Author: waleed

What Parents Need to Know About Getting Passports for Kids

You’re planning a beautiful family vacation to a destination you’ve always wanted to visit.

You want even the youngest members of your family to be able to enjoy the trip and to come along with you.

But if you’re leaving the country, do children need passports?

Yes.

Plus, you must ensure you know how to get a passport for a child.

There are many rules you might not initially expect, but the good news is that they’re not difficult to follow.

Whether you need a passport for a teenager under 18 or an infant passport, read on to learn what you need to know.

How to Get a Baby Passport?

First, let’s talk about the steps you need to take to secure an infant passport.

When you apply for a passport, you must ensure that both parents and the baby are present.

You’ll need to make sure that you bring the following primary documents (so, no copies):

  • A birth certificate
  • Proof that you are the parents
  • Adoption decree (if needed)
  • The government-issued ID of both parents
  • Your Social Security card

We suggest that you make at least one copy of all of these documents and bring them with you in addition to the original.

You’ll also need to complete the DS-11 application form for an American passport. It would be best if you wrote only in black ink, but remember not to sign it until you’re in the Passport Acceptance building.

Let’s say that, due to travel or work obligations, it becomes impossible for both parents to be present at the passport application meeting.

In this case, you’ll need to ensure you have a notarized letter of consent from the absent parents. This is called the DS-3053 form.

If you’re a parent with sole custody of a baby?

Then you’ll also need to bring a judicial declaration supporting that you’re a sole parent. If the baby’s mother or father has died, you should bring their death certificate.

You must wait four to six weeks to receive your infant’s passport. Of course, you’ll also need to pay a passport processing fee to the Department of State.

Taking a Baby Passport Photo

Let’s discuss some rules surrounding the baby’s passport photo.

You’ll need to bring two passport photos, which are copies of one another. They need to have a white background and need to be 2 by 2 inches in size.

The head of the baby needs to be uncovered, and not even the hand of a parent supporting the child should be in the photo.

An infant’s eyes should try to be somewhat open, if possible.

Avoid casting any shadows on your baby’s face, and aim for an all-white background. You can put the baby down on a white sheet and take the photo from above.

Related Read: Single Parents Guide to Getting a Kid Passport

How to Get a Child Passport?

Now, let’s discuss how to get a passport for a child.

It’s important for you to keep in mind that passports created for children who are under the age of 16 will only be valid for five years.

Additionally, if you’re applying for a passport for someone under 16 years of age, you will need to apply in person. Both parents will need to be present as a means of showing parental consent.

The first step is to download and fill out the DS-11 form. As with the baby passport, don’t sign it until you’ve been instructed to do so during the in-person application process.

You’ll need to give your child’s Social Security number and documents that can help you show your child is a U.S. citizen.

This can include an older expired passport, a birth certificate, a certificate of citizenship, or a report of birth abroad if needed.

Bring both the originals and copies, and if it’s not possible to get an original, bring a certified copy.

You’ll also need to prove your parental relationship with the child. This can be your birth certificate, custody decree, adoption decree, or foreign birth certificate.

You’ll also need to bring your government-issued ID and a photocopy.

You’ll also need to pay fees, which can be calculated on the U.S. Department of State Travel website.

Related Read: DS-10 Birth Abroad Application Form

Child Passport Photo

Your child needs to have a neutral expression, and they need to be directly facing the camera.

They need to keep both eyes open, and they should also show the tops of their ears.

As with the infant passport, you’ll need a plain white background for the photo.

When it comes to size, the photo will need to be in color and two by two inches in size.

Related Read: Where to Get a Passport Photo Taken?

Ready to Get a Passport for a Minor?

We hope this post has helped you better understand how to get a passport for a child.

Whether you need to get an infant passport or if you want to get one for your teenager, it’s important that you become as familiar with the rules as you can.

This will save you a lot of headaches down the line.

Of course, we know that you sometimes leave the job of getting a passport to the last minute.

If you’re in need of an expedited passport, we want to help you to be able to get it.

Spend some time on our website to learn more, and reach out to us when you need help.

Conclusion

Getting a passport for a child may seem like a daunting task.

However, with the right preparation and research, you can be prepared to apply without any problems. 

Remember to have all necessary documents ready and two identical photos that meet the size requirements (2 by 2 inches in color). 

You should also be aware of the different rules.

Not Planning an International Trip? Here’s Why You Need a Passport Anyway

According to research as recently as five years ago, only 36% of Americans actually possess a valid passport. A large percentage of Americans have never left the country, so they don’t think they need a passport if they have no plans to do so.

While you may think it’s not necessary to have one as you currently have no plans to leave the country, there are several reasons why you should always have one anyway.

Read on to find out some of the top reasons that answer the question, “Why do you need a passport?”

Why Do You Need a Passport? In Case of Emergency

You may not have plans to go abroad, but many people have family members who actively travel or live abroad. If your sister or son decides to spend a week in Japan, for example, you may think this won’t affect your need for a passport.

If an emergency occurred while your family member was visiting Japan, you may want to get to them immediately. Say they got incredibly ill suddenly or were in an accident and you wanted to be with them in the hospital as soon as humanly possible. If you had a valid passport in your drawer, you would be able to book a seat on the next flight out.

However, if you don’t have a passport, it can take up to eight days to receive one, even if you purchase a rush service. This could mean waiting at least that long to see your loved one who may need you.

You’ll Always Have Proof of Citizenship

If there’s any question about your legal status or if you can work in the United States, having a passport will clear that up immediately. You can present it to your employer or any agent who is curious as to your status. The passport is an official document testifying to your citizenship.

You Can Save on Fees

In the emergency case scenario, we mentioned that it could take as long as eight days to receive an expedited passport.

While you’ll not only have to wait for it to come, you’ll also have to pay for the rush service. At present, that’s an extra $60 you wouldn’t have had to spend if you had your passport waiting for you.

You Can Use It for Starting a New Job or for Enrolling in School

When you start a new job, you’ll likely have to provide proof of your ability to work in the United States. A US passport proves this without a shadow of a doubt.

You can also use a passport to enroll yourself or your children in school. A passport provides proof of age and identity. Most public schools will accept them as a document to allow you or your child to enroll. However, it is a good idea to check with them before relying on it solely.

What If Something Good Happens?

So we’ve covered a catastrophic emergency abroad, but what if you have a good emergency? Some companies send employees abroad at relatively short notice for work assignments. If you don’t have a passport, you’ll have to turn it down, or they won’t pick you knowing you don’t have the credentials.

You could also suddenly be gifted a holiday by your spouse or a family member that requires you to leave on short notice. Without a passport, there’s a lot of stress required in the lead up to what is supposed to be a good time.

Although not likely, you could also always win a sweepstakes or gambling prize in which you’re given a free vacation abroad. If you can’t get your passport together before you go, then you’ll have missed the chance for an all-expenses-paid vacation abroad!

If You Don’t Drive, You Can Use It For ID

While many people in the United States are dependent on cars, not everyone drives. Some people live extremely close to their work and do not see the need for a car. Others live in big cities where public transportation is reliable and a car is an unnecessary expense.

If that’s the case for you, you may have let your driver’s license lapse. As a result, you may not have an official ID to allow you to purchase alcohol, cigarettes, enter into a club or even buy a glass of wine at a restaurant. The last thing you want is a hassle when you’re trying to enjoy yourself, and having a passport provides instant proof.

You Can Use It to Get Another ID

If you need a driver’s license or state ID, you’ll typically need another form of identification to get it. A passport can be all you need in order to do so and will save a lot of time and effort of gathering other documents you may not have lying around your house.

Having a Passport Opens Up Possibilities

Currently, Americans can visit over 170 countries with their passports. Having one makes the idea of traveling more of a reality. Even if you don’t have plans in the near future to travel, you may decide to do so, and having the passport in your pocket means one extra hurdle you don’t have to jump over.

If you and your spouse are mulling over a dream vacation in Paris, having a passport makes it much more of a reality. You’re much more likely to bite the bullet and order your plane tickets and make hotel reservations if you have your passport all ready to go.

Should I Get a Passport?

We’ve answered the question of “Why do I need a passport?” rather thoroughly in this article, but whether or not you decide to get one is up to you. It is an excellent tool not only for travel but for identification, and can be more powerful than some other forms of identification. With it, there is no question of your country of citizenship or your work status.

For more on all things passport and travel, visit our blog.

Passport vs Travel Visa: What is the Difference?

In most cases, traveling to a new country is an exciting experience that presents adventures and life-changing opportunities. Some of the reasons why people move to foreign countries are tourism, to pursue studies and careers, and to do business.

If you are conversant with the process of traveling to a foreign country, you know that travel documents are necessary. Many people are familiar with the terms passport and visa since they go hand in hand in most cases. However, some do not know the difference.

These travel documents are vital, and they serve different purposes. You can better understand these official papers once you know the use of each. This article will demystify the mix-up between passport vs. travel visa for you.

What is a Passport?

A passport is an official document you receive from your country’s government to serve as proof of identity and citizenship. The document helps to identify you when you are in a foreign country. It bears your personal information and a photograph and has several blank pages.

Countries across the globe are adopting electronic security measures, including adding biometric data to a chip embedded on the passport. The development is an attempt to curb forgery. Passports come with a validity period, after which you have to renew.

passport also allows its holder to return to the issuing country. This privilege may extend to foreigners with the right of abode in the country. However, the document does not automatically grant you any rights in the state you are visiting.

Validity of Passports

Passports belong to the state under the law of most countries. The government can revoke it on specified grounds at any time. The rules surrounding passports may have slight variations in different countries.

Most countries issue their citizens with only one passport at a time. Nationals can apply for replacements when the old ones expire or have no blank pages. In such a case, the issuing authority may demand the surrender of the old document for invalidation.

Some countries could allow you to have more than one passport under special conditions. For instance, if you are always traveling for business. You could get another passport to use while the first one awaits a visa for somewhere else, but you must prove the need.

Sometimes you will not need to surrender the expired passport. An example of such a case is when the passport contains a valid visa. In most countries, the validity of passports is five or ten years.

What is a Travel Visa?

A travel visa is an official document you receive from the government of the country you visit. It serves as a permit for you to be in the country. A visa is in the form of a stamp or a sticker attached on a blank page in the passport.

Sometimes the need for a visa depends on your citizenship, the purpose of your visit, and the planned duration of your stay.

In the past, immigration officers had the power to allow or reject the entry of visitors into a country. It is after granting the visitor entry that they would stamp the passport. Nowadays, most states require you to apply for a visa in advance.

You obtain a travel visa from the embassy of the country you are visiting or its local consulates. A visit in this context is the reason for entry into a foreign country. Some countries allow visitors to acquire visas on arrival for brief visits.

Typical information captured in a travel visa is the duration of your stay, the day you may enter, and the territory you may access in the country. The visa may also state whether you have permission to work in the country you are visiting.

A travel visa is subject to checks by immigration officials at the point of entry. The country’s government you are visiting can revoke your visa at any time.

In rare occasions, some states provide mandatory exit visas. Whether citizen or noncitizen, you have to apply for this document before leaving the country. Conversely, some countries have bilateral agreements to allow their citizens to visit or leave without visas.

In the event the country you wish to visit does not have an embassy or a consulate, you may have to look for visa application services in another country. Otherwise, the host country can process your visa and arrange for you to collect it at the entry port.

Categories of Travel Visas

Various countries have different types of visas. Below are some of the universal classes.

Immigrant Visas

People who qualify for this visa can move to the issuing country and acquire permanent residence. Examples include marriage visas and spouse visas.

Visitor Visa

This type of visa permits you into a country for a specified purpose within a limited period. Examples include tourist visas, private visas (when invited), visas for medical reasons, business visas, and refugee visas.

Related Read: How to Get a Chinese Visa?

Long-Stay Visa

This visa permits its holder to stay in the country for an extended but limited period. Examples are temporary worker visas, student visas, asylum visas, and journalist visas.

Transit Visa

This type of visa allows you to pass through a country to a destination in another country. The duration for the visit could be anything from a few hours to some days.

An excellent example of a transit visa is the driver, steward, or crew member visa. The issued person is usually an employee of an aircraft, sea vessel, train, or another locomotive traversing the issuing country.

Official Visas

These are visas for people working for their governments in foreign countries. They include diplomatic visas and courtesy visas.

Conclusion

We hope the distinction between a passport and a travel visa is clear. The main difference is the issuing authority. You get a passport from the immigration department of your country, whereas you obtain a visa from the country you want to visit.

However, countries have different laws governing international visits. Some states require both documents, whereas others accept the passport only. Others allow the movement of visitors from specified nations with neither a passport nor a visa.

If you have any passport questions, be sure to ask the pros.

Where Can I Travel With Just A Passport Card?

In 2017, the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs reported there were 21,378,994 passports in circulation. Of those, 2,511,778. And these numbers are on the rise.

In 2008 when the Passport Card was first introduced, there were only 189,560 issued. That is an average increase of 122% over the course of 10 years.

If these passport cards are so amazing, why doesn’t everyone have one? Should you have one? What are the differences between a Passport Card and a Passport Book?

Read on to learn the answers to these questions and more!

What is a U.S. Passport Card?

A passport card is a wallet-sized, limited-scope U.S. Passport. Just like a standard Passport book, passport cards prove you are a U.S. citizen and confirm your Identity.

When traveling to “border” countries from the U.S., a passport card speeds up the security check process by using a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Chip. The RFID chip contains a unique number generated by the U.S. government when the card is issued.

The card is scanned, and the Customs & Border Protection Agency (CBP) use the number to look up your information before you arrive at the security station. To protect your identity, there is no personally identifying information on the chip itself.

Related Read: Do You Need a Passport to Travel Domestically

Passport Card vs. Passport Book

Be it a card or a book, a Passport is still a Passport. That is not to say these two pieces of identification are equal. They are not.

Related Read: Passport Books vs Passport Card

How are They Different?

Size: Passport Cards are wallet-sized. This makes them very convenient. Passport Books are a bit bulkier. When closed, they are 5″ x 3.5. By no means are they huge, but they aren’t going to fit snuggly in your billfold either.

Travel Visas: Passport books are required for Travel Visas. Passport Cards do not support Travel Visas because they do not have blank pages for them to go on.

Where you can go: You can only go to and reenter the U.S. from border countries with the Passport Card. Border countries are Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.

How you can get there: You can travel internationally via air, sea or land with the use of a Passport Book. With the card, you can only travel by sea or land. International air travel is not allowed with the card even if you go to a border country.

Cost: Depending on your circumstances, additional fees may apply, but the basic pricing information is as follows:

  • Applicants 16 or older can get a passport book for $145 or a card for $65.
  • Applicants under 16 can get a passport book for $115 or a card for $50.
  • Renewal Applicants can get a new passport book by mail for $110 or a card for $30.

Related Read: How Much Does a Passport Cost 2023

How are They the Same?

Who issues them: As previously mentioned, both the Passport book and the Passport card are Passports. As such, the Passport Services of the U.S. Department of State -Bureau of Consular Affairs issues them both.

Real ID Compliant: The passport book and the passport card are Real ID compliant. This means you can access federal buildings and fly domestically with either. You can no longer do so with a standard-issue state driver’s license.

Validity: How long is a passport card good for? For the same amount of time as the Passport Book. If you are 16 or older, both are good for ten years. Otherwise, they are valid for up to 5 years.

Do I need a Passport Card?

Since they are comparatively inexpensive, a passport card for a cruise is ideal! As long as you go by sea or air, they are also great for other types of one-time trips to border countries.

Because they speed up the security process, passport cards are also great if you frequent border countries but don’t stay long or travel outside of the U.S. otherwise.

How do I get my Passport Card?

Print and fill out form DS-11 or form DS-82 and head to a local Passport Application Acceptance Facility. Do not sign the application because giving it to an agent at the passport agency or you will have to fill it out again.

If you qualify to apply for your passport with the DS-82 form, you can mail it in instead of going to the agency in person. If you have to go, there are 8,400 facilities in the U.S. You can find one easily, but some locations require an appointment.

Once your application is filed, you can expect your new card in as little time as four weeks or it could take up to 3 months. The exact amount of time will depend on the demand at the time you apply.

Take a look at this article if you need more information about the specific documentation to apply for a Passport Card.

Which Form Should I Use?

The form you should use to apply for a Passport Card depends on whether you have had a passport before. How long ago you had a valid passport can also affect it.

If you have had a passport in the past, it does not matter if it was a card or a book, it is still a passport. It is important to keep that in mind when reading the below information.

You need to fill out a DS-11 form if:

  • You have never had a U.S. Passport
  • Your last passport was lost, stolen, or severely damaged
  • Your last passport was issued when you were 15 years of age or younger
  • You are currently under the age of 16
  • Your last passport expired more than five years ago.

If you do not fall within the above criteria, you can apply to renew your current password with form DS82.

Ready for Your New Passport Card?

Considering the amount of time it can take to get your Passport card after applying, you should get one as soon as possible if you plan to travel to a border country. Do not wait until it is too late, or you must pay $60 to expedite the process.

No one wants to shell out extra money.

If you have additional questions about the Passport Card, all you need to do is ask! We are always happy to help with your passport needs.

Conclusion

Getting a new passport can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right information and preparation, you can make sure your application process goes smoothly. If you are under 16 years of age or if your last passport expired more than five years ago, then you will need to apply for a new passport rather than attempting to renew your current one.

Remember that if you plan to travel to a country bordering the United States, the Passport Card may be right for you. And don’t forget that we are here to help with any questions or concerns you have about obtaining your passport! Good luck with your application process!

We wish you safe travels.

Help! When Should I Update My Passport Photo?

You’re getting ready for the vacation of a lifetime.

You’ve packed your bags, booked a dreamy hotel room, and you’re ready to leave your desk and the drama that comes with it behind for a few weeks.

The only thing left to really consider?

Whether or not you need to update passport photos. After all, you were going through some interesting hair and style choices when you first had the photos taken. You’re worried that the old passport photo doesn’t look like you.

So, when should you update your passport photo — and how long is a passport good for, anyway?

Keep on reading this post in order to find out everything that you need to know.

How Long Is a Passport Good For?

First of all, let’s get some basics out of the way regarding passport laws first.

Your passport will be good for ten years — though if you’re planning to travel to certain countries, you’ll need to be certain that your passport doesn’t expire within six months of your travel date.

If you need to renew a passport, you can use the DS-82 form and mail it to the National Passport Processing Center.

Be aware, however, that you’ll need to provide a new photo whenever you renew your passport. If you’ve changed your name, you’ll also need to complete name change documents and include them with your passport application.

You’ll also need to mail in your old passport — but don’t worry, you’ll get it back.

The main drawback to this method?

The long processing times.

You can expect a standard passport renewal to take four to six weeks. If you’re in a time crunch, sometimes this just isn’t going to work.

Luckily, we can help you apply for an emergency passport that could get you renewed in as little as 24 hours.

Related Read: How Much Does it Cost to Get a Passport?

When Should I Update My Passport Photo?

Let’s make one thing clear about passport photos right out of the gate.

You need to understand that you can’t just switch up your old passport photo and paste a new one into your passport.

If you want to change your picture, then, unfortunately, you’ll have to apply for a completely new passport.

But when do you need to update your passport photo?

The good news is that the State Department is surprisingly more understanding than you might initially expect.

For example, if you’ve switched up the length or the color of your hair, this won’t require you to get a new passport altogether. The same goes if you’ve decided to get rid of your beard or gotten a new piercing on your face or ear.

Even if you’ve gotten a tattoo on your neck, you most likely won’t need to update your passport photo.

Even children most likely won’t need to get new passport photos, even if the way they’ve grown means they look almost nothing like their old photos! Because children need to get their passports renewed every five years, the State Department offers leniency to your little ones.

But when is it truly necessary for you to update your passport photo — and therefore apply for a new passport altogether?

If you’ve lost — or even gained — a serious amount of weight?

Then you’ll likely need to apply for a new passport.

The same goes if you’ve gotten into an accident or even had plastic or reconstructive surgery that has completely changed the look of your face.

If you’ve been able to receive gender confirmation surgery since the last time your passport photo was taken? You’ll also need to make sure your photo has changed to reflect your journey.

Understanding Passport Photo Requirements

You know that your passport photo likely isn’t going to be a glamour shot.

And while you can still look good in your passport photo, the main thing is that you take care to follow all of the rules and regulations regarding how the photo should be taken.

First of all, your face needs to be in full view, and your eyes need to be open.

You can have a natural smile, but in most cases, a more neutral expression is the best way to go.

The background of your photo should be white or off-white, and the clothes that you wear should be solid-colored. To avoid any potential problems, do not wear a headband, hat, or any other hair accessory. (If your religion indicates that you must cover your hair, a hijab or headscarf is allowed. You’ll just need to submit a statement saying so.)

Be aware that you can’t wear glasses in your passport photo — this is a detail that many people get wrong!

Make sure that you have the photos printed out in 2 x 2-inch dimensions, and of course, make sure that you’ve printed your photos in color.

Let Us Help You to Update Passport Photo

We hope that this post has helped you to understand when you do and do not need to update passport photo.

Whether you need help understanding how to apply for an international drivers permit, or if you need to get an emergency passport, we’re here to help you.

We know that you’re terrified by the thought of losing or having to seriously adjust your travel plans. We’ll work with you to do everything that we can to prevent that from happening.

No matter what you need help with, get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you.

Say Cheese! Taking a Look at Passport Photo Requirements

Picture this: you’ve just booked an international vacation, and you’re already counting down the days. You apply for a passport ASAP because you don’t want any hiccups.

Then disaster strikes. Two months later, your trip is three weeks away, and you find out your passport application was denied. Is it because you have a long-lost identical twin with arrest warrants?

Nope. It’s because your head is crooked in your passport photo.

Passport photos have very strict requirements. In fact, photo problems are among the most common reasons passport applications are delayed or denied. To avoid this problem, read up on these photo requirements:

U.S. Passport Requirements

  1. The photo must be taken within the last six months.
  2. The background of the photo should be plain white or off-white with no shadows.
  3. Your face must be square to the camera, and your eyes open directly at the camera lens.
  4. You cannot wear anything that covers your face (except for religious attire).
  5. Your head must be centered and not tilted or rotated in any way.
  6. Your face should take up about 50% of the frame, with room for your hair on the sides.
  7. You cannot wear glasses (unless you have a medical or religious reason to do so).
  8. The photo should be taken at eye level, not from below or above.
  9. The photo should be taken in focus and in natural color (no filters).
  10. Your expression should be neutral with your mouth closed (no smiling, frowning, etc.).

Once these requirements are met, you can upload your passport photo! Keep in mind that the photo must also meet certain technical specifications;

Does it Matter How you look in a Passport Photo?

To make your photo identifiable, there are restrictions on almost every aspect of your picture.  For example, you cannot have your hands crossed in the photo. Your hair must be pulled away from your face, and it can’t be covering any part of your eyes. Your facial expression must remain neutral, and you need to maintain direct eye contact with the camera.

What is the Facial Expression on a Passport Photo?

In years past, you had to have a neutral facial expression in your photo: a resting face. However, that rule has changed. You can now smile in your passport photo, as long as it’s a natural smile.

You are still not permitted to make any facial expressions besides a natural smile or neutral resting face, however. Kids and babies can’t be crying in their photos, so be prepared for several re-dos.

You also need to have both eyes open in your passport photo, with no squinting. Young infants and newborns are an exception to this rule.

Related Read: Cheapest Place to Get a Passport Photo Near Me

Attire

In your passport photo, you need to wear the type of clothing you wear daily. There are more specific regulations about your attire from the neck up, though:

Headwear

For the most part, you can’t wear a hat or headwear. There are two exceptions to this rule. If you wear a head covering as a custom of a recognized religion, it is permitted in your photo. However, you must include a signed statement explaining this in your passport application.

You can also wear a head covering if you need to wear it daily for medical purposes. In this case, you need a signed note from a doctor explaining this in your application.

It can’t obscure your face even if you wear a head covering for one of these reasons. It needs to show your full face clearly and can’t cast shadows on your face.

Glasses

Until a recent change, you could wear glasses in your photo as long as there was no glare on them. However, this has recently changed. Glasses are no longer permitted in passport photos.

In addition to these rules, you can’t have anything obscuring your face in your photo. For instance, babies can’t have a pacifier in their mouths and your hair can’t be in front of your face. You also can’t wear headphones or in-ear devices other than hearing aids.

Framing

Your final photo must be two inches wide and two inches tall, but there are also specific restrictions about the framing. Your face must be between one inch and 1.4 inches tall. Standing four feet from the camera will usually give you the right size.

The photo must show your entire face, which must be centered. You must also be at a straight-on angle with your shoulders squared to the camera. Your head can’t be tilted or turned in any way.

Background

You need to take your photo against a plain background that is white or off-white. The background can’t have texture. For example, a white brick wall is not acceptable. The photo also needs to have adequate lighting without shadows on your face.

This can be tricky when it comes it an infant’s photo. If you have a baby, you can’t hold your baby for his/her photo. The easiest method is to put your baby on a white blanket or in a car seat with a white blanket behind him/her. Keep in mind that the blanket needs to be inside the car seat, not behind it.

Quality

While it doesn’t need to be a work of art, your picture must be of high quality. It can’t be blurry or grainy, and it can’t have any motion blur.

The picture can’t be stretched to meet the correct dimensions because this distorts your face. You also can’t have red-eye in the photo, because this blocks your eye color.

Unaltered

As much as you may want to look thinner or more attractive in your new passport, you can’t digitally alter the photo. You can’t use any retouching, nor can you crop your face out of another photo to give it a white background.

In a similar vein, your photo needs to be from the past six months. The only acceptable altering is to crop the photo to the required size and remove the red-eye.

The Finished Product

It might be 2023, but passport photos still need to be in printed form. They must be printed in full color on matte or glossy photo paper. Many people choose to go to a drug store with a photo lab because these stores often have passport photo stations and can print your photo according to regulations.

Taking a Successful Passport Photo

When taking a passport photo, it’s not about getting the right look or a flattering angle. Knowing the regulations for your passport photo and following them to the letter can help your application get approved in as little time as possible.

Now that you know how to ace your passport photo don’t forget the other complex aspects of the application process.

Conclusion

Taking the right passport photo is important when applying for a US passport. Following specific regulations and guidelines can help your application get approved in as little time as possible. Visiting a drug store with a photo lab or using online services are great options to ensure you get the best results for your passport photo.

For more information on submitting a successful application, check out our US passport tips blog. With the right preparation and understanding of the process, you can get your passport in no time!

Good luck!

Top 5 International Travel Tips

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or going abroad for the first time, there are a few essential things you should do before you go abroad. The most importantly, obviously, is making sure you have a passport and it’s up to date.

Don’t have a passport or your passport is expired? No problem! The US Passport Help Guide will walk you through the process of either getting your first passport or getting a new one. While the process typically takes 4-6 weeks,  if you happen to realize last minute that your passport is lost or expired, you can expedite the passport process for an additional fee.

Having a passport for your international trip is obviously non-negotiable, as you won’t even get through airport security without it. Once you have your passport secured, there are a few other things that – while not essential – will certainly make your travels easier and more enjoyable.

Here are our Top 5 International Travel Tips:

1.Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must for all international travelers. It’s hard enough being in a foreign country where you may not fully understand the culture and customs, but now imagine getting sick or injured. Not only would you be forced to deal with hospital bills (sans insurance, those really add up), but you’d also have to spend your time canceling hotels, excursions, and plans, changing flights, and so much more… If you have travel insurance, all that and more would be taken care of for you.

Travel insurance offers peace of mind and protection against the unexpected, whether it’s a medical emergency, lost luggage, an unforeseen weather calamity, or worse. There are a variety of packages, some covering only healthcare, some covering lost baggage, and some covering pretty much everything. Going abroad is stressful enough – getting travel insurance gives you one less thing to stress out about!

2. Cultural Insights

While not everyone gets travel books to prep for trips anymore (thank you, Google), it’s still important to do a bit of research into cultural norms before you go abroad. This will not only save you a bit of embarrassment but could also save you some legal trouble, depending on the country you’re visiting.

Make sure you research everything from proper greetings (ex: should you shake hands, kiss on the cheek, bow, etc) to average dinner times. If you’re renting a car, make sure you know what side of the road to drive on. If you’re conducting business, make sure to know how to properly accept a business card.

In addition to learning a bit about the culture, make sure you take the time to learn a few keywords in the local language. Words such as “please,” “thank you,” and phrases such as “where is the bathroom” and “do you speak English” will go a long way.

3. Medications (and vaccines, if necessary)

In addition to gaining knowledge of a few cultural insights of the country, you plan on visiting, make sure you check whether or not vaccines are required. If so, book an appointment for them well in advance of your trip.  Obtain fresh refills of any necessary prescriptions as well, and also make sure to stock up on your favorite OTC (over the counter) drugs.

Medicine is not universal. While the main compounds may be, the brand names are not, and thus, if Aleve is the only OTC medicine that can subdue your migraines, make sure to bring a bottle. Many people suffer from stomach upset when going abroad. This can be due to new foods and spices, different bacterias in the water, or even “travel stomach.” While Americans may consider Tums to be a staple in every pharmacy, they are not universal, so if you have a weak stomach, make sure to bring a few rolls of tums.

4. Electronic Check

Even if you’ve never left the US, we shouldn’t have to tell you that outlets are not a “one size fits all.” American plugs will not work in other countries, so do not try to force it, no matter how similar it may look.

Make sure you find out in advance which currency your destination uses, and which plugs will fit their standards. While we recommend investing in a converter for any basic electronics, we also suggest purchasing local plugs for essentials such as laptops and cell phones. Once you have the base, you can then use a charging cord to connect your device to.

While converters work most of the time, they have been known to “fry” devices from time to time. If you’re a woman and use a hair straightener, you should consider leaving it at home, as converters have been proven to destroy them. This is similar for hairdryers, as American versions often have a higher wattage than many foreign outlets can handle.

5.  Financial Preparation

This doesn’t just refer to having enough money to cover your trip (we assume you have enough money in your account to cover the trip, otherwise you definitely shouldn’t be going abroad).

What we are referring to is telling your bank and credit card companies that you’re going abroad, making sure you’re okay with your daily spending limits, and perhaps getting a bit of foreign currency in advance if you’re going somewhere remote that may not have easy access to ATMs and banks (or, if you want to arrive prepared rather than have to look for an ATM in the airport.

Most credit card companies will flag your card if you make an international purchase without first informing them that you’re going abroad, and the only way to unflag it is by calling them. Which, if you’re abroad, can be quite costly (not to mention annoying, as it’s taking time away from your other travel-related activities).  In order to avoid this, simply log into your credit card and bank accounts and set up a “travel alert.” You can select which countries you are going to, and for how long. Doing so will enable you to use your cards worry-free.

If you have a low limit on the amount of cash you can take out each day from your bank, consider raising it. Most banks will charge an international fee of $2.50 or more each time you withdraw from an ATM, so you’ll want to take out as much cash as possible while abroad. If you don’t know what your limit is, make sure you inquire with your bank.

While in truth the only thing you really “need” to have before going abroad is a passport, the above five tips save you a lot of stress and help ensure you have as enjoyable a trip as possible.

16 Ways to Get TSA Precheck for Free

Nobody likes devoting a huge amount of their travel day to going through security at the airport. But now, thanks to programs like TSA Precheck, this isn’t nearly as lengthy or as frustrating of a situation as it used to be. The ultimate goal of TSA PreCheck isn’t just to reward travelers with a better, more fluid experience at airports. It also gives TSA officials more time to focus on passengers who may fall into a “high risk” category. Or, those who are generally less well-known during their trip.

What is TSA PreCheck?

Since its inception, TSA PreCheck was a program administered by the Transportation Security Administration. This allows low-risk travelers to participate in expedited security screenings at airports around the country. Once a traveler gets approval, they can go through shorter and faster security lines at the airport.

For those unaware, TSA Precheck is a program offered by the United States Transportation Security Administration that costs $85 for every five-year period you participate in. It lets you move through security at 200 participating airports much faster than average and also prevents you from needing to remove your shoes, your belt, any light jacket that you may be wearing and more. You also don’t have to remove liquids, laptops or other items from your carry-on bag.

One study even reports that the average TSA Precheck participant only spends about five minutes in the security line at the airport.

The good news for travelers everywhere is that a program like TSA Precheck exists in the first place. The better news is that you can often participate in the program WITHOUT paying the $85 fee at all. You just need to keep a few key things in mind about the many ways you can get TSA Precheck for free right away.

Getting TSA Precheck for Free: What You Need to Know

One of the easiest – and most common – ways to get TSA Precheck utterly free of charge involves owning one of a number of very popular credit cards. Many people don’t realize that to incentivize people to sign up, certain credit card companies cover the cost of membership for TSA Precheck and other programs for at least a year, often longer.

As of 2018, the following credit card companies offer TSA Precheck for free:

  1. The Bank of America Premium Rewards Card
  2. The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card
  3. The Mastercard Black Card
  4. The Mastercard Gold Card
  5. The U.S. Bank FlexPerks Gold Card from American Express
  6. The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Infinite Card from Visa
  7. The SunTrust Travel Rewards World Elite Card from Mastercard
  8. The Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard
  9. Certain American Express Credit Cards (Check Your Membership Agreement for Details)
  10. The Citi Prestige Card
  11. Expedia + Voyager Card from Citi Bank
  12. The Diners Club Carte Blanche Corporate Card

Additionally, a number of loyalty programs from prominent hospitality industry brands also offer TSA Precheck for free. If you’re currently a member of any of these programs or are considering signing up, this would be just another in a long line of ways to extend those benefits even further. These programs include:

  1. The Marriott Rewards Program
  2. The IHG Rewards Club
  3. The Club Carlson Rewards Program
  4. The United MileagePlus Program

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a number of cards and loyalty programs that offer TSA Precheck for free. With the right combination of credit/loyalty cards and membership agreements, you’ll be able to enjoy a more convenient travel experience in no time. So take the time to review your options today so that you can start taking advantage of this great benefit tomorrow! Thank you for taking the time to read this guide, and happy travels!

20 Travel Apps for 2023

Who still needs a travel agent when they’ve got a smartphone? You no longer have to go a lot of hassles when planning your trip to whatever place on earth. We’ve critically evaluated a plethora of travel apps, and we sample the top 20 that you’ll want in 2018. The collection combines the best travel Apps from both the Google Play store and App Store.

Passport Photo Creator (Android, iOS; Free)

You don’t want to miss your trip due to a delayed passport application. The Passport Photo 360 app offers a new and faster way of creating your passport and visa photo that meets the specified criteria. Once you’ve taken your passport or visa photo, you can approve it to print and Walgreens, and you’ll be having your passport photo in less than an hour.

Skyscanner (Android, iOS; Free)

Looking through numerous websites to find the cheapest flights to your destination is a difficult task to accomplish. That is why you need Skyscanner. It has lots of filters to help you identify the most affordable and comfortable flight. The app will help you find a perfect balance between flight cost and convenience.

Google Now (Android, iOS; Free)

Google Now will help you find quick information about your flight or anything else. It’s the front-end to Google, and you know what Google can help you achieve. It’s even easier to use the app since you can simply utter “OK Google” and then enter your request.

Dark Sky (Android £2.99 per year, iOS £2.99/year)

The Dark Sky app work in the USA, Ireland, and the UK and it will help you know whether your planned day trip is going to turn into a torrent. It provides custom weather notifications and will notify you when it’s about to rain, or the temperatures are about to get high.

Google Maps (Android, iOS; Free)

Getting lost isn’t fun, and Google Maps is here to help you figure out your way. As long as you have a web connection, you’ll have access to the local map, street view, live transport information, and local information. The turn-by-turn option within the app will work even when you don’t have an internet connection.

Google Translate (Android, iOS; Free)

Google Translate is essential if you’re moving to a foreign country that speaks a different language from yours. It will help you avoid embarrassment due to your inadequate language skills. With Google translate, you get instant camera translation from over 29 languages, and it works perfectly even the letters are too tiny.

Wiffinity (Android, iOS; Free)

This app will help you avoid the expensive roaming fees since it serves as a WI-FI identifier. You no longer have to incur the roaming fees that will make you even suspect your mobile provider. You can also download maps with the app.

FlightAware (Android, iOS; Free)

If you’re tired of downloading individual airline or airport apps, then you need this app. The FlightAware mobile app will let you track any flight in real-time while receiving important alerts and seeing airport delays if any at the same time. Save yourself from the stress and focus on other things.

Duolingo (Android, iOS; Free)

If you don’t want to use Google Translate, then you have to learn the other languages, and no other app offers you a perfect learning platform than Duolingo. It covers over 27 languages and allows you to start with the basic verbs, phrases, and sentences.

Touchnote (Android, iOS; Free)

This app represents a perfect blend of old and new imaging technologies. It lets you create amazing and personalized postcards using your images, Simply open the app, select the image that you want to use, add some text and an address and your postcard will be ready.

CityMapper (Android, iOS; Free)

 

This is perhaps the new version of Google Maps covering specific cities. Currently, the app includes 36 cities, and it combines all the transport modes available in each city. It is simple to use and effective in suggesting the best way to transit from point A to point B.

Skype (Android, iOS; Free)

Skype is an essential travel app that allows you to stay in touch with your family and friends back at home especially if you’re traveling far away alone. The video calls will even let you make everyone back at home jealous, and it’s free.

AroundMe (Android, iOS; Free)

 

AroundMe becomes your favorite travel partner especially if you’re in a new place and you can’t locate things such as a hotel. AroundMe app will identify where you are and list all the nearby banks, hospitals, gas stations, bars, supermarkets, movie theatre, and even taxi! It’s a useful travel app that you can’t ignore.

Airbnb (Android, iOS; Free)

 

 

Airbnb is a household name that you can’t ignore while traveling. If you hate the idea of staying in a hotel, then Airbnb got you covered. It offers you the authentic experience of staying with a local in their home. The app recently added a lot of new features and is set to become an all-in-one app for planning your travel.

Uber (Android, iOS; Free)

 

Uber is currently active in over 80 countries worldwide. The app is particularly important when you’re abroad. With Uber, you can quickly request a cab with the app after going through the vehicle assortments and fare charges. You can then connect with the nearest driver, track your approaching car and safely pay with a credit card.

 

TripAdvisor (Android, iOS; Free)

 

TripAdvisor is always a go-to app when planning your journey. The app allows you to go through millions of customer reviews, photos, and videos about almost everything related to your trip. You can also use the app’s Near Me function to find well-reviewed places close to you quickly, and it’s just everywhere.

 

First Aid (Android, iOS; Free)

Accidents may occur anytime anywhere even when you’re enjoying your holiday somewhere. Although you might have taken a course on first aid, everything seems to get out of your head when caught up in an emergency situation. However, the First Aid app will always have a reference you can go to in case of an emergency.

XE Currency (Android, iOS; Free)

This is a robust currency converter app that you will need when you’re traveling to a foreign country. It offers live exchange rates for almost every world currency including the precious metals. The app can even store the most recent exchange rates so that you can access them even when your phone is offline.

Kayak (Android, iOS; Free)

Kayak is similar to Skyscanner since it searches across various travel sites for cheap hotels, flights, and rental cars. The app usually ha exclusive deals that you can’t find on the sites and you can use the Price Forecast tool to see whether you should buy now or wait.

Google Trips (Android, iOS; Free)

This is a relatively new travel app but its gaining popularity since it can do several things. It can pull reservations from your email and even add car rentals, hotel bookings and many more. Typically, it generates an underlying framework for your trip without you having to do so much. Once it is set up, you can check the app for suggestions on popular places you can visit or eat plus many other things.