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Passport Applications Are Confusing But Necessary

Monday, December 20th, 2010

Depending on the type of passport-related transaction you need to do, there will be a corresponding form you have to fill in. So whether it’s applying for a new passport, or reporting your lost or stolen passport, you can expect to fill in a passport for those. But you don’t really have to memorize them all, since they’re number-coded, and you’ll probably have to deal with only some of these forms. So if you want to learn more about us passport application forms, you’ve come to the right place. You need an application for a pass port name change. Read on.

First, there’s the DS-11. It’s the most basic type of passport application form, which is why it is understandably the most common. The reason for this is that this is the form filled in by those applying for a passport for the first time. But not only that, the DS-11 is also used by those whose latest passports were issued when they were under 16, or those whose passports were issued more than 15 years ago.

The DS-11 is the type of form you need to submit in person. This is unlike other passport forms that you can simply submit by mail. Just don’t forget to skip signing the form until you are told to so when you finally submit it at the passport office.

Not all pass port forms need to be submitted by hand. There are also passport applications you can send through the mail. If you’re going to apply for a passport using this option, then you’ll need to fill in the Form DS-82. This is the passport form used when sending your application by mail. So, if you’re after the convenience of submitting your passport by mail, then use the DS-82. Remember, though that using this may only apply to certain types of passport applications, so better check out with your local passport office first if this is the right option for you.

Should you lose your passport, or if it is stolen from you, you need to report it to the US Department of State immediately. While calling their office is an option, you should know that you can do this through the mail as well. To report your lost or stolen passport through the mail, fill in Form DS-64, which is the Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport.

However, if sending the DS-64 by mail is not an option, you can always submit it in person. You can do this if you are already planning of applying for a new passport in place of the one you lost. What you need to do is simply to pay the passport office a visit, and then submit Forms DS-64 and DS-11.

The great thing about submitting both forms at the same time is that you save yourself a lot of time when you do this. That way, you no longer have to submit one first, only to send in person the other one the next day. So if you can, submit both forms at the same time.

Keep in mind there are other US passport forms for different passport-related transactions. The ones we discussed here are by far the most commonly used by a lot of people. Now you know everything you need to know about american passport application forms.

How to Apply For a Passport at the Post Office

Monday, May 10th, 2010

Want to apply for a passport at a post office? the first step is to discover if the nearest post office has been designated by the Department of State to accept passport applications. while there are more than 36,000 post offices in the United States, there are only 9,400 or so passport application acceptance facilities. Since some of these are public libraries and county clerk’s offices, only about 25% of the all post offices can accept application forms. Contact the post offices nearest to your residence until you locate one that has a passport agent. once you have done this, follow the follow step to apply for your travel document.

Complete Form DS-11

This form is used by first-time applicants, minors and adults whose most recent passport was issued to them when they were minors. the application can be used to apply for a passport book, passport card or both. It is important that you not sign the application. this must be done in the presence of an authorized agent.

Gather Supporting Documents

Applicants who submit Form DS-11, must also submit evidence of United States citizenship, proof of identity and a photocopy of the identification document. Most frequently submitted documents include a birth certificate and valid driver’s license although other options are available. Parents of minors must provide proof of relationship to their children.

Take a Passport Photo

Only one photo is now required. the size must be 2×2 inches. the picture must be in color with a white or off-white background. of course, it must be recent and have a full face view. Problems with passports photos are major causes of delays in the processing of applications.

Visit Post Office

Take the completed but unsigned application form, supporting documents and the photo to the nearest post office that accepts applications. Present them to the attending agent. the agent will review the form and documents as well as witness as you sign the application.

Pay the Passport Fees

There is an execution fee of $25 that is paid to the acceptance facility. the application fee for a passport book is $110 for an adult and $80 for a minor age 15 or under. the application fee for a passport card is $30 for an adult and $15 for a minor. Applicants can request expedited service for an additional $60.

Mail the Packet

Mail the sealed packet to the address on the application form. Applicants are encouraged to use a protective packing such as a Tyvek envelope and send the packet using a traceable delivery method. Those who want their new passport sent by overnight delivery should include another $12.72 in the payment.

Routine processing is taking 4-6 weeks and expedited service is taking 2-3 weeks at the time of writing. Processing times can change due to many different variables. It is important to verify these before mailing your application to make sure you receive your passport before your next scheduled trip abroad.