If it is time for your pasport renewal, you have some different options available to you, depending on your situation. In some cases, you can renew by mail. In others, you will need to apply in person.
Take a good look at your current passport. You will need to have it to renew it by mail, as it needs to be sent in with the application. If you do not have your current passport then you will need to apply 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.
Processing time for applications vary but are generally between four and six weeks. If your need for a passport is urgent, you might have to go to a passport agency. If you have international travel planned in the next two weeks or need a passport to secure a foreign visa in the next four weeks, this is recommended. You will only be seen by appointment at these agencies.
If you have already applied for your passport, you can check to see the status online. It can take up to a week from the time of your application for this service to be available. If you have not received your passport within a week of your date of 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 often wait until they make their international travel plans before ensuring that their passports are still good. It is smarter to keep track of the expiration date of your pasport. Then, when it is approaching, be sure to get the United States passport renewal taken care of promptly. This will help you to avoid problems with any last minute travel plans.
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