August 8, 2010
United States Passport Renewal: Avoid Predicaments And Get It Done As Soon As Possible
When you need to make an application for USA passport renewal, there are some different options. It may be possible to renew yours by mail. In some situations, however, you will need to make your application in person.
First of all, get your current passport out of storage. It must be sent along with your application for renewal by mail. Therefore, if your passport not available, you must make your application for a new one in person.
If your current passport is available as well as undamaged, you still my not be able to renew by mail. It must have been issued when you were 16 years old or more, and within the last 15 years. It also must have been issued in your current name or you must be able to send documentation with the application showing your legal name change.
In addition to the application and your current passport, you will need to send the fee, 2 passport photos and documentation of your name change, if any, such as a certificate of marriage or a court order. Everything should be packaged securely to avoid damages. The package should also be sent in such a way that it is able to be traced.
Your renewed passport can only be sent to addresses within the United States or Canada. If you are currently living outside of the United States, anywhere other than Canada, you will need to go to the closest American Consulate or Embassy. Note that, if you are behind in any child support payments, you may not be able to get a passport.
The time to process your mailed application can vary. It is usually around four to six weeks. If you have an urgent need for a passport, you may need to visit a local passport agency. This is recommended if you are traveling internationally within two weeks or if you need the pasports within four weeks for a foreign visa. People are seen at these agencies only by appointment.
If you have sent in your passport application already, you may be able to see its status online. For this service to be available, you may need to wait for a week after making your application. If it has not arrived to you within a week of when you need to travel, contact the National Passport Information Center.
There are times when an emergency necessitates traveling to a foreign country in 24 to 48 hours. If this should happen, you can get emergency service by making an appointment at a passport agency. You may be required to show proof of the emergency.
People frequently wait until they make travel plans before checking their U S passport renewal date. It is a much better idea to keep track of the expiration date. If the time for your renewal date is coming up, take care of it as soon as you can. This will help you avoid problems if you should suddenly decide to travel.
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