If you are new to traveling abroad, you might not know what travel documents are required for your destination. It is important that this be one of the first things you learn as you plan your trip. If the trip is sudden, or there is limited time for planning, you might find that you need to obtain an expedited new US passport.
When applying for the first time, there are some basic application and document requirements that should be understood, in order to make the process smooth and error-free. The traveler must complete the official application and submit it to the appropriate agency. The supporting documentation that goes with the application includes a piece of personal identification matching the applicants name, and a photocopy of that same piece of identification. In addition, proof of citizenship must be presented, as well as two color photos of the applicant that meet the size specifications. Also, a fee must be paid at the time of application.
If a short window of time exists in which to complete the application process, there are ways to accelerate acquisition of the passport. There are private companies that are in business for this very reason. They will assist in walking the paperwork through to completion. There is also the option of paying a higher fee to the issuing agency in order to obtain priority in getting through the process.
As a first time applicant, you must appear in person at a Passport Agency office or an Acceptance Facility with your new passport application form and supporting documents. An Acceptance Facility is likely to be more convenient, as these are usually located in a post office or other government office. If normal lead times for the issuing agency are not adequate for your travel needs, you must bypass the normal processing sequence by making an appointment with an agent at a Regional Passport Agency. At this appointment you would request faster service, prove the need for it, and then present your application paperwork to the agent. There is a higher fee to use this faster service.
If having an advocate to assist with the application process is more appealing, then using the services of one of the several private companies that specialize in this type of work might be the right approach. What must be submitted as far as the application, identification, proof of citizenship, and photos does not change in this situation. What is different is that the company will take everything prepared by the individual traveler and move it through the necessary steps in a shorter amount of time. It should be emphasized that employing a private company to assist in this process, the traveler must still appear at an Acceptance Facility to begin the application.
The more urgent the need for the passport, the higher the fee paid to the company. Some of these companies advertise that you can expect to receive your passport in 24 hours or up to two weeks. If time is of the essence, this might be the quickest option for your circumstance.
If you have decided that one of these private companies is the best solution to meet your needs, then you must decide which one to select. Some factors to consider when making your choice should include how much you are willing to pay since different companies have higher fees for the same promised service. A key consideration is the reputation of the company, and whether they deliver what they promise. If you are counting on someone to get you what you need without disrupting your travel plans, you want to know that you have selected a reliable company.
The core of this is that the lack of a passport should not be a deterrent to making international travel plans on short notice. There are options available to assist you with meeting your travel goals. With proper planning and execution, it is certainly possible to obtain an expedited new U S passport in time to take your trip, whether you do it yourself or have help.
