Year: 2016

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

Posted on by waleed

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 Before Traveling to the U.S.

Posted on by Murray L

If you’re traveling to the United States without a traditional visa, you may need authorization through the ESTA Visa System. While often called a “visa,” ESTA is not a visa—it is an automated travel authorization that determines whether certain travelers may enter the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

Key Takeaway

The ESTA Visa System is a fast and convenient way for eligible travelers to visit the United States without a visa—but it comes with strict rules and limits. Understanding how ESTA works can help you avoid overstays, denied entry, and future travel complications.

What Is the ESTA Visa System?

The U.S. Visa System

ESTA, or the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, is an automated screening system operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It determines whether travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries are eligible to travel to the United States without a visa.

ESTA authorization is required before boarding a U.S.-bound flight or vessel.

ESTAVisa
Travel authorizationEntry document
Online applicationEmbassy/consulate interview
For short stays onlyFor short or long stays
Visa Waiver Program onlyAll visa categories

Who Needs ESTA?

You must apply for ESTA if you:

  • Are a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country
  • Plan to travel to the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit
  • Will stay 90 days or less
  • Do not hold a valid U.S. visa

Even children and infants must have their own ESTA authorization.

Who Does NOT Need ESTA?

You do not need ESTA if you:

  • Are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
  • Hold a valid U.S. visa (such as B-1/B-2, F-1, H-1B)
  • Enter the U.S. by land from Canada or Mexico (in most cases)

What Is the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of designated countries to travel to the U.S. for short stays without obtaining a visa. The program is administered by U.S. Department of Homeland Security in coordination with U.S. Department of State.

ESTA is the mandatory pre-screening requirement for all VWP travelers.

How Long Is ESTA Valid?

An approved ESTA is typically valid for:

  • 2 years, or
  • Until your passport expires (whichever comes first)

During that period, you may make multiple trips to the U.S., but each stay must not exceed 90 days.

How to Apply for ESTA

Applying for ESTA is done entirely online and usually takes only minutes.

Information you’ll need:

  • Passport from a VWP country
  • Personal and contact details
  • Travel and employment information
  • Answers to security and eligibility questions

Most approvals are issued quickly, but travelers are advised to apply at least 72 hours before departure.

ESTA Approval vs. U.S. Entry

An approved ESTA:

  • Allows you to board a U.S.-bound flight
  • Permits you to request entry
  • Does not guarantee admission

Final entry decisions are made by CBP officers upon arrival.

ESTA and the I-94 Record

If admitted under ESTA, CBP creates an electronic I-94 Arrival/Departure Record that documents:

  • Your date of entry
  • Your status under the Visa Waiver Program
  • Your authorized stay (maximum 90 days)

Overstaying an ESTA admission can result in loss of VWP privileges and future travel restrictions.

Common ESTA Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with an expired or soon-to-expire passport
  • Assuming ESTA allows work or long-term study
  • Staying beyond the 90-day limit
  • Failing to update ESTA after passport changes
  • Confusing ESTA with a visa

Violations can lead to denied entry or future visa requirements.

Can ESTA Be Denied?

Yes. ESTA may be denied due to:

  • Prior visa overstays
  • Criminal history
  • Travel to certain restricted countries
  • Incomplete or inaccurate information

If denied ESTA, travelers must apply for a traditional U.S. visa through a consulate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ESTA used for?

ESTA is used to screen travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries before they travel to the United States without a visa.

How long can I stay in the U.S. with ESTA?

You may stay up to 90 days per visit. Extensions and changes of status are generally not allowed.

Do I need ESTA if I already have a U.S. visa?

No. Travelers with a valid U.S. visa do not need ESTA.

Can I work in the U.S. with ESTA?

No. ESTA only permits tourism, business meetings, or transit—not employment.

What happens if my ESTA expires while I’m in the U.S.?

As long as you entered with a valid ESTA and do not overstay 90 days, expiration during your stay does not affect that visit.

What is a Passport Fair?

Posted on by Lloyd C

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?

Posted on by Lloyd C

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!

 

Dog Ate Your Passport? How to Replace a Damaged Passport Fast (2026 Guide)

Posted on by Lloyd C

If your dog ate or damaged your passport, you cannot use it if the damage affects the photo page, barcode, or embedded chip. In most cases, you’ll need to apply for a replacement passport immediately. Even minor damage can lead to denied boarding or entry, so replacing it before travel is strongly recommended.

What to Do If Your Dog Ate Your Passport

1. Check the Level of Damage

  • Replace immediately if:
    • Photo page is chewed or torn
    • Passport chip is damaged
    • Barcode or machine-readable zone is unreadable
  • May still work (not guaranteed):
    • Minor cover damage
    • Small tears on non-critical pages

Border agents and airlines in the U.S. can reject passports that appear altered or damaged.

2. Report It as a Damaged Passport

A chewed passport is considered damaged (not lost).

You will need:

  • A new passport application (Form DS-11 or DS-82 depending on eligibility)
  • Your damaged passport
  • A written explanation describing what happened

Be direct: explain that the passport was damaged (for example, by a pet).

. Apply for a Replacement Passport

Submit your application at a passport acceptance facility or post office in New York.

You’ll need:

4. Need It Fast? Use Expedited Service

If you have upcoming travel:

  • Request expedited processing (2–3 weeks)
  • Or schedule an appointment at a regional passport agency in New York for urgent travel

For emergency situations, same-day or 24–72 hour processing may be available.

5. Travel Soon? Don’t Risk It

Even slightly damaged passports can cause:

  • Airline boarding denial
  • Delays at immigration
  • Entry refusal into your destination country

Replacing your passport before travel is the safest option.

Can You Travel With a Chewed Passport?

Technically possible—but risky.

You may be allowed to travel if:

  • All information is clearly readable
  • No pages are missing
  • The passport chip still works

You will likely be denied if:

  • The photo page is damaged
  • Pages are torn or missing
  • The passport looks altered

Final decision is always made by airline staff and border officials.

Expedited Passport Help

If your passport has been chewed or damaged, it’s best to replace it as soon as possible—especially if you have upcoming travel. Expedited passport services can help you receive a replacement in as little as 24–72 hours, depending on your situation. Acting quickly helps you avoid delays, cancellations, and travel disruptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport with bite marks?

Only if the damage is minor and does not affect important information—but it’s still risky.

Will airlines accept a damaged passport?

Not always. Airlines can deny boarding if the passport appears damaged.

How long does it take to replace a damaged passport?

Routine processing takes several weeks, but expedited options are available within 2–3 weeks or faster.

Do I need to report a damaged passport?

Yes. You must submit it with your replacement application and explain the damage.

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

Posted on by Lloyd C

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.

Expedited Passport Services

Posted on by Murray L

Expedited passport service allows U.S. citizens to receive a passport faster than routine processing. Travelers who need a passport quickly because of upcoming international travel may request expedited processing through the U.S. Department of State or through an authorized passport expediting service.

Routine passport processing can take several weeks, while expedited passport service is generally processed faster for an additional government fee. Travelers with urgent international travel within 14 days may qualify for an appointment at a regional passport agency.

Current Expedited Passport Processing Times

Service TypeEstimated Processing Time
Routine Passport Service4–6 Weeks
Expedited Passport Service2–3 Weeks
Urgent Travel AppointmentWithin 14 Days

Processing times begin once the passport agency receives your application and do not include mailing times. Mailing may add additional time to the overall process.

Who Should Use Expedited Passport Service?

Expedited passport service is commonly used by travelers who:

  • Have upcoming international travel
  • Need a passport renewal quickly
  • Lost or damaged their passport
  • Need a child passport before travel
  • Require emergency travel documentation
  • Need a passport for a visa application

Applicants traveling internationally within 14 calendar days may qualify for urgent travel appointments at a passport agency.

How to Expedite a Passport?

To expedite a passport application, applicants typically must:

  1. Complete the appropriate passport form
  2. Provide proof of U.S. citizenship
  3. Submit government-issued photo ID
  4. Include a passport photo
  5. Pay passport fees
  6. Pay the expedited service fee

Most expedited applications also require faster mailing services to reduce total delivery time.

Expedited Passport Fee

The U.S. Department of State charges an additional expedited service fee for faster processing.

ServiceAdditional Fee
Expedited Processing$60
Optional 1–3 Day DeliveryAdditional Mailing Fee

Passport fees may vary depending on the type of application and delivery options selected.

Emergency Passport Appointments

Travelers with urgent international travel may be eligible for emergency passport appointments at a regional passport agency.

To qualify, applicants generally must:

  • Travel internationally within 14 calendar days
  • Provide proof of travel
  • Schedule an appointment in advance

Regional passport agencies operate by appointment only and do not typically accept walk-ins.

Expedited Passport Renewal

Eligible applicants may renew a passport using Form DS-82 and request expedited processing.

Passport renewal applicants may qualify if their passport:

  • Is undamaged
  • Was issued within the last 15 years
  • Was issued after age 16
  • Matches their current legal name or includes legal name change documents

Many applicants choose expedited renewal service before upcoming international trips.

Expedited Child Passport Services

Children under 16 must apply for passports in person with parental consent.

Expedited child passport applications generally require:

  • Form DS-11
  • Proof of citizenship
  • Parent identification
  • Passport photo
  • Evidence of parental relationship

Child passports are valid for 5 years.

Lost or Stolen Expedited Passport Applications

Applicants replacing a lost or stolen passport generally must:

  1. Complete Form DS-64
  2. Submit a new DS-11 application
  3. Apply in person
  4. Provide identification and citizenship evidence

Expedited service may be requested during the replacement process.

Documents Needed for Expedited Passport Service

Most applicants need:

  • Passport application form
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship
  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Passport photo
  • Passport fees
  • Expedited processing fee

Common citizenship documents include:

  • Certified birth certificate
  • Certificate of Naturalization
  • Previous U.S. passport

Expedited Passport vs Routine Service

FeatureExpedited PassportRoutine Passport
Faster processingYesNo
Additional fee requiredYesNo
Available for renewalsYesYes
Available for new applicationsYesYes
Urgent travel appointmentsAvailableNot available

Regional Passport Agencies

Regional passport agencies handle urgent travel passport requests.

Applicants usually need:

  • Appointment confirmation
  • Proof of international travel
  • Completed passport application
  • Supporting documents

Appointments may be limited during peak travel periods.

Can You Get a Passport the Same Day?

Same-day passport service may be possible in limited emergency situations through a regional passport agency.

Availability depends on:

  • Travel date
  • Appointment availability
  • Documentation completeness
  • Agency capacity

Not all applicants qualify for same-day processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast is expedited passport service?

Expedited passport service is generally processed within 2–3 weeks, not including mailing time.

How much does expedited passport service cost?

The government expedited processing fee is typically $60 in addition to standard passport fees.

Can I expedite a passport renewal?

Yes. Eligible passport renewals may request expedited processing using Form DS-82.

Can I get a passport in 14 days?

Travelers with urgent international travel within 14 days may qualify for a passport agency appointment.

Do expedited passports arrive faster in the mail?

Applicants may purchase optional faster return delivery service for passport books.

Can I expedite a child passport?

Yes. Child passport applications may also request expedited processing.