Resolving Last Minute Travel Emergencies With Expedited US Passport Renewal
There are a lot of different things that can go wrong with travel. The potential for disaster seems to double with international travel. Passport issues are just one of many potential problems that can afflict international travelers. This article, perfect for the forgetful traveler, will cover expedited passport renewal.
We have all heard the set up before: someone has booked a trip and when it comes time to check their passport, they realize that it has expired and their whole trip is now in jeopardy. Believe it or not, there is no need to panic, even if the trip is right around the corner. There are ways to get a passport in just a few short weeks or even the blink of an eye if necessary.
This is an example of something that happens to people almost every day. Either they didn’t realize that they needed a passport or they haven’t used one in so long that they didn’t realize that it had expired. Passports are only good for ten years, so if the old blue book has some dust on it, it may be time to check the expiration date.
Unlike a first time passport application, a renewal application may be completed by mail. To renew a passport, the applicant must acquire and fill-out form DS-82. The DS-82 form will have detailed, step-by-step, instructions for the passport renewal process. The applicant must mail his or her old passport, and any relevant ID’s or forms, along with the DS-82 for processing. Write “expedited” on the envelope for all expedited passport renewals.
Due to the nature of the contents in this package, the US department of State recommends that applicants mail all documents in a secure package with some sort of security tracking system. The State Department recommends using a Tyvek envelope. Secure Tyvek packaging will keep the envelopes’ contents safe. A damaged or lost application could result in a nullified application, which would severely set back the application timeline. In expedited application scenarios, a damaged or lost application could be devastating.
When standard processing is chosen, the delivery time for the renewed passport is about 6 weeks. If this is not quick enough, expedited service can be ordered for an additional $60. It may sound like a lot, but the alternative is to risk not making the trip at all. That can cost thousands in unreturned payments if the trip was prepaid and insurance was not purchased.
The State Department estimates a two to three week turn around on expedited passport applications. Any applicant that needs a passport in less than two weeks, be it a renewal or new application, is encouraged to make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. Applicants that need to secure a foreign visa in less than four weeks are also encouraged to make an appointment.
Of all the things that can go wrong with international travel, it is never good to succumb to a preventable disaster. Trying to travel with an expired U S passport is most definitely a preventable disaster. Anyone that finds themselves with an expired passport right before a big trip should consider paying the extra fee for an expedited U S passport renewal. Sixty dollars is a small fee for peace of mind.
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