A passport is a very important document. It allows one to travel in and out of foreign countries in addition to allowing them to re-enter their country of origin. Often, federal forms are very complicated and tedious to fill out, however getting a passport today is quite easy. There are many resources out there that will explain how to obtain a pass port, by following guidelines and ensuring all documentation is filled out properly, your passport will be well on its way.
Qualifications
There are certain requirements that accompany an application for a passport. These requirements include certain documents, passport photos, as well as a fee. The fee’s can differ depending on the agency and the type of service you’re using, so it’s best to check ahead of time.
Application
Passport application forms can be found at any passport service agency, they can also be located online. They are referred to as DS-11 Forms. This is the essential document when it comes to applying for a passport. When filling the application out be careful to not allow any errors.
Photographs
Part of the passport application includes pictures of the applicant. When submitting the passport application two identical full color photos must accompany the application. They should be within the past 6 months and be taken while the applicant is wearing casual attire. The government would prefer that there is no smiling done in the photos.
Identification
Because a US passport is used as identification as a United States citizen, proving that you are, in fact, a citizen is a very crucial aspect to the application process. Applications require documentation stating birth of origin, such as a birth certificate. It must be an official copy and not a photo copy. If you are not in possession of an original, be sure to apply for that in time to submit it with your passport application.
Name Consistency
All documentation provided for the passport application must contain the same name. Many people go by perhaps their middle name, or their maiden name, when there identification states something else. Because a passport is an official document it must contain your legal name. Therefore all supporting identifying documents must contain your legal name.
Fees
There are fees that are associated with the application for a passport. These fees vary between agencies and can vary considerably depending upon a private agency or a federal agency. If a passport is needed quickly there may be additional fees to guarantee it on time. There also may be addition fees for a child’s passport. Another option is adding pasport pages.