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.

Good Neighbor Insurance represents 10 international health insurance companies and provides international health and travel insurance for every country in the world. Other products include international medical-evacuation-insurance, international term life insurance, and international disability insurance and international group health insurance. Also insurance is provided for short-term mission workers and missionary teams. Good Neighbor Insurance can also provide health insurance options for individuals returning to and/or residing in the USA.

By Kevin Delbert

Benefits of having a Polish (EU) passport

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do you tell whether you are eligible?

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

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

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

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

Obtaining a Polish passport is a 2 step process:

1. Confirmation of Polish Citizenship

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

2. Application for Polish Passport

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

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

Yours sincerely

Eva Hussain

Polaron Language Services

Problems For Native Iroquois - Passports

It seems that passports are in the news a lot lately and recently there was an incident report involving the Iroquois lacrosse team. They were going to England to compete in the World Championships. 

They were not permitted to leave because they possessed Iroquois passports.

While other team members were from Canada and the United States, this team of Iroquois Native Americans are members of the Iroquois Nation. The Iroquois Nation has been issuing their own passports to call attention to the Iroquois culture and heritage. Since they did not have an American or Canadian passport, they were denied entrance into the United Kingdom and could not compete.

 They were saved at the last minute by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton who issued a one-time waiver for the team so they could reenter the United States but the United Kingdom did not validate this waiver.

There are a few different views on this matter. More and more, countries are taking the position that they will only accept official passports issued from the United States or Canada because since these native Americans are citizens, they should use the documents used by other citizens. There is also a security problem with the Iroquois passport as they do not have the anti-fraud features that are present on the other passports. This could put other travelers at risk if these passports fall into the hands of the wrong person.

There are others who feel that tradition has been for the Iroquois to issue their own passports for reasons of pride and these have always been sufficient in the past and their validity should be continued. However, we all know that times are changing and never before has the threat of terrorism been so great. While the Iroquois Nation feels they are being singled out and should not be considered a risk, the lack of anti-fraud technology on the passports make them a potential problem.

You many not realize that the game of lacrosse was actually invented by the Iroquois Indians long ago and the fact that their own passport is not being accepted and the team members must get a passport quick to abide by the stricter regulations is demeaning. The coach of the team and others feel this is an attempt to quench the free expression of their native heritage and possibly causing them to be unable to compete in the National Championship of a sport that they, themselves created.

There are certainly two sides to every story and regulations concerning passports have been put there for a reason. To add insult to injury, about 4,500 sex offenders were issued American passports in 2008. It is important to remember, however, that the Iroquois natives were not denied an American passport. They were required to get a passport quick and not permitted to use the one issued by the Iroquois Nation. It is easy to see points on both sides of this issue but, above all, national security must be the top consideration.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4718348

How to Get Expedited Passport Pages

Travel opportunities can come up suddenly. Business opportunities or spur of the moment vacations can make international excursions an unexpected requirement. The unexpected nature of these trips, however, also brings their own special problems. In particular, travelers with a short time for planning will need to be sure that all of their documents and visas are ready to go. For many, taking advantage of the services provided by professional companies, such as getting expedited passport pages, can provide some peace of mind.

The US Department of State issues passports to American citizens. In other countries comparable bureaucratic offices handle these processes. Passports are only one of several responsibilities held by this important branch of government.

The history of passports is long and interesting. In their earliest incarnations, heads of state issued letters meant to provide a degree of protection to their official messengers or envoys. In the world today, passports are used mostly as a method of monitoring security and immigration concerns. Every US citizen traveling internationally is required to obtain a passport.

No matter what country they come from, most passports look fairly similar to one another in terms of size, shape, and information contained therein. An international standard has been established among passport issuing agencies, so that documents may be shared easily between governments. Most US passports contain twenty-four pages for placing visa stamps upon entry to or exit from a country. For some travelers, collecting stamps from different entry and exit points is a fun hobby. The international stamps come in a variety of shapes and colors.

Though collecting stamps can be fun, it can also pose a problem for those faced with an unexpected travel need. Namely, if you run out of places for stamps, you will not be able to use your passport.

 Luckily, to fix this situation, you can get additional pages for your passport if you have four or fewer blank pages left. The process to get the extra pages is easy.

The form needed to obtain extra pages is not complicated, and easy to obtain. On the form, you must provide phone numbers for your emergency contacts and basic personal information. Submitting the paperwork is free, and after filling it in, you can either use direct mail or send it online. In addition to the form, you will also need to send your passport to the State Department.

The State Department is a tremendous government operation that receives thousands of passport requests. Since these are not the only duties maintained by the office, you should not expect a speedy turnaround time. Most requests take at least a month. This is the central problem for those with sudden travel plans. Luckily, it is possible to request expedited service. Your passport with extra pages can be returned sooner, but this rushed service will cost an extra sixty dollars.

When travel plans come up without warning, it can cause a great deal of worry. With expedited passport pages, you can put aside at least some of your travel worries. So, order your overnight passport, finish packing and enjoy your trip.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4703939

Concepts For Using New Passport Services

Concepts for using new passport services are listed below. Decide how these services can benefit you.

 Discover the ways that this sector improves tourism. Shed the fear of applying for an international travel passport, and get going!

Audiences took little notice at first. An avalanche of advertising offering passport services pop up in the media. Next, governmental authorities tried mightily to build up border protection. Now, the intentions behind the media advertisements are revealed. Companies advertise because international travel has changed.

Individual Advantages

Quick submission expedites the passport request. Using a submission service reduces the wait by about two thirds. What normally takes 3 months can take 1 month when submitted using a professional passport service provider. Every submission is a bit different and performance can vary.

 

Requesting extra fast submission shortens the time period even further. 1 to 2 business days are not unprecedented. Travel services companies help to submit requests to the government. A government agency then reviews and grants the requests for official travel documents.

Providers of passport assistance distribute further beneficial advantages. The fees they charge are to help ensure that document submission is as complete as it can be. These companies can advise clients in the case of a need for other documents by the country traveled to. Travelers should recall that travel support businesses do accept contracts, even when there are no emergencies that justify an accelerated passport submission.

Benefits For Travel Industry

Tightly bound geopolitical border lines contribute to the high appeal for overseas travel. A rising tide of experienced travelers now accept that they must take their annual holiday within their own country. Other vacation seekers choose to postpone vacations. Restrictions may overtime become less harsh, or residents will get acclimatized to the current laws. Travel companies will still be there to give advice on passport applications. They will assist the travel industry rebound out of its current slow period.

People who enjoy vacationing as part of a larger group often have considerable needs. Salaried employees and students tend to move about in groups. Group members may require special types of visas, for instance. The offerings of a passport services company can satisfy some of these travel needs.

New Century Travel Plans

No longer can residents of border towns travel with normal scrutiny beyond their own country border. 

Radio and television news reports increasingly feature stories about these border towns. The residents enjoy recalling how freely they, in their youth, crossed over into the bordering country. The border towns of today are adequately fenced off by barbed wire, concrete barricades, or armed border guards.

Perhaps the battery of ads promoting assisted passport requests should alert us to have a new view of international travel. What is this new view? We should get a foreign travel passport of course, in the same way we purchase watches or driver licenses. If you have not paid attention to passport advertising, then maybe now you will see the ads in a different light. They help us perceive how foreign travel has changed in this 21st century.

Concepts for using new passport services listed here can be of benefit. Decide what advantages can be gained for you. Discover how tourism can change in the future. Feel more comfortable about getting your passport and foreign travel permits.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4536085

Passports Are Big News - What Should We Learn?

We all know that identity theft is a very serious problem these days and passports are a really big target for those who want to perpetrate this crime. A stolen U.S. passport can be altered and used by a terrorist or spy to freely enter the United States unnoticed. None of us want to make it any easier for someone to do harm to our citizens or our country so perhaps after reading some of these incidents, we will all be more careful with our passports.

Mr. John Skelton who was forty one years old and a British citizen, tried to enter the United States using a passport that was in the name of Kurt Branham. It just so happened that Mr. Branham died in 1994 and prior to his death he served as a legislative aide to a United States senator. It is scary to realize that this stolen identity passport had been successfully used twice before the thief was caught.

Mr. Eugene Todie was a 29-year-old New York resident who was on probation for criminal contempt. 

His use of a fraudulent passport permitted him to leave and re-enter the United States undetected. 

When he was caught, he was even wearing an ankle monitor and when asked about it, he said he was a fan of Lindsey Lohan and was simply wearing it in her honor. That was quite a story, but people who break the law in this way are dangerous and must be apprehended.

Speaking of Lindsay Lohan, she has had her own passport issues. She was out of the country and was due to appear in court back in the United States. She did not show up for that appointment and blamed it on her claim that she had lost her passport which prohibited her from returning to the United States. She tried to return to the U.S. without a passport but was turned away. This is a good lesson to each of us and should help us understand that no one is immune to the regulations that govern the use of passports. Her passport renewal emergency was taken care of but she has a big price to pay for her failure to appear in court on time.

It is important that we all realize what an important document a passport is. We must always keep them in safe places and if we should loose one or suspect ours might have been stolen, we need to report it immediately.

Perhaps reviewing these stories has shown you how dangerous a passport can be if it is placed in the wrong hands. Your safety and that of your family is in jeopardy when we don't take proper care of this important document and permit it to fall into the hands of a criminal or terrorist. The dangers caused by a stolen U.S. passport are hard to measure but if you find yours is missing, this passport renewal emergency can be handled by contacting a passport agency as soon as possible.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4718789

Get an Emergency Passport Fast and Easy

Emergency Passports can be acquired in a few days if needed. Getting passports quickly is more expensive, but if you need your passport fast, it is worth the cost.

Application Interview: First, make an appointment with an Acceptance Facility or Passport Agency. Contact the State Department online or use the toll free number to find a location near you.

Documentation: All passport applications require your personal documentation. Photo identification cards can be a driver's license, military ID, or state identification card. Birth certificates, naturalization or citizenship papers are also needed. Marriage licenses, divorce and custody papers are needed if you are applying for a child's passport. Divorced parents will both need to be present when applying for a child's passport. The State Department website lists the documentation required for applications. Make copies of these documents before your interview.

Photographs: Every passport application requires duplicate photographs of your head and shoulders. 

They need to be two inches by two inches. Some passport application locations provide this service.

 One-hour photo locations and drug stores provide this service. You can make your own using a digital camera, printer and photography paper. The background must be blank and light in color.

Fees: The standard non-refundable application fee for a passport is $120. Expedited passport fees start at $60 don't include delivery fees. Depending on the provider, delivery fees start at $14.85. Rush passport companies can hasten the process and fees range from $100 to $300 per passport.

Processing: Obtaining an expedited passport through the State Department can take a few days to a few weeks. Contact the State Department via the internet or by phone to see if you qualify for special services.

Few people will need an emergency passport, however in certain circumstances knowing that emergency passports can be found quickly provides peace of mind.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3195093

An Expedited Child Passport Can Save the Day

Parents can sometimes get caught in the trap of thinking that their small child is immune to the law and that they do not have to worry about silly things like passports. If there is an international family trip planned in the near future, that philosophy is going to have to be rethought. However, there is no need to hit the panic button, because an expedited child passport is all that is needed.

Just because they are a child, does not mean that there are not travel laws that pertain to them. Any family that is getting ready to travel aboard would do well to get on the Internet and do some research on passport rules and regulations. For the record, anyone traveling abroad needs to have a passport.

While there is one set of rules as they pertain to adults and there are specialty laws that pertain to children. One of the concerns of authorities is that a parent will unknowingly flee the country with a child. This is why both parents must sign a consent in order for the child to be able to get their passport. Doing this gives a little more reassurance that both parents know about the travel, even if the child is only traveling with one parent.

This special passport law means that an additional step has been added to the process, but other than that, the process is pretty similar to adults. Once the consent forms have been signed, the application process will go as a new passport application would. Just make sure that the consent form is properly done so that there will be no snags as the process moves forward.

The first step for a child at that point, just as it would be for an adult, is to get a valid passport photo taken. Because of the rush, it is probably best to utilize the one-hour photo shops that do passport photos. Let them know specifically that the photo is for an express passport and they make it the proper size.

Before the application can be submitted, the dual consent form has to be properly filled out and signed by both parents. If the parents are divorced or living in separate cities, this can sometimes cause a problem, especially if expedited service is needed. This is actually the cause at times for the expedited service as it takes both parents so long to get the forms signed.

A normal passport will take about 6-8 weeks to get back. If the time frame that is left in inside of that window, the parents are going to get stuck paying a fee of $60 to have the passport back within three weeks. There are other services that can be provided at a higher cost if that time frame is still not quick enough.

Most people have a fairly large warning of when they are going to be traveling internationally. It is always recommended that passport acquisition get started the moment that plans are even being made. Otherwise, the fees of getting an expedited child passport are surely in your future. If it is an an emergency, there are express passport services available to help.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3778121

Apply For an Online Passport Any Time

The information age has brought a wealth of information literally to people's fingertips. All that is required is a few seconds to type an Internet search inquiry, a mouse click, and a list of Web sites meeting the search criteria is returned. People can even purchase an online passport in a fraction of the time it takes to get a passport in-person.

The traditional method of obtaining a passport entailed making a visit to a U.S. Post Office or Passport Agency. Today, people have the option to use an online service provider to obtain a passport.

 These services also offer quicker processing turnaround than the four to eight weeks required by the government. The ease and speed offered by these service providers make them a very attractive alternative.

The online services provide the passport applicant with the ability to obtain a passport within as little as 24 to 48 hours. They also offer other timeframes from which the applicant may select. There is a processing time to suit any need, whether next day or ten days from now. It is important to note that these services provide this added flexibility at an additional cost over the government passport fees.

The provider will require the applicant to complete the passport application in addition to some additional forms required by the provider. The provider's forms consist of a standard order form and sometimes a confidentiality agreement, due to the personal nature of information provided by the applicant. All forms may be found on the provider's Web site and may then be downloaded and printed.

The applicant will also need to provide copies of identifying documents. The main document required is a birth certificate. The format of the birth certificate must meet certain requirements, so it is important to check the provider's Web site for these details. The applicant should provide the proper format of birth certificate in order to expedite processing time.

Copies of additional forms of identification such as a driver's license or state ID card will also be required. These must have been issued at least six months prior to the passport application date. The additional forms of identification that are required are listed on the provider's Web site.

The applicant will need to supply two identical color photos to the processing company. These photos must meet certain size and format specifications so read the requirements on the provider's Web site prior to having the photos taken. Many pharmacies offer passport photo services so do not spend the extra money on a professional photographer unless necessary.

Once the application, documentation, and photos have been compiled, they should be packaged together and sent to the passport processing company. The package should be sent via a traceable method so that the applicant can make sure it arrives safely at the processing company's location.

Taking all of these steps will make the online passport application process relatively quick and painless. The applicant will have a new passport and be ready to make travel plans, which also can be done from the comfort of home.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4029227

Steps to Replace a Lost Passport

Discovering one's passport is missing is a terrible feeling. If within a day or two leaving on a trip panic sets in. Fortunately, the government now offers services for just such a situation. It is called Emergency Passport Services and they make it possible to obtain a new passport within twenty-four hours if necessary. This is called an emergency passport.

The emergency passport can be obtained anywhere from twenty-four hours to eight business days. 

The prices are higher than the regular passport since the request is put at the front of the line, so to speak. If one wants a twenty-four hour passport the cost is $299 (compared to $100 for a regular passport).

By going on the Internet, one can locate the site to download the required form. By following instructions and filling it out they are given a phone number to contact a passport specialist. That person will lead the applicant through every step of the way. After explaining the need for an emergency passport, the specialist will make sure that things go through correctly.

One must be able to show proof of US Citizenship with a birth certificate and proof of identity. If the trip is already planned, one will be asked to identify the country to visit, why and the date of travel. The usual sex, age, place of birth and social security number are required.

There is nothing worse than being in a foreign country and losing one's passport. Unfamiliar with the surroundings, there is a feeling of helplessness. Fortunately, the government has foreseen this possibility and advises anyone who has this happen contact the nearest US Embassy or US Consulate for assistance. At that time, they need to show proof of citizenship with such things as driver's license, social security card or other identification.

At the current time there are a number of private passport expediting companies listed on the Internet. These companies assist the applicant in filling out the papers and see that they are remitted correctly. There is a fee for these services.

A person's passport is a very valuable document and one does not want it to fall into the wrong hands.

 There are certain precautions that should be taken so, if it does happen, one has some proof of the original. One way to do this is to make two copies and leave one with a relative. That way, if something goes wrong the copy can be shown and things will move much more quickly.

When in a foreign country it is easy to become distracted with the many different sights. This is what thieves look for. Caution says people should never lay their U.S. passports down anywhere and should not carry it in a purse or backpack. If one feels they must carry it, then it should be in a money belt or an inside pocket. It needs to be out of sight at all times to avoid having a lost or stolen passport.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4186372

Undertaking the Issuance of a Rush Passport

Undertaking the issuance of a rush passport generally means that somebody traveling on business of an urgent nature needs a new or replacement passport. Whatever the reason for such a hurry, it's a fact that many people do need passports in a rush these days. And fortunately, there's normally a number of different ways for people in a hurry to get them.

Naturally enough, with the rise of Internet, businesses have sprung up that will aid in the expedited processing of such passports, even to the point of getting them to a person the next day. Given this, it's no surprise that many people, rather than traveling to a government passport agency or service center, use them. Others, though, prefer to do everything on their own, and it's possible to do so.

In this case, it'll be necessary to head to one of the government's passport agencies or service centers.

 There are a number of them located in the bigger cities or regions around the country. For example, a large center exists in Chicago, Illinois. Other such centers can be found on either coast, with California hosting two of them (one each in San Francisco and Los Angeles).

Those who need passports in a rush and who reside in the eastern part of the country can also avail themselves of centers located up and down the seaboard, including in New York City, Miami, Boston and Washington DC. There is a toll-free number the State Department lists on its passport website. 

Use it to make an appointment before bringing an application to one of these service centers.

As far as fees are concerned, when it comes to getting same day or quick-issuance passports, expect to pay up to $300, with another $60 if an additional citizenship check is needed. Also, it'll be necessary to show up with the correct passport application, as well as the right kind of proof of identity and citizenship. Normally, birth certificates or government-issued identification cards work well.

Keep in mind that getting a passport application processed can take all day. This is why having an early-morning appointment can deliver the best chance of getting the document by the end of the day.

 Additionally, making sure that a set of passport photographs is on hand is essential. That's because service centers aren't able to take these photographs. Just show up with documents, photos and fees to make it all work.

Recent homeland security requirements mandate that, when it comes to citizenship, the proper documentation will need to be supplied, though there are provisions made for secondary documentation when things like birth certificates or proof of citizenship can't be supplied immediately. The $60 fee usually is paid whenever background research on an expired passport must be conducted, by the way.

Undertaking the issuance of a rush passport actually can be accomplished in a fairly speedy manner.

This is especially so when a person is prepared with the right documents, the right fees and the right frame of mind. More people than ever, though, are choosing to go with US passports expediter services rather than trying to do everything on their own. Fees might be a bit higher, but the convenience is much, much greater.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4199972

When It's Necessary to Obtain a Priority Passport

When it's necessary to obtain a priority passport, understand that it can be done but that it might take some legwork and additional money to do so. Generally speaking, most people who do need a passport in a hurry make use of one of the many different express passport expediter services existing today. In addition, other people tend to work directly with the government to get their passport in a hurry.

This isn't to say it will be extremely easy to get quickly-issued passports. In general, even expedited passports that are applied for through one of the government's regional service in centers (there are 14 spread around the country) can take from 2 to 3 weeks. There are also additional fees attached when it comes to an expedited passport issued through one of those centers, so keep that in mind.

For those who absolutely, positively need one in a rush, it might be a good idea to work through an express expediter. However, when that isn't possible, there are other means for obtaining such a passport on a priority basis by working through the government. This is going to mean, however, travel to one of those regional service centers in order to make it happen, which is something worth keeping in mind.

Outside of the use of an expediter, the first thing to do is to access the State Department's passport website. It's not really all that complicated to get a passport in a rush, which is fortunate, but remember that there are several steps involved. By following the proper steps, one can have a passport not only issued quickly but also with a minimum of fuss.

The government being the government, it'll be necessary to arrange for an appointment before showing up at a service center. On the State Department website is a toll-free number that must be called if one wants to get a passport in a single day at a service center. Priority-issuance of passports can only be done by making an appointment, and there are few, if any, exceptions to this rule.

As far as the service centers themselves, there are a number of them on both coasts and in the Midwest. New York City, Boston, Chicago, Seattle, Washington DC and Los Angeles all host such centers. For passports needed on the same day as application, an appointment and travel to a service center is a must. And expect to spend all day getting it, so make an appointment early because processing can take five hours or more.

Of course, to obtain a passport that quickly, there will be additional fees required before the document can be issued. Same day passports currently cost between $200 and $300 in fees paid to the government. If any background research on citizenship or identity is needed, there's an additional $60 fee on top of the expediting fee and standard passport fees of from $25 to $95.

Remember that it's a very good idea to make an appointment at a service center for as early in the day as is practicable. Make sure to show up with American passports photographs in hand along with documents proving identity and citizenship. When it comes to the issuance of a priority passport, fees can arrange up to $300 in addition to standard passport issuance monies, which is worth keeping in mind.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4195134

The Passport Card - Perfect For Land Or Sea Travel

If you want to enter the United States you must have a passport. Even U. S. Citizens have been required to have the passport book or passport card to re-enter the States. The card is a less expensive option for people crossing the border by land or sea and returning from Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean or Bermuda. Otherwise you must have the passport book.

This card form of a passport is a convenient size to fit into a wallet. It is not as expensive as the passport book yet it is valid for the same time period. If you already have a valid passport book, you can get the card for $20. Processing time for the card and book are about the same; however, it may take longer to get the card as it is only shipped by US mail and overnight delivery is not available.

If you have ever had any kind of passport in the past you can use the renewal form to apply for the card. Even persons that may not have had a card in the past, but have had a book will use the renewal form to apply for the card. If you have never had a passport in the past, you must use the initial passport application and visit a processing center in person. The correct form for first time applicants is the DS-11 and it is available at the State Department web site.

The card uses an RFID chip that is embedded in the card. No personal information has been stored on your card, but it will pull up information from the government's secure database. The technology allows customs agents to access photos and biological information that has been stored in that database as you are approaching the station. There are built in security feature in the card to prevent counterfeiting or forgery. It is important that you keep your card in the sleeve that is sent to you in as this prevents it from being tracked or read by persons who are not authorized.

Residents living in border communities will find the card most useful. It allows for easy border crossings for purposes of shopping, visiting or other business, and then a return home. Remember that the card is not valid for air travel, so if you plan to fly out of the country, you will need the passport book.

These rules will also affect commercial cruise passengers. Formerly travelers were able to use other means of identification, but now they must have their passports. Persons holding tickets who do not have proper documentation will be denied passage on the ship and forfeit the price of their tickets.

If you plan to visit countries outside of the U. S. you will need some kind of passport for the visit. 

The best plan is to apply for the passport early. While most passports are currently being returned within three to four weeks from the time of application, the best policy is to apply six to eight weeks before you intend to travel. If you plan to travel within fourteen days, you will want to apply for an expedited passport.

The passport cards and the book are valid for ten years if you are over sixteen years of age. Younger persons are issued passports that are valid for five years. Apply now and avoid the rush.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3530815

What Passport Services Can Do For You

If you intend on traveling abroad, you need a passport. In fact, every time you cross your country's outer boundaries, you need it. You might never need it inside the borders, but it's always good to possess. As an American, Passport Services is the only way to obtain one.

A passport identifies the holder in question as a national or a citizen of a particular country. It is documented proof. With it, you can ask other governments to allow you travel inside their nation. 

You can use it to ask those governments to allow you temporary residence inside their borders. You are also granted any lawful protection or assistance. You also can be provided certain assistance or consular services while staying abroad. Of course, with this, you are allowed re-admittance into your home country.

This Services agency also issues passports to any of its people wishing to travel abroad. As it is proof of citizenship, the agency sanctions the integrity of the passport. A wide variety of services, resources, and support exists through this agency. It can even assist you in times of trouble or dispute, though it is not a law agency.

Regional Passport Agencies can be found all over the United States. On the east coast, they are in Hartford, Boston, Miami, New York, and Philadelphia. The centrally located centers are in Detroit, Chicago, Denver, Minneapolis, Houston, and Dallas. Finally, the ones in the west are Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Tucson. Naturally, there is one in our nation's capital, Washington, DC. 

This particular one, though, is specially categorized. Not only is it a Special Issuance Agency, D. C. is also home to national headquarters offices.

Additionally, three National Processing Facilities exist under the vast reach of this Services agency. 

The three National Processing Facilities aid in handing out passports abroad to Americans at various Embassies and Consulates. Domestically, networks of over 9,000 public offices are located for your convenience. These particular offices have been given the responsibility of accepting passport applications and payment, but not of issuing the passports.

The National Passport Information Center is the final big agency under the Services. The National Passport Information Center takes care of all questions related to your passport. Appointments can be made via the National Passport Information Center. Travel emergencies are dealt with here. You monitor online the status of a passport application and there's a toll-free hotline, staffed by live customer service reps, who answer your questions and provide needed assistance.

Completing the vast work the Services agency takes care of, you can also renew your passport, pay any fees, or apply and receive one on behalf of a minor. You can also have your application expedited, or request and pay for overnight delivery. You can also correct any errors to data or add pages to your passport. You can even get your name changed, should you want or need to.

To summarize, passport services is your one source for all passport-related issues. They take care of it all including pictures and passports for you or your child. Advice, working out different regulations or laws, or assistance about traveling abroad can be granted here. Here is where you get proof of your citizenship. Any and all protections your United States passport lawfully grants will be honored by this agency.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3526792

Renew Your US Passport Or Risk Ruining Your Next Vacation!

You're excited about your next trip to Europe and have spent months planning every little detail. You count the days and finally you're packing and heading off to the airport. You know you've put your passport in your carry on and are a bit smug at remembering to bring this important document.

You stand confidently in the airport security line, smile as you hand your passport to the official, then watch with bewilderment as he asks you to step aside. What's going on? As if in a dream, you hear the security official point accusingly to the expiration date on your passport. How can it be? Your passport has expired!

This really is a nightmare scenario to any traveler, but it's totally avoidable. If you're reading this, go find your passport right now and check the expiration date. That's right, go! I'll wait until you return.

Okay, if you're still reading, then it's likely your passport expiration date may be past, be here soon or within 6 months of expiring. Hopefully you're not leaving tomorrow for your vacation to Europe. You can actually renew a US passport relatively quickly and easily so don't despair.

US passports can be renewed by mail, which is very convenient. The United States Department of State even has a specific form to use called a DS-82, "Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail". The form is available to download and print online at the Department of State web site, or you can pick it up at just about any U.S. Post Office. You might want to consider the overdue haircut or that new style you've been eager to try, because you're going to need to produce 2 new passport photos. I know you think you look exactly the same as you did 10 years ago, despite what your friends say, but the State Department wants new photos anyway. Find a passport agency that can take passport photos per the standards and include those with your mail in application. Make a copy of everything before sealing the envelope and don't forget to also drop in your current passport. Use a traceable mail method, such as certified mail, and make sure the envelope you've selected is durable and waterproof. 

Accidents happen, so plan for the worst!

It will take around 3 or 4 weeks to get your new passport, but if that's too long check into the "expedited" service, if you're willing to pay a bit more. Check the Department of State web site, which is up to date and full of useful information, to find out the price for this and any other information not covered here.

Once you get your shiny new passport, you can rest easy knowing that nightmare won't come true for you. Just don't forget to pack your toothbrush!

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2792108

How to Find the Closest Passport Office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Protect Your Passports With Waterproof Passport Covers

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

Other kinds of passport covers

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

Play it safe with waterproof passport covers

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

Important information

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

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

What is a Passport Card? Read All About it Here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3357451

Insurance for A Lost Passport?

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

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

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

Passport Insurance

 

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

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


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

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

 

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

About the Author

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