Month: August 2013

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.

An Introduction to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI): What You Need to Know

Posted on by Lloyd C

An Introduction to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). Prior to 2007 American citizens traveling to and from certain countries such as Canada and areas in the Caribbean did not need a passport. After 9/11, the US government responded with new laws to protect our borders. More effectively, identify who comes into the country.

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) states that all citizens of Bermuda, Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. must present a passport or another form of valid and accepted documentation to enter or leave the US.

The primary purpose of WHTI is to assist with the entry of US Citizens and legitimate foreign travelers while at the same time strengthening American borders.

Related: Do You Need a Passport to Go To Cancun

What is a WHTI Document?

The Initiative commenced in January of 2007 for all air travel. By June 2009, the land and sea requirements were put into effect. Under (WHTI) a citizen from Canada wishing to enter the US must present one of the following documents: an enhanced driver’s license, an enhanced identification card, a Trusted Traveler Program card, or a Canadian passport.

A US citizen coming back to the US from Bermuda, the Caribbean, Canada, or Mexico must have an enhanced driver’s license. They may also have a Trusted Traveler Program card or a US passport or passport card.

Related: Do You Need a Passport to Go to Canada

What Countries Are in The Western Hemisphere Initiative?

The Western Hemisphere Initiative is a US foreign policy commitment in the Americas. It aims to support inclusive economic growth, strengthen democratic institutions, and foster mutual security. The initiative covers countries in the Western Hemisphere, excluding the United States and Canada.

North America

  • Canada
  • Mexico
  • USA

Caribbean

  • Anguilla
  • Aruba
  • Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Bermuda
  • British Virgin Island
  • Cayman Island
  • Cuba
  • Dominica
  • Dominican Republic
  • Grenada
  • Guadeloupe
  • Haiti
  • Jamaica
  • Martinique
  • Montserrat
  • Puerto Rico
  • Saint Kitts and Nevis
  • Saint Lucia
  • Saint Vincent and The Grenadines
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • US Virgin Islands

Conclusion

Some special groups mustn’t necessarily present one of these cards or licenses. This includes the US and Canadian children under age 16 who are entering by land or sea. Hence, they may use a birth certificate for sea or land crossings. There are also exceptions and other forms of documentation that can be used.

This applies to the Native Americans, Merchant Mariners, and US military personnel.

Travel between the US and its territories did not change. These include Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Swains Island, and American Samoa. The U.S. Government has built a blog to help travelers who need more information on the WHTI here.

Honeymoon in Style: Planning an International Vacation with a Passport (Name Change)

Posted on by Lloyd C

Dreaming of a romantic getaway with your significant other? With a passport in hand, the world is wide open for exploration. Whether you’re looking to venture somewhere exotic, explore the depths of history, relax on beautiful beaches, or seek out thrilling adventures, an international trip will create memories to last a lifetime.  But planning an international honeymoon isn’t always easy – and luckily we’ve got the tips and tricks to make sure that you can jet off into marital bliss without any worries.

You can find everything you need about passport information, entry requirements, and downloadable forms from the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs home page. For those who are in a hurry, we’ve collected some key details for you.

Forms of Identifications

If you’re planning to visit any country outside the US and its territories (like Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands), you’ll need some form of identification as entry requirements differ for each country. This can include one or more of the following:

  • You’ll need to bring your passport or a valid proof of U.S. citizenship.
  • Proof of onward travel or a return ticket.
  • Visa is basically pre-departure approval which is often needed for longer or shorter visits in some countries.
  • Tourist Card: You can typically get a tourist card from either a country’s consulate or the airline.
  • A credit card or bank statement will do the trick as proof of sufficient funds.
  • Proof of hotel reservations
  • Immunizations post covid some countries now require your immunization card.
  • Military I.D. card
  • Certificate of Naturalization
  • Certificate of Citizenship
  • Voter registration Card
  • Expired U.S. passport

Important

  • Just a heads up, some countries need your passport to be valid for six months or more beyond your travel dates. So, if you have a passport already, make sure to check its expiration.
  • If your passport shows travel to Israel, some Middle Eastern and African countries might not issue visas or allow entry.
  • If you need a visa to enter a country, you often have to get it before you go. In some cases, you can get it when you arrive. Call the country’s embassy or consulate to find out. Check out this website for all your visa needs www.nationalpassportservice.com

How do I travel for my honeymoon after my wedding with my maiden name on my passport?

Planning to travel after your wedding, especially for your honeymoon, might seem difficult at first. But with all the relevant information about your documents and plans, the process becomes easier than you’d think. As long as it hasn’t expired, you can use it as usual, just like anyone else. Even if your passport is in your maiden name, the name shown on it remains valid until it eventually expires.

How to Change the Maiden Name on my Passport?

If you are a newlywed or recently divorced woman, you may be wondering how to change your maiden name on your passport. Luckily, the process is quite simple. First, you’ll need to fill out Form DS-82, which is available on the U.S. Department of State’s website.

Then, you’ll need to gather all the necessary documentation, including your current passport, your marriage certificate or divorce decree, and a recent passport photo.

Once you have completed all the paperwork, you can either mail it in or go to a passport agency in person. Keep in mind that it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to receive your updated passport, so be sure to plan accordingly if you have travel plans. With a little bit of time and effort, you’ll be able to update your passport with your new name and continue exploring the world with ease.

Conclusion

A honeymoon in a foreign country can be an amazing and unforgettable experience. Planning ahead, budgeting carefully, and knowing the requirements for obtaining a passport with a name change are essential steps to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

When thinking about spending time abroad, make sure to research what activities you’ll have access to once you get there such as sightseeing, cultural experiences, and more. With careful planning and knowledge of the process behind obtaining a passport with a name change, couples can create memories that will last a lifetime during their international honeymoon adventure.

Six Months Passport Validity Rule

Posted on by Murray L

What is the six-month passport validity rule? When traveling overseas, most people know that a valid United States passport is required to enter an international destination. But, what is unknown to the traveler is that some countries would need to have enough six-month validity on their passport to travel to the country known as the six-month validity passport rule for visitors.  Therefore, if your passport expires within the next six months or, in some cases, three months, some countries will refuse to give you entry into the country.

Hence, this rule is in place so that if the unexpected visitor needs to stay for up to six months, his/her passport would be valid to leave the country.

What is the Six Month Passport Validity Rule?

The 6 Month Validity Rule is imposed by foreign countries and not by the United States of America. It means that your passport should be valid for more than six months before you can enter a foreign country that imposes the six-month rule. This rule is imposed by some of the countries we have listed below. This rule is prevalent in the Asian continent, such as China and Hong Kong.

Which Countries Require Six Months on Passport?

When visiting another country, remember that the six-month rule is enforced by countries outside the US, not by the US. Hence, it’s important to know the rules when entering or leaving to avoid any issues.

AlgeriaAngolaBotswana
CameroonCentral African RepublicChad
CongoCote d’IvoireDjibouti
EgyptEquatorial GuineaEritrea
EswatiniEthiopiaGabon
GhanaGuineaKenya
MadagascarMalawiMauritania
MoroccoMozambiqueNamibia
NigeriaRwandaSenegal
Sierra LeoneSouth SudanSudan
TanzaniaTunisiaUganda

AfghanistanAzerbaijanBahrain
BangladeshBhutanBrunei
BurmaCambodiaChina
IndonesiaIranIraq
JordanKuwaitKyrgyzstan
LaosMalaysiaMaldives
MongoliaNepalNorth Korea
OmanPakistanQatar
SingaporeSri LankaTurkey
TurkmenistanUnited Arab EmiratesVietnam
Yemen  

FijiFrench PolynesiaKiribati
Marshall IslandsMicronesiaNew Caledonia
PalauPapua New GuineaSolomon Islands
TongaTuvaluVanuatu

BoliviaEcuadorGuyana
PeruSurinameVenezuela

Countries That Require a 3-Month Passport Rule?

Which countries need you to have a passport that is valid for three months or more? As a traveler, it’s important to know the requirements for international travel. One important factor to consider is the validity of your passport. While most countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months, there are some that have a 3 months passport rule.

Albania*LithuaniaAustria
LuxembourgAzerbaijanMalta
BelarusMoldovaBelgium
MonacoBosnia and HerzegovinaMontenegro
CzechiaNauruEstonia
NetherlandsFinlandFrance
North Macedonia*GeorgiaNorway
SpainMoldovaGermany
LatviaBelgiumPanama*
SwedenMonacoGreece
LebanonBosnia and HerzegovinaPoland
SwitzerlandMontenegroHonduras*
LiechtensteinCzechiaPortugal
NauruIceland

Other Countries with Passport Validity Requirements

CountriesPassport Validity (On Arrival)
Bermuda45 Days
Eritree3 Months
Hong Kong3 Months
Lebanon3 Months
Macau3 Months
Micronesia4 Months
South Africa3 Months
The Maldives3 Months
Zambia4 Months

U.S. Citizens Entering U.S. with a Passport Expiring in 6 Months?

The six-month validity requirement does NOT apply to an American citizen using a U.S. passport to enter the United States or Canada. He/she may do so up until the date of expiration of the passport.

Overall

Even though many countries implemented the six-month validity rule, other restrictions are enforced to enter these countries. Some require a passport to have one clean page per stamp or at least one available sheet. Also, a visa is a requirement to enter some countries. Be aware of this significant document because without it, when it is required, you will not be allowed to board your flight or enter the country you plan to visit.

Having a passport with plenty of validity before travel is best and wise. Also, it is necessary to know some laws of the country you plan to visit to avoid any mishaps or know what to do when you are there.