One of the most important questions to consider when applying for
a passport is how long it takes to get one. It is not uncommon for an
applicant to submit an application for a passport only to discover later
that it will take much longer than anticipated to process the request.
This can cause a lot of stress and, possibly, lead to the need to
reschedule or, even, cancel a flight. This brief article will explain
how long it takes to get a passport in different situations so that you
can choose the one that is best for you.
Routine processing of passport applications for American citizens is estimated to take between 4 and 6 weeks. The reason that processing times are estimated is because there are factors beyond the control of the processing centers that can affect the time it takes to complete the process. Also, applicants who commit errors on their applications or who submit unacceptable photos and documents can be subject to long delays. If the volume of applications submitted is low and the form and documents you send are correct, the process might actually be completed in less than 4 weeks.
However,
Applicants who need to obtain a passport in less than 4 weeks can request expedited service. Expediting a passport directly can get the application form processed in 2 to 3 weeks. Again, the same factors cited above can affect how long it takes to get a passport expedited.
Is there anything that can be done if you need a passport faster? Yes, there is. It is possible to get a United States passport in less than two weeks and, even, as fast as the same day. There are two different ways that this can be accomplished.
One way is to take the application and other required documents to a regional passport center. There are currently 24 agencies located in the United States. There are 3 in California and 3 in Texas. Agencies can also be found in New York City, Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis, Miami, Atlanta, Tucson and other major cities. Appointments are required and applicants must present evidence of emergency travel needs.
Another way to get a passport in two weeks or less is to use the services of a registered expediter. Applicants who need passports fast but are unable to personally visit a regional agency can still obtain their travel documents quickly with the help of a professional expediting service. Due to the nature of the situation, it is important to choose a well-established expediting company with good ratings.
American citizens who are traveling abroad or who reside outside the United States can expect to get a passport in 2 to 4 weeks when applying at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Emergency passports with limited validity can be issued in one day for those with urgent travel requirements.
As you can see, the time it takes to get a passport varies from a few hours to several weeks or, even, months. It is important that you be aware how long it might take for you to get a passport based on the method you choose to apply so that you will not have any surprises.
Routine processing of passport applications for American citizens is estimated to take between 4 and 6 weeks. The reason that processing times are estimated is because there are factors beyond the control of the processing centers that can affect the time it takes to complete the process. Also, applicants who commit errors on their applications or who submit unacceptable photos and documents can be subject to long delays. If the volume of applications submitted is low and the form and documents you send are correct, the process might actually be completed in less than 4 weeks.
However,
Applicants who need to obtain a passport in less than 4 weeks can request expedited service. Expediting a passport directly can get the application form processed in 2 to 3 weeks. Again, the same factors cited above can affect how long it takes to get a passport expedited.
Is there anything that can be done if you need a passport faster? Yes, there is. It is possible to get a United States passport in less than two weeks and, even, as fast as the same day. There are two different ways that this can be accomplished.
One way is to take the application and other required documents to a regional passport center. There are currently 24 agencies located in the United States. There are 3 in California and 3 in Texas. Agencies can also be found in New York City, Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis, Miami, Atlanta, Tucson and other major cities. Appointments are required and applicants must present evidence of emergency travel needs.
Another way to get a passport in two weeks or less is to use the services of a registered expediter. Applicants who need passports fast but are unable to personally visit a regional agency can still obtain their travel documents quickly with the help of a professional expediting service. Due to the nature of the situation, it is important to choose a well-established expediting company with good ratings.
American citizens who are traveling abroad or who reside outside the United States can expect to get a passport in 2 to 4 weeks when applying at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Emergency passports with limited validity can be issued in one day for those with urgent travel requirements.
As you can see, the time it takes to get a passport varies from a few hours to several weeks or, even, months. It is important that you be aware how long it might take for you to get a passport based on the method you choose to apply so that you will not have any surprises.
Visit U.S. Passport Service Guide to access passport requirements, application forms, fee schedule, visa information and a directory of registered passport expediting services.
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Manor
