Before 2009, it was possible to depart and re-enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, Panama, Bermuda and some Caribbean countries using only a valid birth certificate or driver's license. Due to heightened security issues, however, all people leaving and returning to the United States must now carry a valid passport. If an unexpected or unplanned foreign trip becomes urgent, a regional U.S. passport agency can help with rush requests.
Online Forms
Most first time U.S. passport applicants, along with those wishing to renew an existing document, can obtain the correct forms via the Internet. In addition, valid proof of citizenship and the proper photos are necessary. In most cases the applicant will then visit the closest nearby acceptance facility to submit that application along with the other necessary documents and to pay the required fees.
Time It Takes
In most cases, normal processing will be completed in four to six weeks. This works well for those who are able to confirm travel plans well ahead of time but many people are faced with unplanned trips due to emergencies or business requirements. Today, it is possible to speed up that application by visiting a regional office equipped to handle those rush requests.
Acceptance Facilities
While a local acceptance facility and an agency may sound similar, they have differing functions. The acceptance facility is local and works best for people who have the time to wait for normal processing as well as for those seeking fee-based expedited services. A regional site, however, is able to handle emergency application requests when plans do not allow enough time for normal approval.
Regional Facilities
There are thirteen regional passport agencies within the United States and their locations and toll-free numbers are easily found on line. These facilities actually produce the physical documents in addition to serving last-minute customers. While there is no iron-clad guarantee that processing will be immediate, many people find they are actually able to obtain a completed document in as little as one day.
Proof Of Travel
This regional office will require proof that you must travel outside the borders. That can be in the form of an online ticket or a prepaid travel itinerary. These kinds of rush requests cannot be completed through the post office or by mail but must be applied for in person. Additionally, those calling the current toll-free number may make appointments only if they are leaving the country in less than two weeks.
Set Up The Appointment
After receiving an appointment confirmation number, all applicants must bring the necessary proofs of citizenship and regulation photos along with an acceptable form of payment. Fill out the forms carefully because mistakes will normally cause delays. And, because these are governmental offices, be prepared to deal with stringent security measures such as metal detectors or other devices.
Online Forms
Most first time U.S. passport applicants, along with those wishing to renew an existing document, can obtain the correct forms via the Internet. In addition, valid proof of citizenship and the proper photos are necessary. In most cases the applicant will then visit the closest nearby acceptance facility to submit that application along with the other necessary documents and to pay the required fees.
Time It Takes
In most cases, normal processing will be completed in four to six weeks. This works well for those who are able to confirm travel plans well ahead of time but many people are faced with unplanned trips due to emergencies or business requirements. Today, it is possible to speed up that application by visiting a regional office equipped to handle those rush requests.
Acceptance Facilities
While a local acceptance facility and an agency may sound similar, they have differing functions. The acceptance facility is local and works best for people who have the time to wait for normal processing as well as for those seeking fee-based expedited services. A regional site, however, is able to handle emergency application requests when plans do not allow enough time for normal approval.
Regional Facilities
There are thirteen regional passport agencies within the United States and their locations and toll-free numbers are easily found on line. These facilities actually produce the physical documents in addition to serving last-minute customers. While there is no iron-clad guarantee that processing will be immediate, many people find they are actually able to obtain a completed document in as little as one day.
Proof Of Travel
This regional office will require proof that you must travel outside the borders. That can be in the form of an online ticket or a prepaid travel itinerary. These kinds of rush requests cannot be completed through the post office or by mail but must be applied for in person. Additionally, those calling the current toll-free number may make appointments only if they are leaving the country in less than two weeks.
Set Up The Appointment
After receiving an appointment confirmation number, all applicants must bring the necessary proofs of citizenship and regulation photos along with an acceptable form of payment. Fill out the forms carefully because mistakes will normally cause delays. And, because these are governmental offices, be prepared to deal with stringent security measures such as metal detectors or other devices.
About the Author:
Visiting a regional U.S. passport agency not only greatly speeds up the application process but can actually save money. If same day service is not possible due to demand, the progress of your first time U.S. passport application may now be checked on line, simplifying the entire procedure.
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