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Archive for January, 2012

The Best Way To Replace A Lost Pasport

January 31st, 2012

There are several ways that you can go about replacing a lost US passport. The application can be done online or in person. You can also download the DS-11 form and mail it in with the required supporting documents. The quickest and easiest way is to make use of an expediting company.

Report Loss

You can report a lost US passport by calling the Department of State. It is also possible to include a DS-64 form when you send in your application or apply in person. There is no way that it can be validated again once it is reported lost so if you find it, you should send it in.

If In A Foreign Country

If you happen to be traveling at the time, you should contact the local US embassy or consulate. Because all passports are printed in America and then posted abroad, they will not be able to expedite the process. If you are not able to wait, they will be able to issue you with a temporary passport.

Expediting

You can also apply via an expediting company if you are in another country. This can be done though their website and they are still able to complete the process much more quickly. It will still take slightly more time than with a standard application because of the increased distance of shipping. If you do have time to wait for a full passport, you could still apply with the assistance of the consulate or embassy. Although the same forms and documents are required there will be a different application process in different countries.

Replacement In The U.S.

If you apply to the Department of State in America, it is possible to have the process expedited. This can be done in person at a passport agency or any other official agent such as the Post Office. This application has to be done on a DS-82 form. It will still only halve the time that it would normally take and could be delivered within 2 to 3 weeks.

24-Hour Service

Passport expediting companies will offer a range of different packages depending on how soon you need it. They could even have it done within 24 hours but it ranges from a few days to a week or two. Delivery with 24 hours is only available if you have made a booking.

Documents

However you choose to apply, there will be a number of documents that you need. You will need to supply the originals and copies. If you are applying by mail the original documents will be returned to you by mail so it is best to choose the tracking option. You should also use sturdy, weatherproof envelopes.

The documents that you require for a lost passport or a damaged US pasport are the application form and a statement confirming that you have lost it. You will also need to submit proof of citizenship and some form of identification such as a birth certificate or government ID. Two photos that conform to certain requirements are also needed and in rush cases, proof of your intent to travel.

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Tags: application expediting companies pasport passport agency process time

A Same Day American Kids Pass Port Can Be Done

January 31st, 2012

Foreign travel can be an exciting adventure, especially for children travelling for the first time. However, it is important to make sure they have the right documentation. Sometimes you may forget that their passport needs renewing or you may need to get the process completed as quickly as possible. Therefore you may want to consider applying for same day kids passports.

The Application

Be certain you have the correct application form. This can be downloaded from a number of different sources. It is important to make sure that the website has been verified as government approved. As with any download, check the virus and security status before downloading the form onto your computer.

Follow The Rules

First, ensure you have the right application form. When you fill it out, be sure you obey all the stated requirements regarding the color of ink you are to use and complete all requests for information. For example you should not sign it until you have been instructed to do so in the presence of the passport agent who must witness your signature. Also be sure you have the requested identification documents.

Identification

The best form of identification is a birth certificate. The agency will copy your original document and return it to you. If the birth certificate is not available or cannot be found, you can use an expired passport as an alternative as long as it is in good condition. Both parents or guardians must provide acceptable identification during this process and if one parent can’t be present, a notarized authorization letter must be presented giving permission for the child’s travel.

Photos and Departure Date

The problem of an absentee parent is easily overcome by providing written consent allowing the child to travel. Remember that this letter must be notarized. It is also vital to have two passport photos. These must be taken in accordance with all government rules and regulations for passport photos. You also need to present proof of the departure date. This can be in the form of a ticket or travel itinerary.

Children and Business Trips

Two passport photos of the child should also be submitted. These must be taken in accordance with all passport requirements. There are examples available on local government websites showing the exact pose that is required. With younger children, photographs may be difficult so you may want to have the picture taken by an experienced photographer.

Put Everything Together

This package is then submitted to the company handling the application process for you. It is very important to ensure that the company you use has been approved by the federal government as a passport agency. You do not want to risk your identification or the identification of your children to a company without this certification.

It is very important that you keep the envelope with the documents for your same day kids pass port sealed. If you open the envelope before presentation to the proper authorities, the application will be voided. Always confirm that you are using a reputable passport agency to assist you and your expedited American passport will be safely processed in time for your departure.

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Tags: application child expired passport passport agent passport photos process

US Passport Rush For Deadlines

January 30th, 2012

Travel planning by its very definition can be stressful. There are so many things to do, especially when talking about international travel. The trip taker must pack for different climates, get plane tickets, their passport and many other things. Often times, people are prepared but for those who forget, there may be the need for a passport rush.

You Need A Passport

Because of changes to national security, getting a passport has grown increasing more important for international travel. Historically, one could take a cruise or visit Mexico or Canada with merely a driver’s license and birth certificate. That is no longer the case.

You Need An Itinerary

According to the US State Department, there are a number of items the traveler will need to begin the process. You will need the necessary forms from the federal government, proof of citizenship like a birth certificate, a valid photo ID, your social security card, the application fees and your expected date of travel.

You Need Help

While the US government is trying to change things to make it easier to obtain these in shorter amounts of time, it may still be much faster to get an outside agency to assist. The federal government suggests visiting a passport agency, mailing in your application to the U. S. Department of State, visiting a local post office or checking with your county clerk.

You Need Documents

The process for getting it varies slightly depending on the speed at which you need it. To begin, the traveler will need to gather the items mentioned above. You may then determine which application option you want to pursue.

You Must Pay The Fee

According to travel agents, the best course of action to get an expedited passport is to visit a regional office, which can be located by calling a specific number. In order to get assistance from a regional office, however, you must have a travel date within two weeks. When calling the regional office, the traveler will get an exact location of the local office and an appointment time will be given. The traveler will be required to be at the meeting. All documents and payment will be required at that time.

You Need A Speedy Delivery

If the traveler chooses to hire an outside agency, there may be even greater chance of getting the document faster. Some websites offer services ranging from the normal speed to 24 hours. The costs associated reflect the speed at which you would like the ID delivered.

You Can Track The Progress

A system is in place to track your passport’s progress as well. You will need the number given to you by the federal government or local agency. Then again, it may just be easier to pay a little more and let a third-party handle the worrying for you.

Anyone with the travel bug or who works for an international company should find out how to get a passport in a hurry. You never know when you will need a pass port rush in order to get it in time. Don’t get left behind for a special trip. You can also rush other passport services such as a American passport name change or a passport renewal.

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Tags: expedited passport office passport social security card travel valid photo id

How To Obtain An Expedited Pass Port For Newborn

January 30th, 2012

There was a time in the United States when a baby or a small child could travel on the passport of one of their parents, usually the mother. Nowadays, however, even a newborn infant must have a passport of their own. When travel is urgent or imminent, an expedited passport for newborn may be obtained. Parents may go through the procedure themselves or they may avail themselves of the services of a specialized agent.

Requirements

There is a lot more involved in obtaining an infant passport than for an adult. Some requirements include a birth certificate or other proof of American citizenship, parental consent, parental identification, parental Social Security Number and proof of intent to travel. Then you must fill in a form, pay the fee and send a couple of photographs. The reality is somewhat more complicated. It gets worse if one of the parents is absent or uncooperative. There are five child passport levels. These are Expedited, Rush, Priority, Next Day and 24-Hour. The expedited passport takes up to two weeks to process and the passport is mailed directly to that parent(s).

DS-11

The necessary form, DS-11 – Application for a Passport, may be completed online and then printed or it may be downloaded, printed and then completed by hand. Form DS-11 is also available at a passport agency or from an Acceptance Facility. It is important not to sign the form until instructed to do so.

Submission

The passport will be valid for five years and it may not be renewed. The application needs to be submitted in person and the baby itself has to be there.

Photos

There are very stringent specifications for the child’s photographs. The baby must be looking directly at the camera against a white or an off-white background. Their head size must be no smaller than one inch and no larger than 1-3/8 inches. The photograph must be less than six months old when the application is submitted.

Photo Requirements

The look on the child’s face must be natural. This means there can be no smiling, laughing, screaming or crying. Their mouth must be shut and must not contain a pacifier or anything else. The child should face the camera straight on and looking directly at it. Nothing apart from the infant can be visible in the photo. This includes the parent’s hands, face or arms. There cannot even be a car seat in the picture. It may be easier to pay extra and have this done by a professional photographer.

Citizenship

The infant’s parents must provide proof of their own American citizenship. This can be a naturalization certificate, a valid passport, a Consular Report of Birth, a certificate of citizenship or a certified birth certificate.

While both parents should submit the application for an expedited American passport for newborn together, it is possible for one parent to be present provided a form called ‘Issuance of a Passport to a Minor Under Age 16′ has been completed. Alternatively, a written, notarized statement from the parent who isn’t there will be accepted. Passports for children do not stay valid as long as they do for adults. This is why it’s important to pay attention to dates. Children cannot do a passport renewal, they must apply for a whole new passport each time it expires.

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Tags: birth certificate child child passport expedited passport passport agency

Stolen US Passport Replacement

January 29th, 2012

Passports are official documents that allow a person entry into a foreign country as well as re-entry into their own. This document is absolutely necessary for any travel abroad. This makes it a very important document and one that is also coveted by those who cannot obtain one. Often, passports are stolen, if this happens it is absolute necessary to follow certain steps in order to report the stolen passport and get a replacement passport quickly.

At Home Loss

It is often heartbreaking to lose something you value and treasure. This document is no exception. Maybe you have been planning a vacation or a visit overseas, when you discover you do not have the most important item: your travel pass. It can be so stressful because it means that all those months of planning were wasted. Quickly apply for a new a passport to replace your lost or if you suspect, stolen one. This way you may be able to avert missed travel plans.

Abroad Loss

If you suspect your passport has been stolen while you are abroad, which is quite common, it is so important to tell the authorities right away. This prevents you from trouble if you are asked to show your travel documents. It also will put a stop on your passport, this way anyone who tries to use it will be red flagged and caught.

Stay Calm

It is important throughout this ordeal to remain calm. Staying calm will allow you to think clearly and process necessary information. This way you can properly speak with authorities and fill out all replacement paperwork with a clear head avoiding mistakes that can delay the process.

Report It

You can report it missing by phone or by filling out a special form at an agency or at the government offices. You can find the contacts online to report your missing item. Should you find a passport of someone else, you can also ensure that they get it back by mailing it to any Passport Agency.

Invalidation

Once you have reported your stolen credentials either by phone or in person by filling out the required documents, it is invalidated. You can no longer use it for travel. By reporting that it is missing, the authorities will assist you in trying to recover it.

A stolen US pasport is serious matter, if the situation is handled calmly and properly, disaster can be averted. By reporting it to the proper authorities and then going through the process of getting a U.S. passport renewal everything will work out and life will resume as before. Be sure to always keep your passport in a safe place to avoid such theft from happening.

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Tags: passport passport agency passport replacement process Replacement replacement passport

Get A U.S. Passport Fast – Steps To Follow

January 29th, 2012

Official travel documents that can only be issued by United States government agencies include passports and they provide identification when traveling outside the country. One may need to get a passport fast for a number of reasons. It is important to remember that charges will include the application fee as well as the additional service charge.

Don’t Take A Chance

Individuals who have scheduled travel arrangements within a week or two and do not possess an official travel document are advised to make use of expedition services. The reasons for needing a new travel booklet will differ depending on the particular situation. You may simply apply for a replacement in cases where it has been stolen, lost or has expired.

Lost or Stolen Document

The option of an online application process has meant increased convenience and efficiency in obtaining the relevant documentation for many individuals. If choosing an online application procedure, you may obtain the document a lot faster, even if has been lost or stolen. Individuals have to prepare photocopies of birth certificates, driver’s licenses, passport-sized pictures and any letters of authorization if using an expeditor.

Application

Once the designated fees have been paid and the required documents have been uploaded onto the system, one has applied for the 24-hour U. S. Passport. The online process will also allow individuals to apply for the renewal of a document when needing to travel. A specified fee must be paid and all necessary documentation must further be submitted together with the application.

Expediting Services

Government expedition services will assist all American citizens in rushing the procedure to issue a new travel document. The alternative is to hire independent services in order to reduce the time taken to process the particular application, which may take a maximum of two days in order to achieve. The State Department website provides the opportunity for submission which is efficient and convenient especially for those who are unable to travel to the relevant authorities in person.

Costs

Should government services be used, all individuals are obligated to pay a maximum fee that excludes the charges for the application and postal delivery. When applying for a replacement document, it is advised that you post the application forms together with the required documents via two-way overnight postal delivery. It is important to write expedite on the front of the envelope in clear bold letters and purchase a tracking number in order to trace the destination of important personal documents.

Fast Service

Seriously consider expedition services when requiring passports in a relatively short period of time and expect to pay additional charges for these options. Independent expeditors are able to skip the extended queues at regional facilities, which means that all applications are processed faster. The travel item could be received in only a few days when hiring private services when compared to the few weeks via governmental expedition services.

To get a U.S. passport fast, you should ensure that all necessary documentation has been correctly completed to prevent unnecessary delays, especially for issues like filing a U.S. passport name change. Expedition services are available to citizens for faster processing.

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Tags: application birth certificates document fee travel booklet U S passport

Expedited Pass Ports For Children – Ways To Get Them

January 28th, 2012

To travel internationally, one requires a passport from the country of citizenship. Even children need a passport. Be it an airline or a cruise line, the same rule applies provided you are leaving the country. This same rule is applicable for those travelling on land. However, if you are caught unaware, there are expedited passports for children as well as adults.

Timetable

The application for a passport takes about six weeks. Sometimes, it might take less time but never below four weeks. Expedited service is available for those who want to speed up the processing period. This can shorten the duration of wait from six weeks to two weeks. This expedited service is available at the US Department of State.

Expedited Service

The cost of an expedited passport differs from the standard cost. The variation in the price depends on the speed at which you want the passport. There are independent agencies that provide this service. They have the passport available within a day to 12 days. However, if the passport is not needed urgently, the cost of this service is low.

Government Licensing

There are both online and offline passport expediting services available. The only criterion that you should consider is whether the service provider is government licensed. These agencies will collect your data and help you through the entire application process. If you are using an online service provider, you will need to check your email regularly. The expediter will send you further instructions. Offline providers will contact you by phone for necessary instructions.

Payment

There are varieties of payment options. These are also subject to the agency you select. Online agencies provide the following options; PayPal, bank wire, e-check and credit card. The offline agencies accept credit/debit cards, money order, bank deposits and checks. You can then select the most appropriate option that suits you best.

Additional Charges

The fees you will pay include both the government-approved cost for a passport and the service fee. The service fee is based on the discretion of the agency helping you obtain the passport. There might be additional fees based on other service that the agency might offer such as traveling arrangements.

Parental Involvement

The parents or guardian of a child is actively involved in the entire process. The present laws of the United State stipulate for both parents be available when the application for the passport is submitted. In the absence of parents, guardians are allowed. The role of the parent/guardian also includes paying the required fees. All agencies offering this service are bound by this law.

Book or Card

You would also be required to indicate the passport needed. The two types available for minors are the passport card and passport book. The card only covers transportation by land and sea. The passport book avails the holder the freedom to travel through any means (land, air and sea). Each of these passports is priced differently.

Irrespective of the destination, provided it is outside your country of citizenship, you’re required to have a passport. This applies for children and infants, so make sure you get an infant American pasport if needed. At times, the importance of a passport might have being overlook by a parent. The expedited American passports for children are excellent choices to ensure that the travel proceeds as planned.

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Tags: application credit debit cards Expedited expedited passport expedited passports service

Simple United States Passport Application Tips

January 28th, 2012

Getting a passport can be either a simple process or a tough one. All citizens in need of traveling abroad are required to poses this vital document. Everyone is required to have this legal traveling document regardless of their age. Note that infants or young ones under the age of 16 have some special requirements needed for them to be issued with one. Passport application is an easy process if one follows the necessary steps.

Plan Early

The initial step that you require to do is planning ahead or early. The first process takes like four to six weeks that is inclusive of the delivery process. In the scenario where you had not planned ahead and you urgently need the travel document, then you will need to get expedited services. These services are quite fast but it takes two to three weeks and they are quite expensive.

Documents

The second step is ensuring that you have your important documents close in the event you are demanded to present them. This will really be convenient. These documents include your ID card, driver’s license and birth certificate. These documents are used to verify that you are a citizen of a particular country.

Travel Documents

If in any case this is your first time to apply for this document, consider getting the application forms from a passport agency or office. When you are present at the main office, you can get helpful information about the process and also answer or disclose useful information to the agency. It is also possible to download this form via the Internet but going to the office in person is also an option.

Complete Forms

Filling in the columns carefully is another aspect you need to ensure before you submit the form. You can submit the form yourself or give it to a person in charge of delivering it to the agency. Another simple way of delivering it is by dropping it off at your local passport office.

Pictures

Remember to have two passport-sized photographs. Ensure that you position yourself well during the process. This photo is very vital because if not taken properly, you might be asked to retake it. For this reason you should look for a professional photographer who is able to produce high quality work. The expert should also advice you on how to position yourself.

Cost

When in need of this travel document, you should consider the cost of obtaining it. Getting it through the regular process is not as expensive. When you want it urgently, you should go for the expedited services. However, though you can acquire the passport fast, you will be required to pay more for the services rendered to you.

For more information you can seek advice from your travel agent. The travel agent will surely help you out with the application process. The agents also make sure that you get the best services during this process. They will also inform you if you need to file for a United States passport renewal or if you need more documentation. You can hire a travel agent if you have none at an affordable rate. These agents will hasten your US pasport application process.

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Tags: getting a passport office passport process united states passport united states passport application

Expedited Lost Pass Port Replacement – How To Get It Completed

January 27th, 2012

Passports are needed for legal travel purposes and provide proof of citizenship for all American citizens. When you have lost a legally required travel document, a number of steps are required to be followed for fast replacement. Expedition services are able to provide individuals with fast delivery of a travel document in comparison to the regular 6 to 10 week waiting period for an expedited lost passport.

The Procedure

The first step to take after having experienced the loss of this important item is to contact the State Department. The procedure for receiving a new document will depend on the location of the passport holder. The missing item must always be reported as lost to relevant authorities and, with expedition services, you can receive the item in a short period of time.

Reporting Loss

The first step in following legal procedure is to contact the United States State Department in reporting the document as missing. If a document has been stolen, a police report is often required to be completed, detailing the situation in which the individual was a victim of theft. In reporting the missing item to the State Department one is taking the necessary precaution in invalidating the document so that it is not used for illegal purposes.

Required Forms

Specified documents must be correctly completed in order for authorities to process the application for a replacement booklet. Form DS-64 should be completed to provide authorities with an explanation regarding the situation in which the travel document went missing. The DS-64 must be submitted with the regular application for a replacement document.

Expediting

Should one have plans for traveling in a few days to a week, expedition services can speed up the application process. Whether government or independent expeditors are used, extra charges will apply for the actual application forms as well as the additional services. An independent expeditor provides professional services for obtaining necessary documentation and submitting to authorities while avoiding long procedure.

Foreign Help

Expedition services are readily available to U. S. Citizens and for those who find themselves outside of their native country, the U. S. Embassy should be contacted. Necessary information can be obtained from professional agents to assist in the proper application procedure. It is of utmost importance to report the document as a loss to authorities.

Required Documentation

Should the document be lost within the States, the application process is the same as if applying for a new legal document. Application process requires the completion of forms including DS-64 and DS-11 together with proof of your citizenship. Once all necessary forms have been completed, be sure to include copies of your driver’s license, birth certification and passport sized pictures for complete submission.

Expedition services should include placing the designated documents in a letter-sized envelope with expedite written on the front. It is best to select two-way overnight delivery including a letter of authorization if independent expedition services are used. For efficient processing of an expedited lost U.S. passport, ensure that all relevant documentation and if necessary a US pass port application is correctly completed.

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Tags: necessary precaution proof of citizenship united states state department

Help Guide For Adding New Pages For Passport

January 27th, 2012

People who are prolific travelers need to acquire additional new pages for US passport from time to time. This is often a better option compared to the hassle you may go through while applying for a new passport to serve the same purpose. It is a process than can be much easier than getting a new passport which is why you should consider getting new pages added to your traveling document if you are eligible.

Four Pages or Less

One of the most important things you must realize is that your document should have less than four visa pages remaining which will signify the need to get more. If this is not the case, you cannot make such an application. If your document satisfies this condition, you can prepare for the application.

What You Need

To quick start the application process, you must have with you an application fee and your valid passport. Having all these in order, you need to fill out a special form for this purpose and mail the application together with the vital documents to the address that is indicated on the form.

Critical Care

Since you will be submitting the document via mail, it is important to ensure you use a method that allows tracing of the package. Choosing this option will prove invaluable in case of shipment problems. If possible, you should also opt for a secure mailing option since it is the only way you can be sure that the contents of your document are protected.

Expiration

If perhaps you run out of time and your passport expires before you request the additional pages, you may still ask for more at the time you apply for a new document. This option may be well suited for people who travel often and realize the need to get additional pages before the new passport they applied for is delivered to them.

Written Request Required

In this case, you must prepare a written request for the additional pages. This request should also be signed. If you are eligible, you can just fill out the DS-82 form and mail it to the address provided. In case you are not eligible, you can complete the DS-11 form and present it in person.

Tracking Mail

For eligible applicants who mail their forms, it is advisable to use a mailing option that is traceable and reliable. This will save you major loses in case a problem arises in the delivery. It is important to use mailing options that are secure so your document will be safe from unauthorized use and to give you peace of mind.

In the quest for getting new pages for pass port, you may be wondering how many times you can apply and the number of additional pages available to you upon your request. Remember that you must have four or less pages remaining before a request is made. It may be better in the long run to get a US passport renewal as opposed to more pages.

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