Documents Needed For an Expedited Passport

Typically, it takes 6 weeks for the US government to process a passport application and issue a new passport. If you pay an additional $60 for expedited passport service, that will cut the time down to 3 weeks. There are other, faster expedited passport options as well. However, if you need an expedited passport, it's imperative that you submit all of the appropriate documents the first time. This list shows what is required:

For Expedited Service At The Post Office 

If you don't mind waiting 3 weeks or longer for your passport, you can simply request expedited passport service when you go to the post office to apply. Here's what you will need:

• A passport application form, DS-11
  
  
• Government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license, ID card or naturalization certificate.
  
  
• A clear photocopy of your ID
  
  
• Proof of citizenship, such as a certified copy of your birth certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship.
  
  
• Two passport photos
  
  
• Applicable fees (currently, a $75 application fee and a $25 execution fee, plus $60 for expedited service and $14.95 for overnight delivery.)
  

Make sure to write "Expedite" on the envelope.

For Expedited Service At A Regional Passport Agency Office 

If you need your passport in 14 days or less, you can make an appointment a Regional Passport Agency office by calling 1–877–487–2778.

In addition to all of the documents listed above, you will need to bring:

• A copy of your travel itinerary, showing that you will be departing within the next 14 days.
  
  
• Your appointment confirmation number
  

For Expedited Service With a Private Passport Expediting Company 

If you don't have a passport agency office nearby or you simply don't want to go through the trouble of making an appointment, you can also use a private passport expediting company. To use an expediting company, you apply as normal at the post office. But, instead of having the post office forward your paperwork to the Department of State, you have them "sealed" and send them to the expediting company instead.

When using an expediting company, you'll need all the documents listed above plus an authorization letter, which is an official letter giving the expediting company permission to apply for an expedited passport on your behalf.

Author,

Alison Kroulek

Passports Vs Passport Cards

In 2009, the US Department of State began allowing passengers to apply for a passport card, a smaller, wallet-sized version of a US passport. The passport card is about the same size as a driver's license or a credit card, so it is easy to carry. It is also cheaper than a regular passport: a new passport card costs $45 for an adult and $35 for a child, while a new passport costs $75 for an adult and $60 for a child.

However, just because a passport card costs less and is more conveniently sized than the traditional passport book, that doesn't necessarily make it the best choice. Passport cards were designed for a specific type of traveler- someone who frequently drives across either the Mexican or Canadian border. Passport cards were introduced to make it easier for people who frequently cross into Mexico or Canada to comply with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which went into effect in June of 2009 and requires US citizens to present a passport to get back into the US from these countries.

One important limitation of passport cards is that they are not valid for international air travel. They can only be used for land or sea travel, and only to countries included in the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean. This is a big deal-imagine driving into Mexico or going on a Caribbean cruise, only to have an emergency and need to fly back home!

Before you apply for a passport card, consider whether or not it is the right choice for you. For most people, a regular passport book is still the best choice. A passport book is valid for travel around the world, not just to countries in the Western Hemisphere. And, it's valid for air travel, too.

Like the passport book, the passport card is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under the age of 16. You can get a discount by applying for both a new passport and a new passport book at the same time.

Author,

Alison Kroulek

Israeli Passport

Every citizen must have a passport – even a baby

New passport

You need to go to the ministry of interior with your updated picture (presence is required). You should come when it's not the holidays season and at the morning.

For an adult, the validity of the passport is 10 years from the day it was given (section 4a). If the validity of the passport is less than 10 years, you can extend it, as long as the sum of the extensions is not bigger than 10 years.

For a minor (till the age of 18), the validity of the passport is only for 5 years, and a parent presence is required. In case the parents are not married, both parents need to come.

There is a passport with 64 pages designed basically to business men who fly frequently.

Passport extension

In Israel, extending your passport doesn't require payment.

You can also extend it in the airport, but the price there is very high.

Its open 24 hours a day, not including Saturdays and holidays, and on Friday, they work till 14:30.

While you're abroad, you can extend your passport at the local embassy/consulate. In Israel, you can use the 171 postal service, and a messenger will bring you the documents for a fee.

In case the passport was stolen or lost, the renewal in Israel is valid for one year only, whereas abroad you will receive a pass certificate (for your information, some countries don't allow passing through them with it, so you'll need to check it) or any other certificate so you can continue the trip. It's your duty to inform the local police or the representatives back at your country and bring confirmations that you have lost or, bring two passport pictures, documents that you download from their website or at the consulate/embassy. You are also recommended to bring a picture of the lost/stolen passport.

Renewing lost/stolen passport costs money.

Important rule: the passport must be in valid for at least half a year from the time you leave Israel's borders. There are countries, like Turkey and the Czech Republic that require at least 3 months validity.

In case you have another passport, you are allowed to carry them both. When you arrive or leave the country, you must bring the Israeli passport, and when you arrive abroad, you can choose which passport suits you.

The guidance is conclusive, and reasonable: don't take the passport out of your sight, even for a second. At the check-in, you can see that the officer prints the first page at most places, compares it to the information in the computer, and sings the passport.

At the front desk in the hotel, for the convenience of the clerk, he demands that you leave him your passport, so he could write your information. First of all, you don't hand out the passport to someone you don't know (terrorists pay a lot of money for an Israeli passport). Second, your passport is your method of identification abroad.

 You cannot leave the passport in the reception when you register, but they can copy your passport with the following information: your first and last name, the year you were born, your nationality, and your passport's number (it takes no more than a minute). They can't copy anything else (they don't need to), and they must return it to you as soon as possible. These actions must be made in your line of sight and you need to watch if they copy it like the original. The only place it's allowed to print your passport alike is at the check in at the airport.

If you don't want to stand on the this principle, give them a copy (size 1X1 with a passport picture - laminated), and make sure you take it back. At the rest of the time, the passport must be found on you, at all time, and just in case, store it with your money, licenses, flight tickets and credit cards in a pocket's sock or in an interior pocket you sewed, attached to your belt.

Recommendation

Scan all the important documents you own (including the passport) before you fly, and send it to your private email account, just in case you might need it (it will be easy to print it from all over the world).

 Today, a biometric signature is available (reading you palm), and it saves a lot of time waiting in line for the clerk.

Author,

yair bar zohar

Do You Need a Passport to Go to Jamaica?

Jamaica is a paradise of white-sand beaches, crystal-blue water and excellent coffee. All of these features make it an attractive summer vacation choice for many Americans. However, Americans traveling to Jamaica should be sure that they understand which documents they need to carry for their trip. For details, consult this helpful guide:

If You Are Traveling by Plane

If you are traveling by plane, the only acceptable document is a US passport book. All American citizens flying to Jamaica need to carry a passport, even newborn infants. You will not be allowed to board your plane with your passport.

If You Are Traveling by Sea

Jamaica is included in the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which requires US citizens traveling to Jamaica by sea to present a US passport book or one of the following documents in order to return to the United States:

• A passport card

• An enhanced driver's license (EDL)-only available in certain states 

• A  NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to passport requirements for Americans traveling to and from Jamaica by sea in certain situations. For example, children under the age of 16 traveling by sea can use their birth certificates as proof of citizenship, as can children under the age of 19 if they are traveling by sea under adult supervision as part of a school group, church group or sports team.

American citizens visiting Jamaica as part of a closed-loop cruise, one that begins and ends in the same US port, can also get by with just a driver's license and a birth certificate.

However, even if you can get by with a birth certificate and a driver's license, it's best to carry a passport with you anyway. That way, if an emergency happens and you need to fly back home, you'll be covered.

Remember, it takes about 6 weeks for a passport to be issued if you apply for regular processing. If you apply for expedited passport processing, expect to wait about 3 weeks. If you need it sooner, you can either make an appointment at the nearest Regional Passport Agency office or apply for an expedited passport or passport renewal through a private expediting company.

Author,

Alison Kroulek

Renewing a Passport Versus Getting a New One

When you renew an expiring passport, you might expect to follow the same procedure that you did when you got your first passport. Fortunately, for most people, it's actually a lot easier the second time around. Here's how renewing your passport compares to getting a new one.

Renew by Mail 

The first time you got your passport, you had to go to a passport acceptance facility, perhaps a post office, a library or a local municipal office. While there, you had to fill out the application form and sign it by hand in front of the person who took your application. Then, your application was placed in an envelope and mailed to the Department of State for you.

This time, you might not have to go to the post office at all. You are eligible to apply for a passport renewal by mail as long as all of the following statements are true:

• Your current passport has not been lost, stolen or damaged.
  
  
• You were past your 16th birthday when your current passport was issued.
  
  
• Your current passport is less than 15 years old.
  
  
• If you've been married, divorced or otherwise changed your name since your last passport was issued, you can submit legal documentation to support your name change request.
  

Now, if you answered "no" to any of the questions above, you'll need to apply at a post office just like you did the first time. However, if you answered "yes" to all, you can fill out your passport renewal application in the comfort of your own home and mail it in.

Required Documents 

The first time you apply for your passport, you are required to prove both your identity and your US citizenship. So, you need a driver's license or another state-issued ID along with a copy of your birth certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship.

However, when you renew your passport, your old passport serves as both proof of ID and proof of citizenship. All you need to send in is your current passport, 1 passport photo, the appropriate fees and a completed copy of passport renewal application form DS-82.

Fees

It's also a little bit cheaper to renew your passport than it is to apply for one. Since you don't have to apply in person, you don't have to pay the $25 acceptance fee that goes to the acceptance facility. 

Currently, it'll cost $110 to renew your passport, $140 if you'd also like a passport card and $30 for the card alone. Be aware that the passport card cannot be used for air travel or for travel anywhere other than Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean.

How to Fill Out a Child's Passport Application

Your children rely on you to do many things for them, and filling out a passport application is one of them. Passport application forms are written for adult applicants, so it can be a little confusing. There are also additional documents required when applying on behalf of a child.

Here's what you need to know about filling out the application form on behalf of your child:

• Use Form DS-11 when applying on behalf of a child under the age of 16, even if he or she has a previous passport.
  
  
• Remember that the form is written for adult applicants. Answer each question as if you were your child. The form asks for the applicant's name twice- both times, you should print your child's name instead of your own.
  
  
• Sign the form on behalf of your child, but don't do so until you've arrived at the passport office and the agent helping you with your application has instructed you to do so. After you sign your name, print "Mother" or "Father" as applicable.
  

Documents Required 

The other tricky part of completing a child's passport application is gathering all of the necessary documents. The document requirements for child passports are more intensive than those for adult passports, mainly because you not only have to prove that your child is a citizen, but also that you are authorized to apply for a passport on his or her behalf. Here's what you'll need:

• Government-issued photo ID for you, such as a driver's license or a state ID card. You'll need both the original to take to the passport office and clean photocopy to send to Passport Services.
  
  
• Proof of your relationship to the child, such as a birth certificate, adoption decree or court order granting custody.
  
  
• If both parents are unable to be at the passport office with the child, you'll also need proof that the other parent consents to the child getting a passport. Have the other parent fill out a copy of Form DS-3053 and get it notarized, then bring that with you to the passport office.
  
  
• If you have sole legal custody of the child in question, you don't need the other parent's permission but you do need to bring one of the following when you go to submit the passport application: a birth certificate for the child with only your name on it, an adoption decree with only your name on it, a court order awarding sole custody of the child to you or officially permitting international travel, a copy of the other parent's death certificate or legal paperwork showing that the other parent has been declared incompetent.
  
  
• One passport photo.
  

At the passport office, you'll submit the paperwork, pay the fees, and if all goes well you'll have a passport for your child in about six weeks, or three weeks if you expedited the application.

Author,

Alison Kroulek

Child Passport Requirements: Know Before You Go

Even the youngest American children are required to have passports to travel outside of the country. The procedure for getting a child passport (for a child under 16 years of age) is different than the procedure for getting a passport for an adult, and additional documentation is required.

Here's what you need to do:

Step 1: Get pictures taken. You will need two passport photos of the child's face. If your child is still an infant, it's a good idea to go to a photographer who has experience working with babies to make sure you get a good enough shot.

Step 2: Gather your documents. In addition to passport photos, you need the following:

• Passport application form DS-11. It's okay to fill the form out ahead of time to shorten the amount of time spent in a passport office with a potentially fussy child, but don't sign it until you go in to apply and the acceptance agent tells you to.
•  
• Proof of the child's citizenship, such as a previously issued passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship. 
•  
• Proof of your identity, such as a driver's license or other state-issued photo ID. Bring both the original and a clear photocopy. 
•  
• Proof of your relationship to the child, such as a birth certificate, adoption decree or court order naming you as the child's guardian.

Step 3: Go to the passport office.

You must apply for a child passport in person at a Regional Passport Agency office or a passport acceptance facility (like a post office that accepts passport applications.) To help prevent abduction, both parents are required to appear with the child for the passport to be issued.

 

If both parents can't make it, you will need a notarized statement of consent from the second parent unless you have sole legal custody of the child. If you do have sole custody, simply bring evidence of that fact. Evidence of sole custody can include a copy of the child's birth certificate or adoption decree with only your name on it; a court order granting sole custody to you, a court order specifically giving you the right to travel with the child, a court order declaring the other parent incompetent, or a copy of the other parent's death certificate if they are no longer living.

If you can't get any of the above the documents, you can submit a copy of form DS-053 stating why the other parent's consent cannot be obtained. These are examined on a case-by-case basis.

Step 4: Pay the fees and wait.

Passport fees change periodically to reflect rising costs- you can get the most current fee information at the US Department of State's web site. After that, all you have to do is wait for your child's passport to arrive in the mail. Usually, this takes about 6 weeks for regular processing and 3 weeks for expedited processing.

Author,

Alison Kroulek

Applying for a Child's Passport

Any parent or guardian can be forgiven for being a bit confused, and a bit nervous, when it comes to applying for a child's passport. So here are some of the most common questions answered.

What age can my child have a passport?

A child can have a passport from birth. If you intend to travel with your children they must have their own valid passport. So whether your child is one month old, five years or 15 they must have their own passport. Laws changed in 1998, when children under 16 were included on their parent's passport, in line with International Law and child abduction prevention.

How much is a UK child's passport?

The cost of your child's first passport is £49, this is for the standard service and takes approximately three weeks. If you want to fast-track the service, which takes a week, then it will cost £96.50.

How long will it take to get my child's passport back?

The IPS, the Government Department who issue passports, states that their standard service will take approximately three weeks – this is if the passport form and photograph are correct. The fast-track service costs more but you will get your passport back in one week, assuming your paperwork and photo are correct.

The Post Office offers a ‘Check & Send' Service which takes two weeks. There is an additional charge for this but the Post Office Clerk will check your paper work and photo is correct, thus avoiding any delays once the IPS has received it.

Tracking your child's passport progress

You can track the progress of your passport application by going online, or calling 0300 222 0000, and quoting the unique bar code number on the passport application form.

How long is a child passport valid for?

A child's passport – a child being deemed as 15 and under – will be valid for 5 years.

What documentation do I need to apply for my child's passport?

For a child born or adopted in the UK you will need to send with your child's application form their birth or adoption certificate – the original, not a photocopy. You will also need to include one of the parent's current passport numbers – there is a section for this on the form. If the parents' passports have expired then it will need to be sent with the application. Or a birth certificate for either parent.

If your child was born or adopted outside of the UK 

please see the official direct.gov.uk website – click the ‘travel and transport' section and go to the ‘Passport' link.

Who needs to sign my child's passport application form?
The parent, or guardian, will need to sign the application form.

If you are divorced and are applying for a passport for your child then either parent can sign, unless there is a court order preventing this. Other court order documentation, whereby access and such like is granted, should be sent along with the application form.

If the parents are not married the mother can sign. The father can sign if he has a parental responsibility order or agreement. This needs to be sent with the application. Or if he is named on the birth certificate.

Can I renew my child's passport early, i.e. it still has time left on it but expires whilst we are travelling?

You can renew your child's passport at any time providing it is a standard five year passport, has not been damaged and you do not need to change any information on it, for example their name or national status.

Any time left on the new passport, up to a maximum of nine months, will be added to the new passport.

My child is about to turn 16, do they need to apply for an adult passport?

If your child's passport has yet to expire but the child is due to turn 16 you do not have to apply for an adult's passport until their current child's passport expires. So, for example, if the child turns 16 and there is still 3 years left on their child's passport they do not need to renew/apply for an adult's passport until they are 19 years old, once it has expired.

Passport Renewal for Children

Child passports only last for 5 years, so if you get a passport for a young child, there is a good chance that you will have to renew it at some point. Passport renewal for children is different from passport renewal for adults.

Unlike adults, who are allowed to renew their passports by mail, children must appear in person at a passport office to renew their passports. Children must also have the consent of both parents in order to apply for a passport renewal until they turn 16. Teens ages 16 and 17 need parental consent from one parent.

Parental consent can be proven in one of the following ways:

• Both parents accompany the child to apply for his or her passport renewal.
  
  
• One parent accompanies the child and brings a notarized statement of parental consent from the other parent.
  
  
• One parent with sole legal custody can provide consent for the child as long as the parent brings proof that they have sole custody, such as a birth certificate or adoption decree with only one parents' name on it, or a court order.
  
   If neither parent is available to accompany the child, another person can bring the child in with a notarized written statement or affidavit from both parents (or one parent with sole legal custody).
  

In addition, you will need the following documents:

• Proof of your identity, such as a government-issued photo ID, as well as a photocopy of this ID.
  
• Proof of your relationship to the child, such as a birth certificate, adoption decree or court order.
  
• Proof of the child's citizenship, such as the child's current passport, a birth certificate or a naturalization certificate.
  
• 2 passport photos
  

Once you have everything together, head down to your local passport acceptance facility (often a post office or library), fill out passport form DS-11 and sign it when the passport agent tells you to, pay the applicable fees, and your child's passport renewal should be processed within the next 6 weeks (if you use regular service).

Author,

Alison Kroulek

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

Passport Renewal for Families

Is it time for your family to renew their passports? Keeping in mind the State Department's requirements for different age groups will make the process go more smoothly for each member of the family.

Passport Renewal for Adults 

Adults are eligible to renew their passports by mail as long as all of the following conditions are met:

• The current passport was issued when the adult was 16 years or old or older
  
  
• The current passport was issued less than 15 years ago
  
  
• The current passport has not been lost, stolen or damaged.
  
  
• Legal proof can be provided for any name changes since the last passport was issued.
  

To renew by mail, send in your old passport, one photo and a completed renewal application form, along with the appropriate fees.

Passport Renewal for Children Younger Than 16 

Children younger than 16 are not eligible to renew by mail, and must appear in person at a designated passport acceptance facility (like a post office). To get your child's passport renewed, both parents need to appear in person with proof of identity, proof of their relationship to the child and proof of the child's US citizenship. For most families, a birth certificate can be used for proof of relationship and proof of citizenship. However, other options for proof of relationship include an adoption decree or court order establishing guardianship. For proof of citizenship, children adopted from a foreign country will need a certificate of citizenship.

  

If both parents cannot appear in person, the parent who takes the child in will need a notarized consent form from the child's other parent. 

If the other parent is not in the picture, proof that the parent has sole custody or guardianship must be provided.

In addition, you'll need to provide one passport photo of your child, complete an application form on his or her behalf and pay the appropriate fees.

Passport Renewal For Children 16 and 17 

Children age 16 and 17 must also appear in person to apply for a passport renewal, provide proof of citizenship and proof of parental consent. If your teen has a driver's license or ID card, he or she can submit it as proof of identity. If not, you'll use your own driver's license or ID card instead.

One important fact to keep in mind: adult passports are good for 10 years, but child passports expire after only 5!

Author,

Alison Kroulek

Hints and Tips for The Best Passport Photo Results

Posing for that required passport image can appear like the most unappealing chore. You just know that the finish consequence is going to be unflattering. The photograph booths do next to nothing for your capabilities. The dim fluorescent mild is renowned for highlighting actual physical flaws, relatively than our finest traits, and the printed pics virtually constantly arrive out with some aspect of your profile minimize off, rendering them useless for any formal passport photo requirements

Getting photogenic doesn't imply you have to emulate a best model. It basically signifies that you glance respectable and groomed sufficient for any passport image necessities. 

CamtoPrint's totally free passport photo software attributes further tools that can repair any of those other pesky lights and qualities issues you may possibly practical experience.

Here are some factors and tips to take into account, preceding to posing for any passport photo requirements
.
Expression:

Some passport authorities state that subjects ought to not smile when posing for passport pictures. This is mainly because smiling enormously alters the facial options, and some people today seriously do seem distinct when they "crack" a single. This doesn't imply you have to search sullen.

Unwind your experience and gaze casually, at the digicam making certain you continue to be totally
going through it.

Smile with the eyes. It's easy to convey expression to them by considering of
some thing or another person that would commonly make you smile.

Facial Look:

Whereas CamtoPrint photo editing software can operate miracles with bodily blemishes and crimson-eye, you ought to nevertheless prepare to glance your very best.

Women:

You can dress in make-up, nevertheless, it is ideal to continue to keep tones impartial and pure. Keep away from any fake adornments this kind of as eyelashes. 

Use a healthy concealed that blends with your skin-tone to conceal blemishes.

Put on your hair as you would on a working day to day basis. Drawing it back into a ponytail does open up the deal with, having said that, your passport shot really should replicate you, at your most healthy.

Gentlemen:

Make certain your head of hair is groomed; whether or not this means having a earlier haircut, or easily grooming it into a presentable style.

Retain your facial head of hair neat and short. If you have on a beard, assure it is trimmed and groomed to perfection.
Don't dress in your tie too tight. You will establish a neck bulge that pushes upward underneath your chin.

Lights and Track record:

The problem of lighting and backdrop is of substantial importance when posing for a passport or driving license photo. Although it is typically the most flattering, natural light is also the brightest by which to image your attributes, avoiding any pink-eye and contrast difficulties.

Backgrounds for passport pictures need to be of a neutral color such as white, or off white, purely simply because the contrast will exhibit your attributes much more clearly. CamtoPrint no cost passport photograph software package does avail the potential to add your very own backdrop to a passport photo. Merely lower close to the outline of your current subject, and paste it onto the new template.

Angle:

Official passport images may possibly call for a complete-frontal mind shot, having said that there are nonetheless some useful suggestions to know preceding to getting your picture taken.

Elongate your neck by sitting/standing upright, with your shoulders marginally
back.

Tilt your mind marginally forward. Tilting your chin upward can widen the experience
in a picture.

Clothing:

Passport recommendations advise that image subjects must prevent bold colours, brilliant pastels and huge patterns, merely due to the fact they contribute to "noise" inside a picture. 

A active pattern can detract from a subject's attributes and be very distracting. If your image is for formal use, stick to conservative dress and colors this kind of as blacks and grays. 

Avoid white because it can make you seem washed out. Most of all, preserve it straightforward.

Author,

Shmulik Simantov

Survive Political Instability With Second Passport Option

Political instability, economic crises and high taxes can desire an individual to look for some other country for a relaxed tax structure, stable government and a sound piece of mind. This leads to obtain a second password of any other nation/ Sovereign state. It doesn't mean leaving one's own nationality instead getting a second passport has many benefits and one is eligible for exercising their rights in both States and also viable to the rules of both States. It provides you more personal as well as economic freedom and open new paths of investments. 

A second passport can be acquired if one or both parents and grandparents are from some other state. Another way is getting married to the local citizen of that particular State. Then there is a long and lengthy period of time to wait for years to apply and acquire citizenship of other State. However, second passport can by investment is another option which takes much less time and quite feasible to gain for many people. 

Those people looking to take their businesses internationally and need a hassle free entry in a second state can get benefit from acquiring the citizenship of that state by making an investment there. Many European nations give an option to wealthy investors to tie relationships with them by obtaining their state citizenship in exchange for investment. Those investments can be made in private or public sector depending on the rules of that particular country for whom you are applying. In return government seek long term relationship, networking and foreign businesses in their country. 

Investments could be of any type either to invest in real estate or in some countries you can simply make a loan to the Bank of another country like in Latvia offers you such an option. Cyprus gives a second passport by investment option by providing the passport within 4 months of applying and one simply do not need to reside there. The benefits of such second passport by investment is one can get free entry to EU states without the implications of visa applying. One can enjoy a better tax structure in other country. One can easily start new businesses and open bank accounts for businesses.

To get the better of second passport one should look at following advantages: enables you to travel freely and can trade with other countries. It provides investment options for a person who wants to invest in some business or real estate. One can move to other country during the time of political or economic instability or war in one's own country

Following countries are giving the option of second passport by investment: 1. St. Kitts and Nevis, 2. Dominica, 3. Antigua and Barbuda, 4. Austria, 5. Hong Kong, 6. Singapore, 7. Australia. These are few of the countries that provide such options of investment and in return provide citizenship. Every country exercise their own investment laws and minimum amount to invest in such a relation. One should hire a proper agent or an agency in that country that deals with the citizenship and can provide accurate laws related to obtaining this passport.

About the Author

The author Alex has a wise command over the immigration matters of European countries that helps him for serving his companys clients in most ethical and helping manners. His research work is quite impressive for successful Second Passport by Investment to his clients.

Applying for a Passport

If you have to travel abroad, then you need to have a passport. Applying for this internationally-recognized document is an easy process and in this article, we tell you how you can go about the entire process.

For anyone who travels frequently, especially to other countries, the most important document that they need to have in their possession is a passport. It is the one document that serves as an identification when you are traveling to country that is not your native country. Applying for the same is not a difficult process but for most first-time applicants, the process can seem harrowing and even confusing. If you are applying for a US passport for the first time then all you need to do is follow the easy steps given below.

The Application Process

The process of getting a US passport is a comparatively easy one. The documents that you need are listed out below.

If you are getting this document for the first time, then you will need to have legally valid document that is valid as a proof of identification and citizenship. In case you were born abroad, then you will need relevant documents from the Consular Report of Birth Abroad.

You will need to download the online application of passport. In case you are renewing it, then it is possible for you to do so by mail. In this case you will need to fill a form that is known as the DS-82 form. But in case your application is for a new passport or if the document was made before you were sixteen years of age, then the form that you need to download from the official website is the DS-11 form. In case your passport was either lost or stolen, then you need to download the DS-63 form.
You will also need to have two passport-sized photographs.

Once you have all the documents that you need, you will need to submit the application. The cost of this process is different for different applications. If you are applying for this document for the first time, then the cost is about USD 110. For renewal, the fees is generally about USD 75.

A question that many first-time applicants often ask is about the time period they have to wait for.

 

 The entire process of passport application and then getting it delivered to you, takes about five to six weeks. During peak season, this process may take longer, but if you are in a real hurry, then it is possible to apply for expedited services. In such a scenario, you will need to pay as much as USD 200 to USD 250 to get the passport on the same day, and if you are ready to wait for two weeks, then an extra fee of USD 70 will need to be paid.

As long as you have all the necessary documents as required by the US Department of State's Passport Services office, you should have no problem receiving this document as soon as possible.

Passport Requirements for Children

You are planning a family trip abroad but your newborn still does not have a passport. You need to be aware of the requirements that you need to meet in order to make a passport for your child. In this article, we tell you everything that you need to know.

The first vacation outside one's own country can be exciting, not just for children, but also for adults.

 

 But there are some documents integral to any trip abroad, like a passport. How do you apply for a passport for a child? Is the procedure for applying the same for kids and adults? Do they need to apply for the document in person? These are just some of the questions that you need the answer to and these are some of the queries that we give you answers to, in this article.

How to Apply for a Passport for a Child

If your kid is under the age of sixteen, then it is important that they apply for the passport in person. Even if your child is a newborn or an infant, he or she needs to have a passport in order to travel internationally by air. The requirements that you need to meet in order to get the document are listed out below.

The first and foremost thing that you need to do is completely fill up the DS-11 form for your child.

 

This form needs to be signed only in presence of an acceptance agent and only when instructed to do so. It is also important that you submit your child's social security number, as failure to provide any kind of information will cause a substantial delay in your application. While submitting the form it is also important that the kid is accompanied by both his parents (or guardians).

The next step would be to submit proof that the minor is a US citizen. This needs to be submitted with DS-11 form. These documents need to be submitted in the original and will be returned to you along with the passport. The documents that are admissible as proof of citizenship include certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state, consular report of birth abroad, naturalization of certificate, certificate of citizenship, or even a US passport (if you are reapplying).

Next you will need to submit proof of how the minor is related to his guardians or proof that the adults accompanying him are his parents. Admissible proof as evidence of relationship include birth certificate with the names of both parents, foreign birth certificate with names of both parents, report of birth abroad, adoption decree (if the child is adopted), court order giving custody, or court order as proof of guardianship.

It is also important to submit an identification proof for the parents or guardians. The admissible evidence include US passports, naturalization certificates, driver's license (if valid), employee id (if government employee), or military id (for military personnel and dependents). The identification proof for the parents can be submitted in duplicate on plain white paper. It needs to show both the front and the back of the identification document.

For a child under the age of 16, it is important that you provide a form of consent that states that you allow the issuance of passport to the child. You will also need to pay the fees as applicable at the time of issuance. It is advisable to consult the passport agency to confirm the cost for first time issuance. Along with these documents and the prescribed fees, you will also need to submit one passport-sized photograph.

If you are applying for a passport for a minor, then these are the simple steps that you need to follow.

 

 Contact the passport office located nearest to you for any more details that you need. If all your documents are correct and you meet all the specified requirements, you should experience no delays in receiving the document just in time for your vacation

How Long Does it Take to Get a Passport

The procedure of obtaining a passport is influenced by many different factors. Knowledge of these factors helps in understanding how long does it take to obtain a passport. The following article deals with the basic information on this topic.

The passport is a document that certifies an individual for international travel. Identity and nationality are the important things which need to be certified before a person receives his/her passport. The points to be checked in order to certify a particular person are the date of birth, name, place of birth and sex. Different types of passports are the ordinary, official, diplomatic, collective, emergency, family, internal, alien's, laissez and the camouflage passport. The passport is a document that verifies identity of a person while a visa acts as an entry pass for traveling to a particular nation. Let us find more on the topic of obtaining a passport.

How to Get a Passport?

Following steps explain the procedure to obtain a US passport.

The first task in the process of getting a passport is that of downloading the application and keeping your photographs ready.

Any person above 16 years of age can apply for a passport. Those who are under the age of 16 years would require a notarized permission in order to apply for the same.

People who are applying for the first time, those who don't have the possession of their expired passports, who had been issued passports 16 years ago or those who have lost their passports must apply in person.

The passport office also helps expedite the procedure if one is willing to pay more. In such cases, one needs to send express mail along with prepaid postage and an envelope.

The completion of formalities, i.e. the signatures should be done in the presence of passport officials only.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Passport?

Answer to the above question is based on different factors like volume of applications, season and many other factors. It may take several weeks to get a passport, depending on the above mentioned factors. However, ideally it takes about 5 - 6 weeks to obtain this document. The procedure of obtaining a passport has 4 - 5 steps involved, which requires time and it might result in extension and delays. The lengthy procedure of obtaining a passport involves completing and submitting the application form (DS-11), providing evidence of citizenship, identification, paying fees and providing photographs. During peak periods and seasonal times, the government issues notifications to apply in advance for the passport. One should keep an eye on the happenings and current events to avoid hassles and delays in the process of getting passports. Application for the passport should be submitted well in advance before the need arises. A person living in the US should apply for a passport to the US Passport Agency. One can check the processing times of that particular season or period on the website of the agency in order to plan properly in advance. Nowadays, a large number of people apply for passports. Time required to obtain this document can therefore, extend from a normal 5 - 6 weeks to as long as 8 weeks.

One should be prompt and up-to-date in dealing with the documents. One should keep a watch on the happenings and present situations, i.e. the number of people applying for a passport and other influencing factors to speed up the process.

How Much Does a Passport Cost?

Applying for a passport for the first time? What you need is quick know-how on how to apply for a passport, along with how much it costs to make one. While the details are given in a nutshell, it will nonetheless give you an idea of what is involved.

It is essential to own a passport especially if you see yourself migrating to a new country, or traveling to foreign lands. The time that it takes for the process to complete varies depending on where you do it from, and which channel you choose. Just be sure to have all your documents at hand while meeting the requirements as per the embassy or consulate.

How Much Does it Cost to Apply for a Passport?

The costs incurred by the applicant during the process vary depending on what you need, and how old you are.

For Adults (Above 16 years of age)

Passport Book:

Application Fee + Execution Fee = $135

Passport Book and Card:

Application Fee + Execution Fee = $165

Passport Card:

Application Fee + Execution Fee = $55


For Minors (Under 16 years of age)

Passport Book:

Application Fee + Execution Fee = $105

Passport Book and Card:

Application Fee + Execution Fee = $120

Passport Card:

Application Fee + Execution Fee = $40


How to Apply for a Passport from Outside the US

The process is different for those who wish to attain a passport from the outside the US. Those of you who are applying for it within the US, visit the embassy and have them help you with the process face-to-face. If you are elsewhere and you need to get the job done from afar (can be done through the Internet), this is just as possible if you were to be within the US. Let's take a look at what you need to get the process underway.

Step 1: Applying for a Passport:

The application form that needs to be filled is similar for applicants both inside and outside the US, although the process differs. You'll need to consult your local embassy or consulate and ask them what needs to be done next, once you've filled out the application form. You can find the application form on the website TravelState which is a legit government-run portal that handles passport queries, needs, and issues.

Step 2: Documents Required:

Every official procedure requires the submission of legal documents, where this process is no different. The application form will have a detailed outline of which documents need to submitted, where they usually require verifiable proof of your identity and citizenship.

Step 3: Fees Involved:

It is important to understand which mode of payment is available to you, since checks and sending cash through mail, isn't entertained. Inquire about this detail with your local embassy or consulate.

Step 4: Photo Identity:

The photographs that have to be submitted along with your application form and documents, must meet the guidelines of the US passport authorities. These requirements vary from one country to the next, so be sure to check for the US' rules, in particular.

Step 5: Application Processing:

Depending on your situation, whether urgent or not, the US embassy in charge can issue temporary valid passports. Expedited processing is not issued to applicants outside the US - that means only the option of routine service is available to you, where it takes 4-6 weeks to process your application. To keep track of the process, you can check the status of your application online in about 5-7 days from the day of submission.

Applying for a passport should be done well in advance if you see a lot of travel in the future or the possibility of migrating. The embassy can help with passports that need to be given right away, where you can consult them about how to get a limited validity passport. Once you do your part in the process, the rest will follow accordingly.

How to Renew a Passport at a Post Office

There is a facility for passport application and renewal, that can be availed through your local post office, if you do not qualify for renewal by mail. This article provides detailed guidelines about the renewal procedure.

Steps to renew a passport at a post office

Need Passport Renewal or Visa Within Two Weeks?

If you need to travel or require a visa within 2 weeks, contact a Department of State Passport Agency. 

 

In this case, passport acceptance facilities like post offices or mailing may not work for you. For expedited service and appointment with the agency, call 1-877-487-2778. Only if you have more time, renewal or application through a post office is recommended.

The job of issuing and renewing passports belongs to the US Passport services, which is a department of the Bureau of Consular Affairs. This department has several offices, spread throughout the country, where citizens can apply for or renew their passports, before international travel.

The renewal process of a US passport has been simplified by the government. Now you can renew it through mail, by filling in and sending the DS-82 application form, along with the required documents. To be eligible for application through mail, you should be in possession of your last passport book (in undamaged condition), which should have been issued less than 15 years ago. Also, it is necessary that the passport was issued when you were 16 years of age or older and that you have a government document to back up your name change, since last issuance. If you fulfill all of these conditions, you may apply for a renewal through mail. Documents required for the mailed renewal application (with form DS-82) will be same as those required for the DS-11 application.

On the other hand, if your passport is lost or stolen, if you have never applied for a passport, if it was issued more than 15 years ago, if you were less than 16 years old at the time of issuing, if you cannot back up your name change with a legal government document (like a marriage certificate), then you need a new passport and must appear in person, to apply for the same at a passport acceptance facility, like a post office or at a State Department agency.

The Renewal Procedure in a Post Office

Provided you satisfy the eligibility criteria and possess the requisite legal documents, that are required to establish your identity and nationality, you can get a new or renewed passport through the post office. The renewal is quite a simple and straightforward process.

Step 1: Find Nearest Authorized Post Office

Locate the closest post office that offers a passport application facility. To locate the nearest one, visit this USPS link that provides a searchable database.

There are other authorized passport acceptance facilities, including libraries and municipal offices. To locate the nearest facility, which is not necessarily a post office, you may search here.

Once you locate the nearest post office offering the renewal, call them up and ask if they provide a facility to shoot photographs for the passport. If not, you will have to get them clicked on your own and submit during the appointment.

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment

All passport service agencies require an appointment for the processing of your application. Call up and fix an appointment with the post office.

Step 3: Choose the Right Form and Get a Copy

Before the appointment, you need to print out the right form and fill it completely. Since you do not qualify for renewal by mail, you need a new passport and therefore, you will need the DS-11 application form. If your passport is lost or stolen, the right forms to be submitted are the DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport), along with DS-11 (Application for a US Passport).

You may collect a copy of the requisite form, from the passport office or print out a filled form, from the US passport service website, maintained by the government.

Step 4: Fill and Complete the Form

If you have procured a blank form in hard copy, fill it up with your personal details, along with travel information. Alternatively, you can fill all the requisite details online, on the US passport department's website and print out the filled application form directly. You may print out a hard copy of the DS-11 form here. Fill in all the details, but sign the document only on the eve of the appointment, in presence of an authorized official.

Step 5: Arrange For a Photograph

For the application, you will need a current photograph. You may either arrange for it to be taken at the post office or get them clicked yourself. There are certain prescribed requirements for the photograph, that you should know about. The specified dimensions are 2" x 2" (5.1 cm x 5.1 cm) and it is necessary that the photograph has a white background, besides having been clicked in the last six months. Make sure that your face covers about 80% of the snap. In the photograph, it is essential that the head be centered and sized exactly between 1" to 1.4" (2.5 to 3.5 cm). A neutral expression, with no glass glares is expected. Headgears are not allowed, except for religious reasons.

Step 6: Collect Documents

Two identification documents are required, one proving your US nationality and the other being a proof of identity. You can bring 2 copies from the following documents: your original birth certificate, driving license, old passport that needs renewal, naturalization certificate, a certificate of citizenship, government ID, or a military ID. Make sure that you carry the original copies of these documents for the appointment, along with one photograph, clicked within the last six months.

Step 7: Know the Fees Involved

For those filling the DS-11 form, the fees are USD 95 for a new passport book and card, USD 80 for the passport book, and only USD 15 for the card. An additional fee of USD 25 is charged as execution charges.

For expedited service, an additional fee of USD 60 is charged. If you want an overnight delivery of your passport book, an additional USD 14.85 fee is charged. The fees cannot be paid in cash. Only checks and money orders are accepted.

Step 8: Attend the Appointment

Attend the appointment at the scheduled time, with the copies and originals of your citizenship and identity documents, filled form DS-11, with one photograph (if the post office doesn't provide photography facility), and a check or money order with requisite fees.

Step 9: Wait for 4-6 Weeks

After you apply for renewal, it may take as much as 4 to 6 weeks for your renewed passport to arrive through mail. Those who go for expedited service, can expect the passport book and card to arrive within 3 weeks.

If you have an urgent need of renewal due to travel plans within 2 weeks, schedule an appointment with an agency, instead of a post office or any other facility, as they can work faster. Go for expedited service, which guarantees delivery of the passport within 3 weeks. US citizens residing abroad (other than Canada), who need a passport renewal should approach their respective US embassy or consulate. US citizens in Canada can apply for renewal through mail.

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.

Should You Get a Passport Card For Your Next Passport Renewal?

2008, the US government began issuing a new type of passport, the US passport card. Now, when you renew your passport, you may notice that the passport renewal application asks you whether or not you would like to apply for a passport card. You can apply for a passport card either instead of or in addition to your regular passport book, but should you?

To answer that question, we must look at the differences between a passport book and a passport card. The passport card was made to be more convenient and easier to carry than a passport book. 

About the size of a driver's license or credit card, it fits easily into your wallet. It's also less expensive, $20 compared to $75 for a passport renewal.

   

 However, unlike your passport book, a passport card is only valid in certain situations. You can use your passport book to travel just about anywhere. A passport card, on the other hand, will only get you to Mexico, Canada or the Caribbean, and then only if you are traveling by land or sea. Passport cards are not valid for air travel, even if you are flying to one of those regions.

As you can see, due to the limitations of the passport card, most travelers should apply for a regular passport book when they renew their passports. A passport card is best for people who need to drive across the border for short, regular trips to Canada and Mexico.

However, the passport card is only $20, so it can't hurt to apply for one during your next passport renewal. Just make sure you get the passport book, too, if necessary.