So that exotic vacation is all set up, the hotels are booked, the flights are booked, and it is only a matter of weeks before the whole family can finally escape the snow and bask in the warm solar-rays of a tropical paradise. There is only one problem, Johnny doesn’t have a passport and the trip is only three weeks away. Luckily, with an expedited new US passport, it is possible for Johnny to get a brand new passport and still make the family flight.
The first thing to understand is that the process for new passport applications is very involved. The second anyone finds himself or herself in a situation that warrants an expedited new passport, they should do everything in their power to get that passport application in a soon as possible. The sooner the process is started, the sooner the new passport can be issued.
A new passport means that everything has to be done in person. Unlike a renewal that can be mailed in, a first time applicant must physically go down to a passport office to fill out the forms and turn everything in. Many local post offices will process applications, but if there is not one close by, a trip to the regional passport office may be required.
In order to get the process rolling, a passport photo will have to be taken. Some processing units can take care of this, but they tend to be a bit more expensive that the local photo shops. An Internet search can be done to see what local places can accommodate this need. Give them a call and see what their rates are compared to what the post office will charge and go with the best price.
Since the applicant is going to at the office in person, it is less likely that they will encounter any problems. That is, as long as they have all of the proper documentation with them. The DS-82 passport application form will have to be filled out and then when it is turned in, they can tell the clerk that they are looking for rush service.
An expedited new passport costs $60, plus the normal passport fees, plus the cost of two-way overnight delivery service. Expediting a passport can be rather costly. Right now, the estimated time frame for an expedited passport is two to three weeks. This time frame can vary from year to year, month to month, and even week to week. The State Department website frequently updates the estimated processing time for passport applications.
It is never good to wait until the last moment, but sometimes it is what it is. When things like this happen or the need suddenly arises and a passport is needed, it is good to know that that services are available to make the process go quicker. Today, international travel will generally require a passport number and this should no longer be an issue.
Filling out the us passport application form for the first time can be a stressful process. Getting an expedited new U S passport can ease this stress a little. The processing center most definitely places expedited passports at a high priority, so it is worth the extra $80 dollars to ensure that a passport comes in less than two weeks, especially if travel plans hinge on its arrival.