When planning an international trip, many travelers assume they have thought of every detail. Then, panic sets in as they realize that they have forgotten to obtain or renew their passport. The pass port expediting alternatives will allow travelers to take possession of their documents before their travel date. Travelers have the option of either expediting on their own or using an expediting agency.
1st Time Applicants
People applying for the first time should apply in-person. Applicants must fill out Form DS-11 but should avoid signing the document until they are with their Acceptance Agent. Important information to bring to the agency includes proof of citizenship and appropriate ID, which may be a driver’s license or an ID issued by the government. Additionally, applicants must prepare photocopies of their identification, pay the processing fee and make sure to provide a photo.
Minors
Minors under 16 must follow separate procedures. Minors should complete Form DS-11 and submit proof of U. S. Citizenship. Then, minors will have to present proof of their relationship to their parents, such as a birth certificate with both parents’ names on it. Parents must then submit their own identification and photocopies, pay the applicable fee and provide the minor’s passport photo.
Delivery Methods
Applicants have the option of renewing in-person or via mail. To renew, applicants provide Form DS-82 and their undamaged U. S. Passport. According to the State Department, people should utilize a delivery method that can be traced and should use a large envelope for their documents. If original documents are damaged, applicants will have to renew in-person.
Time Restraits
Expedited passport applicants who are obtaining documents for the first time should go to their regional agency. Also, if applicants have less than two weeks before their travel date or less than four weeks to get a visa, then they should set an appointment at the regional agency. The agency will do its best to supply needed documents for the trip provided that applicants bring all required documentation to their appointment.
Help Through The Mail
Applications that are mailed may also be expedited. To guarantee quick processing, the State Department suggests that applicants purchase two-way overnight delivery. The envelope’s exterior must be marked with the word “Expedite”. The website of the State Department provides current processing times for expedited passports, but if times are not quick enough to secure documents by the travel date, applicants should call their regional agency.
Agencies Can Help
Many people find the process of adding passport pages on their own to be complicated and time-consuming. Many people decide to employ expediting agencies to process their documents quickly. Applicants will find many online listings for these agencies, but they should take the precaution of calling the agency’s number to guarantee its authenticity. Travelers should never send money or documents to an agency if the telephone number is not functional.