So that exotic vacation is all set up, the hotels are booked, the flights are booked, and it is only a matter of weeks before the whole family can finally escape the snow and bask in the warm solar-rays of a tropical paradise. There is only one problem, Johnny doesnt have a passport and the trip is only three weeks away. Luckily, with an expedited new U S passport, it is possible for Johnny to get a brand new passport and still make the family flight.
Everyone should know right off the bat that getting a new passport will take some time. There is some running around that has to be done and there is also the process of making sure that all of the right documents are secured. As soon as the need for a new passport application form is realized, it is best to get things rolling right away.
New passports must be done in person. Unlike renewals, the forms cannot be mailed into the proper offices. In most cases, this will require heading to the local post office. However, when expedited services are needed, the post office is not always the best route. Regional passport offices offer more services and can sometimes get a quicker turnaround time.
There are a few things the applicant must take care of alone prior to sending the passport application form. All new applicants need official passport photos. These can typically be taken at any one hour-photo location. The applicant will also need to bring various forms of ID. A full list of valid identification is available on the State Department Website.
Since the applicant is going to at the office in person, it is less likely that they will encounter any problems. That is, as long as they have all of the proper documentation with them. The DS-82 passport application form will have to be filled out and then when it is turned in, they can tell the clerk that they are looking for rush service.
An expedited new passport costs $60, plus the normal passport fees, plus the cost of two-way overnight delivery service. Expediting a passport can be rather costly. Right now, the estimated time frame for an expedited passport is two to three weeks. This time frame can vary from year to year, month to month, and even week to week. The State Department website frequently updates the estimated processing time for passport applications.
It is never good to wait until the last moment, but sometimes it is what it is. When things like this happen or the need suddenly arises and a passport is needed, it is good to know that that services are available to make the process go quicker. Today, international travel will generally require a passport number and this should no longer be an issue.
Filing the pasport application form for the first time can be a stressful situation, especially if time is of the essence. Instead of panicking, know that there are expedited new American passport services that can be used to make sure that the passport is in hand when it is needed. Regardless of how soon the passport is required, there is a service (although it will cost a higher amount) that can be paid for to get the passport in your hands by the desired date.