Lost Passport Replacement in Boston

If you're going to lose your passport, Boston is one of the better cities in which to do it. That's because Boston has several different options available for getting your lost passport replaced in the required timeframe. Let's take a look at the different lost passport replacement procedures and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Lost Passport Replacement at an Acceptance Facility 

The most common method of replacing a lost passport is to apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. There are currently 7 of these scattered throughout Boston, mainly in post offices.

 

To get a new passport, you'll need the following documents:

• Proof of identity, such as your driver's license or other government-issued photo ID. You'll need both the original and a clear photocopy.
  
  
• 
   Proof of citizenship, such as your birth certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship.
  
  
• Form DS-64: Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport
  
  
  
• Passport Application Form DS-11
  
  
• 2 passport photos
  
  
• Money to pay passport fees.
  

Once you've applied to replace your lost passport, you can expect to wait 6 weeks for the new passport to arrive in the mail if you've selected normal processing, and 3 weeks if you've selected expedited processing.

Lost Passport Replacement at the Boston Passport Agency 

If you don't have 3 weeks to wait, don't worry! Boston is one of 21 cities in the US that is home to regional passport agency office. This office can issue a passport within 24 hours if you have a travel emergency. In addition to the documents listed above, you'll also need to bring a copy of your itinerary to prove that you intend to leave the country within the next 2 weeks.

The Boston Passport Agency is located at 10 Causeway Street in Suite 247. To make an appointment, call 1-877-487-2778.

Author,

Alison Kroulek

What to Do if Your Passport is Stolen or Lost

Do you need to draft an authorization letter to allow a third party to submit your passport application and receive the passport on your behalf? With this article you should be able to draft such a letter without any problem.

Your passport is one of your most important documents, and it is essential that in the entire process of applying for a passport you are aware of all details. But in certain cases, it is a possibility that you may have to authorize a third person to do your work for you. In such a case, it will be imperative that you draft a letter of authorization for this third party, so that they have the rightful authority to do your work for you without incriminating themselves. In this article, we tell you how such a letter needs to be drafted.

Writing an Authorization Letter

While writing any type of authority letter, it is important to be sure of what details need to be included in the letter. An authorization letter is an important document and you will need to ensure that it is a tightly worded document that cannot be negotiated or misconstrued in any manner. You need to emphasize in the letter what work regarding the passport is authorized under the document that you are providing. You also need to confirm with the authorities in question whether there is a specific format that needs to be followed. You need to ensure that you provide the authorities with documents to verify your identity and that of the company/ person you are authorizing. Ensure that the letter is brief, precise, correct in its format, and grammatically correct. Given below is a template for such a letter and a sample letter that will help you understand how to draft such a letter.

Template for Letter of Authorization for Passport

Date

Name of Applicant

Date of Birth

Place of Birth

In the first paragraph, specify whom you are authorizing to conduct all affairs in relation to your passport. Mention in specifics the tasks that the letter gives them the authority for.

In the second paragraph, you need to mention the act under which it makes it impossible for any person to gain information from the US government regarding another individual. Specify the details of this act and mention how this act ensures that employees of the passport agency cannot discuss your details with anyone else without prior written permission from you.

The third paragraph will mention that you, as the applicant for the passport, give the governmental agency the right to discuss any issues pertaining to the passport with the agency that you have mentioned. You will also need to mention that this letter is enclosed with documents verifying your identity and that of the company you are authorizing.

Thanking you

Yours sincerely

Signature

Signature if applicant is a minor under the age of 18

                           Sample Letter of Authorization for Passport

5th June 2011

Sarah Jane Lipmann

12th Feb 1982

New Jersey, New York

To Whomsoever it May Concern

This letter is to authorize Voyages Travel Agency with the right to submit my application to obtain a passport and also the authority to receive the passport on my behalf. I hereby, grant them the right to fulfill necessary obligations on my behalf in the process of passport application.

According to the Privacy Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-579), the US Government cannot release any information about an individual without written authorization by the person in question. Therefore, with this letter the US passport agency is being given the right to discuss the details of my passport application with Voyages Travel Agency.

I also authorize the governmental agency to accept the application for passport from Voyages Travel Agency, discuss any arising issues with them, and allow them to deliver the passport to Voyages Travel Agency. Along with this document, I am enclosing a copy of my driver's license and also registration documents for Voyages Travel Agency.

Thanking you

Yours sincerely

Signature

Sarah Jane Lipmann

Hopefully, with the help of this article, drafting an authorization letter should be absolutely no problem for you. It is important that before you draft the letter and you get in touch with someone who has done passport work in the past, who will be able to help you with the procedure. Also, it is important that you check the official website to check the requisites and documents that need to be submitted with such a document.

All about passports and visas for your Italy Vacation

When traveling to Italy there are several things you must have. The least of these are a passport and maybe even a visa. If this is your first time traveling out of the US, you will need to apply for a passport. You may also need to apply for a passport if your old one has expired, is damaged or lost. 

Applying for a passport is a fairly simple process which may be as simple as a trip to the post office, but be sure to start early so you can be ready. There are stories of people who have had to cancel vacations because their passport was not ready.

The US Department of State asks that you allow six months for them to process your passport application, however some travelers have found it only took a few weeks. You can apply online, however first time applicants must apply in person. The main supporting document that is required is a valid original US birth certificate. Passport applicants are sometimes surprised to find that their original birth certificate needs to be submitted to the Department of State with a promise of it being mailed back. Many people tend to be leery of this especially because they have found how difficult it is to get a replacement birth certificate. However, most report that within a short period of receiving their new passports, their birth certificates arrive in the mail safe and sound. For all the details on where the 9000 passport application accepting facilities are, and how to apply for a passport for your Italy vacation you can go to www.travel.state.gov/passport

If you are a US citizen, you will not need a visa to travel to Italy. However, you must show that your airline ticket includes a return back to the US. If you are planning to travel to Italy for reasons other than a vacation, the requirements are different and usually stricter. When on vacation in Italy, you can stay for a maximum of 3 months at a time, but remember that this is a combined period to include any time spent in several other European countries. Italy has an embassy in Washington DC that can process visas for non-US citizens. They must go to the embassy for personal interviews. If you are going to Italy for a vacation the prime concern of the Italian government is that you plan to return to your country. Therefore they always ask for proof that you have a full-time job especially if you are a non-US citizen.The Department of State recommends that during your Italy vacation you register your presence there with the US embassy. This is important in case someone needs to contact you for an emergency, or in case of a disaster abroad so your whereabouts can be confirmed.

Author;

Tim Roseland

Learn Where to Go For Minor Passport Applications

Unlike adult passport applicants, children have special passport requirements that will have to be accomplished on top of the regular passport application process. According to the United States Department of State, children are those who are under the age of 18. Meanwhile, children 16 to -17 years old have different special requirements from those required of those under 16.

In this article, we will be talking about the special passport application requirements of children under age 16. Included in these requirements are newborns or infants. There are several of these requirements that we'll discuss further below.

The first and the most basic requirement would be the completed DS-11 form. This is the form filled in by all first-time passport applicants, whether children or adults. You can download this form online and fill it on your computer, but you will have to submit this form along with the other requirements in person.

Aside from the DS-11, applicants will also be required to submit a proof of their citizenship. To accomplish this, you must present any of the following as proof of US citizenship: a previously issued passport that's in good condition, a certified birth certificate, a consular report in case the child was born in another country, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship. Any of these documents will prove the child's citizenship.

The parents or guardians of the child also must present required documents in this type of passport application. For one, you should present a proof of your relationship with the child. Aside from that, you will also need to provide an identification document, as well as a photocopy of this document.

And since we're talking about minors applying for a passport here, a written parental consent will also be required to be submitted to the passport office. There are different procedures for this for parents, a single parent, and a guardian who stands in place of the parents. Check out which category you fall under so you'll know the type of procedure you'll have to follow.

The applicant will also have to submit two copies of color photographs. Photographs submitted for passport applications have stringent guidelines; so make sure that you are familiar with these guidelines even before having your photograph taken. Once you have accomplished all of these requirements, you can now submit your passport and pay the applicable fees. Check with your local passport office in order to see what fees you may be required to pay.

If it's about knowing where to go for child passport applications that you want to know about, all you need to do is visit your local passport office. They will assist you with your application, from providing you with information on how to get started, to making sure that you have accomplished all the special requirements that are need for child passport applications. With their help, applying for a passport for minors will be a lot easier and free from stress.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3399268

How To Get A Stolen Passport Replacement

Having a passport stolen or misplacing one can be a scary issue for many people, especially when they're in the midst of traveling or very close to doing so. While some tend to be confused about the process of getting a misplaced or stolen passport replacement, others may simply not know where to start. There are a few steps that you can take to insure that the process goes smoothly. There are also some documents you may want to travel with in case you need them for an unexpected need for a replacement passport.

If you've already taken the steps to be sure that the passport is definitely stolen and not just misplaced, the first step to take is generally to report the theft to the authorities. You'll want to contact not only the local police but also your country's embassy to report the passport as missing or stolen. In order to do this and to get a replacement, you'll need to fill out the required forms.

Although it can depend on one's location and the regulations that exist there, it's often a good idea to bring two passport photos along with you as they may be required. Bringing along any original documentation is also sometimes recommended. Proper photographs can be obtained at local convenience stores, mail centers or any type of qualified passport facility but you may also be able to get referrals from the embassies themselves.

It's often wise to make sure that you check out your particular embassy and their policies regarding stolen or lost passports. This is due to the fact that it may vary on what they require or it could potentially be dependent on your location or circumstances. However, you'll often find instructions and contact information over the internet through their website.

Having an understanding of the forms you'll need to fill out is important as well as how to fill them out. This helps to ensure that things run smoothly, especially in situations where you find that you've lost your passport while out of the country. For example, the US DS-11 form happens to be one that needs to be signed in person at the passport agency.

You'll also want to research any type of documentation that you'll need at the time you go to get a replacement. Some countries may require or ask for the original documentation of when the passport was issue. Common papers that may required will include photo identification such as a driver's license and a birth certificate. It's also important to make sure that you have these basic documents with you whenever you're traveling in order to protect yourself in the event of losing your passport.

You should expect and prepare for any application fees that may apply when getting your passport replaced. It's often a good idea to make sure that you know how much these fees will be as it may vary by location. Other important item you'll want to pay close attention to is ensuring that your passport photo is of the correct size. Although services that specialize in passports will likely know this, it's still a good idea to find out what the requirements are.

If you find that you're still confused or struggling with the process of getting a stolen passport replacement, you can also try going through a professional service that specializes in handling situations such as this. While extra fees will apply in order to obtain these passport forms and services, they can often help in lessening any burdens and providing you with need-to-know information upfront.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5286225

What to Know About a Damaged Passport?

Knowing what to do about a damaged passport can assist travel plans. Distinguish most common perils that create damage. Rank the severity of harm and brace yourself for effects that damage causes.

The top sales person lingers at the seaside and listens to the waves splash on the white sand. She has won first place and now enjoys her much deserved prize, a vacation paid for by her company. She is unaware that the passport she dropped into water will force her to remain longer.

At the airport, this top sales person recounts for the customs agent how her passport fell into a sink filled with water. The customs official responds that water commonly damages travel documents. 

Customs then says that she is not allowed to return home until she gains a replacement passport. She experiences anxiousness about this twist. She leaves for the taxis, rides back to the hotel and stares out the car window.

Usual Reasons For Damage

Later, near her hotel, a travel consultant gives our unfortunate sales representative a cup of tea. The travel expert beckons her to sit in a chair against a wall on which hangs a painting of a white cruise ship. Many substances can do damage to a passport, the travel agent offers. He recalls one tourist who dumped ink on his travel documents as well as a mountain climber who jumped onto his passport while wearing climbing shoes. The pointy spikes made his visas look like Swiss cheese. Some passports get dented by heavy objects or people fold their travel documents and visas like newspapers. Harm caused by water occurs regularly and humidity is also bad for passports.

How To Recognize Damage

So how do voyagers know that their passport needs to be placed on the disabled list? Travelers could use fingers and eyes. A photo that looks chafed, blemished, or unclear attests to the presence of damage. Letters of the alphabet that appear poorly typed indicate the presence of damage.

Customs officials can allege that travel documents are not credible if the electronic computer chip grafted inside does not operate. Passports currently carry a bar code and a computer chip. Customs officials may designate that a passport is too damaged to use if the bar code becomes unreadable. A chip could be corrupted electronically or physically.

Effects Caused By Damage

There are many affects from these types of damage. One affect is blockage from traveling to the country of departure. Imagine being in an airport and watching the passengers returning home. You cannot join them for several days. Unfortunately, torn pages in the passport you use do not credibly indicate which nation you were in previously. So the current country blocks you from going to the country you say you were in previously.

Loss can be illustrated by using the topic of anonymity. If tourists must substitute a scraped and dented travel document, they need follow processes and employ government officials. The tourist may have to speak to police agencies. This likely entails signing a few police documents. Oh yes, you must reapply for a replacement passport personally. Every signature certifies that you were present at that place. You will lose anonymity.

The delay to proceed home can bring about a loss of financial resources. Departing gets held up because of the wait for delivery of new undamaged travel documents. How crucial is the deprivation of money on account of missing a week away from work? An unforeseen loss of money can kick a hole in a vacation budget.

The replacement passport and visas arrived in about one week. Her trip back home made her happy especially because she had brought extra money for emergency purposes. She promises herself to secure a replacement passport and visas before they get too worn. She promises to protect her travel documents when she travels in the future.

What to know about a damaged passport is shown here. Remain aware of possible hazards that inflict the greatest harm. Review how to sort passport damage in terms of severity and shrink the hurtful outcomes that damage creates.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4520497

Protect the Identities and Passports of You and Your Loved Ones

Having a passport can open worlds of possibilities for you and your family, but with this power comes great responsibility. Passports for many are their sole source of proof of their citizenship, and if your passport gets in the hands of someone who plans to abuse it, it becomes a very serious situation for you and your identity. It is important to remember that, when getting a passport, the proper precautions can protect you from identity theft.

Knowing the acquisition process for a passport can potentially save you from serious consequences. An applicant, before he can gain a passport, has to provide proof of their citizenship, either by a birth certificate or a naturalization certificate. A form of identification, a driver's liscense, a school ID, must be present to prove that the birth certificate is actually theirs. This process can be manipulated, however. With the right instruments, a criminal could steal or forge both an ID and a birth certificate, effectively adopting someone else's identity.

There are multiple ways a identity thief can get their hands on a passport. With the application and granting of a visa, an alien can enter the United States. This visa, however, only allows the alien to stay for a preset amount of time. Criminals will stay in the United States past this appointed time and will begin to integrate themselves into American society, and will try to acquire identification cards. Once he gains an ID, he can apply for jobs, credit cards, and even a social security card.

There are other options that allow criminals to illegally gain a passport. Passports are only valid for a set aamount of time. A child under 16 has his passport valid for five years, while a person over 16 has 10 years. This space of time presents a fruitful opportunity for a criminal, especially if you don't travel very often.

If you think your passport has been stolen or just lost, be sure to report it immediately. When you apply for a new passport, you fill out a form reporting that you suspect your passport has been stolen. It is important then to reapply as quickly as possible, time can be the difference when it comes to your identity.

Identity theft doesn't have to happen to you. Armed with the right information and the right precautions, it can be totally preventable. Simple steps can prove to save your identity. Make sure you keep track of old, as well as new, social security cards, driver's liscenses, ID's, and birth certificates. 

With the possibility of identity theft out of your mind, you and your family can finally enjoy that relaxing get away.

When you apply for a new US passport, the old passport is returned to you to keep. Although it is technically useless, it can still be used as an informal form of identification. In the case of a divorce or wedding, a new passport is required. It is important that these two American passports don't get mixed up and put in the wrong hands.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4221789

Infants Need a Passport For International Travel

Any parent that is going on an international trip and that plans on taking their child should get familiar with infant passport laws immediately. If you think that just because the child is a newborn or a minor that they can freely pass between borders, you are sadly mistaken. The process itself is almost identical to what an adult has to do, with provisions in place because of the age of the young international traveler.

For a parent to raise their arms and question the fact that they have to have an infant passport is not uncommon. However, many people forget that it is still about people leaving and coming back to a country. To allow random children to enter or leave the country without accountability could lead to some very serious issues.

Something else to consider are such horrible things as human trafficking and kidnapping. Believe it or not, this happens with parents of children who are trying to get away from another parent. The angry mother who has just lost her child custody case or perhaps the father that has disappeared to another country and suddenly shows up and wants his child back.

The infant or child will get their passport in much the same way that an adult does. It goes without saying that the child will not be able to do this on their own, so mom and or dad are going to have to do all of the work in order for a valid passport to be obtained. In addition to the forms, do not forget to get the passport photos of the child.

Since an infant cannot sign their own name, mom and or dad are going to have to handle the task for them. It is actually a co-signature that goes on the passport until the child can sign the passport by themselves. When the child is able to sign their own name, the passport can be renewed with their actual signature on the passport.

For the parent signature to be valid on the passport, it has to be done in a very specific way. The parent will have to sign the child's name and then sign their name right next to it. After that, they need to put their relationship next both signatures in parenthesis stating their relationship to the child. 

If only one parent will be going on the trip with the infant, it is best if that parent is the one that signs the passport for the baby.

If a child is not yet 16 the passport can only be obtained if consent is given by the parents. The obvious reason for this is so that one parent does not get the passport and take the child out of the country without the knowledge of the other parent. This will not be a problem for parents that are still together, but if there has been a divorce or separation, make sure time is allotted to get everything together so there is not a problem in securing tickets or making the trip.

It may have seemed a little silly before reading all of this as to why an infant passport is required, but it should be clear now. Unfortunately, international travel is not always about business or fun. There are a lot of people with ulterior motives that would love to be able to get children in and out of countries with no records being kept. While it can take some time, infant passports are a necessity and always will be.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3828297

How to Renew a Passport at the Australian Embassy in Thailand

Australians who are in the Kingdom of Thailand upon the expiration of their passports should renew it personally at the Australian Embassy located along South Sathom Road in Bangkok.

Australian immigration rules prohibit renewal of passports by mail. Therefore the passport holder should go to the Australian Embassy in Thailand between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm, Mondays to Fridays and file an application for the renewal of their passports.

Processing time usually takes around ten (10) working days, depending on the sufficiency of the requirements submitted. If the applicant renewing the passport fails to submit one requirement, as in the case where the required parental consent was not submitted when an application for a child passport was filed, processing time will definitely be delayed.

An Australian passport is the single, most important piece of document which an Australian national can possess in Thailand. Thus, it is very essential for its holder to renew it on time before it ever expires, or before there are no more pages left.

The applicant must use the Australian Passport Renewal Application Form if he or she is an Australian adult citizen who is eighteen (18) years of age or over, and the passport possesses all these characteristics mentioned below:

• That the passport is either unexpired or expired for a period of less than twenty-four (24) months

•  That the passport must have been issued with at least a two-year validity period

•  That the applicant's present personal details are still the same as the personal details indicated in the old passport

• The passport to be presented in the interview must be the same type of passport being applied for

If an applicant answers no to any of the circumstance listed above, he will need to complete a different form referred to as the "Full Passport Application Form."

Should there be a necessity for the issuance of a passport for immediate travel, the applicant may request for the issuance of an emergency passport for urgent travel. Although the applicant for an emergency passport is exempt from paying the required application, he shall however, be compelled to pay the priority processing fee.

Siam Legal International provides legal services to Australian citizens in Thailand. We have registered Australian Solicitor Thailand working in our law firm. You can also visit our website for assistance with filing an application for an Australian Visa Thailand.

Martin Juarez is a Business Correspondent for Siam Legal International, Thailand's largest legal service network with offices in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Chiang Mai and Samui. The firm has international locations in London and Los Angeles. Siam Legal is a full-service law firm and provides a wide range of legal and Thailand visa services. Reach Siam Legal at +(66) 2-253-8100, or info@siam-legal.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3432933

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

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

Find Out If You Need a Passport When Traveling to Mexico

Because of its fantastic culture, food, beaches, and its proximity to the United States, Mexico is one of the most popular foreign destinations among Americans. If you're into pre-Hispanic civilizations such as the Olmec and the Maya, Mexican cuisine, and Acapulco and Cancun, then it's no surprise you're reading this article. Let us show you everything you need to go to Mexico, including information on what the passport requirements are when traveling to our Southern neighbor.

Because Mexico is a part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), you can travel to this destination by presenting US documents that are accepted for your visit. Some of the documents you may use include your passport book and passport card. These documents help establish proof of your identity and citizenship.

But what's the difference between the two types of passports? You are probably familiar now with the passport book. It's the conventional booklet that is used to travel to the foreign destinations that need one. One benefit of a passport book is that you'll have greater flexibility when traveling because you can travel anywhere with your passport. Use of this document is mandatory for all international air travel, even to WHTI destinations.

Meanwhile, the passport card provides you with several benefits over the passport book. For one, it easily fits into your wallet, making it easier to keep than the passport book that's bulky. Also, applying for a passport card is cheaper than the passport book. But on the down side, you can only use this card when traveling to WHTI destinations by sea or land.

You can also apply for both passports and let them complement each other depending on the type of travel you're going to make. Use your card for land or sea travel to WHTI territories, while using your book for air travel. If you can, apply for both passports at the same time to get a huge discount in your application fees.

Although Mexico is part of the WHTI, you need to check if you can use other types of documents that prove your identity and citizenship. Such documents include your birth certificate and your State-issued enhanced driver's license. Make sure you ask the Mexican Embassy about this before you travel to keep you free from hassle and delays on your way there.

Keep in mind that there are certain additional passport requirements for minors and business people traveling to Mexico. Minors have to bring a notarized copy of the parental consent. This document should also include the child's travel details including the airlines he/she will be taking, as well as the minor's travel schedule. Filling in Form FM-N is required of business people to authorize them to conduct business in the country. If you have more questions regarding the requirements of the two, check with the Mexican Embassy.

When traveling to Mexico, make sure you secure the proper ID first before leaving the country. Also make sure what the passport requirements are before traveling there. Just remember that when traveling to Mexico by land or sea, you can use your US passport card. On the other hand, you'll need to use the United States passport book if you're traveling by air.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3361158

6 Steps to Obtaining a Passport For Your Child

1. The first step in applying is to determine whether or not you just need to show proof of identification for yourself and your child and or if you also need to fill out the form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport.

A child must submit form DS -11 if they fall into any of the below categories:

    o    They have never been issued a U.S. passport or

    o    They are under age 16 or

    o    They were under age 16 when their previous passport was issued or

    o    Their most recent passport was issued more than 15 years ago or

    o    Their most recent passport was lost or stolen or

    o    Their name has changed since their previous U.S. passport was issued and

    they are unable to legally document the name change

The form DS-11 can be filled out online or by hand. The form and any additional required documentation must be presented in person. The form cannot be mailed in.

 2. The second step in applying :

Along with submitting the form DS-11 your child must submit proof of U.S. citizenship.  The documents are left with the office along with your application, to be returned to you in the mail with your new passport.

A child must submit one of the following as proof of their U.S. citizenship:

    o    A previously issued U.S. passport (undamaged)

    o    A Certified Birth Certificate issued by the city, county, or state

    o    Certification of Birth if born abroad or a Consular Report of Birth

    o    A Naturalization certificate

    o    A Certificate of Citizenship

3. The third step to applying is for your child to actually identify themselves.

These are the forms accepted as identification:

    o    A valid driver's license

    o    A previously issued passport (undamaged)

    o    A  Naturalization Certificate

    o    A current military ID (military and dependents)

    o    A current Govt. ID (city, state, or federal)

Now when you look at the prior list this isn't going to work for a minor or someone under driving age. So there are secondary means by which your child can be identified and you can find those options out by contacting your local passport agency.

4. The fourth step is to submit a photocopy of the identification presented:

Whatever form of ID is used to identify your child, you must also submit a photocopy of the this ID on a plain white 81/2 x11 piece of paper. (There are very precise stipulations about how this is done, so be sure to check with your local office)

5.  Pay the Applicable Fee associated with obtaining your passport.

The fee structure for children is based on a being either:

 

A Minor - Under the Age of 16

An Adult- Age 16 Years and Older

You can find a chart with passport fees through your local office or online.

6. Last but not least, you will need to supply two passport photos of your child.

Here are the requirements for the photographs:

They must be identical

They must be 2 x2 inches in size

The photos must have a plain white or off-white background and show full face.

The photos must be between 1 inch and  1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.

They must be in color

They must show your current appearance and taken in the last 6 months.

 

No uniforms (except religious attire worn daily) . Wear regular street clothes.

Anything like a hat cannot block the hair or hairline.

Wear anything you normally wear like glasses , etc..

Sunglasses or any glasses with tinted lenses are not allowed unless needed for medical reasons (proof can be required)

Keep in mind, your  child must accompany you to the passport office. You can not apply for your child's passport without them.  You will also need to prove that you are in fact the parent or legal guardian of your child. The U.S. Dept. of State will provide you with these forms.

Allow at least eight weeks to receive your passports. There are faster ways to receive a passport and will just require some research online or a phone call and typically paying more money to expedite the process. You can check the status of your passport via a website once you have applied. 

Getting a passport for your child is not difficult as long as you just follow step-by-step what is expected of you. Susan has been writing articles online for nearly a year now. Not only does this author specialize in dogs, travel, and eating well, you can also check out her latest website on air mattress pumps [http://www.airmattresspumpshop.com/] which reviews and lists the different variety of Coleman models of air mattress pumps [http://www.airmattresspumpshop.com/] available to make inflating all of your summer toys and air mattresses efficient and easy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2951968

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

Protect Your Passports With Waterproof Passport Covers

Your passport is undoubtedly one of the most important documents that you need when traveling, along with your visa, plane tickets, ID and other identification materials. Because of this, it's very important that you do everything it takes to protect your passport. You can get a passport cover, which you can slip into your passport as a sleeve. Not only will you keep your passport protected from wear and tear but you can also keep your country of origin confidential, so as to avoid any potential theft. If you are going on a water adventure, if you are exceptionally accident-prone or you just don't want to take any chances, then waterproof passport covers are also recommended for you.

Other kinds of passport covers

There are actually many kinds of passport covers that you can choose from, all of which are designed to protect this important document. One of them is the leather cover. Aside from durability, leather can also provide a classic and stylish look. Leather can also effectively conceal your passport and make it look just like a small notebook or a wallet. If you want more design and color, then you can go for cloth passport covers. These fashionable covers offer a wide range of patterns and colors that can suit your preference. However, be reminded that they do not offer much protection like the other covers.

Play it safe with waterproof passport covers

Waterproof passport covers will let you rest assured that your passport is safe no matter where you go. Choose one that comes with a detachable cord so you can hang it around the neck of your belt. If you are storing your passport after use, then it's advisable to remove the passport cover to avoid mold buildup in your passport. Choose one that also has room for your other essentials. Your other valuables such as credit cards, cash, checks and others should all go under the waterproof shield.

Important information

Complete information on waterproof passport covers is available at PickyGuide, the authority in free consumer advice. Access top-ranked, best-reviewed, and most competitively priced passport covers in PickyGuide's recommended products section.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1700925

No Need To Worry With A Lost American Passport

If you are organizing an elaborate vacation with lots of traveling and moving around, don't forget to take some important steps to prepare yourself in case some sort of accident occurs and you end up with a lost American passport. Whether you lose your passport during the scuffle of packing or you get pick-pocketed while you are getting on and off of trains in Europe, you should be prepared by informing yourself ahead of time, about the process of getting a new passport.

Losing your passport in the U. S. is a lot better than losing it while you are traveling. Simply download the appropriate form from the Department of State's website and send it in. They will have a new passport to you in no time without the hassle of foreign embassies and whatnot.

Unfortunately, anyone who has ever traveled before knows that things get stolen and lost a lot easier when you are carrying around everything you own from country to country. If your passport gets stolen, you have to tell the local authorities so they can help you try to track it down. If you have simply misplaced or lost your passport, you will need to talk to somebody at the United States Embassy about getting a temporary passport for your return flight home (or the rest of your travels). Bring all of your planned itineraries with you to the Embassy so you can clearly explain why you need a temporary passport.

The Embassy will ask you to fill out a passport application, but due to new regulations, they cannot give you a real passport. When you arrive back in the U. S., you will have to re-apply for a permanent passport to replace your lost or stolen one.

The worst thing to happen while traveling is not only having your passport go missing but to lose all and any form of identification. Going to the embassy and asking for a temporary passport under a name that you cannot verify is a sticky situation. Avoid any trouble by making Xerox copies of your passport, bank cards and your driver's license before leaving the United States. Although photocopies are not official documents, they will work when you are in a bind.

If you have already left on your trip and cannot find a copy machine anywhere, write down all of your ID information with important numbers and dates on a clean piece of paper. Knowing your passport number will help to expedite the temporary passport application process.

Have someone trustworthy from home agree to pay for passport fees in the event that something happens with your documents. You could have your money stolen as well. Think of these things ahead of time and make preparations.

Although there are steps you can take to try to avoid wandering around a foreign country with a lost American passport, not everyone is so lucky. Keep copies of all information you think could help you and hide it in various different spots in your luggage and wallet. Don't pack your photocopies with your originals, there is no point in making copies if everything gets lost or stolen together. United States passport documents are easy to get replaced and overnighted.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5065077

Insurance for A Lost Passport?

One of the most common international travel disasters is a lost passport. Whether you lose it at home before you even leave the country or lose it while you are traveling, it's a major hassle. Lost and stolen passports are expensive to replace, with application fees starting at $135 for adults. Beyond that, there are often additional costs involved if you need to expedite replacing your passport, such as fees paid to expediting companies or travel expenses to get to a regional passport agency office if you don't have one close by.

Should you be unable to get your passport replaced in time, you'll also face additional fees for having to cancel or reschedule your flight. If you lose your passport while you are overseas, you may also have to pay for additional nights' lodging while you get a new one.

Is there any way to protect yourself from the problems a lost passport can cause? You may be able to get some peace of mind by purchasing a travel insurance policy from a reputable insurer, but make sure to read the fine print before you do.

Passport Insurance

 

The truth is, many travel insurance companies do offer some coverage for a lost or stolen passport. In the industry, this is referred to as Passport and Credit Card Services coverage. Here's what it does:

• Operators from the travel insurance company walk you through the procedure for reporting your lost passport to the authorities and applying for a replacement passport. This assistance should actually be available with any travel insurance policy, whether it includes the additional benefits provided by Passport and Credit Card Services coverage or not.
  


• As part of the Passport and Credit Card Services coverage, the travel insurance company may reimburse you for the cost of replacing your passport.
  
  
• Additionally, if you've lost the credit cards in your wallet along with your passport, the travel insurance company will generally cover any unauthorized charges and help your family or friends send you money overseas so you can get back home.

However, it's important to read your policy carefully to see what circumstances are covered. Some policies may only cover the costs of replacing a passport that has been stolen as opposed to merely misplaced. Passports left in your checked baggage and lost in the airport are also often excluded from coverage. There's also no guarantee that a lost or stolen passport will be considered a "covered reason" to reimburse you for charges related to rescheduling flights or rebooking hotels. Again, read your policy carefully and shop around before you buy one to ensure you get the best deal.

 

As with so many other things, when it comes to a lost passport, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

About the Author

Alison Kroulek is a freelance writer and blogger with a focus on the travel industry.