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Why renew your United States Passport?
It is recommended to renew your passport several weeks in advance of your upcoming trip. The application process is comprised of several steps, and a small application mistake may delay the issuance of your new passport. The "United States Passport Application and Renewal Guide" describes in details the application, replacement and renewal process. If your passport is expired or about to expire, it is highly recommended to renew it as soon as possible for several reasons:
- Most countries require a passport to be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry in the country
- A passport expiring during a trip abroad is a serious problem because you will not be able to enter any other countries
- An expired passport might not be accepted as proof of citizenship or legal status in some countries
- You could have problems returning to the United States with an expired passport
RECENT U.S. PASSPORT NEWS
The full implementation of the WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) requirement is scheduled to take place during the summer of 2008. The date is yet to be determined. However, U.S. citizens should be aware of the following dates:
- January 23, 2007: A passport will be required for re-entering the United States by air from the following destinations: Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Bermuda, in addition to all other foreign destinations that already require a passport.
- January 31, 2008: U.S. citizens must be able to verify their identity and citizenship when crossing land borders and sea borders. A combination of identification documents such as a U.S. drivers license and U.S. birth certificate may be presented. Note that a U.S. passport or passport card is proof of both identity and citizenship.
This is a change from prior travel requirements and will affect all U.S. citizens entering the United States from foreign countries. |
United States Passport Renewal and Replacement Process:
- Step 1 - Download the “United States Passport Application and Renewal Guide” (order information below)
- Step 2 - Read carefully the instructions provided in the application guide
- Step 3 - Fill out the application forms included
- Step 4 - If there is a name change, include a certified copy of a legal document
- Step 5 - Take passport pictures according to the instructions provided
- Step 6 - Mail or deliver the application forms, proof of identity and passport pictures to an official recognized passport facility. Addresses and contact information is included. Some circumstances require an individual to apply in person.
- Step 7 - Receive your passport in 28 to 42 days or pay an expedited fee and receive your passport within 10 to 14 days. More information about the expedited processing can be found in the "United States Passport Application and Renewal Guide".
The process of applying for a United States passport can be a frustrating experience. It is recommended that all applicants follow the instructions included the "U.S. Passport Application and Renewal Guide" before submitting any applications. The Guide also includes information about how to apply for the new U.S. Passport Card.
The United States Passport Renewal and Replacement Guide Includes:
- United States passport overview
- Who can apply for a United States passport
- Application requirements
- Application procedures for your first United States passport
- Application procedures for how to apply for the new Passport Card
- US passport filing fees
- How to renew a U.S. passport in person or by mail
- How to request a replacement of a lost or stolen passport
- How to add blank pages to a valid passport (48-page passports are no longer issued)
- How to fill out the application forms
- Where to apply for an American passport
- Special requirements for individuals under 17 years of age
- How to update your U.S. passport after a name change
- Information on urgent passport applications and renewals
- Locate the 7000 designated passport application facilities nationwide
- U.S. Passport Application Forms
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