Where to Apply for a Passport in the United States?

A US passport is the most important document that is required if you want to make frequent international trips. The first and the most important thing that you should do as soon as you become a US citizen is to apply for passport. This is because only US citizens have the privilege of holding US passports.

All you need to do is complete the passport application, attach all the needed documentation for proof and submit it at the any Passport Acceptance Facility. You have the choice of getting your passport through routine or expedited service based on your travel plans.

Apply for passport in an easy way

Information regarding as to where to apply for passport is provided by the US Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Passport Services/Customer Service. This has designated many post offices, clerks of court, public libraries and other state, county, township, and municipal government offices with the authority to receive passport applications on its own behalf. Since there are many Passport Acceptance facilities in the US, you need to find the one that is nearest to your place of residence. Just follow these steps and you will be able find out the nearest location within a short time. 1. Log on to the US Department of State's Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page, 2, Search using your zip code, state or city, 3 once you enter your search option, you will be directed to a page that has a list of all the facilities that are in your area along with details like whether it accessible for handicapped people, it has photo on-site or nearby, you can select the one that is nearest you by clicking on that specific facility's name.

For Expedited requirements

In case you have to travel within a short notice, say, within 14 days you need a passport to get a foreign visa; then you are eligible to make an appointment with any Passport Agency and request an expedited service. You may be required to furnish proof of your travel along with the itinerary at some passport agencies. The following Regional Passport Agencies do not require you to provide them with your travel plans when you apply for passport - Arkansas, Buffalo, Colorado, Detroit, El Paso, Honolulu, Minneapolis, San Diego, Seattle and Vermont.

For Emergencies - For life threatening situations or life/death emergencies that require you to travel immediately, a special service called the Will call service can be used.

The above mentioned details are applicable only if you are planning to apply for passport when you are in the US. In case you are outside the US, you need to go to the respective US Embassy or Consulate and act according to their instructions. This is because the process may vary from Embassy to Embassy. Now that you have found out the nearest location to apply for passport, completing the application process is the next step.

Passport Day of 2012 in the US

March 10, 2012 has been marked as the Passport Day in the US for this year. You may wonder as to what is so special about this day. You can apply for passport without having made a prior appointment. Just go to a Regional Passport Agency in the US on this day, which falls on a Saturday, and file in your application. You can opt for the standard routine service or go for the expedited processing on this day. So if you are still without a US passport, this is your day!

If you are interested in learning more about How to Renew Green Card, Green Card Application, Permanent Resident Card, Passport Application, US Passport Renewal, Naturalization Application, Tourist Visa and other type of US Visas, visit U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Direct Services at http://www.ImmigrationDirect.com.

By Al Anthony Gablinez

What To Do If You Lose Your Passport Overseas

There are few things that can ruin your international vacation quicker than losing your passport while overseas. Knowing the right procedures will help hasten the retrieval of a new passport. If you lose your passport while traveling, you will most likely have to change your itinerary, no matter how efficient the recovery system might be. Even though it will be a worrisome and frustrating situation, you need to make sure you follow these procedures.

Report your lost passport to the police

The moment you discover your passport is missing, you need to head to the nearest police station to report the lost passport. When doing that, it is important that you remember your passport number and the date of issuance. It is always a good idea to carry a piece of paper that has that information on it in a separate place in your luggage. If you think you lost your passport at the airport, the people to contact first are the airlines. If you the airlines can't find your passport, the customs personnel will contact your country's embassy in such a case.

Contact your embassy

When traveling, whether you discover you have lost your passport in the airport, or otherwise, the only people who can help you get a duplicate passport are those at the embassy. Embassies are located in every capital city. After lodging a police report, you will have to take a stamped copy of it to the embassy, so that the loss can be validated. Consulate professionals can help you with the right steps, especially if you are open about your plans and intentions of visiting the country.

Get ready for the application of the duplicate passport

Getting a duplicate passport is easier if you lose it in your home country. However, a certain readiness for going through the procedures is important. After lodging a police report, you need to take your passport references to the nearest passport office. It is always better to access the place where you sent in your application for the old passport. If you did it through an agent, this time go directly to the passport office or issuing unit. Remember to carry a copy of the police report, a photocopy of the passport, identification documents, and an adequate number of photographs of yourself.

Stay in touch with the issuing office

Until you have received a fresh passport, stay updated on the status of the renewal. Do not take it for granted that the new passport will be sanctioned without any complication. Although rarely, duplicate passports take a lot of time, and visits from the local authorities may make the process even longer.

Stay in touch with the police

By lodging a police report, you have officially asked the police to investigate the loss. You may be lucky and they find it, but it is vital that you know that no one is trying to steal your identity.

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By Kevin Delbert

5 Must Know Facts on How To Apply For a Passport for Your Newborn Baby

Looking to travel abroad with your newborn baby? A few years ago, newborn babies were permitted to travel on air with the passport of one of their parents, but now things have changed. All citizens, even a newborn baby, should have an individual passport to travel from one country to another. So if you're planning to travel with your newborn baby within two weeks from its birth, then you can apply for an expedited passport for your baby. Before applying for the passport you should have the following requirements:

Gather Documents: Applying for an expedited passport for infants is a little bit complicated compared to adults. You will need to provide a birth certificate for the child, proof of parental identification, and the Social Security numbers of the parents. Once you have applied for the passport, it will take approximately two weeks for processing and then the passport will be mailed directly to you.

Application form: Choose the appropriate form when you are applying for a passport for your infant. You might find various application forms for adults online but you need to choose the correct one for your baby. Application form DS-11 is the right application for infants. You can get it from the Acceptance Facility or Passport Agency. Fill it out and remember to sign it on behalf of your infant. If you run into any obstacles in applying for the expedited passport for your baby, you can get help from a reliable passport expediting service.

Standards for Photo: You need to take the photographs with your baby looking directly at the camera. Make sure there is a white or an off-white background. Their head size must be smaller than one inch and not larger than 1-0.375 inches. These are the standards required by Passport Agencies while submitting the application form.

Submission of application: Now you must decide where to submit this application. Since you're applying for a passport for your infant (or minor), you can submit the application at the closest passport office. In case of emergency, the application can be submitted at a regional passport agency.

Processing time: Once you've submitted the application, all you need to do is wait. Standard processing time to get a passport is more than 4 weeks. So you must request for an expedited passport if you need it quickly. For this, you can directly visit to the regional processing center or apply for your passport through a qualified expediting passport service provider so that you may get the passport for your infant within a week.

These are the few things you need to know before applying for a passport for your baby. Get started today and enjoy your air travel with your baby. While flying with baby, don't forget to buy or rent baby kits such as belts, flyebaby (baby bed), CARES and more to have safe and enjoyable travel.

The author has an immense knowledge on passport expediting services. Know more about visa processing service related info in his website.

By Ashlee Garza

10 Tips to Prevent Passport Problems

You might be required to go abroad for personal or official purposes and find the need to have a passport. Passports are the kind of thing to be handled with great care. Problems like passport rejection, delays or loss of passport can arise.

Researching how to prevent such issues can help you during this time. Here are a few useful tips that will provide additional confidence and guidance in the passport application process:

1. While applying for a new passport, make sure you apply at least four months before your departure date.

2. Choose the right application form and carefully fill it out. Each company has their own specific form, double check for any missing information or spelling mistakes. This may lead to a delay or rejection of your passport application. If you need the passport as soon as possible, consult with a passport expediting services to get fast your passport processed more quickly (even under one week in some circumstances).

3. Check whether you possess all the requirements, such as a proof of identity or birth certificate. 

Photocopies of these documents are not accepted.

4. Never forget to sign all the necessary fields in the passport application form and your check.

5. Always take two copies of your passport and photos. Give one copy to your spouse or a friend who can be easily called during an emergency situation. If it's possible, scan those things and make it accessible through the internet. This helps you a lot during emergencies abroad.

6. It's good to ask for a 48-page passport if you are a frequent flyer. This allows you to fly wherever you want without getting another passport. When your passport arrives, verify all the details to be correct and sign all the pages in the passport where your signature is required.

7. Most countries demand a passport even for entrance to places in the country. Ensure that you have taken the required documents with you wherever you go while you are abroad.

8. Once you reach the destination, keep your passport in a safe place. Always try to carry it with you. 

You can keep it in a money belt or within your coat pocket. Avoid leaving it in your baggage, backpack, car or your hotel room. Your passport will be of utmost important if you commit an honest mistake due to being unaware of the state policy. You can get out of those situations with your nation's identity, the passport.

9. If you are traveling with your family members, don't have one individual keep the entire family's passports. It is better for each person to carry their own passport.

10. If you lose your passport, immediately inform the authorities about the missing document. By keeping a passport copy and extra photos with you, they can help you get a temporary passport for your return.

Note: Even if your passport expires, it should be kept safe and secure, as it will serve as proof for your passport renewal. The above points will help you from encountering passport problems.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7525232

Must-Knows About Passport Application Forms

A passport is an essential document for traveling and it has become as primordial as the citizen's card and driver's license. It is better to file for a passport well in advance as the process usually takes about four to six weeks to complete. For those who would like to speed up the process can, however, opt for the express expedited service which can yield a passport in just 14 days. Furthermore, people who need passport immediately can go for the independent expediting facility which takes just one day!

When planning to fill up a passport application form, it is important to know which form is suitable to the applicant's requirements. The DS-11 form is for people applying for a passport for the first time, or those whose passports are more than 15 years old. Even those who were less than 16 years of age when there old passport was issued; need to fill up this passport application form as a fresh applicant. DS-11 is also required in the case when a passport is stolen or lost.

If a person needs to renew an existing passport, this can be done by simply filling out and sending the DS-82 form by mail. An in-person appearance at a passport authorization center is not required in this case. If an existing passport holder wishes to make changes in the personal information on the passport, they should use the DS-5504 form. There is also the facility of adding extra pages to the passport for frequent travelers. DS-4085 is the form meant for this purpose.

There are a few important tips to keep in mind while filling out any of the above application forms. First of all, one should write legibly and in black ink. All the information provided should be accurate and supported by appropriate verifications. In case of the DS-11 passport application form, the applicant needs to make an in-person appearance at a designated passport authorization office.

Additional documents required with the form are the proof of citizenship, birth certificate, photographs and identification proofs like driving license. The new format of the DS-11 requires the filling up of a biological questionnaire as well. This form includes details of birth, employment history, addresses of all the places where the person stayed since birth and many more other details. All these documents are validated the government office.

Authenticity meets the foremost requirement when applying for passport.

Jennie Kakkad is an inspiring writer who beholds about 5 years of content writing experience. She strives to provide articles and blogs that satisfy your desire and accomplish your purpose. Her process of delivering a credible output involves various stages like research, understanding, judgment, analysis, and creation.

For more visit Passport Application Form [http://www.passportapplicationform.net]

By Jennie Kakkad

Florida Passport - Where to Apply For a Passport in Florida

American citizens that live in Florida have three options when it comes to obtaining a new U.S. passport. They can apply at a local passport application acceptance facility, a regional agency or a professional expediting service. The location you choose will depend on a few factors. Let's look closer at each option.

Florida Passport Offices

The first option, which takes the longest amount of time to process, is to apply at a Florida passport application acceptance facility. These facilities are most often located in local post offices but they can sometimes be found in public libraries or county clerk's offices.

Residents of Florida will find at least one passport office in each of the following counties: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, Dade, De Soto, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Hamilton, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Holmes, Indian River, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Monroe, Nassau, Okaloosa, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Saint Johns, Saint Lucie, Santa Rosa, Sarasota, Seminole, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Volusia, Wakulla, Walton, Washington.

There are a few counties that do not have a passport application acceptance facility. In this case, you need to look in neighboring counties. Dade County has the largest number of passport offices with at least forty-two. The state capital has three locations. Here is the address of a couple of these.

Leon County Clerk of Circuit Court 

313 S Calhoun Street Suite 101 

Tallahassee, FL 32301

Tallahassee Main Post Office 

2800 S Adams Street 

Tallahassee, FL 32301

Routine processing takes four to six weeks. Expedited service will get your application processed in two to three weeks. If you need to get your passport faster, then you will have to choose an alternative method.

Miami Passport Agency

Another location where Florida residents can apply for a new passport is the Miami Passport Agency. This regional agency attends American citizens who need to get their travel document in two weeks or less. Regional agencies process same day passports. The address is given below.

Omni Center 

1501 Biscayne Boulevard 

Suite 210 

Miami, FL 3313

The first step to applying for expedited passport service at the Miami agency is to set up an appointment. You do this by calling 1-877-487-2778. During peak travel seasons, the line can become congested. It may take several attempts before you are able to schedule your appointment.

The regional agency is open from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday except for national holidays. They are not open on weekends.

You are encouraged to arrive a little early since you have to pass through the security check. You will then be directed to the appropriate room where you will take a number and wait to be called. When your number is shown, you direct yourself to the appropriate desk and submit the application form and supporting documents to the passport agent.

If all your documents are all accepted, you will be asked to return later to receive your passport. This will very likely be the same day. Problems with your documents can delay the process. To avoid this, it is important that you verify all the requirements and follow them carefully.

Professional Passport Expediting Services

Florida residents, who must get a passport quickly but cannot personally visit the Miami agency, can still obtain a passport in a hurry by applying through a professional expediter. Expediters are registered with regional agencies for the purpose of submitting applications for American citizens who cannot do it themselves.

While there are several expediting services that operate in Miami, it is good to choose one that has offices in other locations as well. The reason is that the regional passport agencies limit the number of same day passports that each expediter can request at each agency. Expediters that operate through several agencies can submit a larger volume of same day passport applications.

Expediters have been around for decades and are a great resource when you are in a bind and run the risk of having to cancel your trip.

Author,

William

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.

Every Now And Then Somebody Needs Replacement Passports

Any number of things can happen that can cause you to need replacement U S passports. Maybe yours was eaten by a lion while you were on safari. Or maybe it was stolen by pirates. Maybe you accidentally dropped it into a volcano.

When Did You Lose It?

You have no big problem if you are home and not planning to go anywhere in the near future when the loss takes place. But that isn't usually the way it happens. Even if you lose your passport at home, you aren't likely to start looking for them until shortly before your departure date. You will have done all your planning and made reservations and purchased tickets. You might not have started packing but you will certainly have done some shopping for appropriate outfits and comfortable shoes. And then as you are going over the to-do list, you think it's time to get out the passports and have them handy. That is when you discover to your horror that they aren't where you thought they were. Or worse, all but one are there and one is missing. You begin what starts as a methodical search but quickly turns into a frantic ransacking of the house as time starts running out.

Fill Out The Proper Forms

The best thing to do is hustle down to the post office or library where the passport agency or acceptance facility is located. It's probably not too far away and it should be easy to find. When you get there you will find forms DS 64 and DS 11 to fill out. These are the same forms for a damaged passport.

Other Required Documents

One of the docs is an application for a new passport. The other form reports that your old one is missing. You will need to have the same documents with you as the first time you applied. You will need ID, proof of citizenship and a photograph.

Expedited Processing

If time is running out before your departure date, you can, for an additional fee, request expedited processing. It's a good idea to also pay for overnight delivery service. These little emergencies are inconvenient but need not prevent you from departing on schedule.

If Out Of The Country

The inconvenience is intensified if you lose your passport while you are traveling. If that happens, scurry to the US embassy or consulate. You will fill out the same forms as you would have back home. The tricky part is if you have also lost your ID and proof of citizenship.

Other Concerns

If you have your normal identification documents with you the procedure should be simple. If your documents were lost or stolen along with your passport, identity can be established through interview questions or talks with traveling companions. If you are traveling alone friends or family members can help to identify you by telephone.

Invalidated

Once a passport is reported as missing, it cannot be used again. An old one that is found after being reported should be sent to the Lost or Stolen Passport section of the State Department. You can request to have it back after it has been cancelled if you want to keep it for sentimental reasons.

About the Author

Ben Pate

 

What You Need to Know About Vacation Arrangements and Express Passports

Many individuals dream about journeying in foreign countries. It's thrilling to venture to countries and cities which a particular person has not visited before. Nonetheless, it might be extremely overwhelming to prep for this sort of travel. Before an individual may take off on the exhilarating voyage, there are numerous things which are important. 

If an individual would like to vacation abroad, obtaining a passport is critical. As it could require 10 weeks to obtain a passport, acquiring a passport is something that should certainly not become left until the very last minute. Nevertheless, most people will get their particular passports within just 4 weeks of applying for one. If someone wants a rush passport, there are things that can be carried out. 

Therefore a person must not reject a chance to journey even if it appears at the very last minute. 

Nonetheless, it will cost the person a lot more and become a much larger headache. 

An individual should do some investigation to understand what components are needed for that application procedure to make the process of obtaining a quick passport easier and less complex. 

Waiting in line and then discovering the individual has to return because they don't hold the necessary application items to obtain a fast passport is incredibly frustrating.

After the express passport has already been applied for, the individual may give attention to some other travel arrangements. The person has to complete adequate investigation to discover exactly what the weather conditions may be within the area at that time that they're going to be there. 

Obtaining the proper clothing is definitely an crucial component of vacationing so that the particular person won't need to expend their traveling cash on apparel rather than souvenirs as well as keepsakes. It is excellent to pack lightly to help make vacation easier, but it is more crucial that you have the things to be comfy and relish the getaway totally.

It is crucial to make arrangements pertaining to care taking prior to going for travel because no one can have a nice getaway if they are focused on things in the home. A long time before they depart, one needs to make sure that their own pets are cared for. When the usage of an established kennel or pet sitting company is desired, it can be needed to reserve the space weeks or perhaps a few months in advance as these services book swiftly. 

So that it is certainly not evident that the home owners are on vacation, it is additionally wise to have someone gather the postal mail and papers. As the person is traveling abroad, this will assist to avoid a break in. To give the appearance of activity inside the house from the outside, this may also be a good idea to have a few lights on electronic timers. The person also needs to make sure to have someone stateside that they may phone in case there's a trouble with funds, their fast passport, or something else when they are out of the nation.

About the Author

How to Renew a U.S. Passport in North Carolina

All persons traveling by air, land or sea outside of the United States must show proof of citizenship to re-enter the country. Presenting a U.S. passport is one form of acceptable identification. North Carolina residents can renew their passport by mail or in person if it has expired. Everyone is not eligible to renew their passport by mail, however. Individuals must renew their passport in person if their previous passport is lost, stolen or damaged. You must also apply for a passport renewal in person if your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago or your name has changed and you're are unable to legally document the name change.

Things You'll Need

1. U.S. passport

2. DS-82 form

3. DS-11 form (renewing in person)

4. 2 passport photos

5. A marriage certificate or court order

6. Passport fee

Renew a U.S. Passport by Mail in North Carolina

1. Determine if you're eligible to renew your passport by mail. You can renew your passport by mail if your original passport is undamaged, was issued within the last 15 years and you were 16 or older when it was first issued. Your passport is also renewable by mail if your original passport was issued in your current name or you can legally show proof of your name change. If you meet this criteria, continue to step 2. If you don't meet this criteria you must renew your passport in person.

2. Complete a DS-82 form and print it out. These forms can be found on the U.S. Dept. of State's website. Those without Internet access can go to a local passport acceptance facility to get an application. In North Carolina, these facilities include local libraries, post offices, state and municipal government offices. The Bailey Post Office in Bailey, N.C. and the Mint Hill Station in Chapel Hill, N.C. are examples of two passport acceptance facilities located in North Carolina.

3. Sign and date your application. This section is on the first page of your application. Submitting your application without a signature could delay your application from being processed.

4. Mail your completed application and additional documentation to the address listed on the form. Applicants must send in their recent passport, two passport photos, any applicable fees and a marriage certificate or court order if your name has changed. It takes approximately four to six weeks to process applications with standard delivery. Those who choose to spend the extra money to expedite their application will receive it within two to three weeks.

Renew a U.S. Passport In Person in North Carolina

1. Locate a passport acceptance facility in North Carolina. It would also be wise to find an acceptance facility that offers passport photographs on site. The U.S. Department of State website provides a great research tool to help individuals find acceptance facilities in their area, with additional search criteria to help customize their search results.

2. Complete and print the DS-11 form. Do not sign the application until you're instructed to do so by the acceptance agent. Bring the completed form with you to your appointment. This form can be found on the U.S. Department of State website.

3. Show proof of U.S. citizenship. Applicants must show evidence of citizenship by showing one of the following: a certified birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad or certification of birth, a naturalization certificate or a certificate of citizenship.

4. Present a form of identification. A naturalization certificate, valid driver's license, a current government ID or a current military ID are all acceptable forms of identification.

5. Provide two passport photographs and pay the applicable passport fees. Sign and date the application when instructed to do so by the acceptance agent.

Author,

Stacey Price

Why Passports Exist And Information For Obtaining Them And Keeping Them Protected

Social security cards and birth certificates are essential, but with no passport, it can be incredibly difficult to get home after an out of country trip. Overseas can be quite a difficult place to get help when needed, and receiving help after losing a passport can prove extremely tough. Complications with identity fraud and not being capable of getting back home are a few issues that come up with a lost passport, so some measures should be taken before and during the trip to ensure everything goes smoothly.

The first need is submitting correct paperwork in advance of leaving the country. This may look like an easy thing for most to take into consideration, but complications with an application can cause huge delays in acquiring a passport. Double checking both that the appropriate forms have been obtained and filled in right will cut down on the time. It is unbelievably annoying to have to redo everything, so if the person has any questions, they should be answered beforehand.

Once the passport has been acquired, reading through the passport to be familiar and double check the information is very important. If there are any flaws or misspelled names within, they should be reported immediately to have it corrected and sent back out quickly. When traveling with a family, it is important to check the US Passports of everyone since errors most commonly occur whenever people are not filling them out for themselves. Emergency contact information should always be written in to make returning the item simpler and prevent from headache should a loss happen.

Once vacationing, it is a good idea to keep the passport as close as it can be. If vacationing in China, for example, it is good to keep foreign visas on hand as well. Providing official ID to authorities is always a wise idea, and will prevent from getting into trouble while overcoming a barrier because of language. Easy personal identification is crucial at all times, but should also be hidden away so it is not evident something is being carried near. Reporting to the authorities promptly that passports or, for example, China visas are taken is important to make sure nothing bad takes place. If either needs to be left somewhere like in a hotel room, it is crucial to keep it in a safe with a combination that can be changed by the user so it is not stolen.

Living the nightmare of not being able to leave the airport once back in the country is often a horrible experience. Taking a little care and some preparation can prevent a huge headache in the future for everybody.

About the Author

Travel Document Systems, Inc. is the leading travel agency for China visas [http://www.traveldocs.com/cn/index.htm] and US passports [http://www.traveldocs.com/passports/index.htm]. For nearly 30 years we have served travel professionals, tour operators, cruise lines, as well as corporate and individual international travelers. TDS specializes in travel that involves visas for more than one country.

Best Practices to Take Care of Your Passport

A new passport opens the doors of a lot of new opportunities for you. A passport is one of the most important identification documents and may be key to job opportunities and other opportunities. You cannot move beyond the United States without a passport. So, while a passport is undoubtedly an important document, you need to take the greatest care of your passport after you have received it. It is solely your responsibility to ensure its safe custody. A damaged passport is often treated as an invalid document. While there are various means of addressing situations such as a lost or stolen passport, such situations are harassing and stressful.

Keep it off the reach of kids

Kids are prone to treat almost anything as toys or play objects. So, keep your passport securely locked or on an elevated place where your kids cannot reach out.

Keep it wrapped in plastic cover, when not using

A plastic cover will protect the passport from spilled water, mud or any other liquid objects which can damage or render the printed content illegible. It is important to keep the cover on at all times. However, mind the moisture generated while the passport stays undet the covers.

Exercise caution while handing your passport over to anyone else

It is almost needless to advise not to give any unauthorized or unknown person. Still, you may need to temporarily hand over your passport for such purposes as visa stamping. So, in such cases, you will be given an acknowledgement in printed form or email. You need to carefully preserve the acknowledgement till you receive the passport.

Do not carry it unless necessary

Some countries such as some Gulf countries require foreigners to carry passports every time they leave their hotels. Except such situations, do not carry your passport while you are out of your hotel, office or home. You must prevent any attempt at stealing or pick pocketing your passport. The last thing that you want is ruining your vacation in another country or becoming an identity theft subject.

Know what to do if in the event of lost or stolen passport

No matter how well you take care of your passport, you always are vulnerable to theft or misplacement. A deft thief or a moment of carelessness, which is absolutely natural, can land you in intolerable stress. So, it pays to know now the actions you need to take next. To report lost or stolen passport over phone, dial the toll-free number of the United States travel which is 1-877-487-2778 (TTY 1-888-874-7793) or, if you want to report the same by submitting Form DS-64, submit the form to the following address:

U.S. Department of State

Passport Services

Consular Lost/Stolen Passport Section

1111 19th Street, NW, Suite 500

Washington, DC 20036

You can download the DS-64 form from http://travel.state.gov/passport/lost/lost_848.html

Note that the above steps must all be observed and are not alternatives.

About the Author

Mary Taylor is a writer, specialist in tour and travelling. She is now associated with The Passport Office, a privately owned U.S. Passport expediting service, authorized by the U.S. Department of State. It helps US citizens to know how to apply for a passport.

Arabic Translation For Your Passport

Many people have many questions when it comes to Arabic translation, such as where can it be done and how long it takes. Also, are there any requirements that must be fulfilled beforehand? There are many different ways of having your passport translated if you are traveling to the Middle East.

Embassy Arabic Translation

One of the best places to start when it comes to Arabic translation is contacting your embassy. Some consulates will offer Arabic translation services, although it does take time. If your embassy does not offer these services, what are the other solutions?

Authorised Government Arabic Translations

Another way to find Arabic translation services, if the consulate does not offer these services, is to find an authorised government translator. These government Arabic translators are authorised to do the translation on a small slip of paper and staple it to the passport. This may not seem like a lawful thing to do, however, when there is no other choice, the government consulate will allow Arabic translation by a local translator as long as it is official, which will be noted by an official translation stamp.

Consulate Authorised Arabic Translation

This is very similar to an authorised government Arabic translation, with the exception that the consulate will direct you to the appropriate certified translator that is not a part of the embassy. They will then direct you to bring back the translation and you will receive the official stamp from the embassy itself. Following these instructions will enable you to travel into the Middle East without any problems.

American Passport English-Arabic Translation

What do you do when you are in America and you need to find Arabic translation services? Is there a place to have your passport translated in the United States? Yes. There is an Arab Chamber of Commerce in Washington. This is an officially recognised Arabic translation service for those wishing to enter the Middle East. You send your passport and other related items to this organisation and you will receive your passport in about ten days.

Items that you will need to send:

• Your Passport

• Copy of 1st page of passport

• Pre-paid addressed envelope so that the Chamber can return your
items to you

• A note requesting your passport be translated into Arabic

• Money order or company check for £40

You must then mail the above to your country's Arab Chamber of Commerce.

Right now, as long as your passport includes some form of Arabic translation, it will be accepted as official. You will still need to have a business visa or a tourist visa before arriving in the Middle East as these are not for sale as of yet inside airports. Be prepared ahead of time, as this can take up to ten days for completion. 

By: clacandazo