A passport is one of the most important documents used to verify a person's identity. This document is essential when traveling globally because it is checked in every country for security purposes. In the United States, it is issued by the US Government through the State Department. Here we will be discussing important points to know about American pasports especially with regards to application for a passport.
When Do You Need A Passport
First, when is a US Passport needed? Basically, it's necessary when travelling outside the United States and its territories. Even when travelling to Mexico or Canada, there are certain requirements that a passport can satisfy because all persons entering Canada must show proof of identity and citizenship. US Citizens, including children, who want to travel past the "border zone" and into the interior of Mexico also need a valid US Passport.
E-Passports
How does one go about getting a US Passport? The first step is applying for one. Forms for passport application can be found online as well as at the US Department of State. The website lists specific instructions for first time applicants and for those who simply need to renew their passports. As of August 2007, the US has only been issuing e-passports. These are the same as the traditional ones with the added inclusion of a small computer chip.
Where Do You Get An Application
It is important that a passport acceptance agent gets to see the application form before you sign it. No matter what age you are, everyone, including infants, needs a passport when travelling outside the boarders of the US, whether by land, air, or sea. Because it is such an important document, the procedure is very strict.
Primary Documentation
Although the form may be filled out online, you should submit the completed form personally to one of the certified passport agencies or facilities. This is applicable to all applicants, even minors. The list of certified facilities and passport agencies can be found online. A primary document is needed to verify a person's identity and US citizenship. These documents may be in the form of a certified birth certificate or a previous passport.
Other Acceptable Documents
Acceptable identification must also be submitted such as a driver's license or an undamaged, previously issued US Passport. Government or current military identification is also accepted as primary identification. Once again, if you don't have a primary identification document, there are several secondary ones from which to choose.
A Personal Witness
A witness who identifies you may also be presented as a primary form of evidence. This witness must fill out an "affidavit of identifying witness" form in front of a US passports agent. This witness will swear to your identity so it must be someone who has known you for at least two years and also must be a US Citizen or permanent resident. You also have to provide a photocopy of your identity card along with passport photographs.
When Do You Need A Passport
First, when is a US Passport needed? Basically, it's necessary when travelling outside the United States and its territories. Even when travelling to Mexico or Canada, there are certain requirements that a passport can satisfy because all persons entering Canada must show proof of identity and citizenship. US Citizens, including children, who want to travel past the "border zone" and into the interior of Mexico also need a valid US Passport.
E-Passports
How does one go about getting a US Passport? The first step is applying for one. Forms for passport application can be found online as well as at the US Department of State. The website lists specific instructions for first time applicants and for those who simply need to renew their passports. As of August 2007, the US has only been issuing e-passports. These are the same as the traditional ones with the added inclusion of a small computer chip.
Where Do You Get An Application
It is important that a passport acceptance agent gets to see the application form before you sign it. No matter what age you are, everyone, including infants, needs a passport when travelling outside the boarders of the US, whether by land, air, or sea. Because it is such an important document, the procedure is very strict.
Primary Documentation
Although the form may be filled out online, you should submit the completed form personally to one of the certified passport agencies or facilities. This is applicable to all applicants, even minors. The list of certified facilities and passport agencies can be found online. A primary document is needed to verify a person's identity and US citizenship. These documents may be in the form of a certified birth certificate or a previous passport.
Other Acceptable Documents
Acceptable identification must also be submitted such as a driver's license or an undamaged, previously issued US Passport. Government or current military identification is also accepted as primary identification. Once again, if you don't have a primary identification document, there are several secondary ones from which to choose.
A Personal Witness
A witness who identifies you may also be presented as a primary form of evidence. This witness must fill out an "affidavit of identifying witness" form in front of a US passports agent. This witness will swear to your identity so it must be someone who has known you for at least two years and also must be a US Citizen or permanent resident. You also have to provide a photocopy of your identity card along with passport photographs.
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Sometimes one may need to get a US pass ports issued within a short period of time. Pay attention to when your American passport renewal is needed, US Passports are valid for a period of ten years and, for minors, five years.
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