There Are Several Ways To Obtain US Passport Application Forms

by erin on February 24, 2010

The time has come for that incredible trip to Paris. However, before that trip happens, there are going to be some U.S. passport application forms to be filled out. This is a task that not many people will look forward to and it is often compared to doing taxes. While that may be a bit of stretch, it’s not far from the truth.

A smart thing for any traveler to do is get online and get familiar with how the whole passport process works. In addition to going through the normal government channels, it is also possible to hire a professional agency to handle all of the forms. When using expedited services, these agencies are actually the best bet.

Processing passports is a big business, much bigger than many people realize. If this is the route that is taken, it is very important to make sure that the passport agency that is used is actually an approved agency that is registered with the US passport agency. These companies have a proven track record and are excellent at the services that they provide.

There are several standard US Passport application forms for the majority of private and business travelers. The DS-11 is the form for first time applicants, while the DS-82 is for renewals of valid US passports by mail. Those who have a document but require a name change due to marriage or divorce must use DS-5504. Those desiring a travel document for minors under age 16, need to complete the DS-3053.

With all of these DS forms, it is possible to become confused and those submitting the wrong form will receive an official rejection and need to start the process all over again. That is why a private passport agency can be a god-send, they certainly are well aware of which form is needed and what type of documentation is required to go along with it. The forms involving visas can be even more complicated than standard passport forms.

In addition to just filling out the forms, these agencies are actually there to provide expedited services. At times, the need to get a passport quick arises. Things such as emergencies or just being absent minded and not realizing that your passport has expired or that there is even the need for one.

Keep in mind that these services are not provided for free. Most of these companies will have fairly reasonable fees when the actual aggravation being saved is considered, but the quicker the passport is needed, the more they are going to charge. It is also worth mentioning that their fees are in addition to the government fees, rarely are they inclusive of them.

When it comes time for obtaining and completing U.S. passport application forms, it really is a choice of doing it yourself and waiting four to six weeks to receive the travel document or turning it over to a professional. Both ways are workable, but the main difference is whether or not a traveler has this much time available prior to a trip abroad. Add to this the possibility of errors and further time delays and it just seems that a private U.S. passport agency is the way to go for those who can afford to do so.

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