Info About Getting Pass Port
When visiting a foreign country, U S passports are required for American citizens. At that time, it is stamped with a date that records how long you may visit. You must carry it to prove your identity whenever requested by the country’s authorities. It must also be shown when returning home.
Where Are You Going?
This requirement is most noted with Canada where, for a number of years, all that was required was a driver’s license or birth certificate for identification. Due to the many terrorist acts throughout the world, this has changed and a pasport or regular passport is required when entering and leaving that country.
Fees
All new passports must be handled by an authorized agent of the U. S. Government. They are located in a number of places, including post offices, court clerks, public libraries and other places. Applications from outside the U. S., for minors under 16, for those 16 and 17 and for diplomats as well as no-fee passports require special handling. In addition, standard processing time is 4 to 6 weeks. However, it is possible to have it expedited (2 to 3 weeks) for an extra $60 fee.
First Time Passports
If this is the first time a passport is being requested, an application, available online or from the authorized agent, must be filled out. It can only be signed in the agent’s presence. At that time you must also show your Social Security card, evidence of citizenship, other identification and a photo for the passport. Some places, such as the post office, can provide a photo for a fee.
Evidence Of Citizenship
The required evidence of U. S. Citizenship can be a certified birth certificate (US or birth abroad), a previously issued undamaged passport, naturalization or citizenship certificate. There are special requirements if applying from outside the country. If you already have a passport that is expiring, there are other procedures possible.
Passport Renewal
It is possible to renew by mail under certain circumstances. The passport in your possession must be undamaged and submitted with an application and it must have been issued within the past 15 years when you were 16 or older. If your name has changed, a verifying document must accompany the application. If you are behind in child support payments, your application will be denied.
Lost Or Stolen Passports
On occasion when visiting abroad, this valuable document is lost or stolen. When this happens, it is necessary to go to the nearest U. S. Embassy or consulate where a limited validity document can be issued. However, to return to this country, special procedures must be followed and it takes a number of weeks to receive a standard issue.
Keeping pasport in a safe and secure place cannot be overemphasized. Make sure you know if you need a passport or pass port cards.
