures that ought to be presented, therefore it would be wise to go online to understand these.

The Different Application Forms

Form DS-11 differs from Form DS-82 for the reason that a person completing Form DS-11 will need to appear at one of the governmental facilities and the individual completing Form DS-82 will be renewing his or her passport via the mail. Each of these are passport application forms. Each form will ask essential factors, such as name and social security.

Traveling Abroad

Passports are necessary for traveling abroad, but all individuals should request for a United States passport as it is a form of identification that is accepted by many institutions. Those who feel they could not be traveling abroad in the near future could possibly get thrown a curveball and may find themselves purchasing an international plane ticket. These are reasons why it would be good to fill out a US passport application form now, for the sake of just in case.

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Acquiring The US Passport Application Forms

Monday, October 24th, 2011

When the time for a person to obtain a passport arrives, the person should not worry as completing all the necessary tasks will not take an extraordinarily long period of time. The person who’ll only be traveling in The United States should consider acquiring a passport card only, because it is less expensive compared to booklet. Those traveling on plane or anywhere apart from North America need to purchase a passport booklet before doing that. Either way, the individual will need to complete a USA passport application.

Useful Tips

Individuals need a passport booklet for all international travel, while a passport card can only be used for those planning to travel strictly within The United States. The card will not be accepted for those traveling by air to these places, though. The card will look similar to a driver’s license, while the book is like a small pamphlet with a blue cover, unless an individual is a diplomat or a citizen-employee of the United States who happens to be working abroad.

The U.S. passport application process will not be a difficult procedure. A lot of people will need to print out Form DS-11 or fill it out digitally. After performing this task, an individual filling out this form should make an appearance in a government facility that can complete the applying process.

Passport Processing

Typically, nearby post offices have the ability to perform the passport processing. The only method an individual may know for sure, though, is to go online and check. Once online too, an individual will be able to electronically fill out the proper form. The person has the option to print out the right form and complete it using a pen.

With Form DS-11, an individual will need to provide evidence of U.S. citizenship, an original copy of primary identification, a copy of that primary identification, two copies of one photograph, and the financial means to pay for the fees. A number of stipulations which are required for each of these, so it would be wise for individuals to check online to see what these stipulations are.

Appearance Required?

Those individuals who are filling out Form DS-82 do not have to make an appearance in a government-mandated facility. Only certain individual will meet the criteria for being allowed to mail information to renew their U.S. passport. The most recent passport of these individuals will be undamaged and capable of being sent with the application, issued when an individual was over the age of sixteen, issued within the past fifteen years, and issued with the individual’s current name.

Neither DS form is difficult to fill out, but they will take a decent amount of time, so put on a some tea or coffee, get a pen, and find a comfortable seat. The forms will ask questions about age and birthday as well as minor family history. Those filling out Form DS-11 should not sign the form until they are standing in front of the agent who will process the order.

Other than fees, an individual really has no reason not to have a passport. It is a form of identification accepted in many locations where a form of identification is needed. In addition, since the passport application process is not that difficult, there really is no excuse not to go through it. You’ll have your US passport in no time.

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Obtaining A United States Passport

Tuesday, April 26th, 2011

If you have dreams about taking that dream vacation abroad, one of your first steps should be to get a passport. Need to know how to get a  US passport quick for that dream vacation? With some preparation and a little effort, the process should not be too frustrating or complicated.

Passport Applications

You can get a passport application at a post office or you may download one from the U.S. State Department online website when renewing your US passport online. You should follow the directions exactly and completely fill out the form. The correct form is a DS-11. You will need to have this in your possession when you apply for the passport.

Proving Citizenship

Next, you will need documents that prove your United States citizenship. You are required to obtain a certified official birth certificate from the city, county or state of your birth. This should not be a copy. The certified certificate of birth remains the most accepted proof of U.S. citizenship.

Birth Certificate

If you do not have or cannot obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate, it makes it more difficult to apply for a passport. You can obtain a letter of no record from the state you were born in. This is an official document stating that there is no birth certificate on file for you. You could also try to obtain a hospital birth certificate, baptismal record, census records, early school record and any record of early doctor care. Another way is to get an affidavit of birth form from an older blood relative who has personal knowledge of your birth. This should be signed and notarized.

Born Abroad

If you were born in a foreign nation to one or two United States parents, you need to get a foreign certificate of birth. It would help to also get proof of U.S. Citizenship for your parents. Your parents can also sign an affidavit which lists the places they have resided for different time periods prior to and after your birth. The next step to take in the getting your first time passport is to prove your identity. This can be proven by bringing with you an old passport, a valid state drivers license, a government ID card, or a military ID card.

Passport Photos

You are almost there, but there are a a few more steps. Next, you need to have two photographs taken. These passport photos should be taken in regular everyday clothing. You should not wear a cap or anything covering your head. You should not wear uniforms or anything that is not normal everyday clothing. You can locate merchants that take passport photos on the Internet or in the phone book. The photos should be of your full face, two by two size and absolutely identical. Merchants who take passport photos are usually aware of the proper requirements, but familiarize yourself with these requirements as well so there are no mistakes. Incorrectly snapped photos will slow down the entire application process.

Application Fees

Before you go to apply for your passport, write down your social security number. It is a requirement to know it when you apply. Next, the government wants your money! Do a search online prior to your visit to the passport acceptance facility and know what fees you will be required to pay.

Acceptance Facilities

There are approximately 7000 passport acceptance facilities across the nation. They include county and municipal offices, county courts, post offices, and some public libraries. Make sure all your paperwork is in order before you go as this will help things move along smoothly. Your new United States passport should arrive at your home sometime in two months or less after you have completed the passsport renewal process. If you are in a rush, and want to know how to get a rush passport, here’s a secret: money! You can shell out $60 or more and the government will send it out as a rush. With your new passport in hand, you will be ready to set sail, or take a plane to new and exciting foreign lands!

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U S Passport Application Approval

Monday, April 25th, 2011

If you want to travel overseas, then you need to have a valid US passport to do it. In order to get a US passport, you need to complete a passport replacement application correctly and submit it to the passport issuing authority. The process may seem intimidating, but if done accurately, there is rarely a problem with receiving your passport.

Obtaining An Application

The first step towards getting your US passport is to visit a US post office or download the passport application online and print it out. If you are printing the application from your computer, then you need to print it in black ink on white paper as no other version will be accepted. Paper that you print the application form on must be 8 1/2 X 11 inches on a matte finish.

Identification And Citizenship

In order to have your USA passport application approved, you will need to be able to provide proof of US citizenship. Documents that are approved for this purpose are a certified US birth certificate (not a copy), a US citizenship certificate or a naturalization certificate. Other forms of ID may also be requested such as an old US passport, driver’s license or other forms of state or federal ID.

Passport Photos

An important part of the application are the passport photos. These are one of the main reasons that passport applications are rejected, so be sure to have yours done correctly. The regulations regarding passport photos state that no headgear or eye-wear can be worn in the photo, civilian clothes must be worn (no uniforms), you must be looking straight at the camera and there are specifications about the lighting and sizing of the photos. It is best to have the photos done at a store that specializes in this sort of thing.

Timely Process

Since the passport office receives such a heavy workload all throughout the year, it is recommended that applicants send in their forms around 12 weeks before they plan to travel. In most cases passports will be issued within two weeks, however this is not guaranteed as sometimes there are errors that need to be rectified. For an additional fee you can apply for a rush passport that will be issued faster than normal.

Track Progress

Once you have presented your standard passport application or US passport renewal expedited application, you are able to track its progress online through the state department’s website. However, before handing in your application ensure that all facts, details, payments and photos are exactly right. If there are errors on the forms, then the application will be rejected. Once you have your passport, it is valid for ten years.

Passport Fees

Costs involved in getting your passport are as follows: adults $100, children $85 and the fee for an expedited passport is an extra $60. If you are applying for your first US passport, then you cannot mail the forms but need to present them in person as well as filling out form DS-11.

Accurate Information

When filling in an US passport expedite form, be sure to include all the required information, adequate photos and the right fee. If you do this, then you will not have a problem in having your application approved for a fast passport renewal. Around 10 per cent of applicants experience problems because they have not included all the right details.

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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.

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Applying For A Passport? Read These Tips

Saturday, March 12th, 2011

Walt Disney's Passport Application

If you really want to know the secret about applying for a passport easily, then you can actually sum it up in one simple rule. And this rule is all about knowing what to do even before you take the first step to applying for a passport. The reason for this is that when you know exactly what to do, you don’t waste your time taking false steps and starting all over again. Aside from just helping you save time, this rule also keeps you from getting frustrated about applying for a US passport.

So to make sure you get things right even at the beginning, we recommend you read this article in full. That’s because we’ll show you here what you exactly need to do to get a US passport. And we’re not just talking about simply getting it, but getting it easily.

Because applying for a passport begins with filling up a form, it’s appropriate we begin our discussion with forms used in passport applications. You must realize there are different forms used for different types of passport-related applications. Let’s first talk about the most basic form, the DS-11.

Let’s begin with the DS-11. This is probably the most basic passport application form. This is the form that’s filled in by anyone who’s applying for a passport for the first time. Because of that, practically every passport holder is familiar with this form. Also, this form is the one filled in by anyone who needs to make a personal appearance when applying for a passport.

What if you’re not required to appear in person for your passport application? Then you have the option of sending your application by mail. To do this, you’ll fill in a different form, Form DS-82. This is the form that you’ll need if you want a convenient way of sending your passport application to the passport office.

Meanwhile, should you lose your Passport Application, or if ever it’s stolen from you, you need to report it to the passport authorities first. And you’ll do this by sending them the Form DS-64. This form is otherwise known as the Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport.

Alternatively, you can apply for a replacement while reporting the loss of your passport. To do this, you will need to appear in person at the acceptance facility or passport agency and submit your Form DS-64 along with your DS-11. The DS-11 will serve as your application for a new passport.

Now that you’re familiar with some of the most basic forms used in Applying For A U.S. Passport, you’ll see that the process isn’t that complicated after all. All you need is the right knowledge to get you started. Because with this knowledge, you’ll no longer end up confused or clueless the next time you apply for a US passport. Best of all, you can download and fill in any of these forms online for an even more hassle-free Pass Port application. USA passport cards also need an application.

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Passport Required When Traveling to Mexico

Saturday, February 26th, 2011

Mexico is among the top tourist destinations among Americans. This is largely due to the United States’ proximity to Mexico, but of course it goes deeper than that. Mexico offers Americans the experience of the former’s rich culture, great food, and fine beaches. So if you’re a fan of the Maya civilization, Mexican food, or Acapulco, then chances are you want to travel there soon. Read this article, and we’ll show you how to  apply for an American passport when traveling to Mexico.

Because Mexico is a part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), you can travel to this destination by presenting US documents that are accepted for your visit. Some of the documents you may use include your passport book and passport card. These documents help establish proof of your identity and citizenship.

But what’s the difference between the two types of US passport applications? You are probably familiar now with the passport book. It’s the conventional booklet that is used to travel to the foreign destinations that need one. One benefit of a passport book is that you’ll have greater flexibility when traveling because you can travel anywhere with your passport. Use of this document is mandatory for all international air travel, even to WHTI destinations.

But there are several advantages when using a passport card. First, of course, is the size. Compared to the passport book, the card is smaller which makes it easy for you to keep. Applying for a passport card is also cheap, which is another point for cards over passport books. However, you can only use the passport card if you’re traveling by land or sea to WHTI territories.

Don’t worry if you’re undecided on which of the two options suits you. You can always combine their benefits by applying for both types of passports. For general foreign travel, you can count on your passport book to be accepted. However, if you’re traveling to WHTI territories by land or sea, you’ll need the passport card. Another plus for applying for both is that you can also get a huge discount when you do.

Although Mexico is part of the WHTI, you need to check if you can use other types of documents that prove your identity and citizenship. Such documents include your birth certificate and your State-issued enhanced driver’s license. Make sure you ask the Mexican Embassy about this before you travel to keep you free from hassle and delays on your way there.

There are also special passport requirements for traveling minors or business people. In the case of business people, they are required to sign Form FM-N, which authorizes them to conduct business in Mexico. As for minors, they will be required to present a notarized parental consent, which contains all their travel details. As with the tip on the previous paragraph, visit the Mexican Embassy first or give them a call to inquire regarding the specific requirements for minors and businesspeople.

So if you’re still wondering what are the U.S. passport application requirements for traveling to Mexico, here’s a recap. If traveling by land or sea, you can use your passport card. But if you are traveling by air, the use of your U S passport application book is recommended. Also, don’t forget other possible travel requirements before you leave for Mexico.

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US Passport Needed To Travel To Cancun, Mexico

Sunday, February 20th, 2011

Cancun is a popular tourist destination because of its strategic location, as well as its beaches and hotels. Found in the southeastern portion of Mexico, it’s close to several southern US states, making it easily accessible to American tourists looking for great beaches in Central America. In case you’re planning to travel to Cancun, we recommend you read this article first. We’ll answer your travel-related questions here, and find out if you need to apply for an American passport to visit Cancun, Mexico.

In general, you can use any of the following travel documents when traveling to Mexico if you’re from the United States: your State-issued enhanced driver’s license, your passport card, or your US passport. Any of these documents will allow you to freely travel to and from either country. Just present them at the airport’s boarding gate, or anywhere it is required, depending on whether you’re traveling by air, sea, or land.

If you’re traveling to Cancun by sea or by land, having a US passport card would suffice to enable you to visit the city. The good thing too is that passport cards are cheaper to obtain than regular passport books. So if you want to save on your trip to Cancun, then you can have significant savings by applying for a passport card.

However, if you’re traveling to destinations outside the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), then you will need the regular US passport application book. Countries and areas that are covered by the WHTI are Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. So if you’re traveling outside of these four areas, then you will need to have a passport book.

Just to be safe, you should apply for a regular passport book. This provides you with the ultimate flexibility in travel, as well as for instances where a regular passport book may be required. It is more expensive than a passport card, but if you are the type who regularly travels to international destinations, then the passport book will be of more use to you.

There are other travel requirements that you should be aware of when traveling to Cancun, Mexico. For one, you should register with the US Embassy or consulate as soon as you arrive in Mexico. It allows for a quicker response to you in times of emergency, and they will provide you with travel information and security during your stay there.

Another thing is that minors traveling to Mexico are required to have a notarized copy of a written parental consent. It is advised that the document contain the itinerary of the minor, plus other travel details such as the airlines, and travel dates. Also, the letter should be supplied with the corresponding proof of relationship between the child and the parent.

When a passport is needed as part of your visit to Cancun, Mexico, all you need to do is U.S. passport application card or passport book at your nearest passport office. In there, you must fulfill all the necessary requirements to get a passport including the forms you must fill in. Once you receive your U S passport application, you’ll be ready to hit the beaches of Cancun!

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