Benefits of having a Polish (EU) passport

Since Poland's accession to the European Union in 2004, there has been an increase of interest among people of Polish descent in obtaining a Polish passport. Polish citizenship makes it possible for them to reside, study, own property and gain employment in the European Union countries. 

As a Polish citizen, you can live and work in any of the EU countries and enjoy free public health care and education. You can also gain access to preferential investment loans, employment schemes and you don't have to stand in the "Others" queue at airports!

Confirmation of Polish citizenship can be daunting, as those who have tried doing it by themselves will tell you! While the general rule is that if you have Polish ancestors then you are already a citizen of Poland, there are any number of reasons why your citizenship may have lapsed. This is why the Polish government requires you to confirm your citizenship before you can apply for your Polish passport. 

Do you think that confirming your Polish citizenship is simply a matter of getting in touch with the Polish government? Think again! Confirmation of Polish citizenship can be challenging, frustrating and time consuming.

Confirmation of citizenship is an administrative and not a legal process so don't get sucked in by lawyers who will charge you an arm and a leg for the simplest of tasks.

The key to success is to check whether you are eligible in the first place, gather relevant documentation and submit it in the right way, to the right department in Poland. It requires your commitment and full cooperation but if you leave it to the experts, the journey, whilst long and at times frustrating, will lead to a successful conclusion.

How do you tell whether you are eligible?

Unfortunately, the answer to the question above isn't simple. The Polish citizenship legislation, whilst very liberal and generous, is also quite complex. This is why establishing eligibility is essential at the very beginning of the process so that your application doesn't end in refusal, frustration and loss of time and money. 

Some of the factors that the Polish government takes into consideration include the ancestors' year of birth, nationality of the second parent/grandparent, foreign military service, acquisition of foreign citizenship, conscription age of the father/grandfather of the applicant, holding of public office but most of all, available documentation proving all of the above. In some cases, because of the Polish legislation, siblings from the same parents may or not be eligible, depending on their gender and year of birth.

The onus is on the applicant to provide sufficient evidence and proof of citizenship and, as a general rule, the more documents issued by the Polish government are submitted, the better your chances. Other documents, such as International Identity Cards, Refuge Cards, Red Cross documentation and archival documents from Australia can also be accepted. 

The fundamental part of the process is to gather information and all available documents, and check whether you are actually eligible. Some families may be reluctant to explore their past, as many of them are victims of trauma so it is important to treat their stories and lives with respects. Often, we can provide you with tips on how to approach them in a sensitive way, as your ancestors will often hold the key to your EU passport, that is documentation as well as information on their past. 

Obtaining a Polish passport is a 2 step process:

1. Confirmation of Polish Citizenship

File containing your family's documents proving your ancestry needs to be put together. Everything has to be prepared in the Polish language, then submitted for assessment by the authorities in Poland. Most applications are processed within 12 months from the day of lodgment, though some do take longer.

2. Application for Polish Passport

To apply for your Polish passport, you will need your certificate of Polish citizenship and your Polish birth certificate (yes, even if you were not born in Poland!). 

Feel free to email me if you have any other questions!

Yours sincerely

Eva Hussain

Polaron Language Services

How to Deal with a Stolen Passport

What to do if you loose your passport in Spain?

There is a lot that can turn a trip to Spain into an immense amount of fun and joy. But what happens in case you incidentally lose your passport when you are traveling in Spain. Here is what all possibilities are available in Spain.

The first thing that you need to do after you realize that you have lost your passport is going to the nearest police station and filing a report. There are chances that you might not be able to recover the passport but the process is still vital.

You also need to contact your country's nearest consulate or embassy and ask them to see into the matter. You can ask them to get you another passport. Inquire how much the whole process will cost. 

You also need to report any missing debit cards, credit cards or checks and inform your bank or card companies. You also need to talk to the banks to disable the service so that nobody else can take the advantage of the situation.

Take a deep breath and release your entire trauma because there is a lot that you still have to deal with. You will have to keep communicating with Spanish authorities in order to get a new passport. Talk to your near ones in you hometown and ask for their advice. You can ask your family members to contact the Embassy and arrange a flight back home for you. 

You will also need find the nearest money wiring service and get some money wired so that you can deal with the situation in Spain. You can use it to support for verification purposes while getting money wired in Spain. You can also write an official letter to the Embassy of your country and ask their help in the situation. The Embassy may also help you with money transfer problems.

If you have a copy of your passport, make it available to the Embassy. Note down your passport number at a secure place. Gather all identification tools, police reports, to passport size photographs and money and make it physically the Embassy. You can get the emergency passport easily in Spain. After filing an application for passport, you will get a receipt which you can use till you do not possess a passport. In case some official asks for documents and the receipt can be produced.

You will be able to receive a temporary passport within 90 days of time and once you get it, make sure you set off for your home country and receive the new passport as soon as possible.

About the Author

Read about location espagne piscine also read about villa moraira and villa denia

Can You Renew Your Passport with a Felony Conviction?

A felony conviction is like the gift that keeps on giving. Even after you've served your time, if you have a felony conviction you may find it difficult to get a job, and in some states you also lose your right to vote. But what about the right to renew your passport?

Whether or not your felony conviction will prevent you from renewing your passport depends on what your conviction was for and whether or not you've finished serving your sentence. For example, if you are on probation or parole, you may not be allowed to travel without prior approval. If your conviction was for international drug trafficking, if you are still under legal supervision the State Department may refuse to renew your passport.

If you are denied a passport and you really need to leave the country, you do have the option of applying for a passport renewal under a humanitarian exception. However, there's no guarantee that doing this will get you your passport.

The good news is that once you've finished serving your sentence, in most cases you will be able to get a new passport when your old one expires. However, just because you have a US passport doesn't mean that you can travel wherever you please. Other countries can and will deny entry to people with criminal convictions-even countries like Canada that don't require visas for US citizens. To make sure you don't run into any problems, you should research the entry requirements for each country you plan to visit.

Also, make sure to renew your passport well in advance of your trip. It takes at least 6 weeks for a passport to be issued if you request standard processing, and if you request expedited processing it will still take around 3 weeks. Applying earlier means you'll be able to spot and correct problems in the application process before your trip.

About the Author

Alison Kroulek

Fixing Mistakes on Your Passport Application

Everyone makes mistakes. No matter how careful you are, there's always the possibility that you'll make a mistake on your passport application or that the Department of State will make a mistake transcribing the information you provide onto your new passport.

How do you fix mistakes on your passport? It depends on what type of mistake was made. The good news is that you can generally get your passport corrected without having to go through the entire passport application process again.

If your passport has a printing error, like the wrong birthday or a misspelled name, you can get it corrected for free as long as it still valid. To do so, use Form DS-5504 and send it along with a copy of a document that supports your request for correction, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate. If it's been more than 90 days since your passport was issued, you'll also need to send in new photos. As long as you can afford to wait for your corrected passport, the Department of State will fix it and send it back for free. If you can't wait out the standard 6-week processing time, paying an additional $60 to expedite the application should cut the time down to about 3 weeks.

If you've changed names since your passport was issued, the first thing you need to do it take a look at the issue date. If it was issued less than a year ago, you can also use Form DS-5504, following the procedure above.

However, if it has been more than a year, you'll need to submit passport renewal application form DS-82 by mail. Enclose your passport, the form, 2 photos and legal documentation of the name change, along with the passport renewal fee of $110. If you need to expedite, pay an additional $60 plus the fees for overnight shipping.

Author,

By Alison Kroulek

Renew and Apply for Philippine Passort Using the DFA Appointment System

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has recently launched their online appointment system website which is a do-it-yourself site where you can set an appointment for the renewal or application of your Philippine passport.

In the past years, Filipinos have been accustomed to processing their passport renewals and applications through travel agencies and other third-party companies who are authorized by the DFA. These companies and agencies profit by charging a processing fee. It was working like a well-oiled machine until the day when magnetic passports were introduced. This required a personal appearance for the applicant, whether it was for a Philippine passport renewal or a new application. Furthermore, actual image capturing is done on site.

As part of the DFA's effort to extend its services to Filipino citizens, they launched their official DFA Appointment System website for passport renewal and application. Within a few minutes, the applicant can choose a set date and time when he will go to the DFA to renew his passport or apply for a new one. The website also includes all the necessary information such as document requirements and other helpful hints related to the service being requested.

As applications for renewals piled up in the recent months, there have been an unusal number of bad experiences. These have been "expressed in ink" through personal blog posts in the world wide web. However, there is NO other way to get it done except through the DFA. Given a few months, they should be able to adjust to their new volume of applicants and deliver service that no longer take a whole day.

Author

By Cool Hoots

Some Tips on Getting Passports Fast

Here are some tips on getting passports fast. First and foremost, it is always best to plan ahead whenever possible, especially when the need arises for sudden international travel. To reduce last minute delays, it can never hurt to have a valid passport at the ready. This is important especially when one's travel itinerary might require visiting countries where entry is difficult to obtain. Also, every consulate has their own process of granting visas.

In obtaining a passport, the process time can vary depending on the applicant's citizenship status and whether or not this is a first time passport. For instance, first time passport applicants have to apply in person with a few sets of photos, documentation, and forms. Hence, if one does not already have a passport, they should obtain one as soon as reasonable to avoid future hassle. Additionally, all toddlers, infants, and newborn children require a passport for international travel.

Depending on one's country of residence and planned destination, an immigration visa is often required. Generally, neighboring countries are not as strict as they might be for distant sovereignties.

 If one does not know the immigration protocol, to make things easier this information should be determined. Most consulates have some type of information available on the Internet or travelers can simply call the local embassy to obtain the necessary information.

For passport renewals, the time it takes to get the passport returned is directly proportional to the amount of money one spends. The standard process can take up to a month. Usually the applicant fills out a form, that can be obtained either online or through the mail, and mails the passport along with all necessary documentation to the appropriate address. There are expediters that can hasten the process. For visa applications, however, there is less certainty because even expediters have less control over foreign consulate operations. In general, most consulates are rather prompt.

One important tip is to always have a few recent passport size photos at the ready. The photo should display the full unencumbered face on a light background. This can save a lot of time, money, and aggravation when in a rush. As it is, the documentation and forms that need to be submitted can be time consuming and might require additional copies. Technology, however, has helped make this process much simpler than it used to be.

Any traveler should know that bureaucracies vary from country to country and consulate to consulate.

 Therefore, one should step into this process knowing that documentation and paper work has the potential of being rather arduous. Most forms and required documentation lists are available online. 

Also, one can simply call the consulate or visit a local office. These forms also come with instructions, expected deadlines, and fee schedules.

Another item to keep in mind is that fees vary greatly depending on the service, type of visa, and timing. For all expedited services, the cost is almost always a multiple of the basic fee requirements. 

There are also peripheral costs that one needs to keep in mind, aside from the application fees. For instance, passport photos and any additional copy requirements. Although these are not overly burdensome, the process can become overbearing depending on the urgency. Most consulates, however, usually direct applicants to local photo and copy shops for assistance.

Obtaining passports fast can be expensive and /or exhausting depending on how quickly one needs the new passport and the embassy or consulate granting visitation. Additionally, this is also contingent upon the destination, port of origin, and travel circumstances. Some special instances, such as that of seeking asylum, might require representation and it might be wise to attain professional legal help.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3531327

Steps to Obtain an Expedited Passport

If you are new to passports you might be surprised at the time variation from application to receiving the document. It is possible, following specific protocol, to receive a passport the same day you apply. It can also take a minimum of ten weeks for your passport to be issued. Generally, however, if you receive a passport within one month, sometimes less, then this is considered a rush. There are two ways in which you can expedite passport. If you choose either of these ways, in both cases you will need to complete the passport application as well as carry some application materials along with you.

For an additional $60 for expedited service via the government this will allow for overnight delivery.

 In doing this you may be able to receive your passport in four weeks from the initial date you applied. On the other hand, if you visit a passport office, after making an appointment, you might possibly receive the document in as little as three weeks.

Let us look at the two ways you might try in order to expedite your passport. If you do not plan to leave the country within two weeks then the first method is for you. However, if you plan to leave the U. S. within two weeks then you need to look at the second method.

You will need to complete the passport application materials. If you do not have a U. S. birth certificate then you will need to learn what to do about it. Secondly, for method one, determine the cost for the actual passport fee. Add the additional $60 to cover the rush fee. Find out the address of the passport office. Contact them to determine what they accept for payments.

Now, put all of your materials inside a suitable manila envelope. Address this to the correct office and then write "Expedited" on the outside. If you want, you can pay for overnight service for each way. Take the manila envelope to the post office, or you may choose to use FedEx or UPS. Whichever way you choose to send your envelope, be sure to ask for the two-way service.

The second method, as previously stated, is for people who will be leaving the United States within two weeks. You need to be aware, however, even if you follow the directions to the letter, it is not a guarantee that you will have your passport within the two week period. You must prove that you will be leaving the U. S. In about two weeks via an e-ticket, a paid itinerary, or some other valid method. 

If you check the Department of State website you will see that you may not go to the post office or apply through the mail, if you plan to be gone within two weeks. It is mandatory that you apply in person.

As in the first method, compile your application materials, get the cost and add $60, then locate the agency nearest to where you live. Make an appointment over the phone and make certain to get the correct address along with the date, time, and record your confirmation number.

Arrive early for your US passport appointment. Make certain all of your paperwork is in order. You must have proof you will be leaving the country. If you do not have this, then you will encounter problems. Now, complete the process and wait. Hopefully, your expedited US passport will come in the nick of time!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3530756

Going to St Thomas? Find Out If You'll Need a Passport

St. Thomas is one of the most popular places in the Caribbean. It is an island that forms a part of the US Virgin Islands. Also, this is where the capital of the US Virgin Islands is found, Charlotte Amalie.

 This island has great beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination among many American tourists. In this article, we'll tell you if you need a passport to go to St. Thomas.

Now why is this destination so popular in the first place? The main reason for this, of course, is that it is located in the Caribbean. And if you know your beaches, you'll know right away that the Caribbean has some of the best beaches anywhere in the world. That's the reason why many tourists flock to St. Thomas every year especially those who love the beach, as well as water sports such as windsurfing and kite boarding.

St. Thomas is also a great destination for those who love history. For one, St. Thomas is one of the first islands that Christopher Columbus discovered in the late 15th century. St. Thomas eventually became a Danish colony until it was sold to the US in the 20th century.

Today, St. Thomas is a part of the US territory called the US Virgin Islands. And since this is a US territory, any travel made here by a US citizen from another US territory is considered a domestic travel. And if this profile fits you, then you don't need a passport to visit St. Thomas.

However, keep in mind that you be required to submit proof of your citizenship before leaving the territory. Because of that, you need to bring with you a document that proves that. You can present any of the following documents: your birth certificate as well as any government-issued ID such as your driver's license. Of course, you can also present your US passport.\

But why do others say you need a passport to go to St. Thomas even if you're an American? It's probably because of the confusion that stemmed from the creation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). The WHTI specifies that you need a passport when traveling to WHTI areas.

 Since WHTI areas include the Caribbean, some people assumed that it also includes the US Virgin Islands. Again, because the Virgin Islands are US territories, you don't need to present a passport to go there.

Should you decide to bring a passport with you, make it the passport card. Why bring a passport card? That's because passport cards are more lightweight and convenient to bring compared to passport books. Passport cards are so small, you can slip them into your wallet. Also, applying for a passport card is cheaper than applying for a passport book.

Again, do you need a passport to go to St. Thomas? Not if you are an American Citizen coming from another US territory. Just make sure that you bring any government-issued document with you to help prove your citizenship whenever it's required, although bringing your passport as well couldn't hurt.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3374195

Keep the Dream Alive - Renew Your Passport Early

Application for renewal of your passport is essential and going on holiday can only be a distant dream without a passport. Here are some things to take care when applying or renewing your passport.

Renew or apply: If you are applying for a passport for the first time or younger than 16, then an application must be made in person at a passport agency or acceptance facility. If not, a renewal application can be made online and through the mail. To do so, simply complete the application form off the website and send the recent passport, together with 2 passport photos and a $75 check, to the address at the top of the form in a padded envelope. It might be a good idea to track the document to ensure security.

Apply early: The standard processing time would be about 4-6 weeks, and half that time if you choose expedited service, but keep in mind the possibility of delays. A safe bet would be to apply 8-10 weeks before you fly.

Get your documents in order: Download the application form off the internet at http://www.travel.state.gov, or obtain one for your nearest passport agency. Two necessary document photocopies need to be submitted with the application form.

* Evidence of your US citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a Naturalized Certificate * An identification, such as a driver's license or military ID

Bring everything you need: Ensure that you bring along $100 application fees for an adult or $85 for a minor under 16 years of age. Bring along the same identification as the photocopy, as well as two passport photos. These photos must be 2x2 inches against a white background, showing your full face without obscurities and taken within the recent 6 months.

Check your application status: Be sure to check the status of your application about a week after you lodge it. This can be done by sending a query online.

Run a quick check: Flip through your passport upon receipt to make sure that nothing has been torn or damaged in the handling process.

Note that any damaged, stolen or lost passports must be reported before a new application can be lodged!

And you're done! It's time to start planning for that dream holiday!

C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for How to Get a Passport [http://www.how-to-get-a-passport.com] and other travel sites as Web Content Provider.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2800870

What Do You Do If You Need to Leave on a Trip to a Foreign Country Tomorrow and Have No Passport?

With the baby boomers beginning to retire and travel the world there will be a big boom in overseas travel over the next 10-15 years. It's always nice to plan trips months or even years in advance, but sometime you just want to take off and go at the drop of a hat. Well you can do that if you travel within the borders of the US, but what about when you want to go to Europe or Australia. What if your best friends or a family member calls you and says we're going to London next week, would you like to come with us? You need a passport and you need it in a hurry. You can't afford to wait months to get it. You'll miss out on that fun trip.

Pre-Internet it was a nightmare to get a passport. The internet has made the whole travel industry function like a well oiled machine. It's so much easier to book travel now with so many incredible website and so many published great deals you can find online. Well getting a passport in a much smoother process now too. All you need to do is a little homework online and you can find a few companies out there that can help you expedite your passport and get it pushed through the process.

 All you do is pay fee depending on how quickly you need it. You obviously pay more for a 24 hour turn around as apposed to 1 or 2 weeks. But gone are the days of waiting 3 months to get your passport.

There are several services offered by a variety of companies today for emergency passports What about when you need to leave the country with a child who has never had a passport? What about getting your passport renewed very quickly? What about for woman, when you get married and you need to change your name on passport in time for that honeymoon in a foreign country and you wait until the last minute? Or how about when you are already in a foreign country and you loose your passport and need to leave for home in just a few days. What do you? It's just nice to know that there are new services available that weren't available just 10 years ago to help make unexpected travel to foreign countries a bit easier. It's even nicer when it just a click of the mouse away to make it happen.

Chris McCann is the founder of [http://www.expedited-passports.com] He is a successful entrepreneur who enjoys helping others with their travel needs. If you are in a bind and do need a passport fast, check out his website and he can help you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1046911

What is the Fastest Way to Get a Passport?

The fastest way to get a passport will allow you to get your travel document the same day. Routine service takes from four to six weeks and expedited service through an acceptance facility or by mail takes from two or three weeks. When you cannot wait that long, then you have to get your application to a regional passport agency.

Regional passport agencies serve American citizens who must travel out of the country in two weeks or less. Individuals who also need to obtain visas for the countries they plan to visit can submit their passport applications at the regional agencies up to four weeks before their departure dates. All requirements for the type of passport service you need still apply when visiting a regional agency.

Passport application processing agencies can be found in several major cities throughout the United States. A couple of new centers were opened in 2009 and the State Department has plans to open another in Buffalo, New York in 2010. Agencies are located in Aurora (Co.), Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Honolulu, Houston, Miami, Minneapolis, New Orleans, New York, Norwalk (Ct), Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Tucson and Washington DC.

In order to apply for a passport at a regional agency, you first have to set up an appointment by phoning 1-877-487-2778. Due to the high demand, it often takes several attempts to get through to the automated system. It is possible that the next available appointment is later than you can wait. In this case, you have two alternatives.

One thing you can do if you have difficulty scheduling an appointment is merely show up at the nearest passport agency. While the State Department states that applicants need to make an appointment and they have no obligation to receive applicants from those who do not schedule one, I have never heard of anyone being turned away. In fact, many travelers have shared how they were able to get same day passports without an appointment.

A second option you have if you are unable to set up an appointment or you just do not have time to get to a regional agency is to authorize a professional expediting service to submit your application in your place. Expediters have been around for decades and are a reliable means for getting your passport fast. Just be sure to choose one that allows you to request their services online and has good reviews and ratings with prior customers.

If you are in a hurry, applying at a regional passport agency is the fastest way to get a passport. Whether you do it yourself or go through an expediter, you can obtain your travel document as quickly as the same day.

Visit U.S. Passport Service Guide for reviews of rush passport expediters. Download application forms and learn about the latest passport requirements.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4143869

Renewing Your US Passport Quickly

Leaving the country soon? Forgot your passport expired last year? If you have already booked your ticket abroad, all hope is not lost. With the help of a passport expediting service it is often possible to get your passport renewed in as little as 24 hours. Passport renewal is a fairly simple process and is very easy to accomplish by mail though an expediting service. You will need to send your expired passport along with a fully completed Form DS-82. You will also need include two new passport sized photos (2" x 2") and a check to cover the government fee. Currently the government fee for a passport renewal is $135. It is also important to note that if your expired passport was issued while you were under the age of 16, you will need to apply for a new passport, as you are unable to renew a child passport once you are over the age of 16.

The Form DS-82 can also be used to change the name on your passport if your passport was issued less than a year ago. If you have legally changed your name for any reason, you will need to obtain a new passport with the correct name and information. If you plan to do this you will also need to send your valid passport, issued less than a year ago, a completed and signed DS-82, and legal documents showing your name change (i.e. marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, etc.).

While passport expediting companies offer fast 24 hour service, please remember that the US Passport Agency has the right to request further documents or information at any time. So it's best to get your passport renewal as soon as you are able to do so!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3658516

Sometimes There is No Other Choice But to Use Expedited Lost Or Stolen Passport Replacement Services

When a trip is coming up or actually happening, there is nothing worse than the realization that your passport has been stolen or is lost. It is bad enough when the trip has not yet started, but is right around the corner. It is even worse when someone is in a foreign country and has no documentation to prove that they are indeed a US citizen. It is times like this that call for expedited lost or stolen passport services.

If a passport is lost or stolen, how the situation is handled depends on where the traveler is. If the person is still on U.S. soil, everything can be handled rather quickly and without great expense. If the traveler has already gone abroad, everything changes, but it can still be taken care of. As long as you know what to do, there is no need to panic.

From the moment the passport is discovered to be missing, it is important that the passport holder jumps right into action. A phone call to the State Department should be the first move to make them aware the passport has indeed been lost or stolen. They can then do what they have to on their end to make sure that it is not used for illegal purposes.

In order to get a hold of the State Department, the passport holder must call their toll free number (877-487-2778) and report what happened. After they have done that, they can go to the website and download the DS-64 form. This is the form that must be filled out in order to get a replacement passport.

The DS-64 form will have to completed and turned in along with a new passport application. The process itself is the same as the process to get a new or replacement passport from this point forward and all fees are also the same. As long all forms are filled out properly, the time frame to get the new passport should be the same as if they were getting one for the first time.

Realizing that a passport can be lost or stolen at an inopportune time, there are passport expediting services that can be used to make everything happen quicker. Just like the expedited services for a new passport, lost or stolen service cost $60 to have it back in about three weeks. If that does not make things better, there are quicker services that are available for a higher fee.

If the person is already abroad, the process changes just a bit. The citizen will have to go the local US Embassy or Consulate and let them know what happened. If they have copies of all of their documents, they should bring them with them. At this point, the representative will let them know what has to happen and guide them through the process.

Nobody wants to ever think of losing their passport at the wrong time, but it is nice to know that you can get an expedited lost passport replacement. Many passport expediting services are available if you need them. This situation can be quite stressful, but as long as the passport owner knows what to do, everything can be taken care of rather quickly. Be prepared and keep copies of everything and know contact numbers before the trip ever happens and everything will be fine.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3785069

Where Alaska Residents Can Apply For a New Passport

Alaska residents have several options when it comes to where they can apply for a new passport.

Passport application acceptance facilities can be found throughout the state, mostly in post offices or county government offices. Agents at these facilities witness the signing of application form DS-11.

One or more acceptance facility are located in the following Alaska boroughs or census areas:

Aleutians East Borough, Aleutians West Census Area, Anchorage Municipality, Bethel Census Area, Bristol Bay Borough, Denali Borough, Dillingham Census Area, Fairbanks North Star Borough, Haines Borough, Juneau City and Borough, Kenai Peninsula Borough, Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Kodiak Island Borough, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Nome Census Area, North Slope Borough, Northwest Arctic Borough, Prince of Wales-Outer Ketchikan Census Area, Sitka City and Borough, Skagway-Hoonah-Angoon CA, Southeast Fairbanks CA, Valdez-Cordova CA, Wrangell-Petersburg CA, Yakutat City and Borough

If no passport office is located in your borough or census area, look in one or more of the surrounding boroughs or census areas. JKenai Peninsula Borough has the highest number of acceptance facilities with at least four. Several boroughs and census areas have at least three passport offices. Juneau, the state capital only has two. Their locations are as follows.

USPO - Federal Building Station
709 W. 9th St.
Juneau, AK 99801

USPO-Mendenhall Station (Juneau)
9491 Vintage Blvd.
Juneau, AK 99803-9997

When you submit your application at an acceptance facility, you can request either regular processing or expedited services. Regular processing takes four to six weeks. Expedited passports are processed within two to three weeks. It can take longer during peak travel season or when there is an unexpected surge in the number of applications submitted.

If it is necessary to obtain your passport within 14 days or less or you need to get your passport and a travel visa within 28 days, then you can submit your application at the passport agency that attends residents of Alaska. The address is as follows:

Seattle Passport Agency
Henry Jackson Federal Building
915 Second Avenue, Suite 992
Seattle, WA 98174-1091

The first step is to schedule an appointment by calling 1-877-487-2778. If often takes numerous attempts to get through. You should arrive at the Seattle passport agency no more than 15 minutes early. Take the the completed but unsigned application Form DS-11, evidence of citizenship, proof of identity, two passport photos and and the appropriate payment with you. You should also have your Social Security card with you. You passport should be delivered to you that same day.

Visit U.S. Passport Service Guide to access a list of Alaska passport offices.
Download application forms and apply for emergency passport service.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3137486

Where Colorado Residents Can Apply For a Passport

Colorado residents have numerous location available to them where they can apply for an United States passport. Passport offices, also known as passport application acceptance facilities are located in a lot of cities and towns throughout the state. The majority of these facilities are located in post offices or county government offices. Applicants for new passports are required to submit the application to an authorized agent.

At least one acceptance facility is located in each of the following counties: Adams, Alamosa, Arapahoe, Archuleta, Baca, Boulder, Broomfield, Chaffee, Cheyenne, Clear Creek, Crowley, Custer, Delta, Denver, Dolores, Douglas, Eagle, El Paso, Fremont, Garfield, Grand, Gunnison, Huerfano, Jackson, Jefferson, Kit Carson, La Plata, Lake, Larimer, Las Animas, Lincoln, Logan, Mesa, Moffat, Montezuma, Montrose, Morgan, Otero, Ouray, Phillips, Pitkin, Prowers, Pueblo, Rio Blanco, Rio Grande, Routt, Saguache, San Miguel, Summit, Teller, Washington, Weld, Yuma.

There are some counties that do not have a passport office. In this case, you need to look in a neighboring counties. El Paso county has the highest number of acceptance facilities with at least twelve. The state capital offers six location. Here is the address of a couple of these.

Denver County Court
1437 Bannock Street, Room 140
Denver, Co 80204

USPO - Downtown Station
951 20th Street
Denver, Co 80202-9998

You can choose either regular processing or expedited processing when you submit your application. You should receive your travel document in four to six weeks if you select regular processing. It should arrive in two to three weeks if you decide to expedite the process.

The State Department has regional agencies that attend travelers who need to obtain a passport in less than two weeks. If you are in an emergency situation and need to get your passport in less than two weeks, then you can apply at the Colorado passport agency located in Aurora. The address is as follows:

Colorado Passport Agency
Cherry Creek III
3151 South Vaughn Way, Suite 600
Aurora, CO 80014

You first schedule an appointment by calling 1-877-487-2778. Oftentimes, it takes many attempts before you are attended. Once the appointment is scheduled, you need to arrive at the Colorado agency with the completed but unsigned application Form DS-11 and the other required documents. You will also need two passport photos and payment for the fees. If all things are correct and in order, you should receive your new passport the same day.

Visit U.S. Passport Service Guide to access a list of Colorado passport offices, download application forms and learn more about rush passport expediting.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3287574

How to Find the Closest Passport Office

With over 8,000 passport offices in the United States, you may wonder where to start when looking for a passport office. The Bureau of Consular Affairs, a department within the U.S. Department of State, has authorized many different agencies to perform passport services. Post offices, State Department offices, town and local government buildings are just some of the authorized passport service agencies.

Most people typically start by contacting their local post office. Many post offices are set up for passport processing, and that includes passport photos, which have very strict guidelines. For people residing in medium to large cities, there is usually a wide selection available. But for persons living in rural areas or towns which don't have passport facilities, it can be a challenge finding an alternative.

If you have internet access, navigate to the U.S. Department of State web site. This is a very informative resource which provides a wealth of passport information, including locations of passport offices. Look for the link titled "Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page". Here you can search for all available passport offices in several different ways.

Enter in your zip code and select the maximum mile radius to search. Searching by City and State is also an easy way to get a complete list. People with special needs such as disability access can narrow their search for facilities which meet those needs. As you'll need to have 2 official passport photographs taken to submit with your application, there's the option to only display offices that are also set up for that process.

The U.S. Postal Service also has a very informative web site which will help with searching just those post offices which have passport services.

Since passport application requires a face-to-face interaction, in order to verify your identity, you may wish to schedule an appointment at the location you've selected. Drop in services are typically available at most offices, but during busy summer months the lines can be long. It's a good idea to schedule a morning appointment as delays can happen, causing you to have to wait for your afternoon visit.

Overseas U.S. citizens can apply for a passport at the U.S. Consulate or U.S. Embassy of the country they are currently residing in.

There are many offices available to assist you with applying for your passport. Just a little research will help you locate the one closest to you.

C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for How to Get a Passport [http://www.how-to-get-a-passport.com] and other travel sites as Web Content Provider.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2800889

What You Need to Know About Renewing a Passport

There are many things to do when planning a trip overseas. Renewing a passport may be one of them. 

Renewal of your passport is easy to do these days. Renewal forms are available online and many people qualify for renewal by mail.

When to Renew: Passports for adults are valid for ten years provided that the original passport was received after you turned 16. Children under the age of 15 must renew their passports every five years. Damaged passports regardless must be renewed immediately. If you have gotten married or divorced, you will also need to renew your passport if your name has been changed.

Where to Renew: Application Agency's accept passport renewal applications. Many will find it easier to apply through the mail. Renewal forms are available at Travel.State.Gov website and include instructions. Additional forms, available online, are required if you are renewing your passport due to a name change.

What do I Need: A renewal application requires the same things that a first application did. Two identical photographs of just your head and shoulders, identification documents, and properly filled out forms. If you are going to an Application Agency to renew your passport do not sign the forms. 

Many find filling out the forms online then printing them is easier. The applications can be read and usually there are no delays due to illegible handwriting. If a name change is part of the renewal process your marriage certificate or divorce decree must be included.

How Long: Renewal of your passport will take between four and six weeks to be approved. Occasionally the agency falls behind especially if they have received many applications. Allowing yourself time for the unexpected will prevent last minute worries.

Renewal Denial: Criminal convictions occasionally prevent renewal of your passport. Application Agencies can provide you with the current list of convictions that will prevent renewal. If you owe the Internal Revenue Service back taxes your passport renewal will be denied. The Department of Health and Human Services has a file of people who owe more than $2,500 in back child support. 

Passports will be denied to anyone who owes back child support. If your passport renewal has been denied for back taxes or child support it can take an additional four to eight weeks to have your name removed from those lists.

Renewing your passport is something that is best done before you leave the country.

C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for How to Get a Passport [http://www.how-to-get-a-passport.com] and other travel sites as Web Content Provider.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2792085

What You Need to Know About the US Passport

The modern passport contains many characteristics that enhance the appearance and safety aspects for travel. These ensure that tourists can have a smooth passage into the country of destination.

Essentials: Every regular US passport contains a few standard features - a blue cover page with the Great Seal of America affixed on it, a personal data page and a page carrying the signature of the bearer and a message from the US Secretary of State requesting permission to enter a foreign country. 

The passport covers for diplomats and officials, however, differ from regular ones. Each passport contains a standard of 32 pages, or 52 pages for frequent flyers such as businessmen.

Visa access: Some countries, such as China and Australia, require visas for entry into the country. The time taken and cost for visa application varies from country to country. A vast majority of countries in the world, including most of Europe and Japan, do not require any prior visas to enter. 

For information as to whether to apply for a visa, do remember to check the Foreign Affairs website of the country you re about to visit, or simply enquire with your travel agent.

Safety: The new US passport now contains an electronic chip that stores all your bio-data and passport information. This is not only to ensure that no changes are made to the passport illegally, but also to allow for a faster checkout at the immigrations.

Passport card: An alternative to the passport booklet is the passport card, specifically for travel to countries in North American - Canada, Bermuda, Mexico and the Caribbean. It might be a good idea to apply for a card instead of a standard booklet if you are traveling to these countries, since it is not only more portable, but also cheaper.

Validity: Both booklets and cards are valid for 10 years for an adult, or 5 years for a minor under 16 years of age.

Application: Applying for a passport can be done in person at any passport agency or acceptance facility. Current costs for an adult passport booklet are $100 and $85 for minors, or $45 for an adult passport card and $25 for minors. Passport renewals can be done through the internet and mail.

These are just some of the basics of a US passport, and would serve any traveler well when using or trying to obtain one.

C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for How to Get a Passport [http://www.how-to-get-a-passport.com] and other travel sites as Web Content Provider.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2792015

Government Update On Passport Cards and Entry to U.S.

As A Certified Travel Agent with TraVerus Travel (www.daytodaytravel.info), I wanted you to be aware of the new regulations that have gone into effect on January 31, 2008 that require all people entering or re-entering the U.S. to show proof of citizenship.

Proof of citizenship can be accomplished by presenting a valid passport, an original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, or an original copy of your certificate of citizenship or naturalization. I recommend a passport because it is the only document that proves both your citizenship and your identity.

The Department of State, the agency of the Federal Government that issues passports, issued new rules regarding the new passport card on December 31, 2007. Here is a summary of everything covered in the new regulations. As you will see, there are more rules to be issued in the future telling citizens when and how the State Department will begin issuing passport cards. When and how the State Department will begin issuing the passport cards is not yet known.

1. The State Department will issue passport cards. The official name of the document will be "passport cards." State will continue to issue "passport books" which up until now we have known as a "passport."

2. A new DS 11 passport application form will be issued between now and February 1st. On the form, applicants will be given an option to apply either for a passport card or a passport book.

3. The passport card is valid only for passage through land and sea ports between the U.S. and Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and Bermuda. The passport card cannot be used for flights into or out of the U.S.

4. The passport card will be issued to citizens in all 50 states but it is exclusively for use for land and sea entrance to the U.S. Passport cards cannot be used for international air travel.

5. Passport cards can be used for identification for domestic flights. Remember: the passport card can be used as government-issued proof of identity and proof of citizenship. So, if you do not have a driver's license and need identification for passing through security for domestic travel, you can use your passport card for proof of identity instead of presenting your driver's license.

6. Passport cards have the same validity as passport books - 10 years for adults 16 and over and 5 years for children under 16.

7. Citizens will be able to apply for a passport card at any acceptance agent on the same basis as a regular passport.

8. Passport books must be signed on the signature page by the passport holder to be valid. Passport cards do not have to be signed to be valid.

9. The passport cards will be able to be scanned at U.S. borders when a person is in the vicinity of an electronic reader that will be operated by U.S. border control officials. The chip in the card contains only one item of information - a unique identifying number that has meaning only inside the secure database of the State Department and Homeland Security Department. There is no personal information such as name, date of birth, social security number, etc. stored electronically on the chip. So, if someone did pick up the signal, they would not be able to use the data to learn anything about the holder.

10. The execution fee for applying for a passport card is $25. The execution fee for applying for a passport book is $30.

11. The fees for obtaining a passport card for persons without a passport are as follows:

Adults: Total $45 ($20 application fee, plus $25 execution fee)

Children under 16: Total $35($10 application fee, plus $25 execution fee)

12. Persons who have a valid passport book (Remember: a "passport book" means a person who has a "passport") and who are applying for a passport card (in addition to holding a valid passport) are not required to pay the execution fee. Thus, persons with a valid passport who also want a passport card can apply for $20.

13. The government may permit alternative documentation for land crossings such as driver's licenses issued by states that have established methods for determining citizenship acceptable to the Federal government. Several states have already submitted proposals to the Federal government. This matter will be addressed in subsequent regulations issued by the Federal government.

I hope the following information has been helpful to you. I would not want anyone's vacation to be ruined because of an issue with your passport. I would also suggest going to [http://www.daytodaytravel.com] for the best travel deals and vacation packages around.

Larry Buhrandt

daytodaytravel@gmail.com

About the Author

Larry is a business opportunity specialist marketing online several ventures of interest. Larry is highly involved in the travel industry as a certified travel agent with TraVerus Travel.