Getting A Passport Is Easy

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 23:51:53 EST

If you want to travel overseas, thenyou need to have a valid US passport to do it. In order to get a USpassport, you need to complete a passport application correctly andsubmit it to the passport issuing authority. The process may seemintimidating, but if done accurately, there is rarely a problem withreceiving your passport.

The first thing you need to do in your quest for a passport is tovisit a post office and pick up an application form. Alternatively, youcan download the application from the Internet and print it out. If youdo print it, you need to do so in black ink on white matte paper. Thedimensions of the paper that you use must be 8 1/2 inches by 11 inches.Glossy paper, other colors or different sized paper will not beaccepted by the office.

An essential part of the application is being able to provideproof of US citizenship. Documents that you can give for this include acertified US birth certificate, a citizenship or naturalizationcertificate. Along with your proof of citizenship you may also have toshow other ID such as a valid driver's license or old passport.

With the application you also have to hand in two passport photosthat have been taken within the last six months. There are requirementsabout these photos so it is best to have them done in a store that iswell versed in the regulations. You cannot have a head covering orglasses in the photos and you must be looking right at the camera. Youcannot be wearing any kind of uniform and the lighting and size of youin proportion to the background needs to be just right.

If you are planning to travel, then it is best to apply for yourpassport as soon as possible. Due to a heavy workload, there are timeswhen the issue of passports can be delayed. The issuing agent in theUnited States recommends applying for your passport around 12 weeksbefore you intend to travel. This will give you time to correct anypotential errors in the passport application too. If you need to, youcan pay extra to have the passport issued more rapidly than normal.

When you have sent off your passport application you can monitorits progress via the state department website. Before you send theapplication form, ensure that you have attached all necessary paperworkand that the forms are completely filled in and accurate. If there areitems missing or you have made mistakes, then the application will beknocked back.

Costs involved with US passports are - adult passport $100, childpassport $85. The additional fee to have the passport issued morequickly is $60. If you are applying for a US passport for the firsttime, then you will also need to fill in the DS-11 form with yourapplication.

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Getting A Passport Is Easy