Year: 2013

Make Your Trip Stress-Free: The Complete Guide to Finding the Best Visa Service for Your Needs

Posted on by Lloyd C

Are you about to embark on an international trip and feeling completely overwhelmed by the entire visa process? Don’t worry – you don’t have to go it alone. With the right visa service, you can make your travels stress-free and be in control of your passport documents before jetting off abroad.

Here at Expedited Passport Help Guide, we understand how important it is for travelers to have a smooth journey with as little hassle as possible – that’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide so you can find the best visa service for your individual needs.

How to Select a Visa Expediting Service?

Choosing a visa expediting service can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the different options available. With so many companies vying for your attention, it can be challenging to determine which one is best suited for your needs.

However, there are several factors you should consider when selecting a visa service. Firstly, ensure the company has extensive knowledge of the visa application process for your destination country.

Secondly, look for a visa service with an excellent track record of delivering high-quality service and timely results. Lastly, make sure the visa service offers a transparent and fair pricing structure, without any hidden fees.

By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to select a visa expediting service that is reliable, efficient, and affordable.

What is the Fastest Way to Get a Travel Visa?

Getting a travel visa can be a tedious and time-consuming process. However, there are ways to fast-track your visa application and ensure that you receive your visa in a timely manner. One such option is to use a visa service, which can handle all aspects of the visa application process on your behalf.
These services have a wealth of experience and knowledge when it comes to visa applications and can provide you with helpful tips and advice on how to make your application more successful. By enlisting the help of a visa service, you can save time and reduce stress by leaving the complicated process of visa applications to the experts.

Conclusion

As a final thought, let us remember that finding the right visa service for your travel needs is paramount. With so many options available, make sure you do your due diligence when considering each service’s unique qualities. It could make all the difference between a smooth and uneventful ride or one full of bumps and missteps.

Think about how much time and energy you can save yourself if you know exactly what to look for and who will serve you best. If planned correctly, you can free yourself from the stress surrounding visa applications and enjoy the ride!

The Truth About Passport & Visa Expediters [Post Covid]

Posted on by Lloyd C

How do passport expeditors work? Is a passport expeditor a legitimate method of obtaining a passport within 24 to 48 hours? These are some of the most common questions in the U.S. Passport Help Guide we usually receive.

In this article, we will explain how the process works. So this will be a very informative post about which passport expeditor is the right one, and how to go about choosing a passport expediting company to expedite your vital documents.

Which Passport & Visa Should I Choose?

There are many passport expeditors around the nation that are accredited by the BBB and have favorable ratings with many online review services. StartVisa.com and National Passport Service rank high based on customer experience.

These companies would be able to obtain your expedited passport. The bottom line is they all state the same thing. They can get your passport fast online without the hassle.

If you would like a curated list of all passport and visa expeditors nationwide National Passport Service shares information on the top 10 services based on price, customer reviews, and timeliness.

It’s important to know passport expediters provide a hand carry service and appear at the Regional Passport Agency in lieu of the applicant having to appear. If the applicant were to appear in person, the passport agency will give the passport directly to the applicant just as fast as the passport expediting company.

Questions to Ask Passport Expediters?

  • Which passport agency processes my passport application?
  • How long is the company in business?
  • What is the cancellation policy?
  • Would my passport application be outsourced to a third-party company?
  • Do you have a physical location?
  • Are you registered with any passport agencies?
  • How many years have you been doing passport expediting?
  • Are you on the BBB and are you accredited?
  • Can we contact a customer via email to ask for a reference?

What to do before Purchasing Expedited Passport Services?

  • Check the companies’ other reviews on public review sites like Yelp, BBB, and Facebook.
  • Call the 800 number and make sure someone picks up the phone, and customer services are being provided.
  • Check if they have any online chat services.
  • Make sure the company where you are purchasing the service is the actual passport courier and not a third-party vendor.

How Does Expediting a Passport Work?

In order to process an expedited passport with a registered courier service, the process is pretty simple. Many expeditors advertise a three or four-step process.

  1. The first step is to order the expedited service that meets your needs. Many expeditors can process the passport as quickly as 24 hours. There are budget-friendly options as well starting around $99 for expedited processing
  2. Once submitting a passport order, the next step for a passport application is to follow a set of passport application instructions. You will have to meet all the passport requirements and prepare all the documents for shipping.
  3. Once you have prepared the documents the applicant will ship the passport to the expeditor for processing.
  4. Now your passport is in processing with the expediter and a regional passport agency. Once the passport is complete, you will receive a notification that your passport is complete or not by the Passport Agency. Most expediters use FedEx or UPS to ship back your documents with preferred overnight shipping

Where can I apply for an Expedited Passport?

When looking to use a passport expeditor it is recommended that you first try to get your passport with the regional passport agency in your area. If this is not possible due to the location of the passport agency or no appointment is available then we recommend finding a reliable passport expeditor from our passport expediting directory.

How does a private company be able to process my passport application? Private companies could only expedite passports in an emergency situation. You will need to be traveling within fourteen days or thirty days if a visa is necessary.

These companies are  “couriers” that hand carry your passport application to the regional passport agency that they are registered with meaning they will hand-deliver your passport application to the passport agency, communicate any problems with the application then deliver your application back to you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re looking to expedite your passport and visa process during the post-Covid world, it’s important to keep in mind that the current climate has changed how many countries operate. Passport and visa expediting services have gone digital and are now more accessible than ever.

Although there will still be application processing times, they often reduce them dramatically for travelers attempting to gain fast entry into a country. Despite this, understanding the laws surrounding passports and visas in your destination countries still matters most.

Everything You Need to Know About Passport Requirements When Taking a Cruise

Posted on by Lloyd C

Sailing away on a cruise is one of the most exciting and enjoyable vacations you can take. But before you head off to those blissful waters, there are some important passport requirements that every traveler must consider.

Don’t let passport complications delay your next vacation – learn everything you need to know about passports for cruises so your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Getting your passport ready for your cruise. Know that passport requirement for a cruise are largely the same as traveling on your own, with some key differences. By and large, if you can legally travel to Canada and Mexico by plane, you can do so on a cruise.

Here’s what you need to know in order to make sure that you’re prepared for your cruise:

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)

There was a time when regulations were a little more relaxed when it came to cruises and certain other forms of travel, but over time, the borders have been tightened, for better or worse. You have the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative to thank for the fact that you’re going to need a passport in order to make certain cruises.

If you are traveling to or from popular destinations outside of the US like Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean Islands, or Bermuda, and you are not making a closed-loop trip, then you will need either a passport or a WHTI-compliant document. You can find a list of compliant documents here.

Unfortunately, there are no workarounds. Either you take the time to get a passport or some other WHTI-compliant document in order, or you skip the trip.

Closed Loop Cruises

While you need a passport for the kind of cruise where you get off the boat, rent a hotel room. Or, stay at a resort for an evening or two. Closed-loop cruises are a little more lax. As long as you have a valid proof of American citizenship, you can ride most closed-loop cruises without a passport or WHTI-compliant document.

Note that a social security card won’t be regarded as proof enough, nor will a baptismal paper or a hospital certificate. A laminated photo ID will usually work, as will a government-issued birth certificate.

In the event of air travel, you will always need a passport or WHTI-compliant document. This only applies to cruises where you board the ship in the U.S. Or, the final destination is within the US.

Green Card Holders

A Green Card will serve as valid proof for lawful permanent residents, however, renewal is very important. If your card is expired or about to expire, you may wind up leaving the country on the cruise ship. But, being denied reentry.

It’s important to get all of your documents in order well in advance of your cruise. Make sure that your photo ID is valid and up to date. If you are going to be doing some air travel outside of the US, make sure that you have a passport or a WHTI-compliant document on hand.

Even if you’re pretty sure that all of your papers are in order. You may want to use this as an opportunity to double-check all of your documents nonetheless.

Conclusion

Traveling on a cruise can be an exciting adventure and the perfect way to spend a vacation. Though passport requirements when taking a cruise may seem confusing, it’s important to take the necessary steps and double-check what type of ID is needed. In some cases, all you might need is a government-issued photo identification such as a driver’s license, but in other cases, you will need your original government-issued birth certificate with a raised seal and a valid passport.

 

Navigating the US Passport System During the Government Shutdown: A Complete Guide

Posted on by Lloyd C

While most of the federal government is shut down, the State Department is continuing to provide passport and visa services due to a combination of separate funding and border protection being classified as an essential service. The State Department’s processing time remains at about four weeks for regular applications. Two weeks for expedited applications. Some passport centers are experiencing some delays.

Government Shutdown and U.S. Passport Services

The United States government has shut down 21 times since 1976 with the latest being the shutdown of December 2018 – January 2019 this was the longest shutdown in United States history that lasted 35 days surpassing the previous 21-day shutdown of 1995 – 1996. Each time there is a shutdown some critical government services are affected. The 35-day shutdown led to almost 380,000 federal workers being furloughed and additional 420,000 workers being required to work without pay.

Getting a passport during a government shutdown could be tricky it is recommended to try and get your passport before any government shutdown as sometimes passport services could be affected during the government shutdown. Passport services are funded from the passport fees. So, there is usually some money available for passport services even if the government is shut down and Congress does not pass a funding bill.

Are Passports Affected During the Government Shutdown? Yes, but there is sometimes a delay in processing the passport application.

Usually, post offices would be open during the government shutdown but passport agencies that expedited passport applications for travelers who are traveling within fourteen business days would sometimes be closed if they are in a Federal building.

Which Passport Offices Are Open During the Government Shutdown?

While all post offices remain open because the U.S. Postal Service is self-funded, many federal buildings are closed. Passport centers within these buildings that use furlough federal employees may close. As the situation develops, additional locations may close and wait times may increase at the remaining location. If the State Department must scale back its number of employees, processing times may increase.

Passport Agencies in  Federal Buildings

Boston Passport AgencyThomas P. “Tip” O’Neill Federal Building10 Causeway Street, Room 247
Boston, MA 02222
Honolulu Passport AgencyPrince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Building300 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite I-330
Honolulu, HI 96850
Houston Passport AgencyGeorge Thomas “Mickey” Leland Federal Building1919 Smith Street, 4th Floor
Houston, TX 77002
Los Angeles Passport AgencyWest L.A. Federal Building11000 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1000
Los Angeles, CA 90024-3602
Dallas Passport AgencyEarle Cabell Federal Building1100 Commerce St, Suite 1120
Dallas, TX 75242
Minneapolis Passport AgencyUnited States Federal Office Building aka The “Old” Federal Building212 3rd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN 55401
New York Passport AgencyGreater New York Federal Building376 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014-3621
Philadelphia Passport AgencyU.S. Custom House200 Chestnut Street, Room 103
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Seattle Passport AgencyFifth and Yesler Building300 5th Avenue, Suite 600
Seattle, WA 98104

The United States Post Offices Remain Open For Business

Post Offices may continue to be the best option for some. But in some areas, especially major cities with large immigrant populations, waiting times can be several hours. The use of a private expediting company may be even more desirable because, in addition to providing the usual help with the expedited passport application process, they will also be in constant communication with the relevant authorities regarding further developments. This may help avoid trips to a suddenly closed location or the need to wait at length at one of the few open locations. While private passport expediters do charge a fee on top of the regular passport fees, for many it may be well worth it.

Getting a Passport During the Government Shutdown

Getting your passport during the government shutdown is no different than when it is open. You must gather your documents that pertain to a passport. The documents will determine the type of processing. If you need a new passport, replace an expired or lost passport or a minor’s passport, you must submit the proper form.

Supporting Documents

Your supporting documents for your application are printed on your application. Most applications will ask for the same documents. Here is a list of documents you should submit with your application. Only submit the documents required. The documents should be original or certified by a notary. The documents are:

  • Proof of citizenship
    • U.S. Birth Certificate
    • Consular Report of Birth Abroad Certificate
    • Naturalization Certificate
    • Current Passport
  • Proof of Identity
    • Driver’s License
    • State ID
    • Current Passport
    • Social Security Card
    • School ID
    • Military ID
    • Baptismal Certificate
  • Passport Photo
  • Passport Fee

How to Submit a Passport During the Shutdown?

Once you have your form and documents together, you can now submit your application at an acceptance facility if the facility is in a federal government building it would be close it would be better to try a local post office instead. Even with a government shutdown, the cost of processing will be the same. However, the processing time may be longer than the normal 4 to 6 weeks if you choose standard processing. The expedited processing cost will also be the same. The post office charges $60 for this service.

The Alternative to Get a Passport During the Government Shutdown?

Getting a passport is not limited to the post office, county clerk’s office, or public library. You can hire an expeditor to help speed up the processing time. However, the government shutdown will delay the processing time. So, expect a few days to be added to the processing time. You will still get a passport in less time if you hire an expeditor than if you submit your application at the post office.

So, even with a government shutdown, you can still get a passport to travel abroad. Unless the government stops processing passport applications, you will not get a passport. For now, the processing continues and if there should be any change in the near future, we will provide that information to you.

Conclusion

Although the government shutdown has caused some difficulties in navigating the US passport system, it is still possible to altogether avoid those delays and potential frustrations. It is important to remember to always double-check with your local government office to find out what specific deadlines they may have set for passport applications.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program Explained [2023]

Posted on by Lloyd C

Seasoned travelers know that when you travel a lot, the unexpected can occur. Some areas of the world are more challenging than others, and it’s helpful to know where to turn if a problem arises. If you have an issue while traveling abroad, U.S. embassies all around the globe can be valuable resources.

The U.S. State Department offers a free service called the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP. It’s an excellent way for travelers to Stay Informed, Connected, and Safe.

Benefits include:

• Relevant alerts and travel warnings sent to you via phone call or text message.
• Reports on potential dangers that could affect your travel plans.
• Assistance if you lose your passport.
• Access to local doctors and attorneys.
• Access to loans.

There are also a number of non-emergency benefits available like assistance with absentee voting, passports, document notarization, the registration of American children born abroad, and receiving federal benefits.

STEP Enrollment:

There are five online pages to complete for enrollment:

Personal: Name, address, telephone, email, and other contact info.

Passport: Enter your passport number and the date of issue.

Contact Information: This page is for your emergency contact information (names and phone numbers.)

Privacy Policy: This section allows you to detail how information about your condition is going to be disclosed, i.e. to family members, friends, legal representatives, media, members of Congress, a medical representative, etc.

Confirm: Confirm your details and then click Finish.

Once the form is completed, you’ll be routed to the home page where you’ll be able to add your specific upcoming travel information via another five-step form:

Itinerary: Your destination country, travel dates, the purpose of your visit, etc.

Travelers — List any additional travelers plus their contact and passport information.

Email — Set up an email address where alerts, travel warnings, and consular information sheets can be sent.

Travel Info — If a travel warning is currently in effect for your destination country, a posting is a displayed.

Confirm — This Shows all the details you’ve provided for the form and allows you to set your travel plans.

Is STEP for Me?

The STEP forms ask for quite a bit of personal information. The program’s privacy policy is visibly displayed, but some find it disagreeable. It’s up to you to decide if STEP is for you. Many travelers find that the benefits of the program far outweigh any privacy concerns.

Conclusion

It is important to be aware of the benefits of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. When you enroll, you are putting your safety and security first, allowing family and friends to locate and assist you in an emergency. Of course, it’s important to remember to not overdo it — not every trip requires a new enrollment. Stay safe when you travel by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program today

Bahamas Vacation 101: Do You Need a Passport to Go to The Bahamas [2023]

Posted on by Lloyd C

Are you dreaming of a sun-soaked getaway to the Bahamas? Despite its proximity to Florida, there are a few things you’ll need to know before jetting off to this Caribbean paradise.

We know that passports can often confuse and complicate international travel plans, so today, let’s break down whether or not you’ll need one for your trip to The Bahamas—and if so, how soon should you get it?

Read on and find some helpful tips to ensure your Bahamian vacation goes off without a hitch!

Do U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders Need a Passport to The Bahamas?

Yes, U.S. citizens and green card holders need a passport to travel to The Bahamas. The passport must be valid at the time of the visit and for the entire stay in The Bahamas.

A valid passport is required if you are entering The Bahamas via air. However, if you’re traveling by land or sea (including cruise ship and ferry), you can get by without one.  You could show a passport card instead.

Traveling to the Bahamas by Air

Americans traveling abroad or internationally need a valid U.S. passport. A U.S. passport allows Americans to travel legally to any country. Thus, this includes travels to the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, and the Bahamas.

U.S. citizens must present a valid US passport to enter and exit the Bahamas when traveling by air. Also, the Bahamian regulations stipulate that passengers traveling by air must present a round-trip ticket. Therefore, citizens without a round-trip ticket could be denied entry into the Bahamas.

Traveling to the Bahamas by Sea

U.S. citizens traveling to the Bahamas by sea must have a valid passport. Also, their port of entry and re-entry should be the same. Citizens will need a US passport or passport card or a (WHTI) compliant document. It is advisable for Americans to obtain their passport early in the event of an emergency.

US citizens must apply for their passports early so they can handle any unforeseen problems which may delay their trip. Hence, a passport issued in the US can be used in any country, anywhere in the world.

The Verification Process

Entry is verified or denied depending on customs. United States citizens traveling by cruise liners can board a cruise ship with a valid United States passport. All passports are checked, verified, and stamped by the customs department in the Bahamas.

Bahamas Vacation 101: Do You Need a Passport to Go to The Bahamas? has everything you need to know about whether or not you need a passport to travel to the Bahamas! In short, all travelers need some form of valid identification to enter the country, but U.S. citizens can use either a passport or a passport card. Ready to start planning your dream getaway? Visit our website for more tips and tricks on how to make the most of your trip.

Conclusion

All in all, visiting the Bahamas is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore the various attractions, The Bahamas offer something for everyone. However, before you start planning your dream vacation it’s important to remember that a valid passport is required for entry. In 2023 you can expect travel regulations to remain the same but there may be changes in terms of what will be accepted as proof of citizenship due to Covid-19 restrictions.

All You Need to Know About 24-Hour U.S Passport Services

Posted on by Lloyd C

Are you need a new passport in a hurry? Are you looking for a quicker way to get your passport back? Do you need an expedited service that can turn around your passports in as little as 24 hours? If this is what you need, then look no further.

Our team at Expedited Passport at National Passport Service takes pride in providing the ultimate 24-hour U.S. passport services to make sure our customers have the resources they require during times of emergency travel or international ventures. In this blog post, we will go over all the details you should know about our 24-hour U.S Passport Service including its benefits, requirements, and more.

Processing Time for a Passport (March 24th, 2023)

While it may take up to 2 weeks to receive a completed passport by mail, there are options for those who need their passport sooner. Many passport agencies and centers offer expedited services, which can significantly reduce the wait time. Additionally, some agencies offer same-day passport services for those in urgent need.

These services typically require an additional fee and may have certain requirements, such as proof of travel plans and an appointment.

  • Routine  10 to 13 Weeks
  • Expedited 7 to 9 Weeks
  • Expedited at Agency (International Travel Required)

Call the following number to set up an appointment with the passport agency 1.877.487.2778

Same Day Passport Locations (Regional Passport Agencies)

If you’re in a rush to get a passport for an upcoming trip, you may be wondering if you can receive it the same day.

The good news is that there are options available for those who need their passports quickly. Rather than relying on standard processing times, you can utilize same-day passport services provided by regional passport agencies.

These agencies specialize in processing expedited passports and can often provide you with one in just a few hours.

Arkansas Passport Agency 
Hot Springs AK		Atlanta Passport Agency
Atlanta, GA		Atlanta Passport Agency
Atlanta, GA		Boston Passport Agency
Boston, MA		Buffalo Passport Agency
Buffalo, NY
Chicago Passport Agency
Chicago, IL		Colorado Passport Agency
Aurora, CO		Connecticut Passport Agency
Norwalk, CT		Dallas Passport Agency
Dallas TX		Detroit Passport Agency
Detroit MI
El Paso Passport Agency
El Paso Texas		Honolulu Passport Agency
Honolulu HI		Houston Passport Agency
Houston TX		Los Angeles Passport Agency
Los Angeles, CA		Miami Passport Agency
Miami, FL
Minneapolis Passport Agency 
Minneapolis MN		National Passport Center 
Portsmouth, NH		New Orleans Passport Center
New Orleans LA		New Orleans Passport Center
New Orleans LA		New York Passport Agency 
New York, NY
Philadelphia Passport Agency
Philadelphia PA		Philadelphia Passport Agency
Philadelphia PA		Philadelphia Passport Agency
Philadelphia PA		San Diego Passport Agency 
San Diego CA		San Francisco Passport Agency 
San Francisco CA
Seattle Passport Agency
Seattle WA		Vermont Passport Agency 
St Albans VT		Washington Passport Agency 
Washington DC		Western Passport Center 
Tucson AZ		 

What is the Fastest You Can Expedite Your Passport?

If you need your passport within 13 weeks, choose the expedited service. It takes 7-9 weeks and you can either expedite at an acceptance facility or renewal by mail.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to save time and hassle from the passport application process, 24-hour passport services may be a valuable solution worth considering. Despite their higher cost than standard processing time, 24-hour passport services can provide you with your passport quickly and conveniently as opposed to waiting several weeks or more for a traditional service route.

Ultimately, the benefit of having an expedited U.S. passport outweighs the cost when considering the time saved in being able to travel sooner.

After all, who doesn’t want to take advantage of earlier vacation plans or holiday trips home? Before making a decisive move towards choosing 24-hour passport services, however, it’s important for applicants to immerse themselves in research to gain a better understanding of the process so that they can make well-informed decisions accordingly.

Everything You Need to Know About Passport Denial and Revocation: Reasons Your Passport Might be Rejected and How to Avoid It

Posted on by Lloyd C

Do you need to travel overseas but don’t know if your passport will get approved? This is the ultimate guide for everything you need to know about passport denial and revocation. We explain all of the possible reasons that your passport application may be denied, as well as steps you can take ahead of time to make sure it gets accepted.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just beginning to explore the world, this blog post provides important information on how passports work and what could go wrong.

Revocation or Limited of Passports (Federal Law)

It can be very difficult to have your U.S. passport denied or worse to have your passport revoked. There are, however, processes available to recover and restore a passport over time, should something limit your ability to possess one. Of course, not all situation is the same.

In some cases, individuals can not travel internationally for one reason or another. Traveling outside of the U.S. is a privilege that no one wants to lose, so treat the responsibility with respect.

The United States Department of State determines who is eligible to carry a passport through the application process. Citizens of all kinds must comply with their mechanisms to obtain legal and valid documentation. Monitoring how it is being used and by which citizens are the aim. This is also the department within the government that can deny or revoke your passport.

Revoking Your Passport by a Law Enforcement Agency

So, if a law enforcement agency wants to revoke your passport they could for a variety of reasons, such as:

  • There’s a warrant out for an arrest on a felony.
  • Lapsed child-support responsibilities
  • Charges pertaining to drug trafficking
  • Sexual tourism-related convictions

If you have had legal issues pertaining to any of the situations mentioned above, you may experience complications with your passport application. A third-party service may be able to expedite the process or at least manage the procedure through the proper channels for you.

These requirements are in place to protect the safety and reputation of all travelers leaving the country. Remember that while abroad, you are a representative of the U.S. How you behave is not only a reflection of your own expectation but can affect how others are perceived when traveling in foreign countries as well.

Conclusion

It is essential for travelers to understand the reasons for passport denial or revocation and the situations in which it might occur. Passport denial and revocation can be financially and emotionally devastating, so it is important to take every precaution possible to avoid it.

Paying attention to the minute details of a passport application, navigating certain challenges like payment issues and meeting deadlines should all be taken into account when applying for a passport.

What to Do If Your Passport Was Lost Or Stolen?

Posted on by Lloyd C

Are you panicking because your passport was lost or stolen? You are not alone; it can be a frightening experience to suddenly find yourself without the vital document that is required for international travel. Knowing what steps to take next can ease some of the stress and help get your passport—or another one if it cannot be recovered—replaced as quickly as possible.

In this blog post, we will provide you with all of the information you need to know about getting started on the road to obtaining a new official identity document when yours has gone missing.

One of those inconveniences that cause you more than a little hassle is a lost or stolen passport or having. If you are abroad, such a situation can cause a real interruption in your travels. Aside from needing to replace the document to get home, you have to be concerned about identity theft, especially if the thief also took any of your other identification and credit cards.

Reporting Your Stolen Passport

Once you have determined that your passport is stolen or it is physically taken from you, the first thing to do is immediately report the situation to the nearest United States Embassy or Consulate. Depending on your location, you can first call and report the stolen passport at 1-877-487-2778 (TTY 1-888-874-7793).

What to Do After Reporting My Passport as Stolen?

You will also have to complete Form DS-64: Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport at the local Embassy or Consulate. Make sure you keep a copy of this document. If you are not traveling, you can obtain the form online and mail it to the address in Washington, DC, indicated on the form.

If you are abroad, the Embassy or Consulate will be able to provide a temporary passport to get you back home. To permanently replace the stolen passport, you will need to go to or contact a Passport Agency or Acceptance Facility and take your Form DS-64 copy and complete a new Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport.

Important to Note

Reporting a passport lost or stolen immediately invalidates it. Because of that, it is no longer usable for travel. All the information on Form DS-64 goes into the international database for lost or stolen passports. This makes the passport unusable and you will need to apply for a new passport.

Take all the necessary steps to protect your identity with proper actions and notifications. If you are in an emergency and need to have your passport expedited U.S. Passport Help Guide recommends to it be expedited with National Passport Service. Fastport has been in business since 2010 and has an A+ with the BBB (Better Business Bureau).

Conclusion

Knowing what to do if your passport is lost or stolen can help to reduce any stress, potential problems, and delays while traveling. If you have proper documentation and follow the steps necessary in filing a police report, applying for a replacement, and obtaining travel documents from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, you’ll be more prepared for your future travels – domestic or abroad. Also, remember to make copies of all important documents while traveling, so that in case any of them get lost or stolen, they are easily retrievable and replaceable.

Finally, it is always wise to never keep important documents such as a passport on your person while traveling – keep them safe at home when possible, and utilize travel safety accessories like money belts or holders on trips when necessary.