Archive for the ‘Passport Processing’ Category

Australian Travel Visa – Your Questions Answered

Saturday, October 1st, 2011

Thinking about heading “down under” but aren’t sure how get the proper travel documents?  Well you’re in luck.  Here at Passports and visas.com we’ve assembled all the info you need to make your visa application quick, simple, and painless.

Do I need a visa to enter Australia?

Yes, all US citizens are required to have a valid Australian visa in order to be granted access to the country.  For most, the easiest way to apply is through the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) system.

How long can I stay in Australia?

The Australian visa is good for 12 months with a maximum of a three month stay per visit.

Can I leave Australia and return with the same visa?

A single Australian travel visa is good for multiple entries so long as it’s used within the first 12 months of being granted.

What if you overstay your visa?

According to the US Department of State, “if you overstay your ETA or any other visa, even for short periods, you may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal by the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship.”

How long will it take to obtain an Australian travel visa?

According to the Australian embassy, current processing times vary between one day and one month depending upon your unique situation.

If you want to avoid the guess-work and streamline the process – give us a call.  We can usually turn your visa around within 24-hours!

Posted in Passport Processing, Passport Updates, Travel Questions | 2 Comments »


Passport FAQ’s – Your Free Answers to Visa and Passport Questions

Thursday, September 22nd, 2011

Today’s Question:

Tejas Asks:

My passport has been lost and I have decided to apply for duplicate passport, on the previous passport which was lost i traveled to Australia and stayed there for about 1 year, if I apply for new one or duplicate so will it contain my all information regarding previous traveled detailed or not?

Answer: Thanks for getting in touch Tejas!  This one was a bit tricky so we took your question right to the top, and spoke with a representative from the US Department of State.  According to their office, they do not track the country’s you may have visited in the past.  Though, there will be a record of your arrival and departure with Australian immigration – so if you’re trying to extend a travel visa, there will be a record.  Hope this helps!

Keep em coming!  If you have any questions or concerns about your passport or visa application, send them over.  Our team of experts will get you answers a.s.a.p.!

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Visa Question of the Day: Tejas Asks “I am planning to travel to mexico for a week or so to visit friends. Is a visa required?”

Sunday, September 4th, 2011

No Tejas – if you’re traveling to Mexico a travel visa won’t be required.  You will, however, be required to carry a valid passport during your trip.

Do you have any passport or visa questions or your own?  Just ask here and our team of experts will get back to you a.s.a.p!

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Bahamas Travel Requirements – Your Questions Answered

Tuesday, August 30th, 2011

I’ve been getting a lot of questions on our Free Answers to Passport and Visa Questions service about the travel requirements for the Bahamas.  So to put concerns to rest, here are the answers to your most frequently asked questions:

Do I need a passport to travel to the Bahamas? While you won’t need a passport to get into the Bahamas, you will need a passport to get home.    The US Department of State explains that “all U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport in order to enter or re-enter the Untied States when traveling by air.”

Can I use a passport card? A passport card may be used when returning to the U.S. by sea.

Do I need a visa to visit the Bahamas? No travel visa is required for short trips to the Bahamas for business or tourist purposes. If you’re traveling for diplomatic purposes (or other non-traditional reasons) a visa may be required.  Check with Embassy of the Bahamas for the latest updates.

Are there any strange travel requirements? On some occasions, travelers planning on extended stays in the Bahamas have been asked to present proof of financial solvency before being allowed into the country.

Any additional questions you’d like answered?  Let us know!  We’re here to help.

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Get Free Answers to Passport & Visa Questions

Friday, August 19th, 2011

At passportsandvisas.com, we know that many of you out there are have questions when it comes to the in’s and out’s of your passport and visa applications…

But where do you turn for quick answers?

Now you can turn to us!  Passportsandvisas.com is launching a free visa and passport forum located right here on our blog!  Now anytime you have any questions just post them here and we’ll get back to you with our expert answers!

For today’s question we’ll address one of your most common concerns:

How long does it take to get a passport?

How long it takes to get your passport depends on the way you apply for it.  For a new passport, the US Department of State is currently quoting processing times of 4 – 6 weeks.  For expedited service you can expect door to door service in approximately 2 -3 weeks.  And if you’re really in rush, or don’t want to deal with the complications of applying for your passport solo – just get in touch with us here.  We’ll take care of everything – and the best part?  We can usually get you a passport within 24 hours!

Have your own questions about passport or visas!  Submit them here!  Our team of experts will get back to you with answers a.s.a.p.!

Posted in Passport FAQ's, Passport Processing, Passport Updates | 6 Comments »


Passport Day Coming Soon!

Friday, August 19th, 2011

Planning a trip abroad and haven’t yet secured your travel documents?  The US Department of State has announced Passport Day 2011!  For one Saturday, on September 17th, you’ll be able to apply for your US. Passport without an appointment.  To find the closest Regional Passport Agency to you, just click here.  According to their release, passport processing times are currently running 4-6 weeks for standard processing or 2-3 weeks for expedited service.  Don’t have that kind of time?  Don’t worry, we’re here to help.  Just get in touch by clicking here, we can have usually have your passport turned around in less than 24-hours!

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Dubai Visas – Anyone Traveling to the UAE Must Read This

Thursday, July 28th, 2011

Anyone traveling to the United Arab Emirates should take note, the American consulate general has announced that it will be moving its offices from the World Trade Centre to a new location in Bur Dubai.  The new location is slated to open August 7th.

According to statements by officials, the new facility was built to provide improved visa and passport services to American nationals, Emiratis, as well as other UAE residents.  Improved security was also cited as an  benefit.   As Jen Rasamimanana, the acting consulate general told reporters, the new facility “has a number of features that keep it as safe as possible for the folks working here and for the folks visiting here.  Those are the kind of things that weren’t possible to do in the World Trade Centre, which is an inherently public building and a skyscraper.

Travelers take note, the consulate general warns that “in preparation for the move, visa interviews in Dubai will be suspended from July 31st through August 4th.  In addition, routine services for American citizens will be suspended from August 2nd to August 4th.  American citizens in need of routine services during this period can make arrangements at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi.  All services will resume on Sunday, August 7th at the new Consulate General in Dubai.  Emergency services for American citizens will not be affected during the move.”

The new facility will be located at the corner of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road and Al Seef Road. For direction please consult the Map and Directions to the new US Consulate General.

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Russian Visas Requirements – Your Questions Answered

Thursday, July 21st, 2011

Got a trip to Russia planned but aren’t sure about the Russian Visa requirements?  Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place.  At passports and visas.com we’re experts at all things travel and visa.  So to help you as you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of frequently ask questions to help clear up any potential confusions.

Do I need a visa to travel to Russia? The answer for Russia is a resounding yes!  The Russian government maintains a strict (and often complicated) visa regime for any foreigners that visit.  Take note:  an Any US citizen that doesn’t carry a Russian visa can be subject to arrest, fines, or deportation… so it’s important that you get your paperwork right.

What kind of visa do I need? If you are planning to visit Russian on route to another country you’ll need to apply for a transit visa.  Technically, transit visas are only required for ground travel, but the US Department of State warns of potential complications even for travelers who arrive by air.  Do yourself a favor and grab a transit visa even if you never plan to leave the airport.

For travelers who plan to actually visit the country, you’ll most likely to need to apply for a single entry tourist visa; however, as we’ve said, the Russian visa system is complicated and every situation is different.  Make sure you consult an authority (like us) to confirm the requirements of your unique situation.

Can I get a visa on arrival or do I need to obtain my Russian travel visa in advance? You cannot obtain a visa on arrival.  All Russian travel documents must be obtained before entering the country.

How long can I stay? In general, most foreigners are only allowed a 90-day stay in Russia during a 180-day period; however, generally your visa will only be good for the term of the visit specified in the invitation letter provided by your sponsor.

Are there any special restrictions I should be aware of? Yes!  Here are a few of the biggies.

  • Every foreign traveler that enters Russia must have a Russia-based sponsor.  According to the US Department of State, this could be anything from a “hotel, tour company, relative, employer, etc.”  It’s important to remember to ensure that the sponsor named on your visa is actually the person or place you intend to visit.  If not, you could run into serious trouble with Russian authorities.
  • If you overstay your Russian visa you will not be permitted to leave the country.  Please make sure you do not overstay your visa.
  • Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the requested visit dates.

Are there any shortcuts to make the process easier? Absolutely!  If you want to avoid the headaches and complications that go along with your Russian visa application, just let us know.  We’ll take care of the entire process, all you do is send us your documents – and as an added bonus, we can get your visa much faster than you’ll be able to on your own.

And if you do choose to apply for your Russian visa on your own, and you have any questions, let us know!  We’re happy to help!

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Next Day Passports – Your Questions Answered

Sunday, June 12th, 2011

We get this question all the time… what are my options when I need a passport as soon as tomorrow?  Well, you’ve got a few options when it comes to next day passports.

First off you’ve got your regional passport centers.  There are 24 in total, and they’re all located near major cities, so unfortunately, if you don’t happy to live near one of them, your options are extremely limited.  For those of you that do, here are the steps:

  1. Make an appointment. Do this as soon as you possibly can.  Appointments pile up fast and often times it can be days until there’s an open spot.
  2. If you can’t get an appointment, just show up. If you’re going to do this, get to the passport center as early as you possibly can (read right when they open).  There not supposed to see you, but if you bring documents demonstrating your need for a next day passport, and you ask politely, you may just get lucky.
  3. Fill out all the necessary forms and pay. Remember to check the US Department of State’s website to ensure your bringing all the necessary documentation including a passport photo, and a primary proof of citizenship and identity.  A birth certificate is your best bet.  If you’ve held a passport previously, they can look you up in their system, but be prepared to shell out extra money for their trouble.

Unfortunately, these centers are often booked up well in advance making it difficult to show up the day before and get your travel documents.

If you’re looking for reliability, you’re always better off going with a qualified passport expeditor.  Here’s why.  We’re not federal employees who are more interested than taking our lunch break than we are in servicing customers – you are always our first priority. We won’t send you running back and forth looking for documents or push back appointments because its closing time.

We’ll walk you through the process step-by-step to make sure you get your passport when you need it.

Here’s what to expect with if you get your next day passport through a passport expeditor:

  • You’ll speak with one of our qualified representatives who’ll walk you step-by-step through the process.  We’ll make sure all your I’s are dotted and T’s are crossed.
  • You’ll provide us with the necessary documents and paperwork.
  • Sit back and wait for your next day passport to arrive.

Pretty simple huh?

And don’t worry about fee’s, the cost if virtually the same as working with regional passport centers.

Have any questions or need any additional advice on getting your next day passport?  Just let us know!  We’re happy to help.

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How Long Does it Take to Get a Passport: The Answers

Sunday, November 7th, 2010

So you’ve finally nailed down all the details of your big trip.  Plane tickets?  Check.  Hotel reservations?  Check.  Passport… You  did remember to apply for your passport didn’t you?  Forgot?  It’s ok!  We know what you’re thinking… Do I have enough time left to get my passport before I leave?

Processing Times

The state department is currently quoting processing times of approximately 4 -6 weeks from the time of your application.  During busier times, like the holiday or summer travel seasons, they advise you begin your application as far as 10 weeks in advance.  And remember, these processing times are a best case scenario, assuming everything is submitted correctly.

Afraid you’re out of time?  Don’t worry, we’re here to help.  Passport application delays are usually caused by applicant error.

To avoid slowing down your passport application:

  • Make Sure you’ve properly filled out the correct forms.  Inaccurate information, or incorrect forms can send passport agents looking for clarification on your application.  This can cause delays of days or weeks.
  • Make sure you’ve included TWO photographs that meet the appropriate specifications. Photos must be 2 x 2 inches in size, include a full face, front view and open eyes, and must be taken in front of a plain white or off white background.
  • Make sure you include an approved proof of citizenship. Your best bet is a certified passport, including a registrar’s raised, embossed, impressed, or multicolored seal, and the registrar’s signature.  The certificate must also have been filed with the registrar’s office within 1 year of your birth
  • Make sure you include the appropriate payment. The bureau of consular affairs has a detailed list of fees associated with passport applications, so check with them for the latest costs.  Checks should be made out to the Department of State.

    Failure to include any of these elements with your passport application could delay processing by days, or weeks.

    Running out of time?  Don’t leave your last minute passport application up to chance.
    If you’re trip is imminent, our passport expediting services can get you a US passport within 24 hours.  We know the forms, we know the fees, we’ve done this before.  Don’t worry, with us, you’re in good hands.  We’ll take the stress out of travel (or at least out of your passport application) so you can just relax and enjoy your trip.

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    Posted in Passport FAQ's, Passport Processing | 1 Comment »