Archive for the ‘Immigration_Help’ category

Pasport Application Services

February 3rd, 2012

Filing a US passport application is the process to get a document needed when a citizen wants to travel to a place outside of the United States of America. Passports are an important to document that allow citizens to travel in and out of countries with ease. Adults as well as minors need to have their own passport. Minors below the age of sixteen and those of ages sixteen and seventeen have their own special requirements for the application process.

Requirements

The following must apply for this document. One who is getting it for the first time. One who has one that was issued when they were under the age of sixteen. One whose passport has been stolen, is lost or has been damaged. One who has had a it for more than fifteen years, it is only valid for fifteen years. And finally one who has had a name change and they need to get all names in all documentations synchronized.

Validation

To validate the process one must have proof of being a citizen. It may be a naturalization document, a passport that is not damaged, or a birth certificate. For those who were born abroad it has to be a birth report from the respective country. If the agents receiving the documents find them unsatisfactory they have the ability to request for secondary evidence.

Information

The application form has to be filled with the right information. It cannot be signed unless there is an agent representing the passport facility present. This means that signing cannot be done at any time before visiting the issuance facility. After visiting the facility one can now sign it in the presence of an authorized agent.

Photographs

Two photographs have to be submitted for the application. They must be identical two by two inch full color photos. They have to be taken while in casual wear within the last six months. The face must be in full view and the distance between the top of the head and the bottom of the chin must measure not less than an inch and not more than an inch and three eighths. The background can only be either white or off white. No head gear is allowed in this photo. Medically prescribed items such as glasses and hearing devices have to be worn when taking the picture.

Filing An Application

It’s much better to file for an application in person, there are other options though. A certain amount of money has to be paid as fees for the process. If one needs the process to be faster there is an extra fee for that. One can keep checking the status of the application online.

Applying for a passport is not as bad as it used to be. With all the information available, everyone going through the United States pass port application process should have all required documentation and know what to expect. There are also other venues that one can use to apply for a new passport US pass port renewal. Many passport services are offered online, which is easy and may actually expedite the process.

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Guide To US Passport Replacement

February 3rd, 2012

The average period within which a passport replacement can be achieved is eight weeks. There are many things that might necessitate the replacement of a passport. One of them may be due to theft, ordinary loss or server anomalies in the document. Any one traveling must be in possession of a valid travelling document. It is against the law to travel without one. The urgency of the replacement depends on how immediate your traveling plans are.

Use The Internet

For travelers with urgent travel plans who require the passport quickly, an Internet search is a good option. There are a number of companies available online that offer these services. These providers can deliver a new document within a very short time, as short as 24 hours. However, it should be noted that these companies charge an additional fee for urgent documents. The additional charges can be as high as 300 US dollars but it varies depending on the urgency. Those processed in a longer time will have lower fees.

The Government Connection

The good thing about companies that provide this service is that they work in conjunction with government and immigration authorities meaning that they have an upper hand when it comes to facilitating speed of approval and delivery. If this was done by an individual, it will take a longer period of time because the private person must go through the normal channels.

Your Responsibility

When an applicant works with an independent processing company, he/she will bear some responsibility. All the government application standards must be completed in addition to completion of all the forms required by the service company. The government application forms can either be obtained from the governmental site or that of the company. Just like the government, the company issues a set of instructions in regard to form completion.

Passport Photos

To get a new document, you will need two photographs taken recently and in accordance to the required measurements. The measurements will be 2×2 inches and should be taken in full color from a frontal view. All instructions in regard to this should be closely followed to avoid rejection of your application. It is advisable to have the photographs taken by a professional.

Submission

Once all the above requirements have been put in place, it will be important to now prepare for sending the documents. Put all the application forms and the required support identification documents together and send them to the company via a mailing service provider. The courier agency you choose must allow for tracking of the documents.

Return Old Passport

When replacing your passport, the old one should be returned together with the renewal paperwork. The old document is then canceled by the government and given back to the holder. Once this document is canceled, it is not invalid for use but can be retained with the holder’s records.

If you find the U S passports you previously reports and lost or stolen, you must immediately take to the government agency so they are render it invalid. This is an important step, as cancellation will prevent someone from using your old passport for unlawful purposes. Considering the procedures in this article can help you understand the passport replacement process that you now know is not as complex as you may have previously thought.

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Stolen United States Passport – What To Do

February 2nd, 2012

Passports are important travel documents issued by the United States that should be safeguarded at all times. Should you experience a stolen passport, you have to take immediate action. A number of steps should be taken in following legal procedure to replace the travel document as fast as possible.

Step 1

The very first requirement in a case where the document has gone missing is to report the incident to relevant authorities. If the document was taken while in the United States, you are advised to contact the Department of Services in the United States for passports to invalidate the item. Individuals who are out of the country must seek the services of the Embassy or Consulate.

DS-64

The DS-64 form is usually required to be completed and must be done as soon as possible. The specific form is necessary in recording your statement, which will document that it has been lost as a result of theft. The alternative to filling out the necessary documentation is to contact the Passport Services of the United States that will invalidate the document.

Stays Invalid

Once these agencies have been contacted and the document has been invalidated, it is considered no longer usable and cannot be re-validated. For those who are in international borders, you must visit the U. S. Embassy and Consulate in person. The State Department must be notified of your loss immediately and completion of the DS-64 form should be posted.

Accuracy

Always proof read the forms to ensure that all items have been correctly answered which is important for processing the particular application. Often a police report is required to be submitted with the particular documentation that states the situation in which the specific item was taken from you. Once all details have been documented, the forms may be posted to the Passport Services of the United States Department.

Loss of a Valid Passport

Valid passports that have been illegally taken from you will require that both forms DS-64 and DS-11 are completed. In cases where the missing document is still valid, it will have to be invalidated and this is why it is necessary to complete form DS-11 for a replacement. One must remember to include a number of important documents in application for a new legal document.

Identification

These documents include presentation of a certified birth certificate or Certificate of Naturalization. For proof of identification one may include copies of driver license and government or state issued identification card including 2 passport size pictures. Charges apply to the application for a new document and if the travel item is needed in a short period of time, extra fees apply to expedition services.

Once the item is reported as a stolen expedited passport, it will be invalidated and the document can no longer be used for travel purposes. The application process for obtaining a new legal document requires that you appear in person. The procedure for a stolen passport requires that individuals complete designated forms for reporting the incident and then applying for a new document to replace it. Whether it’s stolen or damaged you can request an expedited damaged passport if you need it quickly.

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Immigration Lawyers Mississauga – The Basic Residency Forms For Immigrants

February 2nd, 2012

Nowadays, many countries receive a huge flow of immigrants each and each and every year. If you base it on statistics, western countries like the US and Canada would generate millions of immigrants each year. With millions of applications comes millions of paperwork Mississauga immigration lawyers need to file and evaluate. If millions of paperwork is not enough, immigration lawyers will have to assess millions of residency or visa request.

Qualifications To Become Immigrants

An aspiring immigrant will have to complete all the necessary requirements before she or he can gain entry to a country. Aspiring immigrants are needed to accomplish a medical report. They want to file a document with a sworn statement that they’ll follow the country’s law. An aspiring immigrant will instantly forfeit his or her application if one has no valid passport. The aspiring migrant must also have no criminal record or pending legal case. Most of all, that person has to complete all the necessary requirements given by the immigration agency of that country.

The Temporary Visa

Depending on their reasons to stay, an aspiring immigrant may be granted temporary residency. Immigrants with temporary visas has to abide the rules and agreement between them and the government, and when the residency expires, they have to leave the country. However, it is still possible to extend the residency.

One type of temporary residency is having a student visa. With the aid of immigration lawyers, students can study in the country for a specific period of time. Working permits will also grant temporary residency to immigrants. Immigrants with this status are those skilled workers. Migrant professionals working in the healthcare industry like caregivers are eligible for short-term residency.

The Permanent Visa

If an immigrant is given a permanent visa, she or he is allowed by the government to live in the country and have more legal rights. Unfortunately, permanent residency doesn’t make them a naturalized citizen of the country. Obtaining a permanent visa can be done in many ways.

Permanent residency or visa can also be obtained if one is really a qualified and skilled worker. Since there are many skilled workers, aspiring immigrants has to pass all the necessary guidelines and requirements before they could get a permanent visa. It is important that they could show immigration agencies that they have enough money to start anew and support themselves. Age, language skills and educations are other factors that has to be considered before giving a permanent visa.

Permanent residency is also given to business class immigrants, petitioned family members and international adoption. Of course, they have their own requirements to comply. Seeking the help of Mississauga immigration lawyers will grant aspiring immigrants better chances.

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Immigration Lawyers Mississauga – What Should The Immigration Lawyer Have

February 1st, 2012

Mississauga immigration lawyers are not your regular lawyers and many folks will require their services for several specific reasons. If you are searching for a great immigration lawyer, then good luck because finding one is much like searching for a needle in a haystack. Searching over the net is not the most perfect idea because of the long list of search results one could get. The long list of search results will make anyone realize the difficulty of such endeavor. Is there any way possible to make the search much simpler?

Certainly , it’s possible to narrow down the search in finding the right immigration lawyer. Every little thing will be less difficult as long as one will consider these things.

Immigration lawyers should be trained and certified. A certification will assurance one that they have the proper lawyer. It would be a plus points for the customer in the event that lawyer is also a certified member in any immigration lawyer organization or group. Because this indicates that the lawyer is trying to keep up with the changes in the field of immigration law.

Experience is important when looking for service professionals, the same goes with immigration lawyers. The longer the practice in immigration law, the better it could be. The only good reason why experienced lawyers are said to be a better option is that these lawyers will have more knowledge and therefore are more instinctive concerning immigration law processes. Unfortunately, the laziest immigration lawyers are those who are experienced. The reason why some experienced lawyers are considered lazy us that they don’t consider the important changes in the field of immigration law.

Communication is an important thing a lawyer must have. It’s crucial for a customer to know the changes or sudden developments concerning her or his immigration case or pleas, which is why an immigration lawyer must be equipped with good communication skills. Aside from communication skills, a lawyer must be prompt in informing her or his customer. Every single piece of information has to be disclosed to the customer only.

Many people believe that the best lawyers are those who are good in lying; however, immigration lawyers should be different. You see, an immigrant would risk his chances to become a resident in a country if he or she chooses to lie. The lies one could make will be the cause of having to pay expensive penalties. The worst thing one could get from lying will be jail time or deportation.

Clients need to consider the cost of the lawyer’s services. Mississauga immigration lawyers will either charge a customer in a flat rate or as an hourly rate. The bill should be just right within the budget of the customer. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to find great lawyers who charges this way.

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Tips On How To Add Passport Pages Quick

February 1st, 2012

People who frequently travel to different countries are usually aware of how fast their pages can be filled up. This is more so the case for those who tend to travel several times within a year. Due to this, many wind up needing to add US passport pages quick but often aren’t sure where to start.

Things To Consider

People usually have several different choices to choose from when it comes to processing this kind of documentation. However, it’s always important to consider your options based on your circumstances, since things like pricing and time frames can be a determining factor. For example, certain options may take longer than others, while some methods may cost more.

Application

The right application needs to be completed and mailed to the appropriate address in order to receive new pages. This usually entails the DS-4085 form, which is specifically meant for this goal. However, individuals will also need to mail in their current passport and application fees. Due to this, it’s usually recommended that individuals mail these items through mail services that they can track.

Forms

You can find a list of requirements necessary for new pages by mail by doing some research. A DS-4085 is used for fewer than four pages remaining in your passport. If you feel you’ll need more pages, you may want to consider filling out a DS-82 form, which will provide you with a new book. Those who have to fill out their form in person, however, will need to fill in a DS-11 form instead.

Mail Time Frame

Individuals who have a month or more to wait will usually process their paperwork by mail. This process can usually take anywhere between 4 to 6 weeks, although this can sometimes vary.

Cost

Individuals can also choose to pay an extra fee on top of the regular application fee in order to have expedited services. This service will typically cost $60 and it generally takes 2 to 3 weeks for this type of processing. People can also choose to pay an additional fee to have their items sent by overnight delivery.

Online Agency Help

If you happen to be short on time and expediting your applications won’t help, you may want to use an agency that specializes in speedy processing. These agencies will cost more, even on top of the initial fees, but they can cut the time frame enormously.

It’s common for people to put things off until the last minute and travel plans can crop up at the last second as well. In situations like this, people who need to have their paperwork delivered within a 48 to 24-hour period will usually go through a company that specializes in this area. Although it will cost more, many people appreciate this method when they’re short on time, since they can add U S passport pages quick, depending on the dates on the passport, it may be possible to apply for a U S passport renewal instead.

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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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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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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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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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Immigration Help