How To Apply For New Passports For International Travel
International travel can be an incredible experience, but in order for it to be successful a considerable amount of planning must be done in advance. Applying for your first time US passport or replacing an expired one is absolutely essential just to get off the ground. Today, it is not possible to travel outside of the United States, even to Canada or Mexico, without a passport so everyone should have one on hand. The process is not difficult, but it has to be completed correctly or else the application will not be accepted.
In the event that someone is applying for their first passport, they must apply in person. To do this, visit one of the various application facilities across the country. There are numerous pieces of paperwork and ID that must be presented to complete the process so it is best to be prepared when going to the passport office.
The three most important things to have when applying for a passport are the required forms, a form of primary identification and primary evidence of US citizenship. For proof of citizenship, it is acceptable to present an expired passport or birth certificate, among other things. Primary identification could include a valid drivers license or current military ID. Applicants should also come prepared with a photocopy of their primary identification.
There are also a few forms that must be filled out in order to apply for a new passport. These forms can be printed offline and completed prior to visiting the application facility. However, it is very important to remember not to sign the forms until asked to do so by the acceptance agent or else they will not be valid.
If a passport is expired and needs to be renewed, that might be able to be done by mail. With the application, it is necessary to submit the expired passport, which must be undamaged. Also, in order to renew via mail, the previous passport must have been issued in the last fifteen years and when the holder was at least sixteen years old. It also must have the holders current name and, if it does not, the application must include proof of name change.
The processing time for a passport is typically four to six weeks. It is possible to receive it in two to three weeks with expedited service for an additional charge. Those who are traveling within fourteen days should make an appointment at a passport agency. If someone has already applied for their passport application forms, they should contact a National Passport Information Center representative seven days before their travel date.
Of course, there is a fee to apply for a passport. An adult passport costs seventy-five dollars in addition to a twenty-five dollar execution fee. A passport for a child costs sixty dollars as well as the execution fee. If a passport needs to be ordered with expedited processing, it will incur another sixty dollar fee.
The process of applying for a a new US passport can be tiresome, but following it step by step is the only way to ensure successful travel. One mistake could cause the application to be rejected and then it may not be possible to leave the country on the date planned. Take the time to complete the process correctly and it will be no time at all before you can become an international globe trotter.
