Year: 2016

Apply for a Passport? No Eyeglasses Allowed In New Passport Photos.

As of November 1, 2016, the State Department will no longer allow eyeglasses in official passport photos. Some experts estimate that every 6 out of 10 people wear corrective lenses. This is one change that could affect millions of people moving forward.

The New York Daily News indicates that the change was made, in part, to help decrease the total number of applications that are rejected each year due to poor quality photos. Eyeglasses in passport photos regularly create glare and cause shadows, making processing passport photos difficult. Experts indicate that out of the 200,000+ passports sent in with poor-quality photos in 2015 alone, the number one issue was with eyeglasses.

Passport Photo Considerations

It’s important to note that this new rule regarding eyeglasses goes into effect even if you always wear lenses. Or even if you’ll be wearing them while traveling. It’s also worth mentioning that the State Department has said that if your CURRENT US passport features a picture of you wearing eyeglasses, you do NOT have to apply for a new passport right away.

However, the next time your passport application is renewed, you must take a new photo. You can not wear eyeglasses while doing so.

Passport Photo 360

Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, taking a passport photo isn’t a long and frustrating process. Thanks to the new Passport Photo 360 app, you can complete it in just a few short minutes with any smartphone or tablet.

Prevent yourself from being one of the 250,000 passport applications that are rejected and rejected for not meeting the government standard when it comes to your photo. Just open the app, snap the picture with your smartphone or tablet, and select a nearby Walgreens for printing. From the moment you take your picture, your photo will be ready for pick up in about 60 minutes.

Passport Photo 360 is available for the iOS and Android operating systems and is available to download now on the app store of your choice.

Features of Passport Photo 360

  • Real-time Review & Compliance checks
  • Print to any Walgreens Location
  • Easy to Use with simple to use the screen to check and verify passport photo.

Conclusion

Passport Photo 360 is a great tool for ensuring your passport photos comply with government standards. With real-time review and compliance checks, you can be sure your photo will meet all the requirements for your passport application. The ability to print to any Walgreens location makes it easy to get a printed photo when you need one. Passport Photo 360 is available for download now on the app store of your choice. Get started today and ensure you have professional-looking passport photos meeting all government standards. Passport Photo 360 lets you know that the government will accept your passport photograph.

The ESTA Visa System: What You Need To Know

ESTA (short for “Electronic System for Travel Authorization“) is a fully automated system designed by the United States Department of Homeland Security that is used to determine whether or not somebody is permitted to travel into the United States under the terms and conditions of the VWP or Visa Waiver Program. The VWP, in turn, allows citizens of 38 different countries the ability to travel into the country for up to three full months WITHOUT obtaining a visa first, provided that they’re here for either business or tourism.

Related Read: How to get an FMM Card?

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)

The current ESTA application involves two distinct parts. First, the traveler will submit any and all requested biographic information to help determine as much as possible about who they are and where they’re coming from. Secondly, they will also have to answer a series of questions to help make sure they’re eligible for the VWP in the first place.

A traveler can submit an application to the ESTA at any time prior to their travel. For the best results and to avoid potential delays, however, it is always recommended that the application process begins as soon as travel plans are made or airline tickets are purchased.

This program could be a potentially huge time saver for travelers who know they’re eligible for the VWP but also wish to avoid information processing delays that could cause issues with their trip.

It is important to note that approval under the ESTA does not grant a person automatic admission into the country – it only determines whether or not they’re permitted to travel there. As always, admission is determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers when the person arrives.

Important Considerations About the ESTA

As of April 1, 2016, all travelers who wish to use the ESTA program will need an electronic or “e-Passport” to do so. Each e-Passport is embedded with an electronic chip (similar to that of modern-day debit and credit cards) to help store information and enhance security.

Additionally, it is important to understand that the ESTA is currently undergoing a change that will determine the exact shape it takes in the future. As of August 31, 2016, Customs and Border Protection has submitted a proposal to continue using the ESTA program that will also see additional questions added to the application form in the near future.

These new questions will specifically target the social media use of the applicant. While this information does not currently need to be provided, there is a chance that it could go into effect at any point after September 30, 2016, when the comment period on the CBP’s request ends.

Conclusion

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is a valuable resource that helps ensure the safe and secure travel of visitors to the US. It is important to remember that as of August 31, 2016, Customs and Border Protection has proposed changes to the ESTA program, including additional questions about social media use. Therefore, it is important to check back on www.uspassporthelpguide.com from time to time for any updates or changes that could affect your travel plans in the near future. It is also important to fill out and submit your ESTA application as soon as possible so that you can ensure a smoother experience when entering the US. Thank you for visiting www.uspassporthelpguide.com!

We wish you safe travels

What is a Passport Fair?

A Passport Fair in your local area may make applying for your U.S. Passport even easier. Passport Fairs are becoming quite popular this summer as passport offices are receiving record numbers of passport applications. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of State expects over 47 million passports to expire this year alone.

Where are Passport Fairs Located?

These passport fairs provide quick ‘open door’ passport service so you can get the process underway without an appointment.  Many US Postal Service locations across the country are offering Passport Fairs. A Passport Fair is a basically an open event for U.S. citizens to apply for a U.S. Passport, without the need for an appointment. Many passport acceptance facilities require an appointment in advance, and many times this can be difficult for people to fit in their busy schedules.

What is a passport fair price and fees?

The Postal Service doesn’t receive tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products, and services to fund its operations. There are no additional fees when applying for your passport through the Postal Service, with the exception of shipping your documents to the Passport Agency.

What Documents Should I bring to a Passport Fair?

You will need to bring the required documents for your passport application. If you need to know what documents you need, visit the Passport Services page and select the passport type that you need. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome, and passport photo service will be available.

What is a passport fair alternative?

Routine processing through the post office can take 4-6 weeks or longer, so apply early. If you have upcoming travel plans, you have some options to expedite your passport.

Expediting Passport at a Passport Fair

Expediting your passport does come with additional service fees. The government charges an additional $60 to all expedited applications. If you choose to utilize a private registered passport service, you can get your passport processed as fast as 24 hours. Additional fees will apply. To learn more, please visit the Emergency Passport section of our site.

 

 

Where to Get a Visa Photo Online?

Traveling around the world is an adventure worth taking. With an almost infinite list of possible places to explore, who knows what stories you’ll have to tell afterward? Though chartering through different and interesting countries outside the norm is exciting, sometimes preparing for the trip is a nightmare. As with any big event planned in life, it takes a bit of planning and documentation to be able to leave your home country.

Who knows, perhaps you’re a traveler which acts at the last minute or one who plans every scrutinizing detail leading up to departure. No matter which type of adventurer you are, there are a few key points that even the last-minute wanderer must take into account: visas.

What is the Size of the Visa Photos?

Depending on which country you reside in or are venturing off towards, a visa could be unnecessary. In the instance it is vital for a smooth international crossing, you may be wondering how to obtain one and what exactly is necessary for this stamp of approval.

Getting a Visa Photo

First off, receiving a visa is not nearly as tedious or difficult as sending in for a passport. Thanks to more modern technologies and countries adopting these faster, conventional methods, a visa is almost as easy as chugging down a smoothie, minus the brain freeze.

No matter the final destination, every visa has one aspect in common: a photo. Keep in mind, however, citizens of certain countries, such as the US, may not need a photo as a visa is electronically placed into a passport. It also depends on the country visited.

If you are traveling to a new land that requires a physical visa and photo, there are some simple tricks and tips for complying with regulations:

What is the Passport Requirement?

Believe it or not, there are countries that still require mailing in a visa request. This requires an application and submission for photos. Though different nations have a variety of requirements, for the most part, visa photo requirements are generally the same.

  • 2×2 is your lucky number to remember. Generally, the photo must be 2×2 inches.
  • Plain, white backgrounds are the rule of thumb. If taking a picture at home, be sure to stay away from any patterned wallpaper.
  • No thick-rimmed glasses, hats, or smiles. Take it seriously, no pun intended.
  • Print out on photo paper. Regular printing paper is too thin, and the ink bleeds through. For good measure and to keep the process from slowing down, use gloss.
  • One shot per person. This may seem trivial, but family portraits are not acceptable for everyone in the family travel. Each person, including children, must be photographed separately.
  • Lighting. The biggest mistake made on visa photos taken at home or even by a professional (rarely) is having poor lighting. Be sure the photo isn’t underexposed or overexposed. Double-check the shine on your forehead. If it’s a burning white spot, try again.

Online Visa Photos:

Adding to the short list above, taking photos and submitting them online has a few added bonuses to pay attention for:

  • Dimensions. Whether you’re a computer guru or someone who has trouble texting, submitting photos online requires strict dimensions and sizes of the photos. On the average photo, it requires a 600×600 minimum pixel length and width and a maximum of 1200×1200.
  • All photos must be in JPEG format! A few sites may accept others, but the general consensus is JPEG as it’s the most widely recognized and use. Be safe, use JPEG.
  • Size. Again this depends on the country, however, small photo size is what’s desired. No bigger than 240 KB.
  • Color. All photos no matter where you are going MUST BE in color. Black and white are absolutely unacceptable.

Now that you have a decent grip on how to fancy up your visa photos, the questions arise: Where to go for a visa photo near me?

Pros and Cons of Using Online Services vs. Walk-in Passport Photo Services

First off there are pros and cons to both online and face-to-face. UPS and USPS are two of the more favored places to have a picture taken. Even chain stores such as Walgreens offer passport/visa photo services. One of the benefits of having professionals take care of it is exactly that; they take care of it.

You don’t worry about dimensions or background color. It’s finished. However, a small downfall is the cost. Prices range from $10-$20 per person. Plus if you don’t like the photo, you have to pay to retake it.

On the other hand, online has much more perks than a traditional route of USPS. Getting a visa photo online is simple and easy, especially with. Unlike leaving your house searching for a store, online offers quick processing and allows you to submit your own photos taken at home.

It saves on time and money for those up in the wee hours of the night planning a vacation. The requirements are much easier than anything previously mentioned.

Simply take a selfie with your full face showing and some decent lighting and the rest if taken care of. Now you don’t have to sweat becoming compliant with regulations, the work is done by professionals. Plus, it’s lighter on the wallet. Depending on the site, a few bucks is all you pay.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for affordable passport photos, PassportPhotos360.com has got you covered with prices as low as $.99 per photo. Why not give their online visa photo service a try? You might find it more convenient than traditional snail mail options. Plus, you won’t have to worry about whether or not your photos are up to snuff with the latest passport regulations. It’s a win-win situation all around!

Happy travels!

 

Help! My Dog Ate My Passport!

As most travelers know, life is full of unpredictable moments. Many times the hiccups we experience while traveling are the stories that make the trip memorable. But what happens when something bad happens before the trip? What happens if your dog chews on your passport? What happens if your dog eats your passport? Can you travel with a damaged passport? Find out what you need to do to replace a damaged passport.

Help! My Dog ate my Passport!

Any damage to your passport can ruin a potential trip. The U.S. Department of State and all immigration officials take passport damage very seriously. If your dog chewed on the corner of one page of your passport, that might still be enough damage for your passport to be considered ‘invalid’. Simply yelling, ‘Help! My dog ate my passport!’ will not fix this issue. You will need to replace your passport immediately.

A routine passport replacement can take up to six weeks or longer. Fortunately, for those that need a passport faster, you can use a private expediting service or you can contact your closest Regional Passport Agency. If you are abroad and your passport is damaged, you should go to your closest embassy or consulate.

Can you Travel with a Chew Up Passport?

No. A chewed-upon passport is considered invalid for travel, and you will not be allowed to board your flight or enter the country with a damaged passport. The Department of States considers a passport that is chewing up to be damaged and you will need to get a passport replacement to travel.

What if my dog only chewed on my passport?

There really isn’t any way to get official verification that the border agents will accept your passport. If you have any doubts about the condition of your passport, you should seek to replace it immediately.

When you replace your damaged passport, you should also include a letter explaining the damage. You may also want to include a request that your original damaged passport be returned to you. Many travelers keep their old passports as a keepsake or memory of the visas and stamps accrued.

Help! My Passport has some minor wear and tear!

Regular wear and tear may not mean you need to replace your passport. While there is no official description of what constitutes wear and tear, your passport will usually have some minor wear marks after a few trips abroad. We highly recommend keeping your passport in a safe place at all times. Invest in a passport protector case and try to make sure you aren’t leaving your passport in your pocket or luggage unprotected. If you do feel your passport is starting to show signs of heavy use, you may want to renew it or replace it before your next trip.

Conclusion

If you’ve experienced an unfortunate passport-eating incident like the one we just discussed, don’t panic! It is essential to contact the proper contacts and organizations as soon as possible and keep track of any paperwork or receipts that document your efforts to locate a replacement.

Ultimately, whether you end up needing a new passport or just experiencing a close call can depend on a variety of factors. Do all you can to mitigate potential risks by taking safety measures with your passport, such as carefully storing it away from curious mouths. However, if something happens, remember that help is out there!

How to Easily Travel with Two Passports – A Guide to Understanding Dual Citizenship

Are you a dual citizen looking to travel with two different passports? Has exploring multiple countries with two separate documents confused and overwhelmed you? If so, worry no more because this guide, specifically tailored for dual citizens, will provide all the details needed to make navigating international borders with multiple nationalities effortless. Here, we’ll cover everything from obtaining dual citizenship in the first place to how it works when you get on a plane or cross border checkpoints.

How to Travel With Two Passports?

Dual citizenship, as its name suggests, is holding citizenship in both the US and another country simultaneously. This can occur in several different ways depending on the situation. The first is by birth. If a child of a US citizen is born in another country, the child holds citizenship in both countries.

Marriage is another way that this can occur. Most countries automatically extend citizenship to people from the US who marry a person from that country. The third is by going through the naturalization process. This is where a US citizen will become a naturalized citizen.

When this happens, the person does not lose their previous status as a citizen of their home.

If you hold dual citizenship and are traveling with two valid passports, there are a number of essential things to keep in mind.

What Are The Benefits of Having a Second Passport?

The most important thing to know is that even if you are a dual citizen traveling with two completely valid passports, you will always need to travel with your United States passport at all times. You must use your US passport when you attempt to re-enter the US. The other passport is for the country where you have dual citizenship and want to enter that country.

The passport you should present when entering a country often depends on which passport you use when booking your airfare or other travel accommodations. For example, if you hold dual citizenship in France and the US, you may book your first flight with your French passport.

Then, book your return trip with your U.S. passport. In that event, you would present your French passport when you reach your destination. Hence, you’re US passport when you return home to the US. As a general rule of thumb, you should always use the passport number for the country you plan on visiting when booking any round-trip ticket.

Issuing and Renewing Passports

If you hold dual citizenship and plan on renewing or applying for a US passport, your second passport is not part of the application process. It can, however, be used as proof of your identity. Renewing your foreign passport while living in the US requires contacting your country’s embassy. Many will require you to return your current passport to complete the renewal process.

Conclusion

All in all, dual citizenship has many benefits, making it an attractive option. It can open the door for more opportunities to expand your career, study, and travel. Having dual citizenship also allows you to exploit two countries’ economic and political systems.

How to Expedite a Passport for Urgent Travel?

Have you headed abroad at the last minute and need your passport quickly? Getting your passport expedited to meet an upcoming deadline can seem overwhelming, but with some proactive planning, it doesn’t have to be. Understanding what is involved in getting a passport issued quickly will help make the process more manageable and provide peace of mind when making those travel arrangements. In this blog post, we’ll explain how to expedite a new or renewed passport for urgent international travel.

What is the Requirement for an Expedited Passport?

You can apply for an expedited passport. This process is required if you plan to travel internationally within two weeks or less. Generally speaking, it takes about four to six weeks to get a new passport. However, the State Department provides an expedited service that will issue your passport much faster than that, usually within three weeks.

When applying for an expedited passport, you must provide proof of international travel within two weeks or less. The State Department requires you to submit a copy of your itinerary or tickets showing your trip details.

Where are the Regional Passport Agencies Located Near Me?

There are over thirty Regional Passport Agencies throughout the United States.  The Regional Passport Agencies process passport applications for those who need to travel in less than three weeks. To locate a Regional Passport Agency in your area, use the State Department’s website or call their toll-free number (1-877-487-2778).

When applying for an expedited passport, you must make an appointment at the Regional Passport Agency. You can make an appointment online or over the phone. Be sure to bring all required documents and forms with you when you go to your appointment, including a valid photo ID, proof of international travel within two weeks or less, and payment for the passport fees.

Additionally, some companies specialize in expediting passports for those who do not have time to visit a passport agency.

Expediting a Passport with A Private Passport Expeditor?

Expedited passports can also be obtained through private companies, such as A Passport Expeditor. These companies offer their services to individuals who need a passport quickly and are willing to pay a fee for the expedited process. Generally, you will complete an application with the company and send them your required documents and forms.

The company then sends your passport application to the appropriate government processing agency and submits it with priority status. Your passport is then processed as quickly as possible, usually within a few days. Most private expeditors offer same-day or overnight shipping of your passport for an additional fee.

Keep in mind that there are several factors to consider when selecting a private passport expeditor, such as whether the U.S. government authorizes them, their customer service ratings, and the speed of delivery they offer. It is important to do your research before selecting a passport expeditor to ensure that you are getting the best service possible for your needs.

Finally, remember that while private passport expeditors can help speed up the process, they come with an additional cost. Therefore, it is important to consider the cost of using a private expeditor versus the time saved to determine if it is right for you.

Our website offers information about all of the available passport services and can help guide you in making your choice. By researching each option carefully, you can find the best solution for your passport needs.

Conclusion

To sum up, having an expedited passport can greatly help a traveler save time when plans change unexpectedly. Additionally, those needing a passport quickly should take the necessary steps promptly and systematically to calculate the amount of time it will take to receive a passport. Furthermore, while certain methods will certainly be faster than others, understanding these intricate processes can make the process much easier.

Ultimately, every person’s situation is different, and having the proper documents as well as utilizing all available resources is key for those looking to obtain a passport with urgency.