Items To Consider For Those Who Are Applying For First Time U S Passport Online
If you plan on applying for first time passport online, you’ll find it’s a relatively easy process. You no longer have to find a government office or agency that will accept your application. These services provide you with an agent who will assist you throughout the process. Couriers will hand deliver your application package for you and walk it through the entire process. Once that occurs, your new passport and supporting documents that you provided will be returned to you.
Form DS-11
Whoever you choose, you will have to provide certain documentation. Form DS-11 is a federal form that you will need to prepare if you have never received a prior passport. Form DS-82 is for those who used to have one but no longer is in possession of a valid document. Both of these forms can be downloaded or filled out online, either through a link or directly by the US State Department.
Proof Of Citizenship
Proof of US citizenship is a necessity. You can use an officially sealed birth certificate from your local municipality issuer. You can also use a Report of Birth Abroad issued by a consulate or a Naturalization Certificate. Should you not have this proof, you can use other forms of proof that are accompanied by Form DS-10, which is a Birth Affidavit.
Identification
Primary identification must also be provided. There are several types of identification that are acceptable, including a valid driver’s license, a current government ID, including military or a dependent’s ID or a Naturalization Certificate. If you do not have one of these types of identification, you can submit various forms of ID with a Form DS-71, Affidavit of Identifying Witness.
Two Photos
Two identical photos will also be required and must be submitted with your application packet. There are specific requirements for these pictures so you may want to have them taken at a post office or other local location. These photos must be no older than six months with a full frontal view as you currently look. The photo must be 2″ x 2″ and the face portion must measure between 1” and 1 3/8″ from your chin to the top of the head. It must have a white or off-white background.
Contact Information
You will need to provide your contact information, including your physical and email address and your birthday. Your written itinerary or your travel dates and destination will suffice. You will also be provided with a letter providing authorization for the agent to discuss your application package on your behalf.
Processing Time
You will also be asked how quickly you need your documents. If you need your application processed quickly, you will be asked for an expedited processing and delivery payment. Fees vary and are dependent on the online provider you use. This will be in addition to the government fee, which is currently $170.
You may want to consider obtaining a pass port card as well. While these documents cannot be used for international air travel, they can be used for trips to Bermuda, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada. So, Applying for first time passport online can an easy and convenient way to get ready for your trip, no matter where you are going in the world.
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