Foreign travel has become very popular. When you travel anywhere, you have to be prepared ahead of time. This will include documents and you need to know about the US passport requirements.
A Passport Is Necessary
Gone are the days of just crossing borders as we travel. We are now required to have a valid passport to enter or leave a foreign country. And for that to happen, we have to meet certain requirements.
The DS-11 Form
For your first passport, you have to apply in person at an acceptance facility or a passport agency. This could be a Post Office or library designated to accept applications. The application form, the DS-11, is available online and can be filled out on your computer or by hand.
Passport Agencies
One thing you need to keep in mind with your application form is the signature. Do not sign the form until you are at the acceptance facility. Your signature will need to be verified by the person accepting your form.
Documentation Required
You will also have to have with you, proof of US citizenship. There are several documents that are acceptable. A certified birth certificate issued by your state of birth, a certificate of naturalization or a consular report of a birth abroad certificate are all acceptable forms of identification.
Alternative Documents
If you are unable to provide any of the above, there are other documents that will be accepted. There are also public records and delayed birth certificates that are acceptable. Along with these documents, you will need to provide a Letter of No Record. These documents are secondary evidence of birth.
Kid Passports
If you are born in a foreign country of an American parent, you will need to have your birth certificate from your country of birth, translated into English. You will also need evidence of citizenship of the American parent. Along with that, you will need your parents wedding certificate and a statement about the parents time and residence in the United States before going abroad.
Photocopy Of Paperwork
After you have all your documents in place, you will then need to make photocopies of them. Copy the front and back of all documents on standard copy paper. Do not use the back of the page when you copy the forms. Be sure to use the front only.
Passport Varieties
Choosing which type of passport you are applying for will determine the cost. You can choose just the passport book or a passport card or both. When in the States, you can also have the passport expedited for an additional fee. Fees for persons under sixteen years old are lower.
Passport Photos
You will need to have a photo taken or can use one that has been taken within the last six months as long as it meets strict protocols. If you choose to do it yourself, make sure you understand what they require. If you use a photographer, be sure to tell them that it is a passport photo. The photographer will already know of the background colors and size requirements.
For detailed American passport requirements, you can also go online and read in depth. At the same time, you can print the United States passport application forms that you will need. When they have been turned in, you will receive your passport as well as all of the documents that you provided within four to six weeks.
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.