Oct 2 2010
Helpful Tips For Filling Out Your Expedited United States Passport Application
As a traveler, you are probably excited that you will be making an international trip. The joy of planning your trip takes over until that moment when you realize that there are travel documents required prior to your departure. Reality sets in, and you recognize that an expedited American passport application is your only option.
Whether you are applying for your first passport or renewing an expired one, there are specific actions that must be taken. The first step is to review the application requirements of the governmental issuing agency. The process for getting a new passport is a bit more involved than that of a renewal, as you have to file with the agency as a starting point.
Knowing which type of passport you are applying for makes it much easier to determine which application form is appropriate for your circumstance. The instructions with each application will explain not only how to complete the form, but also what documentation you must provide with the completed application. At a high level, what you must provide are documents that prove your citizenship, as well as your identity, along with special photos that meet passport requirements. The agency website can guide you as to what forms of proof are accepted. If you are renewing a passport, you are already on file with the agency, so your existing passport is submitted and serves as proof of your identity and citizenship.
If you are short on time before your planned trip, it is important to check how long the issuing agency expects the application process to take. This USA passport information, found on their website, will give you an idea of how long you will wait to receive your passport after the agency receives your application. It could range from a few weeks to several months, depending on their workload. You do have the option to include an additional fee, along with the request that they hurry your application because you have a pending trip.
Do not be discouraged if it does not appear that the passport agency can complete your application and get your documents to you prior to the planned departure on your trip. You have other options to consider. There are several private companies that are in business specifically to assist travelers in obtaining their documents quickly. In fact, some of these firms claim that they can get you a passport in as little as eight hours, though an estimation of 24 to 48 hours is more realistic.
If you elect to use a private firm to act as your representative, do not think that you will have any less paperwork to complete. In fact, there is likely to be more, as you must authorize the company to work on your behalf. Most of these expediting companies have varying levels of service, depending on how quickly you need your passport, with a sliding fee schedule to match. Keep in mind that the less time you give them, the more money you will pay them.
While a private company can be a great help to you, they cant do everything. In fact, you must start the process at an Acceptance Facility before you can turn your documents and application over to the expediter. The agent at the Acceptance Facility will review your application and supporting documentation. If you have done all that is required, they will then seal the documents in an envelope. This envelope becomes the package that your private representative uses to walk your application through the issuing agency to obtain your passport.
While there are several firms that offer these services, you should consider several factors before selecting one to work for you. Research their reputation for customer service and delivery of passports within the committed time period. If the cost is important, then compare the fees of the various firms. Most have a fee schedule that becomes more expensive as the time frame becomes shorter. The good news is that there is a way to complete an expedited U.S. passport application in time so that you do not miss out on your trip.
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