Passport expediting is the means by American citizens get their
travel document much quicker than the normal processing time. The need
to expedite the process usually arises unexpectedly. Due to the
abruptness of the situation, there are generally a lot of questions that
come up. The answer to some of the most frequently asked questions
regarding passport expediting are provided below.
How can I expedite a passport?
There
are three ways to expedite a passport. You can go through the exact
procedure required for routine service except that you would write the
word "expedite" on the outside of the envelope and include payment for
this service. Another way to expedite a passport is to apply in person
at a regional agency. Finally, the application process can be
accelerated if you employ the services of a qualified passport
expediting service.
How long does it take to get a passport expedited?
The
time it takes to complete the process depends on the method used.
Remember, routine service can take up to six weeks. Following the first
method given above will get your passport delivered in two or three
weeks. The remaining two methods are capable of getting the application
processed the same day it is submitted. However, applicants need to
factor in other variables such as how long it takes them to travel to
the agency or express mail delivery time if applying through an
expediter.
What is the cost for passport expediting?
The
fee that is paid to the Department of State for expedited service is
$60. Professional expediting companies charged fees based on how quickly
you need the application processed. The prices ranges from $65 to as
much as $299 for the fastest service. Remember, there are other costs to
consider if you apply yourself such as transportation, parking, food
and other related expenses. Of course, your time is worth something,
too.
Can I requested expedited service if I already sent the application?
This
is a common question usually made by those who submitted applications
without verifying processing times. When they discover that it can take
up to six weeks to get a passport, they get nervous and want to find out
how to get the document faster. Applicants cannot request expedited
service once the request has been sent for routine processing. In this
case, the applicant should wait until one week prior to the departure
date. If the passport has not arrived, the applicant should call and
make an appointment at the nearest regional agency. Unfortunately,
professional expediters can no intercede in such situations.
Passports
are required of all U.S. citizens who plan to exit and/or return to the
United States. They are even required for travel to Mexico, Bermuda,
Canada and the Caribbean region. Expired passports are not acceptable.
It is important to make sure you have your travel document and that it
is not expired or damaged. If you need to get one or renew or replace
one, apply as early as possible. If you need to get a one quickly, you
now know how to expedite a passport and the costs involved.
Visit U.S. Passport Service Guide, the experts in expedited passport and access our listing and reviews of professional passport expediting services.
