Reporting A Stolen Or Lost U S Online Passport

Losing a passport right before an international trip generates panic, in even the most seasoned traveler. According to the US Department of State, a stolen or lost U S online passport should be reported immediately to prevent identity theft. If a replacement is needed quickly, travelers may take certain steps to get their new document to ensure that their travel plans will not be interrupted.

Form DS-64

People should start by filling out Form DS-64. The form has spaces for personal information, the card and book numbers for old passports and a paragraph explaining where, when and how the documents were lost. People must also explain any actions they took in an attempt to recover their passports. The form may be mailed to the State department, if travelers are not immediately seeking new documentation and the address is available on the State Department website.

Form DS-11

Applicants for new passports should submit Form DS-11 and pay the processing fee. Applicants should complete Form DS-11 but should wait to sign it until in the company of their acceptance agent. In addition to the proper forms, applicants will have to prove US citizenship by bringing identification. Acceptable identification may include a driver's license, a naturalization certificate, a military ID or a government ID. Agencies may also accept secondary forms of signature ID such as employee ID cards, social security cards and letters from an identifying witness.

Photocopies Of ID

Applicants must photocopy their identifying documentation. The photocopy should have images of both the back and front of identifying documents and should be printed on white 8 1/2 by 11 inch paper. Images may be increased in size but may not be decreased in size. Also, images may only appear on one side of the page and the page must be clear of other markings or images.

Photograph

The State Department mandates a photograph for replacement passports. Each photograph must depict the applicant's current appearance and must adhere to stringent State Department guidelines. Most applicants utilize a professional photo service to ensure compliance.

In Person Or Online?

Applicants replacing lost or stolen passports must apply in person. If scheduled to travel within two weeks, people may set appointments with a regional passport office. Appointments are made using an automated process after which applicants are given an office address, appointment time and confirmation number. Applicants should bring all documentation, including a copy of their travel itinerary or e-ticket and should expect to pay the regular fee plus an additional rush fee.

Expedited Services

Travelers may find help with their expedited new US passport replacement from a private expediter. Before choosing a service, applicants should ensure that the company has a good reputation by checking to see if customers have left positive or negative comments online. Also, applicants should call the telephone number of the service to verify that it is a working number.

About the Author

Whatever the circumstances, losing a passport may be an unsettling experience. Reporting the loss right away and replacing documentation quickly will ensure that people experience no delays or identity theft issues because of the stolen or lost pasport. To find more detailed information, people may check the US Department of State website or contact their nearest agency. You can always get an expedited new U.S. passport.

How to Select the Correct Passport Form

The U.S. government relies on paperwork for everything they do, and this is no different when it comes to getting a passport or maintaining one. The right passport form can help an individual get a new passport or renew an old one, and selecting the correct one can mean the difference between a quick application and a drawn-out one. There are two basic forms when it comes to getting a new passport and they are the DS-11 and DS-82.

The standard passport book is known by its royal blue cover and this is the style that is issued to all applicants upon acceptance. The life expectancy of the standard passport is 10 years for adults over 16 years of age and five years for those holders that are younger than this. Depending on the applicant's age, the correct form will need to be filled out when applying.

When applying for a new passport, the majority of applicants will need to appear in person at a Passport Acceptance facility. They will need to have the proper passport form filled out when they appear along with current identification documents proving their citizenship. The Post Office is one of the most widely used locations for applying for a passport.

A new passport will only be issued to those appearing in person and cannot be obtained by mail. A personal appearance must also be made by anyone 16 years old or younger when applying for a new passport or renewing an old one. There is a wide variety of documentation that the applicant must have on hand when applying for a new passport.

There is also a separate form for replacing a lost or stolen passport and this may also be found online. This will need to be printed out and completed before arriving at the acceptance facility along with having photocopies or proper identification documents. This is yet another application process that must be completed in person.

Once the proper form has been found and completed, there will be accompanying paperwork that the applicant will need to provide. Proof of citizenship is one major form that will need to be produced and this should be in the form of a birth certificate. The birth certificate should be one that is obtained for the city, county or state that the individual was born in and have the issuing agency's seal on it.

It is a good idea to have all the documentation organized and in one place when coming in to apply for a passport. The issuing agency will also require photocopies of identification such as a driver's license or state issued ID card for proof. If these are not available, there are other forms that will be accepted in lieu of these and the list can be found on the government's website.

A US passport is something that is better to have and not need, than need and not have. The right passport form can help in the application process moving along quite smoothly. One thing to keep in mind is to not sign the completed application until in the presence of an agent at the facility, otherwise it will be need to be redone completely.

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How To Obtain A Passport Without A Problem

A passport is a document that allows entry in and out of countries. It is applied for in the applicant's country of origin, and acts as a travel pass. No one can travel in and out of foreign lands without proper documentation. This is why passports are very important. There are many resources out there that explain how to obtain a passport and the process and requirements that one must go through. 

These resources are very important when it comes to ensuring the proper processing and delivery of a passport.

Qualifications

There are certain qualifications that accompany the application of a passport. These include proving citizenship, providing passport photos, as well as proper identification. It is essential that all theses requirements are in place before attempting to apply for a passport.

Application Form

Passport application forms can be found at any passport service agency, they can also be located online. They are referred to as DS-11 Forms. This is the essential document when it comes to applying for a passport. When filling the application out be careful to not allow any errors.

Photos

Passport photos must accompany the application forms. The photos must be recent as they will go on your passport and be used to identify you, as you. You will need two identical full color passports. They are casual head shots and you should not be smiling.

Identification

Because a US passport is used as identification as a United States citizen, proving that you are, in fact, a citizen is a very crucial aspect to the application process. Applications require documentation stating birth of origin, such as a birth certificate. It must be an official copy and not a photo copy. If you are not in possession of an original, be sure to apply for that in time to submit it with your passport application.

Name Consistency

All documentation provided for the passport application must contain the same name. Many people go by perhaps their middle name, or their maiden name, when there identification states something else. Because a passport is an official document it must contain your legal name. Therefore all supporting identifying documents must contain your legal name.

Fees

There is always a fee when it comes to applying for a passport. These fees depend upon the agency by which you are applying. Private agencies tend to have steeper prices, but they can assure your document faster than federal agencies. Be sure to call ahead and see what services are offered and at what cost.

The resources that explain how to obtain a passport will be invaluable when it comes to the information they provide. They also might be able to submit an application for you. In addition to new passports many agencies now have online venues when applying for passport renewals, adding passport pages, or even passport name changes. These online services make obtaining passports easier than ever. As long as all documentation is filled out properly and all other requirements are met a passport should be easy to obtain.

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How to Make An Appointment for Passport Renewal

Getting a US passport is not an easy task and one has to wait for a considerably long time before qualifying for it. It serves as a very important identification document like the citizenship certificate and also facilitates easy international travel. Hence it becomes all the more important to keep it updated. Renewal of passport is the means to have a fully updated and a valid passport. People should renew their passports when it is about to expire.

Passport Renewal process

The validity of a US passport is different for minors, adult, diplomats and time when one should go in for travel permit renewal depends on it. DS-82 and DS-11 are the forms that are to be used to renew the passport through mail and in person respectively. The forms along with the required filing fee should be submitted to the Passport Agency. The applicant should also submit evidence of US citizenship, identification documents, passport photo (one number) along with the renewal application.

Making an Appointment 

According to the US Department of State, a Person can make an appointment with a Passport agency only under the following two conditions

• When they need their U.S. passport within a time of less than 2 weeks for international travel

• When they need their U.S. passport within a time of 4 weeks to get a foreign visa.

Applicants can make an appointment throughout the day and throughout the week by using the Automated Appointment System. This system can be accessed at 1-877-487-2778.This appointment can be fixed only for a Regional Passport Agency.

Things to be noted while making an appointment

In case an application is submitted in person at a passport agency or center, then expedited fee is required for every application. A travel itinerary is a necessary proof while making an appointment for passport renewal and presenting this on an electronic mobile device will not be accepted as sufficient proof. Colorado, Minneapolis and Vermont Passport Agencies are the only ones which do not require a travel itinerary for making an appointment.

Suppose the person does not intend to travel within 14 days or plan to get a foreign visa, and then they need to make an appointment only at a Passport Application Acceptance facility. The Form DS-82 should not be mailed to the agency before the appointment if the applicant is planning to go out of the US within 14 days. It should be presented by the applicant at the time of appointment.

In order to make an appointment, applicants need not pay any fee. Applicants should not get fooled by anyone or any business organizations who insist on paying a charge for making an appointment.

Though the appointment for a renewal of passport can be made on any day and at any time, it should be noted that the Passport agencies are closed on all US Federal Holidays. Weapons of any kind are totally prohibited at all passport agencies. According to title 18, United States Code, Section 390, 'the Federal Law prohibits the knowing possession or the causing to be present of firearms or other dangerous weapons in Federal facilities and Federal court facilities by all persons not specifically authorized by Title 18 U.S.C., Section 930(c)'. Anybody who is found violating this will be penalized or imprisoned for a period up to 5 years.

If you are interested in learning more about How to Renew Green Cards, Green Card Application, US Passport Renewal and Passport Application visit U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services at http://www.ImmigrationDirect.com

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What is a Passport Card? Read All About it Here

When traveling outside of the United States, you will be required to carry a passport with you. This will also be important once you return to the US. You have a choice of two types to use, depending on your type of travel: there's the passport card and the passport book.

Let's begin with the benefits of a passport card over the passport book. For one, the card is more affordable and smaller than the booklet. It can fit into your wallet so it's easier to carry around and somehow harder to lose. Also, applying for a passport card is just around half the price of the passport book.

On the downside, the card has limited uses. You can only use this type of passport if you're traveling to territories in the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) by land or sea. WHTI territories are Canada, Bermuda, Mexico, and the Caribbean. So when you're traveling outside of those four destinations, you'll need a passport book.

Once again, you can only use your card if you're traveling by sea or land. Now what if you're planning to travel to WHTI destinations by plane? You cannot use your card in this instance. Therefore, you'll have to present your passport book.

You have the option of applying for both types of passports. This is best if you regularly travel to various foreign destinations that include WHTI territories. Having two types of passports provide you with the flexibility in choosing which type is best to be used. What's more, you'll get a significant discount should you apply for them both at the same time.

When applying for a passport card, you'll need to determine if you're already a previous passport holder. If you are, then you can apply for your card by mail. To do this, you'll have to fill the Form DS-82, and provide other requirements that may be needed. You'll also need to do this even if you are getting your passport card for the first time. In case your passport card will be your first passport, then you'll have to fill in the Form DS-11.

The great thing about having a passport card is that it's so convenient to use. This is mainly because of the radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that's embedded on your card. Now all the US Customs have to do is to scan your card, and they will get all the information they need to provide proof of your identity and citizenship.

Hopefully you now have a good idea of the uses and limits of a passport card. Just remember that when traveling to WHTI territories by land or sea, you can use your passport card. However, for international air travel even to WHTI areas, then you will be required to present a USA passport book

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How to Renew a Passport Through the Mail

Traveling out of your home country requires a valid passport. A passport must be up to date, contain accurate information and be in good condition. You can renew a passport at any time as long as it does not require having information changed.

You can renew a passport through the mail, directed to the National Passport Processing Center at P. O. Box 13349, Philadelphia, PA, 19101-3349, as long as you meet certain stipulations. This process is not complicated assuming your passport meets all the necessary requirements. Renewing by the postal service is relatively easy and quick.

If you do not have a current passport or it has expired beyond the 15 year period, you will need to apply for a new one. This is simple and can be done at the post office as long as you have proof of your identity and your birth certificate. This ID must be a driver's license or a state issued identification card.

You cannot process a passport renewal through the postal service if your passport has been damaged. In this case, you will have to complete the process in person. This can be accomplished by filling out a DS-11 form and providing proof of residency, identity, and the damaged passport.

In order to apply for a replacement on a damaged passport you will also need to supply two passport ID photos. These photos can be obtained at numerous locations, including photo processing centers. Passport photos must be two inch x two inch photos that are taken with a required background.

You also must have been over the age of 16 when you received your passport in order to renew a passport through the mail. Your passport can not be more than 15 years old and must contain information that is correct. If you need to apply for a new passport, then you can do so over the internet on the State departments website.

The name that appears on your passport must be the name you are currently using for all legal documents. You may have changed your name since you obtained your passport, due to a change in your marital status or for a personal or career oriented reason. When you change your name, you must process the proper applications to change the name that appears on your passport. There are two different forms for this depending on how long it has been since you received it.

You can renew your passport through the mail as long as you meet certain requirements. These requirements include accurate information regarding your name and all other information on your passport. The National Passport Processing Center in Philadelphia will allow you to renew a passport only if your current passport is in good condition. If it is not, then there is a process that you must go through to obtain a replacement. It is also necessary to be residing in the US. Or Canada in order to apply through the mail. In the situation that you are residing outside of the United States, you'll need to consult your local embassy or consulate.

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Renewing a Child's Passport

Renewing a passport that was issued to a child age 15 or younger is different from getting a passport that was issued to an applicant age 16 or older renewed. Passports issued to individuals who are older than age 15 are valid for 10 years and can be renewed by mail as long as they are not damaged. A child or a person who was issued a passport when a child must apply as if for the first time. This article will detail the steps required to renew a child's passport.

What You Need

Several items are required in order to get a child's passport renewed. First of all, you need to complete the application form DS-11. The form can be completed online at the Department of State website, downloaded and completed offline or filled in at an application acceptance facility. The application should not be signed until an authorized Acceptance Agent asks you to do so.

Supporting documents that must be submitted along with the application form include evidence of U.S. citizenship, evidence of relationship between the parents or guardians and the minor and identification of the parents or guardians. Photocopies of identification documents are also required. Only one passport photo is necessary.

When only one parent takes the child to get a passport renewed, evidence of sole legal custody or notarized consent from the non-applying parent must accompany the other documents. The consent form cannot be more than 90 days old.

Where to Go

The application and supporting documents must be presented to an authorized agent at either an application acceptance facility or a regional agency. Acceptance facilities are located in post offices, public libraries, clerks of court, and other state, county, township, and municipal government offices.

 There are 25 passport agencies located in major cites of the United States such as Boston, New York, Miami, Houston Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle.

It is important to understand that both parents or legal guardians must appear with the minor. When only one parent or legal guardian appears, that person must also submit notarized consent from the non-applying parent or guardian or evidence of sole legal custody in order to renew the child's passport.

How Long It Takes

Renewing a child's passport takes up to 6 weeks if you apply at an application acceptance facility and do not request expedited service. You can get the passport expedited in 2 to 3 weeks when applying at these locations if you pay the additional fee. It only takes a few days to a little as a few hours when you apply at a regional agency. Of course, you must show evidence of travel within 2 weeks or within 4 weeks if you also need to obtain a visa.

Those who need to get their children's passports quickly but are unable to visit a regional agency can utilize the services of a registered expediter. They can get passports renewed the same day but there will be additional fees for this.

Visit U.S. Passport Service Guide, the experts in expedited passport services, for latest requirements, instructions and applications for renewing a child's passport.

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Getting a Passport in Florida

Florida is 4th in the list of United States passports issued by state. Only New York, California and Texas issue more passports per year than the state of Florida. If you need to get a passport in Florida, the questions and answers below will provide you with the information you need to obtain your travel document quickly and efficiently.

Where do I get a passport in Florida?

Applicants are required to appear in person in order to get a new passport. Most often, these means visiting a passport office in Florida. At the time of writing, there are 263 such offices or application acceptance facilities in the state although this number changes frequently. The vast majority of facilities are located in post offices. Many have limited operating hours and require you make an appointment in order to apply. Some of these locations offer passport photo services.

Another place to apply is at the passport agency in Florida. There is only one agency located in the state and it is in Miami. Regional agencies only accept applications from those who need to travel within 30 days. Evidence of travel such as a copy of your eticket, itinerary or hotel reservation is required. You have to make an appointment before visiting the agency. During peak travel season it can be difficult to schedule an appointment, especially if your departure is within a few days.

There is an alternative for those who need to expedite a passport in less than 2 weeks but who are unable to personally visit the Miami passport agency. A registered expediting service can be contracted to deliver the application for you. Note, you are still required to appear in person at a local application acceptance facility. However, instead of mailing the package directly, you will mail it to the expediter you choose to use.

How do I get a passport in Florida?

The requirements for a new passport include application form DS-11. This form can be completed online or printed and then completed. Independent of which method you use to complete the form. You should not sign it until a passport agent asks you to do so. The agent must administer and oath and witness the signing of the application.

Besides Form DS-11, you need to submit evidence of United States citizenship, proof of identity, a photocopy of the identification document and a recent passport photo. Those whose names have been legally changed and are different from the citizenship document, need to submit evidence of the legal name change. The application form and supporting documents should be taken to a passport office or the regional agency.

How much is a passport in Florida?

The fees for getting a passport in Florida are no different than in any other state. Applicants ages 16 or older pay an application fee of $110 for a passport book and/or $30 for a passport card. Applicants ages 15 or younger pay an application fee of $80 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card. All applicants must pay an execution fee of $25 when submitting Form DS-11.

There are optional fees and additional expenses which may be incurred when applying for a passport. The Department of State offers overnight delivery of a passport for a fee of $12.72. An expedited service fee of $60 is required if you want your passport in 3 weeks or less through an acceptance facility or in a few days to as fast as the same day at the Miami agency. Fees for professional expediting service vary but start at about $79.

Getting a passport in Florida is quite easy. Form DS-11 is readily available online and does not take long to fill in. There are 263 passport offices and a regional agency where applications can be submitted. A passport application can be expedited as fast as the same day if necessary. Of course, routine service will get your travel document to you in 4 to 6 weeks. No matter where or how quickly you get a passport, you can be certain that agents in Florida have a lot of experience.

Visit U.S. Passport Service Guide for a list of Florida passport offices or access our directory of expedited passport services.

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