Too many Americans are intimidated by the recent changes to the passport application process. The many regulations, rules, and fees have stopped many from even applying for a passport. The list below may help you to learn a few things about the application process that will help it to go smoothly. This list includes just a few major things that you should know before getting started at a pass port agency.
The passport application process does not have to be an intimidating process. Having the needed knowledge on the process will help it to go more smoothly and be less frustrating. The government offers a wide range of facts about the process on their passport website. Be sure to find out what documentation you will be required to bring before starting the process.
First passport fact : The first thing you must know is that you must apply for your passport in person. The government requires that all applicants apply for their passports at a passport agency in person. This is required because the applicant’s identification must be verified through photo identification. It would be impossible to adequately verify identity if it were not done in person. The accuracy would be lessened without the in-person aspect.
Second important passport fact: There are a few fees involved when applying for a passport. The standard application fee for a new passport is $95.00, plus the added $25.00 if the application is approved. The $25.00 will not need to be paid if the application is denied. Other circumstances may lead to having to pay more fees as well.
Third passport fact: The third thing you must know is that proof of citizenship will be needed when United States passport agency. You will be required to present a birth certificate, naturalization papers, or social security card to the passport agency. If these documents cannot be provided and citizenship cannot be established then the government can do a search to verify citizenship for you. There is a $60.00 fee for this service.
Passport application fact four: Copies of all required documentation must be included with your application when it is submitted. It is the best idea to have all of these copies made and ready to submit when you arrive at a U. S. Passport Agency. Be sure to use a standard 8.5 in. x 11 in. paper and do not shrink the image down from the original size.
Fifth Important Passport Fact: It is normally affordable and simple to make changes to your passport after it is issued. Changes can be made at passport offices or through the mail in most cases. The necessary forms can even be printed of the Internet and mailed in with any necessary fees.
This short list of basic facts should be enough to give you an idea of what will be needed for your passport application. There is more information than this that you may need to know, so do some research on your own. This list may help you to feel less anxiety over the passport application process and also help you be prepared when you arrive at your closest us passport agency.