Delays in passport application can be a real headache when you’re hoping to obtain it quickly. Here’s how you can check the status of your application.

Apply: An application should take about 4-6 weeks, or half that time if you choose to use an expedited service. However, in order to ensure that your passport arrives in time for your trip, you should always make your application early. Applications should be lodged with the form and the relevant documents and photograph at the nearest passport agency.

When to check: You should allow for at least 5-7 days before you check the status of your application.

Checking via the internet: The easiest way to check the status of your application is to go online. Log on to the website at https://passportstatus.state.gov/opss/OPSS_Status_ip.asp and fill in your relevant personal details. Do note that under the section of “Last Name”, any suffixes will have to be included, and hyphens will have to be replaced by a space. Status checking online is only available to regular passports, and anyone running status checks for all diplomatic, official or no fee passports will have to call the travel office instead.

Checking via the phone: To check your passport status over the phone, call the National Passport Information Centre at 1-877-487-2778 anytime between 8am to 10pm from Mondays to Fridays, and request to speak to an operator.

Safety: Security can be compromised if you are not careful when checking your application status. A fundamental rule would be to always shut down your browser windows after use, especially when using a public computer, or to ensure that your phone connection is secured. Make sure that you have logged on to the correct web address and dialed the right number, so as not to fall victim to one of the internet or phone frauds.

Checking the status of your application can really bring about much relief to anyone concerned about how the application process is going!

Author,

C.L. Hendricks

Steps for Making Pretend Passports for Children

Children and adults, both, enjoy collecting stamps from different countries on their passports. One can look throughout the passport to recall the places one has traveled but there are many children who might not have traveled abroad and have no idea about a passport. The use of pretend passports for children serves as a leaning tool for such children. Underlying are some tips which would help in making these passports for your children.

Computers have entered into the field of creative designing, so it is advisable to use computer design software for designing your pretend passports for children. You will need a paper of size 5-by-7-inch paper folded in half for creating a 5-by-3.5-inch passport book. The next step would be the creation of three 5-by-7-inch page for designing the cover of the passport as well as the passport pages. The pages should be adjusted so as they are of 5 inches in height and 7 inches in width.

After adjusting the pages as required for the pretend passports for children, you will be required to draw a line down the center of the page, thereby creating two 5 by 3.5-inch partitions on the page. 

Get it printed on standard size paper and cut it down to the required size. Treat the first page as the cover of the passport and work on it. Once folded, the right half of the page will be and serves as the cover of the passport. On the right half of the passport, across the top, you can write the word PASSPORT and at the bottom you can write the name of the country to which the passport belongs to, by using text.

  

Keep space in the mid portion of the page for drawing a country seal after getting the passport printed. An actual passport may be referred to. Get the cover of the passport printed for as many copies as you need. On cardstock, print the cover of the passport. Print the required number of copies as needed. The remaining pages should be designed as the middle pages for the pretend Passports for Children. You can also place a digital picture of the child at the bottom left corner.

The last page should be created as usually with the computer as the Visas should be printed on the top of the page. Six copies of the page should be extracted for each child. The printed pages should be cut down to 5-by-7 inches. Arrange all the pages on top of one another keeping the cover at the bottom. The page bearing the picture should be on top of the cover. After folding the pages, staple twice along the line which has been created to pages into two equal haves.

Author,

Johnbenjamin

As the passport is such an integral part of travelling the world I thought I would tell the history of the earliest passport from England in 1414 AD.

In England, the earliest surviving reference to a "safe conduct" document appears during the reign of Henry V, in an Act of Parliament dated 1414. At that time, documents like these could be issued by the king to anyone, whether they were English or not. Foreign nationals even got theirs free of charge, while English subjects had to pay. Needless to say, the monarch did not - and still does not - need a safe conduct document.

From 1540, the granting of travelling papers became the business of the Privy Council. By this point the term "passport" was being used, although whether it originated with the idea of people passing through maritime ports or through the gates in city walls ("portes" in French) remains a matter for debate. A passport from this period, issued on June 18 1641 and signed by Charles I, still exists. 

From 1794, the office of the secretary of state took control of issuing passports, a function that the Home Office retains today. Records remain of every British passport granted from this time, although they continued to be available to foreign nationals and were written in French until 1858, when the passport first acquired its role as a British identity document. Nevertheless, passports were not generally required for international travel until the first world war.

It was in the early 20th century that passports as we would recognise them today began to be used. The first modern British passport, the product of the British Nationality and Status Aliens Act 1914, consisted of a single page, folded into eight and held together with a cardboard cover. It was valid for two years and, as well as a photograph and signature, featured a personal description, including details such as "shape of face", "complexion" and "features". The entry on this last category might read something like: "Forehead: broad. Nose: large. Eyes: small." Remarkably, some travellers claimed to find this dehumanising. Following an agreement among the League of Nations to standardise passports, the famous "old blue" was issued in 1920. Apart from a few adjustments to its duration and security features, the old blue remained a steady symbol of the touring Briton until it gradually began to be replaced by the burgundy-coloured European version in 1988.

The passports of other countries are, on the whole, remarkably similar to Britain's, although some do have their quirks. The new Nicaraguan passport, for instance, boasts 89 separate security features, including "bi dimensional bar codes", holograms and watermarks, and is reputed to be one of the least forgeable documents in the world. The Israeli passport, through no flaw in its design, must be one of the most useless, as it is not accepted by 23 different Muslim countries, nor by Cuba or North Korea. The Vatican, incidentally, has no immigration controls, but it does issue passports. The Pope, among his other honours, always carries "Passport No 1".

The passports of the future will feature embedded microchips and biometric data, such as photographs, fingerprints and iris patterns. Malaysia was the first country to introduce this technology, and Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Sweden, the UK, the US, Germany, the Republic of Ireland and Poland, among others, have recently followed.

English Passport History Timeline

Date

Event

1414

A reference is made to 'Safe Conducts' (the earliest passports) in an Act of Parliament during the reign of King Henry V.

1450

The Privy Council Register begins, leaving us a record of Privy Council business. According to the Register, this includes granting passports.

1641

A passport from this date still exists. It was issued on 18 June and signed by King Charles I.

1644 -1649

References in the Commons Journal show that both the House of Commons and the House of Lords grants passes to foreign and British subjects during these years.

1772

Until this date, passports were written in Latin or English. From this date onwards they are written in French (but see 1858).

1794

From this date, all passports are issued by the Secretary of State and their issue is recorded. (Before this date some passports were issued and signed by the king or queen.)

1858

From this date, passports are restricted to United Kingdom nationals. (Before this date a 'passport' could be issued to a person of any nationality as a promise of 'safe conduct' from the King or Queen.) Passports start to be written in English again from this date, having been written in French since 1772.

1914

Start of the First World War. By this point, British passports are printed on paper and contain a photograph of the passport holder. The British Nationality and Status Aliens Act is passed. Around the world, countries start issuing passports as a way of distinguishing their citizens from others they think of as 'foreign nationals'.

1915

The first modern UK passport is issued. It is a folded one-page document valid for two years.

1918

End of the First World War.

1920

The League of Nations International Conference on Passports agrees on a new book format for passports.

1954

UK passports no longer show the name of the Secretary of State.

1961

The British Visitor's passport is introduced. It is available from Crown Post Offices and can be used for visiting western Europe.

1968

The first 10-year UK passports are issued.

1972

Passports are changed slightly, for example, the paper used now has a special watermark for security.

1973

A 94-page passport is introduced for frequent travellers.

1975

Passport photographs are now laminated for security - it is harder to change the photograph.

1981

An overprint is added to the laminate to further increase security.

1984

Occupation and country of residence details are no longer included on passports.

1988

'Family' or 'joint' passports are no longer issued.

The first burgundy-coloured machine-readable UK passports are issued. A common format is introduced for European Community member states' passports.

1995

The British Visitor's passport is discontinued.

1997

The first UK passports with references to the European Union are issued.

1998

New security measures include the use of a digital facial image rather than a laminated photograph and intaglio or raised printing on the inside on the front and back covers is introduced. Children under 16 can no longer be included on new adult passports but must have a separate child passport.

2006

26 October: Passports featuring electronic chip and antenna introduced.

2010

October: New passport design includes strengthened security features and iconic images from across the nation.

Please visit my Funny Animal Art Prints Collection @ http://www.fabprints.com

My other website is called Directory of British Icons: http://fabprints.webs.com

The Chinese call Britain 'The Island of Hero's' which I think sums up what we British are all about. We British are inquisitive and competitive and are always looking over the horizon to the next adventure and discovery. 

Copyright © 2010 Paul Hussey. All Rights Reserved.

Author,

Paul hussey

How Long Does It Take To Get A Passport?

When you apply for a passport, it is important that you do it as far in advance as possible. After all, you don't want to still be waiting on it to show up in the mail when it's time to leave, do you?

Waiting until the last minute to submit your passport application can greatly increase your stress level, and if you don't have it when you need to leave, you could end up losing hundreds of dollars in fees for having to change your flight or rebook your hotel.

The Department of State lists its current passport processing times on its web site. You can check them here. Usually, it takes about 6 weeks to process an application for a passport if you request regular processing. The government's expedited processing option costs an additional $60 and takes about 3 weeks, door-to-door, assuming you have the application overnighted to the passport processing facility and that you also include an additional $14.96 for overnight delivery from the facility to your house. However, you should double-check the Department of State's web site, as passport processing times get longer during periods of increased demand.

 

But what do you do if 3 weeks won't cut it? If you are leaving in 2 weeks or less, you can make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency office. These offices can issue same day passports to travelers who have an itinerary showing that they will be leaving the country in the next 14 days.

Unfortunately, for many people this is not a viable option. There are only 18 of these offices located in major cities across the country, and they tend to have limited office hours, similar to those of a bank. So, if you work during the day, you will have to get additional time off. Depending on where you live, you may have to drive for hours or even take a plane to reach a passport office that can issue same day passports.

So, for many people, it is easier and worth the extra expense to use a private passport expediting company. An expediting company takes your passport application and delivers it to the US Department of State for immediate processing, and then sends back to you as quickly as possible.

Author,

Alison Kroulek

Getting an Emergency Passport in Miami

If you need an emergency passport and you happen to live in or near Miami, you're in luck. Miami is one of only 21 cities in the United States that has an emergency passport office. At the passport office, you can get a passport issued within 24 hours as long as you apply in person with all of the documents needed to process your passport application.

The passport office is located in the Omni Center, at 1501 Biscayne Boulevard in Suite 210. It is open from 8:00am to 3:00pm, Monday through Friday. Since this is a regional office of the National Passport Agency, it is closed for all Federal holidays.

To get an emergency passport from the Regional Passport Agency office in Miami, you need to have reservations to leave the country within the next 14 days. You'll also need to make an appointment, as they do not accept walk-ins. To make an appointment, call 1-877-487-2778. See Same Day Passport Office Opens in Miami for more details.

Make sure to bring all of the required paperwork and 2 passport photos to the appointment. If you're applying for a new passport, that means you'll need proof of identity, such as a driver's license or other state-issued ID, and proof of citizenship, such as a certified copy of your birth certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship.

If you are applying for an emergency passport renewal, you can use your old passport (as long as it's been expired for less than 5 years) as proof of identity and proof of citizenship. However, if you've changed your name since it was issued, you must bring legal documents supporting the name change.

You'll also need either your appointment confirmation number or Social Security card to get in, as well as a copy of your itinerary to prove that you are traveling within the allowed time period.

Make sure to bring an accepted method of payment for the passport fees. The Miami office takes credit cards, debit cards, cash and check.

Be on time for your appointment-no more than 15 minutes early or 15 minutes late. And remember, this is a federal building, so weapons of any sort are not permitted!

Author,

Alison Kroulek

Where to Rush a Passport

Most people submit their passport applications at a post office, where the turnaround time can be at least six weeks, and is sometimes longer if the passport office is busy. But what do you do if you can't wait that long?

If you need to a passport for a last-minute trip, don't panic. There are a number of different ways to rush a passport, and a number of different places to do it. Here's where to go to get a rush passport:

The Post Office

You can order rush passport service at a post office or another passport acceptance facility. To do so, simply tell the clerk that you would like expedited service and pay the additional $60 fee to expedite your application. This will cut the processing time from six weeks or more for regular service down to two or three weeks.

If you are applying for a passport renewal and you don't need to apply in person, just include the extra $60 fee in with your application, and write "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope before you mail it. For faster service, take the application down to the post office and send it overnight to the passport office. You should also request overnight service back from the passport office, which is an additional fee of $12.72.

A Regional Passport Agency

If two to three weeks is still too long, you can make an appointment at one of the twenty-four regional passport agencies located in select cities across the US. These passport agencies allow you to turn your application in directly to the Department of State, for processing in as little as 24 hours.

To make an appointment at a regional passport agency, call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. One problem with using a passport agency is that they generally have limited office hours and if you work during the day, you will likely have to request time off. Also, since there are only twenty-four of them, you may have to travel quite a distance from your house.

Private Expediting Company

 If visiting a passport agency seems like too much trouble but you can't wait two to three weeks, you can also use a private passport expediting company to submit a rush passport application. This allows you to apply in person, if required, at a post office or other passport facility. Instead of having the acceptance facility send in your application, you'll get the documents "sealed" and send them using an express mail service to the expediting company. Then, the expediting company will personally deliver your passport to the Department of State for processing in as little as one day!

About the Author

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

How to Renew a Passport at a Post Office

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

Steps to renew a passport at a post office

Need Passport Renewal or Visa Within Two Weeks?

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

 

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

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

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

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

The Renewal Procedure in a Post Office

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

Step 1: Find Nearest Authorized Post Office

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

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

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

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment

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

Step 3: Choose the Right Form and Get a Copy

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

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

Step 4: Fill and Complete the Form

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

Step 5: Arrange For a Photograph

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

Step 6: Collect Documents

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

Step 7: Know the Fees Involved

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

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

Step 8: Attend the Appointment

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

Step 9: Wait for 4-6 Weeks

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

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

What to Do if Your Passport is Stolen or Lost

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

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

Writing an Authorization Letter

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

Template for Letter of Authorization for Passport

Date

Name of Applicant

Date of Birth

Place of Birth

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

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

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

Thanking you

Yours sincerely

Signature

Signature if applicant is a minor under the age of 18

                           Sample Letter of Authorization for Passport

5th June 2011

Sarah Jane Lipmann

12th Feb 1982

New Jersey, New York

To Whomsoever it May Concern

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

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

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

Thanking you

Yours sincerely

Signature

Sarah Jane Lipmann

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

If You Would Like A 24 hour United States Passport Urgently, Pay Attention Here

If you need to get your new or renewed passport within 24 hours, you may very well have to prepare yourself for expensive aggravations to spring up along the way. If you are required to get your 24 hour American passport than this probably means there is some kind of urgent situation involved and you are willing to put up with the hassles.

If this is the route you choose, make sure you deal with a reputable expeditor company in order to minimize these hassles. If you plan on stopping into a regional passport agency, make sure you have all of the required paperwork. Being prepared will help reduce the stress involved.

You should be advised that a 24 hour passport will cost you a lot more than if you just wait 3 business days. Waiting 3 business days can save you at least $150.00. Fees are applicable on how quickly you will receive your passport and there are options that you can choose from. You can get your passport within as little as 24 hours, or two weeks. The quicker you need your passport processed the more it will cost you.

When you want to get a passport within 24 hours, there are factors that may hinder obtaining a passport in such a quick time. For instance, if this is your first time applying for a passport the procedure may very well take more than 24 hours. With a new passport you will need an official witness for the signing of all paperwork involved. This is not applicable for renewed passports, and renewed passports can be sent through surface mail.

If you live near a major city your chances of getting a new or renewed passport within 24 hours increases. This is because there are regional passport agencies located in major cities like Philadelphia, New York, Dallas, Houston, San Francisco and Miami to name a few. You can make an automated appointment at one of these regional passport agencies and obtain your passport by providing proof of your expedited trip outside of the US with an airline ticket for instance.

If your situation does not permit making an appointment, because of the time consumption required, than show up at the nearest passport agency on a business day as soon as they open. Make sure you have with you proper ID, and paperwork required for application and your proof of travel. Once you have explained your situation and have provided evidence of all documents required someone should be able to assist you.

Make sure you've chosen a good US passport expediting service to handle your passport dealings because the wrong company can keep you waiting for a long time for your passport.

About the Author

If you are not near a city with a passport agency you can utilize a passport expediting service. You can find a American passport expediting service available that can deliver your 24 hour pasport. The agency will ask you to send your paperwork through mail in order to process it with a passport agency. Once they have processed it, then can either ship it to you or hand deliver it to the airport if they have an office in the city of your departure.

Contact the Right Expediting Agency for US Passport Renewal and Issuance Needs

Among the many documents that serve as a valid identity, passport deserves a special mention. It is your gateway to travel to other countries in the world, as it is. However, at times, you may land up in a situation when you need a passport and getting hold of it within time becomes a daunting task. It may happen when you win a trip to offshore European destinations and the date is not far away. It may also happen when you get a plum job offer abroad and arranging for passport in the conventional way can take too long. Getting a passport in such dicey situations can make you worried and resorting to services of passport expediting agencies can solve the crisis.

There are professional agencies that offer passport expediting service providers that cater to needs of US citizens who need to travel abroad for various reasons on short notice. The charges of such agencies for faster passport processing will vary on your needs. If you want the passport issued and delivered to your address very fast, their priority packages may suit your need. For emergency passport issuance, you may opt for the costlier same day service option. Otherwise, the regular package will do. 

As it is, services of veteran passport expediting agencies come in handy for men and women who lead hectic lives. From household chores to professional assignments, they find themselves spending the week amidst rush and extracting time to visit passport issuing government agency in person will prove to be a hassle for such individuals. Same can be said about people who stay online a lot of the times anyways. They will find applying for passport online at sites of these service providers a better option. Once you apply for passport at their websites and submit necessary documents along with fee it is just a matter of few days to a week before the passport is sent to your address. 

If you are unsure How to apply for a passport online, the customer care staffs of passport expediting entities will help you. You can find online forms to apply for a passport for you or any family member in websites of these agencies. In their website, you will find necessary information on all aspects like documentation and processing charges related to passport issuance as it is. If the online information is not adequate for resolving your queries, you can always call up their helpline for further guidance. This will resolve any issue you face for online application.

The services of professional passport expediting entities are not limited to adult male and female applicants. If you want to travel to a country with family and are unsure about Where to get a passport for the kids on short notice, their services will be of use. They help clients get passports for family members from all age groups. Apart from that, they also help applicants get replacement copies for damaged passports. You can approach them in case your passport gets stolen.

About the Author

Mary Taylor is a writer, specialist in tour and traveling. 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 renew a passport in Atlanta.

Advice For First Time Passport Applicants

How to apply for a U.S passport:

--Do you need a passport or a visa? A visa is issued by the country you are going to, and is necessary if you intend to stay for a long period of time. Obviously, the length of time before a visa is required varies by the country.

--Plan ahead. The process of obtaining a passport is not difficult, but it usually takes about three weeks. So don't postpone your application if you are planning to travel overseas.

--If you need a faster response, an expedited processing will cost an additional $60, whether you are applying for a first-time passport, or renewing an existing one.

--You will need a certified birth certificate, two identical passport-size photos (2X2 inches), your social security card and your drivers license.

--You must apply in person if this is your first U.S. passport application; or if your previous US passport expired and was issued when you were under 16; or if your name has changed since your passport was issued and you do not yet have a legal document formally changing your name.

--Remember, your passport is the only valid ID accepted once you cross an international border. 

Carry it with you at all times (a money belt is an excellent investment before you leave, and will be the ideal place to carry this and other important documents).

--If your passport is lost or stolen while your are in another country, go immediately to the nearest US embassy or consulate to have a replacement issued.

--For more information, visit the US Department of State's website at http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_830.html.

COPYRIGHT © Charles Brown, 2006. All rights reserved.

Think budget travel equals boring travel? Think again! Learn the Guerrilla Traveler’s insider secrets to budget adventure travel to the world's most exciting places and experience the coolest travel adventures without spending a bundle. Charles Brown is a former attorney who now spends his time indulging his passion for travel and shares the unique travel destinations and adventure travel bargains he uncovers on his blog, Guerrilla Traveler - Adventure on a Budget, http://www.guerrillatraveler.blogspot.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/162521

US Passport

When you are traveling outside the USA, you must have your passport with you. A passport issued by the US Department of State certifies you as a citizen of your country, when requesting permission to enter other countries.

If you have never been a possessor of a US passport or your last US passport has been expired for more than 12 years, or your recent US passport has been stolen, lost or damaged, then you must apply for a new US passport. If a person is applying for the first time, then he needs to do so in person.

International travel is considered a right that cannot be denied to any citizen. Even so, not very long ago, people who held views associated with communism, like Paul Robeson and W.E.B. Dubois, were denied a US passport. However, the U.S. Department of State cogently maintained that they have the right to screen people and revoke their passports if necessary. For the same reasons, US passports to Libya, Lebanon and Iraq are still denied.

In order to strengthen US security goals, biometric technology has been extended to US passports.

 This is done by including certain physical characteristics of the applicant, for example fingerprints or retina scans, and analyzing their distinguishing traits.

A contemporary US 'e-passport' has been proposed which will be a unique combination of both tighter security features and a novel design. It will have a computer chip attached to it, containing important data. This design will capture the essence of hope and success for the citizens of the USA.

US Passport [http://www.WetPluto.com/US-Passport.html] provides detailed information on US Passport, US Passport Application, US Passport Renewal, US Passport Office and more. US Passport is affiliated with US Mint Web Sites [http://www.e-USMint.com].

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/210166

Canada Passport Renewals

Considering the population of Canada, 2.5 million is indeed an overwhelming number of Canadian passports to be issued each year. However, the process of renewal of a Canadian passport can be arduous if the steps required to do so are not followed systematically and properly.

Canada passport renewal falls under two categories- for applicants above 16 years and for those under 16 years of age. Applicants above 16 years of age should use form PPT040 and submit form PPT132 (should be used only when guarantor signature is not obtained), present Canadian passport, Canadian citizenship proof, certificate of Canadian citizenship, Canadian birth certificate, other important ID and two passport-sized photos. The total fee charged for granting a Canadian passport is CDN100 (with guarantor signature) or CDN150 (without guarantor signature).

In case the applicant falls under the age of 16, then along with the form PPT042, other documents that need to be printed include form PPT132 (only when guarantor signature is not obtained), present Canadian passport, Canadian citizenship proof, certificate of Canadian citizenship, Canadian birth certificate, other important ID and two passport-sized photos. Also, the applicant's parents should sign the application and present any legal documents concerning divorce (if any) and child custody. 

The total fee comes up to CDN35 (with guarantor signature) or CDN85 (without guarantor signature).

Recently, in order to cater to the growing demand for Canadian passports each year, the government formulated plans to offer a better service for granting the passports. For the same reason, on July 5, 2004, a pilot project which extended to 20,000 applicants was launched. The project, which ran until November 2005, aimed at offering Canadian passport renewal as a permanent service by Passport Canada.

Passport Renewal [http://www.e-PassportRenewal.com] provides detailed information on Passport Renewal, US Passport Renewals, Passport Renewal Forms, Canada Passport Renewals and more.

 Passport Renewal is affiliated with Passport Applications [http://www.Passports-web.com].

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/273997

Elegant Passport Holders - A Perfect Gift For Business Travelers

A leather passport holder can work both as a beautiful as well as functional accessory. Most people use this trendy accessory in order to protect their travel documents like passports, air tickets and boarding passes.

Being so functional, these accessories can prove to be great gift options for people traveling for business.

If you have a friend, colleague or a relative travelling abroad then a designer leather passport holder can be an ideal for them. A quality passport cover with a unique design can really be a great gift option.

You can avail a good looking passport holder from a leather gift store. Besides this, if you do not have much time to go and shop for it you can buy it from an online store.

 

Quality matters a lot!

In case you are presenting a travel passport cover to your boss, high level colleague or a client who is travelling abroad on a business trip, then consider presenting him/ her with a top quality passport cover.

A passport cover in leather is always an elegant option. Apart from this, be wary of fake leather accessories. For this, the best way is to opt for designs that aren't very easy to find.

Benefits of a leather passport holder

There are many reasons of leather being considered as the most recommended material for covers and carry bags. Primarily leather is a material that lasts longer and looks better with age.

Most people opt for leather, not just because of its luxury, but also because it's functional and can be used in varied situations. A person will surely look elegant while wearing such an accessory.

You can also personalise your passport cover with the recipients' name or initials, which will make it look cool and will add an additional price to it.

Online Assistance

Whether you are looking to gift classic designs or you like the modern ones, the internet can help you find whatever you need. You can visit a variety of websites and browse for different categories to look for the right kind of passport cover you need.

There are many sites that offer you with attractive and quality designs of these products at discounted rates too. But for this, you'll need to perform an effective research.

Travelling is considered as an important part of everyone's life, thus an impressive and beautiful looking passport cover as a gift option will make its recipient delighted.

Functionality no less than that of a regular wallet

The practicality offered by these holders is no less than that of your wallet. Besides this, the passport cover, being made up of real leather and will keep your important documents protected.

You can opt for a soft leather holder in pink, oceanic blue or other mild colours if you want to present this gift to a girl. But when it comes to presenting passport holders to a guy, colours like black and brown are considered as excellent options.

For any help on Passport Holder, check out the info available online; these will help you learn to find the personalised gifts!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3383546

Keep the Dream Alive - Renew Your Passport Early

Application for renewal of your passport is essential and going on holiday can only be a distant dream without a passport. Here are some things to take care when applying or renewing your passport.

Renew or apply: If you are applying for a passport for the first time or younger than 16, then an application must be made in person at a passport agency or acceptance facility. If not, a renewal application can be made online and through the mail. To do so, simply complete the application form off the website and send the recent passport, together with 2 passport photos and a $75 check, to the address at the top of the form in a padded envelope. It might be a good idea to track the document to ensure security.

Apply early: The standard processing time would be about 4-6 weeks, and half that time if you choose expedited service, but keep in mind the possibility of delays. A safe bet would be to apply 8-10 weeks before you fly.

Get your documents in order: Download the application form off the internet at http://www.travel.state.gov, or obtain one for your nearest passport agency. Two necessary document photocopies need to be submitted with the application form.

* Evidence of your US citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a Naturalized Certificate * An identification, such as a driver's license or military ID

Bring everything you need: Ensure that you bring along $100 application fees for an adult or $85 for a minor under 16 years of age. Bring along the same identification as the photocopy, as well as two passport photos. These photos must be 2x2 inches against a white background, showing your full face without obscurities and taken within the recent 6 months.

Check your application status: Be sure to check the status of your application about a week after you lodge it. This can be done by sending a query online.

Run a quick check: Flip through your passport upon receipt to make sure that nothing has been torn or damaged in the handling process.

Note that any damaged, stolen or lost passports must be reported before a new application can be lodged!

And you're done! It's time to start planning for that dream holiday!

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/2800870

What Do You Know About Your Passport?

What is a passport for an American? It is a document issued in your name by the United States Department of State. It is a small sized booklet with the words "Passport", "The United States of America," and the official crest of the US printed on the front. Inside you will find your picture, your name and date of birth and state where you were born, along with the date of issue and the expiration date. A passport is valid for 10 years from the issue date. A travel visa may also be necessary to visit some countries and is your responsibility to take care of this if needed.

Your passport contains a lot of useful information such as:

- How to obtain travel advisories or warnings before traveling out of the country

- How to get health information such as inoculations

- What you may need for insurance if you become ill or have a medical emergency while traveling abroad

- Reminders about following the laws of other countries while visiting and safety tips, such as not carrying large sums of money or unnecessary credit cards

- Reminders to sign your passport and how to carry and safeguard your passport. An especially useful reminder is the one to make two photocopies of the first page of your passport, leaving one at home in a safe place and carrying the other copy with you separate from your actual passport.

Your passport booklet also contains information about registering with the US Embassy in another country when you arrive if indicated, how to navigate customs, and the lawful use or surrender of your passport. A passport is considered to be the property of the United States Government. By reading the small print inside your passport, you will learn what to do if your passport is lost, stolen, altered or destroyed.

There is also a space for you to write down the name and telephone number of an emergency contact. 

 It is suggested that you use a pencil as this contact information may change over the 10 year period. 

Your passport states that in case of emergency, the nearest American embassy or consulate or State Department Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management be notified also.

Your passport booklet also contains space for visa stamps and any amendments or endorsements. 

 Some useful things to carry with your passport might include a word translation book, currency conversion charts, time conversion charts for the various time zones, and foreign money regulations--the monetary unit of a country, amount you may enter with, and amount you may take out. Get your passport now before booking travel online!

For more information about all segments of the travel industry, visit [http://www.chadstravel.com].

 This website and online travel agency specializes in saving consumers money on airline tickets, cruises, rental cars, lodging, vacations and much more. Judy Moor is a experienced traveler and author who is committed to trying to make life more meaningful and fun for Baby Boomers [http://www.stuff4boomers.com], people who travel on business and all others that travel. Be sure to check out her #1 rated work-from-home opportunity [http://www.chadstravel.com/income-opportunity.html] too.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/487622

Passport Photos

Have you ever seen a passport? If you have, then you could have noticed that just like any other forms of identification, a passport also includes a photo of the bearer. A passport is an important travel document since this reveals your identity and nationality when you travel to a foreign country. 

And in order to better identify you as the bearer, your photo should be included in it together with important personal details such as your complete name, birthday, and citizenship.

However, since there are many people who are trying to falsify this type of document, the photo requirements for passport are stricter these days compared to other forms of identifications such as your driver's license, government ID, and office ID. This is to ensure that your photo is reliable when it comes to identifying you as the truthful bearer.

Passport photos should be of good quality to be able to represent the bearer accurately and should be free from common defects in order to avoid delays during processing. The following include the common passport photo print properties: it should be a 2 inch by 2 inch color photo, printed on thin photo paper or stock, clear print and with continuous-tone quality, and no enhancing, editing, or retouching done to the photo.

In addition, you have to make sure that your passport photo presents full head, your center head is within the frame, and the eye height is between 1-1/8 inches to 1-3/8 inches from bottom of photo.

 Your background for the photo should be plain white or off-white, no distracting shadows, and of course, you should have a natural expression.

You should be able to meet all these photo requirements when applying for your passport. Failure to comply with any of these will mean a delay to the processing of your application. That is why it is important that you have your photo taken by a professional photographer who knows exactly what the passport photo requirements are.

Passports [http://www.WetPluto.com/Passport-Applications.html] provides detailed information on Passports, Passport Renewal, Passport Applications, Passport Photos and more. Passports is affiliated with Passport Renewal Forms [http://www.e-PassportRenewal.com].

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/253871

5 Tips for Passport Renewal

Fond of travelling but out of passport is an awkward situation. The only way to safeguard yourself from such a situation is to remember to renew your passport in time. Passport application could be considered as a complicated procedure for some as it involves several verification stages however the renewal is simple. Sadly, people still goof up the entire renewal process and therefore ruin their travel plans. If you are an avid traveller fond of getting your passport stamped frequently, here are a few simple tips to keep in mind when renewing the document:

Don't wait for the expiry date: This is a common doubt and therefore we are addressing it on priority. 

Most people start work on the renewal of their passport well after the expiry date has gone by. This is wrong. Instead, initiate the renewal process even before you hit the expiry date. Start renewing at least 9 months beforehand because there are many airlines that could refuse to accommodate you if your passport expires within six months.

Don't go to random people: A lot of travellers use the online passport service portals to get their passport renewed. However, you need to ask yourself how many of these are genuine. What's more is that these random agencies are going to charge you a bomb and still can't guarantee that they will be able to get the job done. Instead, just opt for the government passport office. You will receive all the guidance that you want.

Use recent pictures: Your passport renewal application is most likely to get rejected if you are not using recent pictures. Don't wait for one rejection to open your eyes. Instead, be smart and keep a bank of recently clicked pictures ready for use.

Document submission: These days most of the passport renewal application cases require the users to download an application form from the government website, fill in the details and submit the documents mostly by mail. If you are going to mail the documents, ensure that it is sealed properly. 

Also, use a traceable method of mailing so that you know when the documents are delivered.

Attend the appointment: Don't take the passport application process lightly. Each time you make an appointment, ensure that you are available to attend it. Missing them unnecessarily will cast a negative impression on your application.

With these five tips you can ensure that your passport renewal process remains on track.

To know more about Adult passport renewal or Lost or stolen passport, please check our website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9045685

How to Get an Expedited Passport in Time For Your Holiday

When you're ready to go on holiday, you make certain that you have everything you need on hand - your luggage, maps of the area you'll be visiting, your tickets... everything is in order. But what about your passport? If you haven't already obtained your passport, don't worry there's still time. As long as your trip is approximately four weeks away, you can still get an expedited passport in time for your journey. Getting an expedited passport isn't nearly as difficult as you may believe, which is why in this article we want to cover everything you need to know about getting your passport quickly.

How To File For An Expedited Passport

This first thing you need to understand about filing is that it is going to cost you a bit more than if you were willing to wait the full six to eight weeks that normal delivery takes. The average cost for a new passport is around $100, with a renewal being approximately $75. The additional fee for an expedited passport is roughly $60, depending on where you file for your passport. This additional fee will need to be sent in with the regular fee and all of your paperwork.

You can request to get an expedited passport from a number of various places. The most common place is at your local post office. Although some post offices will allow you to simply walk in and apply, most will require you to make an appointment. When you go in for your appointment, make sure that you have all of your paperwork in hand; as well as whatever additional fee the post office may charge.

You can also apply at a number of offices set up specifically for that purpose. There are a number of passport acceptance facilities located throughout the country, each of whom can process your paperwork and forward it to the appropriate passport agency. These acceptance facilities will charge a processing fee over and above the actual cost of your passport.

You can also apply directly from the government. You will need to send in the appropriate fees for the cost of processing and the expedition fee, as well as the rest of your paperwork; but by applying yourself, you can save yourself the fee charged by acceptance facilities and only pay the actual amount of the passport itself.

The main thing you need to remember is to take all of your paperwork and identification with you when you go. You'll also need to take at least two passport worthy photos, which can be obtained at a number of places including mailing stores and acceptance facilities. Having these will help to ensure that the process of applying for an expedited passport goes smoothly.

Do you need an expedited passport? Click the link below to find the best service:

Expedited Passport Review

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1839968

Short Overview Of Priority American Passports

For anyone who has applied for a passport, there is likely already the understanding of various choices that can shorten waiting. But likewise, people do not always truly understand the various types of priority American passports that are available for their use. The information listed here can be used to help you get a general overview of the options.

Getting your passport rushed or expedited is always an option but there are only certain situations in which this may be the best choice. If you only need to have your passport soon, you may want to use this traditional rushing method for the service via the post office. There are also other considerations that you can use depending on other situations.

You may be eligible to get a temporary passport, depending on what is going on with your circumstances. This option is more common for people who are waiting for their passport but must leave immediately for their travel. You can usually find more information about getting these passports from the passport site provided by the government or via researching in your spare time.

If your passport has been destroyed or stolen, you may be eligible to get an emergency passport instead. This is a highly useful option if you are in another country and are not able to really deal with your passport problem directly. Many websites are able to assist you with gaining an emergency passport in this type of situation.

In consideration of what your delivery choices may be, this also extends priority options. With the amount of delivery possibilities online, you should examine what each website can offer you before you make a general choice overall. You will notice that you will be able to choose delivery options from a week, next day, or overnight, depending on your needs and budgeting.

The options that have been mentioned can be found on the internet. You can also use traditional methods to get to these options but you may find that this isn't always convenient and that you can access your possibilities on the internet easier. Otherwise, you may also notice that using the internet to research options is also more helpful.

It is important to understand that these are just some of the priority options for passports. There are various others that can be considered and explored, which depend on if you are renewing your passport or you just need your passport to arrive quickly. You can get more information about all the different options available at your travel agency or your post office.

Having a true understanding of the different priority American passports you can use will help you to make a choice for your own passports. Usually, you mainly need to consider when you need your passport to arrive to you, the cost, and what availability of your options provide. Since there are options for almost every situation, you should be able to find a solution to help you get to your destination as planned.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5084334