The U.S. State Department, which issues passports for U.S. citizens, will have its regional passport offices open on Saturday, March 27 with no appointments needed.
The Department plans passport-themed events for children and adults at the passport agencies and at thousands of passport acceptance facilities around the country. You can visit one of the offices and apply for either routine or expedited processing.
Currently, routine processing is taking four to six weeks from the time application is made to the time the passport is issued. Expedited service, which costs $60 more, takes about two to three weeks.
If you need your passport quicker, Ministry Travel works with an expeditor who can secure a passport for you in as quickly as 24 hours. Click on the travel services tab on the MinistryTravel.com website for details.
It is important to note that passports are not the same as the new U.S. Passport Card. This wallet-sized travel document can be used to enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. It cannot be used for international air travel.
If you already have a passport, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Check the expiration date. Many travelers fail to do so, only to discover just before a trip that it is expired. No one wants the extra stress, anxiety and expense of trying to renew a passport when they are preparing to leave. Passports are valid for 10 years for an adult and five years for minors under age 16.
- Make sure your passport will be valid for at least six month after you start your trip. Some countries require that your passport be valid for at least this long or they can refuse entry.
- Locate your passport 3-4 weeks prior to your trip. We have heard many, many stories of travelers getting ready to leave for the airport and not able to find their passport.
- Cary a copy of your passport with you when you travel. In case your passport is lost or stolen, the copy can make it easier for you to get it replaced while abroad. If you are leading a team, you should keep a copy of each team member’s passport.
- Protect your passport while traveling. It is best to keep it on your person, either in a pocket or in a neck or waist “safe.” Only pull it out when necessary and then put it right back. Don’t leave it in a purse or backpack that can easily be stolen.
- Remember, a passport is not the same thing as a visa. In addition to a passport, some countries require a visa (written permission to enter the country) before they will let you enter. This usually must be applied for well in advance of your trip.
- Transit visas are needed by some nationalities if they are transferring between airports in certain countries.
For more information on U.S. passports, including how to apply for one, visit http://travel.state.gov/passport. For information on visas and other international travel related issues, visit http://travel.state.gov .