The attacks of September 11, 2001, forced the United States to protect its borders stringently. You used to be able to pass between two countries with little problem, now you must apply for a passport application. Travel done by car in some areas can be done with an enhanced license. An enhanced license contains a strip that gives officials all the background information needed on the individual. The enhanced license also carries a photo ID.
Crossing borders by any other means requires legal documentation and for a stolen American passport replacement. Whether by plane or boat, it has to be done. The first document you will be asked for is your birth certificate. It must be an original with an easily identifiable seal. Persons born in another country will be required to show naturalization or citizenship papers. Again, they have to be originals as copies will not be accepted.
Forms are easy to obtain by going to a designated office or downloading them on the Internet from the United States Department of State. Extra copies may come in handy if you should inadvertently make an error. The DS-11 Application for a Passport must be error free or it will be rejected. Never sign the application until you appear in front of an official agent.
Other documents needed would be a drivers’ license, a military ID, or a government ID. Measuring two by two inches in size, you will need two photos taken with certain specifications. You can have them done by someone of your choice or at the application office. Cost is generally in the $10.00 to $20.00 dollar range. All papers should be sent by certified insured mail.
When the U. S. says it recommends that everyone have a passport, that includes children and infants. For an entire family, the cost can seem exorbitant but each passport is good for a ten-year period. In that light, a $100.00 fee seems most reasonable.
There are a few people who may be able to apply through the mail but it is very restricted. These are people who have an old passport that is less than fifteen years old and they wish to renew it. No information can have changed during that time. First time applicants, those who got their papers before age 16, if you cannot produce an expired one, or you feel it was lost or stolen must all personally appear in person before an agent.
Whenever you need a passport in a hurry, the best way to apply is in person. An expedited application can be submitted along with your papers. An average wait time is three to four weeks. An expedited application will take less time. Once received, your passport is good for ten years.
Personal documents will be mailed back to you. It is no easy task to replace them if they are lost in shipping. You should insure your paperwork when you apply for a new passport. Having a stolen United States passport replacement is a much easier process at the end of ten years time. The cost is less as well.
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