How to Apply For a Passport
You need to learn how to apply for a passport before you can travel abroad. There are some things you need to know, including what documents you need, the fees involved, and the best time to submit your application. Read on to find out more. You can also find out how to check on the status of your application.
Documents required to apply for a passport
The first step in applying for a passport is to gather the necessary documents. You will need the following documents. Passport photos must be two inches by two inches (about 5×5 cm), taken on a white background, and without any eyeglasses. Passport photos should also be sent in a pre-paid envelope. You can include your name and address on the envelope and you can also add a DHL label.
You will also need proof of your last name if you are applying for a passport in a different name. Your birth certificate needs to be a “long-form” copy that is notarized. It is also important to have a recent, professional photo, preferably one with a light background. Avoid using a school photo.
Fees involved in applying for a passport
If you plan on applying for a passport in the United States, there are several fees involved. These fees include the standard application fee and execution fee. In some cases, there is also an expedited fee that must be paid. This fee is only refundable if the expedited service is not used.
To pay the fee, you will need to take a personal check or a bank draft payable to the “Department of State.” If you plan to use an expediting service, you can use a credit card. You must also bring a check for the execution fees. Make sure that you have exact change, because mistakes can delay the processing of your application.
Best time to apply for a passport
The best time to apply for a passport is a few months before you need it. Processing times vary depending on the time of year, but the general rule is that the earlier you apply, the better. You can check the status of your passport online up to six weeks after you apply. You can also visit the State Department website to learn more about passports.
If you’re planning a trip to a foreign country, it’s important to remember that you’ll need a passport card to enter the country. You’ll need a photo for your passport, and you’ll need a form of identification that is not expired. You’ll also need to pay the necessary fees, which are approximately $130 for a standard passport and $35 for an expedited passport. When you visit the facility, you’ll need to bring your list of documents. The first two items are a birth certificate and proof of U.S. citizenship. Both must be on 8.5-by-11-inch paper.
Checking the status of your application
If you’re interested in knowing the status of your passport application, it’s easy to do. By visiting the Department of State website, you can check your application status. Simply enter your last name, date of birth, and Social Security number into the search box. You’ll then be able to print out proof that your application has been received.
It can take up to two weeks for a passport to be processed. However, you can get one as fast as five to seven weeks with the expedited service. The processing time for passports varies by the season.
