Choosing To Renew Your Passport Online
Americans have an advantage in traveling abroad that most of our neighboring countries do not have. In the US, a passport is good for ten years. Most other countries do not have this extended period. And there is also the option to renew your passport online, providing even more convenience.
Renew Online
If you are prepared ahead of time for travel and your book has recently expired or is due to expire, you have an option. You can choose to use an Internet company to renew it. By doing it this way, you save time and the inconvenience of going to the issuing facility.
Ten Year Period
You will be able to handle it in your own time, from home. This can be done as long as it is undamaged and less than fifteen years old. And it will still be good for ten years. You can also do this when it is convenient for you, not just when the office is opened.
Simple Process
Renewing will be easier than applying for your first one was. You will require much less documentation this time. The necessary application, the DS-82,has to be filled in online. After it is filled in, print it out, then sign and date it. The correct form will also have a barcode so make sure you have the right one.
New Photos
Photos are required and they must have been taken within the last six months. You will need two identical photos, either taken by yourself or a professional photographer. If you do your own, read the guidelines before hand to ensure the sizes are correct and you have the right color background.
Turn In Old Passport
At the time that you send in your application and your photos, you will also be required to return your old book. This cannot be more than fifteen years old and must be undamaged. Proof of a name change is required if your name is no longer the same as on the original. When you applied last, you could not have been under sixteen years old.
Other Documents
Be prepared in case you are asked to provide a travel itinerary when you apply online. Some businesses will require either this or a copy of your airline tickets with your application. When it is required for work, a statement on company letterhead could be requested. This will state where you are going and occasionally the purpose of the visit.
Fees
If you need it back faster, having it expedited can be an option. There is an extra charge for this service but it is worth it if you need to travel unexpectedly. Payment, to be included with your paperwork, will need to be in the form of a certified check or a money order. And it should be for an amount to cover the book, service fees and expediting if you decide to do this.