When presented with the opportunity to travel to a foreign country, paper work is the last thing that should get in the way of your trip. If there is little time to prepare, getting an expedited new pass port might become the first step in preparing for the trip. It is important to understand what travel documents are needed for the trip and how long it normally takes to obtain them.
The process of getting your first passport is not difficult if the person takes the time to study what is required of them. There is an official application that is submitted to the proper governmental agency, along with required supporting documents and payment of a fee. These documents include proof of citizenship, some sort of personal identification to prove a match of applicant name and other identifying information, and a copy of that same personal identification. In addition, two color photos are required. For specific details of what are considered acceptable supporting documents, check the issuing agency’s website.
If speed in obtaining the passport is your objective, there are at least two options available to you. The first is to pay an additional fee to the issuing agency in exchange for faster service in processing your application. The second is to hire a private company that provides the services of assisting travelers in navigating the application paperwork and process
As a first time applicant, you must appear in person at a Passport Agency office or an Acceptance Facility with your application and supporting documents. An Acceptance Facility is likely to be more convenient, as these are usually located in a post office or other government office. If normal lead times for the issuing agency are not adequate for your travel needs, you must bypass the normal processing sequence by making an appointment with an agent at a Regional Passport Agency. At this appointment you would request faster service, prove the need for it, and then present your application paperwork to the agent. There is a higher fee to use this faster service.
If having an advocate to assist with the application process is more appealing, then using the services of one of the several private companies that specialize in this type of work might be the right approach. What must be submitted as far as the application, identification, proof of citizenship, and photos does not change in this situation. What is different is that the company will take everything prepared by the individual traveler and move it through the necessary steps in a shorter amount of time. It should be emphasized that employing a private company to assist in this process, the traveler must still appear at an Acceptance Facility to begin the application.
These companies are in business to provide a service to travelers by shortening the time to get documents. They charge for these services and the more urgent the need, the higher the fee. Some promise they can get a passport application through the process in less than two weeks and even as little as one day. If the requirement is speed, one of these companies might be the right solution.
When selecting a private company, there are several factors to consider. The first is the location of the company in relation to the individual’s completion of the application. Since your documents will be shared between the two parties, close proximity can be an advantage. The fees charged are another consideration. Generally, there is a sliding scale based on how quickly the passport is required. Be sure to learn if there are cancellation fees, should the services of the company be terminated. The reputation of the company should be evaluated to ensure that it is reputable and has a history of meeting their client’s needs.
In the fast paced society of the modern world, not having a passport shouldn’t be a big concern should a sudden trip present itself. Whether using the standard agency, or a private company, most individuals’ needs can be met. As long as the us passport application form and supporting documents can be obtained in a timely manner, there is a way to get an expedited new pasport. Knowing this, the only worry is what to pack.
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