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U.S. Passport Application and Renewal Information
 

Fast Fact:
Over 7 Million U.S. passports were issued in 2002, compared to just over 2 Million in 1974.

Whether you are a first time passport applicant or needing to renew an expired passport, the procedures are simple. While there are companies that will assist you (for a fee) in the securing passports, visas and other documentation. The U.S. State Department website posts warnings with regards to non-government passport services. Be sure to checkout the State Department website for the latest information on passport applications.

Start your application or renewal early - average time for processing is 6 weeks. Expediting services are available, however there is an additional fee of $60 per application. You can apply at  over 5,000 government offices in person for your passports - find a location nearest you.

U.S. and Canadian passports are highly prized. It can't be stressed enough how important it is to keep your passport safe and with you at all times when traveling.  Make copies of the identification pages and current country visas. Use these copies for hotel check-ins and exchanging money. Do not leave your passport or copies in your hotel room unless secured in a safe. Keep a copy of your passport at home for access by a friend or relative to facilitate replacement. Do not surrender your passport to anyone other then a government official. Be sure to fill out (in pencil) and keep current the emergency notification passport page. The use of a passport cover will help conceal it and keep it tatter-free.

By January 1, 2008 U.S. Citizens traveling to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada must have a valid passport or other secure accepted documentation of citizenship , for current requirements see the State Department New Requirements website for further details.

Applying for U.S. Passport
Things you'll need:

  • Proof of U.S. citizenship (any one of the following):
    Previous U.S. Passport
    Certified birth certificate issued by the city, county or state
    Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
    Naturalization Certificate
    Certificate of Citizenship
  • Completed DS-11 Application
  • Two identical 2"x2" passport photographs
    Passport photos services available at most copy/printing facilities.
  • Application Fees
     For ages 16 and older $75.00
    For children under 16 $60.00
    Expediting service - additional $25.00 for each application.
  • Social Security Number.
    $500 penalty may be accessed by the IRS for failure to provide proof of S.S. number.
For further information on new passport applications contact the state department website.

Renewing a U.S. Passport
Marking time in decades - every 10 years you need to renew U.S. passports. You may apply for renewal by mail if your present passport was issued within the past 15 years and you were over 16 when it was issued.  Your expired passport will be returned canceled with the issuance of the new one.  

Things you'll need:

  • Your undamaged, unaltered expired passport
  • Still have the same name on passport
    (or have legal documentation to name change.)
  • Completed DS-82 Application
  • Two identical 2"x2" passport photographs
    Passport photos services available at most copy/printing facilities.
  • Application Renewal Fee $75.00

Having a passport is the most important proof of identity and citizenship that you'll ever own, with it comes great privilege and responsibility. Even if you haven't any immediate plans to travel aboard I encourage you to obtain your passport. There is such a profound sense of pride in holding your own passport, it is truly the first step to the gateway to the world!

Sign up on our E-mail list list to be notified of other new travel tips. Meanwhile, I hope you'll share your travel tales, experiences, likes and dislikes with us at: travel stories and travel tips.

Please let me know how I can assist you with your travel needs.

Cheers,

Annette
President & Co-founder



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