Anytime one is dealing with bureaucracy; complex, mind numbing, and tedious are the first terms that come to mind. Government agencies are not well known for fast, easy, and free courteous service. The confusing process for getting your first passport can be found on the website of the U.S. State Department, but here we will try to simplify it by outlining the basics, as preparation in advance can help ease the pain at the end of the line.
What you’ll need:
Obviously, you must come in person to obtain your first passport. An appointment is a very good idea, and sometimes required. Find the nearest facility and call first. Many post offices and libraries can accept your passport application. Be sure to have the following items on hand:
A properly filled- out DS-11 Application Form
U.S. Citizenship Documentation. Most commonly a certified birth certificate.
Valid I.D. Most commonly a valid driver’s license.
A photocopy of both sides of your I.D. on white 8.5 X 11” paper.
Passport fee. First time adult fee is $135.
Photo for your passport. Major drug stores such as CVS and Walgreen’s can supply you with an approved photo.
Infants:
Many people do not realize that even infants are required to have a passport when traveling abroad. The minor and both parents must appear in person at the acceptance facility in order to obtain a passport. This pertains to all minors under age 16. A certified birth certificate with the minor’s full name and the names of both parents is required.
Embassies:
Consulting the Embassy of the country you are visiting is highly recommended. Embassies can provide you with all the information you need concerning visas and passports. Additionally, if you should lose your passport while abroad, your Embassy will need to be notified, as well as the local police, so that a new passport may be issued to you.
Photocopies:
It is also a very good idea to keep a good photocopy of your passport, and your family’s, in the event a passport is lost. Keep the copy separate from the passport, and this will help speed the replacement process and serve as I.D. meanwhile. Also keep duplicate photos with your passport copy, as these will be needed for the new passport.
Visas:
Again, Embassies and Consulates will be the best source of information about visa requirements, but generally, if you plan to stay for an extended time, or travel across borders while abroad, you may need a visa. Some countries in Europe, called the Schengen Area, only require one visa to cross into and out of several countries, so check with local Embassies.
Being forewarned and prepared for international travel is half the battle of avoiding delays and problems and being able to actually enjoy the experience. Be sure to check the expiration date of your passport as well, as some countries will not allow a visitor whose passport will expire within six months. Remember, a smarter traveler is a happier traveler.
Lauren Hamilton is a professional blogger who enjoys providing consumers with travel advice. She writes for South America.travel, a leading South America Travel company specializing in 4* & 5* Peru Tours.
