Many people are overwhelmed by the passport application process. There are so many rules and regulations involved that some people get overwhelmed by all of them. I have compiled a small list of things that one must know in order to feel more at ease with the application process. These five small bits of information are some of the most important things to know before you get started. The U.S. passport agency does not have to be intimidating.
This process does not have to be as daunting as it seems. Knowledge can be found in many places that will help you to prepare for the application process. The government offers a large amount of information on passports and passport applications on their websites. It is also good to know exactly what documents will be needed before starting the process.
First passport fact : The first thing you must know is that you must apply for your passport in person. The government requires that all applicants apply for their passports at a passport agency in person. This is required because the applicant’s identification must be verified through photo identification. It would be impossible to adequately verify identity if it were not done in person. The accuracy would be lessened without the in-person aspect.
Second important passport fact: There are a few fees involved when applying for a passport. The standard application fee for a new passport is $95.00, plus the added $25.00 if the application is approved. The $25.00 will not need to be paid if the application is denied. Other circumstances may lead to having to pay more fees as well.
Third passport fact: The third thing you must know is that proof of citizenship will be needed when us passport agency. You will be required to present a birth certificate, naturalization papers, or social security card to the passport agency. If these documents cannot be provided and citizenship cannot be established then the government can do a search to verify citizenship for you. There is a $60.00 fee for this service.
Fourth passport fact: Photocopies must be submitted of all documentation at the time the application is submitted. Not all passport agencies will offer copy services so be sure to bring copies with you, ready to submit. Also remember to make all copies on standard paper and do not shrink the document size. Making the copy bigger is acceptable.
Fifth passport fact: The only remaining thing you must know is that making changes to a passport is not difficult or expensive. All changes can be made at passport agencies and most of them do not have fees. There are simple forms available for making these changes. These forms are available at the U. S. Passport agency or on the Internet.
This is just a short list of important US passport agency facts to get you started on your journey to obtaining a passport. This is far from a complete list of everything you must know, but it is a good start for those who have never applied for a passport before. This knowledge should help you to face the experience with less anxiety. You will be on your way to having a new passport in no time.
