Making a mistake when completing your passport application can
lead to long delays, which can be frustrating if you need your passport
in a rush. Here are the five most common errors that are made on
passport applications, so take extra care with these to ensure that you
don't have to wait longer to receive your new or renewed passport.
1. Signing the Application Form at the Wrong Time
Depending
on the type of passport you want to apply for, you will have to sign
the application form differently. With the DS-11 form, which is used for
a new passport, you are required to sign the form in front of an agent.
Whereas with the DS-82 form, which is used for a passport renewal, you
should sign the form at the same time that you print it out. Do this
wrong or don't sign the application at all and you will face unnecessary
holdups.
2. Inadequate Proof of Citizenship
Providing
proof of citizenship is an important part of any passport application
process, and unfortunately one that many people get wrong. You are
required to submit a genuine birth certificate in order to receive your
passport. An official birth certificate will usually have a raised or
color seal on it from the issuing authority. A photocopy is not good
enough: it has to be the actual copy.
If you were born in Texas or
California you will need to submit a long-form birth certificate
instead, so make sure that you submit the correct information. You will
always get your birth certificate returned, so you don't have to worry
about losing it.
3. Incorrect Check
It is amazing how
many applications are delayed because the applicant failed to fill out
the check properly. When you fill out your check for the passport fee,
make sure that it is signed in the correct place, and that it is for the
right amount. This is a really easy way to prevent delays when applying
for your passport.
4. Failure to Check Everything Carefully
With
something as important as your passport application, make sure that all
the details are accurate before sending it in. It is easy to do and a
few minutes of checking can save you so much time, which is important if
you need your passport in a hurry.
5. Invalid Photographs
Make
sure that your photo is admissible before you send in your application.
Don't just send in any photo-make sure that it fits the requirements.
There are a number of regulations that you must comply with, including
the size, how recently it was taken, and many others. Check the full details on passport photographs on our site to avoid sending in the wrong type of photo.
Don't Suffer Delays- Make sure you check all of these details
before sending in your passport application and you can help to save
yourself from frustrating and costly delays. Of course, if you'd like to
send it to a passport expeditor like us, we can help step you through the process step-by-step.
