You probably already know that Americans need a passport to
travel outside the United States--to enter and leave foreign countries.
Did you know that starting Jan. 23, 2007, Americans also need a
passport for air travel enter or reenter the United States as
recommended by the 911 Commission. These include our neighbors to the
north and south, Canada and Mexico. Also a passport is needed for
Central and South American countries as well as Caribbean countries
including Bermuda.
A passport is a legal document issued by the United States State Department that allows you to enter and leave countries outside the United States. It is issued only to US citizens or nationals. In order to apply for a passport for the first time, you must first locate a facility where this can be accomplished. Starting with your local post office, you will discover over 8000 locations where you may obtain a passport. Next you will want to have a portrait-type picture taken of yourself in color (that means a close-up!) which is often done in the same place where you will apply for your passport but can be obtained elsewhere. Take two copies of the picture with you when you fill out your application for a passport.
If you are applying for the first time for a passport, it must be done in person. You will need to fill out an application and provide proof of identity which typically means you will take your birth certificate with you. If you do not have your birth certificate, you may request a copy from the county and state of your birth by a paying a small fee. Or you may fill out a birth affidavit in lieu of a birth certificate. Currently the fee that must accompany your passport application is $97, not refundable. Expedited service for having your application processed within three days will require an additional fee.
You will also be required to give all demographic information that is current as well as your social security number which will be checked for validity. Before signing the application, you will need to take an oath that you are a United States citizen or non-citizen national. The oath will be administered by personnel in the facility where you are making your application. Existing passports may be renewed by mail if you meet certain conditions.
On or about January 1, 2008, everyone who is traveling by land or sea may be required to present a valid passport when traveling to those countries mentioned above, where previously a passport may not have been needed. So as you are making your travel plans and booking your travel online, ask yourself "Do I need a passport for my travel destinations?" If the answer is "yes," get busy and apply for your passport now!
A passport is a legal document issued by the United States State Department that allows you to enter and leave countries outside the United States. It is issued only to US citizens or nationals. In order to apply for a passport for the first time, you must first locate a facility where this can be accomplished. Starting with your local post office, you will discover over 8000 locations where you may obtain a passport. Next you will want to have a portrait-type picture taken of yourself in color (that means a close-up!) which is often done in the same place where you will apply for your passport but can be obtained elsewhere. Take two copies of the picture with you when you fill out your application for a passport.
If you are applying for the first time for a passport, it must be done in person. You will need to fill out an application and provide proof of identity which typically means you will take your birth certificate with you. If you do not have your birth certificate, you may request a copy from the county and state of your birth by a paying a small fee. Or you may fill out a birth affidavit in lieu of a birth certificate. Currently the fee that must accompany your passport application is $97, not refundable. Expedited service for having your application processed within three days will require an additional fee.
You will also be required to give all demographic information that is current as well as your social security number which will be checked for validity. Before signing the application, you will need to take an oath that you are a United States citizen or non-citizen national. The oath will be administered by personnel in the facility where you are making your application. Existing passports may be renewed by mail if you meet certain conditions.
On or about January 1, 2008, everyone who is traveling by land or sea may be required to present a valid passport when traveling to those countries mentioned above, where previously a passport may not have been needed. So as you are making your travel plans and booking your travel online, ask yourself "Do I need a passport for my travel destinations?" If the answer is "yes," get busy and apply for your passport now!
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