When visiting a foreign country, USA passports are required for
American citizens. At that time, it is stamped with a date that records
how long you may visit. You must carry it to prove your identity
whenever requested by the country's authorities. It must also be shown
when returning home.
Where Are You Going?
This
requirement is most noted with Canada where, for a number of years, all
that was required was a driver's license or birth certificate for
identification. Due to the many terrorist acts throughout the world,
this has changed and a passport card or regular passport is required
when entering and leaving that country.
Fees
When
obtaining a passport for the first time, it must take place in front of
an authorized agent. These agents are found at designated locations such
as the post office, government offices and other places.
Minors under
16 years of age, minors aged 16 & 17 and diplomats, no-fee passports
and applications from outside the U. S. have special passport
requirements. There are two ways the document is issued. These include
standard processing, which requires 4 to 6 weeks, and expedited which
takes 2 to 3 weeks. Expedited requires an extra $60 fee.
First Time Passports
If
applying for a passport for the first time, there is an application
form available online or in the agent's office which must be filled out.
This application can only be signed when it is presented with the other
required papers. At the same time, evidence of citizenship, a Social
Security card and another piece of identification must be presented. A
passport photo is also required and can sometimes be obtained at the
authorized application's location.
Evidence Of Citizenship
The
required evidence of U. S. Citizenship can be a certified birth
certificate (US or birth abroad), a previously issued undamaged
passport, naturalization or citizenship certificate. There are special
requirements if applying from outside the country. If you already have a
passport that is expiring, there are other procedures possible.
Passport Renewal
For
people who already have a passport, it is possible to renew by mail.
Your current passport, undamaged which was issued at age 16 or older and
within the past 15 years, must be surrendered together with an
application form and supporting documents. It should be noted that if
you are in arrears on child support payments, a passport will not be
issued.
Lost Or Stolen Passports
When people visit
abroad, sometimes this very important document is stolen or lost. If
this happens to you, the first step is to go to the nearest U. S.
Consulate or embassy to obtain a limited validity paper to use until a
regular one can be obtained. There are special procedures required and
it can take weeks to obtain a standard issue to return to this country.
Keeping USA passports
in a safe and secure place cannot be overemphasized. It is one of the
most precious possessions you can have as it allows you to travel freely
all over the world. It verifies that you are a citizen of this country,
free to come and go as you please. It is the key to excitement and
adventure that can be enjoyed at any time. Make sure you know if you
need a passport or a passport card.
