Make Sure They Have All The Information You Need To Get A Passport

by erin on May 10, 2011

Regulations governing international travel have changed significantly in recent years. Passport booklets and cards are now required for all travel to other countries. Only cards are required for bordering countries but all other international travel requires a booklet. Many Americans are opting to get a passport booklet and card now, before any travel is planned.

International Travel

Getting documents for international travelling can take some time to assemble. The average processing time is up to six weeks. Expedited requests are three weeks and are more expensive. When emergency business meetings demand travel, expediting firms can complete the process in as little as a day.

Application Process

While using a company to process your application may make sense for businesses, it is not the same story for families. The licensed companies take the applications to district offices for processing but are only allowed a certain number each day. Depending on when your application is submitted, it may take longer. An alternative is to use another company that may still have open slots. Costs for this service increase significantly as the deadline draws near. Since most international traveling done by families is planned well in advance, it is best to use the routine application process and save money.

Required Information

Many Americans apply before they ever need a booklet or card. They are a convenient form of identification and are accepted everywhere. Obtaining all of the information required to submit an application can be time-consuming. Completing the process in a stress-free manner with the lowest price is a win-win situation.

Birth Certificates

Birth certificates are often misplaced or filed where they will never again be found. When requesting a replacement, ask for a certified copy that includes the names of both parents. You can tell it is certified by the raised seal from the office that created it. The inclusion of the names of both parents is a recent addition, since April of 2011.

Submission Location

There are many locations where you can submit an application or get your questions answered. Look online for all of the documents required and complete information. If you prefer speaking with a person, contact your local post office or library. They can give you any necessary forms and answer all requests for information. District offices are located in large cities and cannot only provide information and forms but can also process your application.

Identification Forms

There are two forms of identification available and many people are choosing to get both. Passport booklets and cards are available. The cards are less expensive but can only be used for traveling to countries adjacent to the United States. Booklets can be used anywhere and are required for international travel. For those who travel frequently, the card is kept handy when the booklet is turned in at the border. Since you may not get it back until you leave, the card can act as identification while you are in-country.

Travel Requirements

With all of the changes to international travel requirements, it is a good idea to get both passport booklets and cards before you need them or before you have a to worry about a passport lost. By getting the supporting documentation now, you will not be scrambling to find it when you suddenly have to take a business trip out of the country. The savings in the cost between submitting a standard application and an expedited one can make it worthwhile to get a passport for everyone in the family.

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