If you want to travel overseas, then you need to have a valid US passport to do it. In order to get a US passport, you need to complete a pasport application correctly and submit it to the passport issuing authority. The process may seem intimidating, but if done accurately, there is rarely a problem with receiving your passport.
The first thing to do when you want to get your US passport is to visit a post office for the application form or download it online. If you choose to print the form you must use black ink on white matte paper. The dimensions of the paper must be 8 1/2 X 11 inches.
In order to have your US passport application application approved, you will need to be able to provide proof of US citizenship. Documents that are approved for this purpose are a certified US birth certificate (not a copy), a US citizenship certificate or a naturalization certificate. Other forms of ID may also be requested such as an old US passport, driver’s license or other forms of state or federal ID.
With the application you also have to hand in two passport photos that have been taken within the last six months. There are requirements about these photos so it is best to have them done in a store that is well versed in the regulations. You cannot have a head covering or glasses in the photos and you must be looking right at the camera. You cannot be wearing any kind of uniform and the lighting and size of you in proportion to the background needs to be just right.
The passport issuing office in the United States works under a heavy load of applications and while they endeavor to have the passports issued quickly, there can be delays. For this reason it is best to apply for your passport with anticipation and the office suggests that you apply around 12 weeks prior to your travel arrangements. For an extra fee you can arrange to have your passport application assessed more quickly.
After you have sent your application to the US passport office, you can keep an eye on its progress through the Internet at the state department’s website. It is very important that you fill in the application forms carefully and thoroughly. If information is missed, not filled out correctly or false, then the application will be rejected or delayed. Your passport is current for 10 years upon issue.
Costs involved in getting your passport are as follows: adults $100, children $85 and the fee for an expedited passport is an extra $60. If you are applying for your first US passport, then you cannot mail the forms but need to present them in person as well as filling out form DS-11.
If you take the time to fill in the USA passport application carefully and submit any required paper work with the forms, then you are likely to have your passport quickly and with no fuss. It is estimated that around 10 percent of applications have inaccuracies that cause delays, so ensure that yours is correct. Applying for and getting your passport does not have to be a complex process.
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