Posts Tagged ‘passport’

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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    Top 5 Reasons to Use a Passport Expeditor

    Thursday, August 26th, 2010

    You generally have two options when you apply for your passport: you can either apply directly through the US Department of State (Passport Agency); or you can apply via a private passport expediting service. But why would you want to use a specialist passport expeditor? Here are the five main reasons that people choose to use this service.

    1. Save Time

    Passport expeditors make it their business to get your passport back to you fast-in as little as 24 hours in some cases. There are many reasons you may need a passport quickly-you might have to make an important business meeting, or maybe you’ve just left it too late. So go with a passport expeditor and relax in the knowledge that you will receive your passport quickly.

    2. Convenience

    When you get your passport from a passport expeditor, you will still have to fill in all the required paperwork, including signing the forms and taking the photos. But once you have sent your passport off to the expediting company you won’t have to wait in a long line to collect it. Everything is completed by overnight Fedex so you just have to sit back and wait for your new passport to arrive through your door. Expeditors can take the hassle out of getting a passport quick.

    3. Avoid Delays

    The passport application process can lead to delays. Sometimes things go wrong or you make a mistake in the application which can lead to a hold-up. The passport agency will normally send you a letter in such situations informing you of the problem. But a passport-expediting service does the hard work for you and deals with the problem directly in person, liaising directly with the agency to sort it out as quickly as possible.

    4. Detailed Tracking

    A passport expediting service like ourselves will provide you with accurate, detailed tracking of your passport application to keep you in the know.. A passport expeditor will deal directly with the agency, so you will get a full tracking report to keep an eye on your passport application.

    5. Guaranteed Service

    Our expediting company offers a guarantee of our services. We work closely with the US Passport Agency and certainly the issuance of the passport is at the Agency’s discretion. However; if the Agency encounters a problem with your application, we’ll notify you immediately and work with you and the Agency to resolve the problem and get the passport back in your hands faster than you could through the normal process.

    More Reasons to Go with a Passport Expediting Service

    On top of that, when you go with a private US passport expeditor, you will benefit from a personalized service where you can speak to an actual person who will provide you with all the information you need. So if you want a quick, guaranteed, professional, and personal service, a passport expeditor is the answer.

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    Why use a Passport Expeditor?

    Thursday, January 7th, 2010

    Why would you use a Passport Expeditor?

    If you are traveling to another country you’ll need a passport.  If you are pressed for time, typically inside 6 weeks, you’ll really be up against a time deadline using the traditional method of going to the Post Office.  If this fits your situation, you may want to use a passport expeditor.  Keep in mind, we are a private company and charge extra for our personal services.

    As a private expeditor, we guide you through the steps to obtain the necessary documents to complete your application.  Then, we review and submit your passport application to the Passport Agency for you, essentially “walking” the documents to the Passport Office and picking them up when they are ready.  Above is a chart that explains the different alternatives for acquiring your passport so that you are informed.

    Have a question?  Give us a call at 1-800-860-8610

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    How to Apply for a New Passport

    Wednesday, January 6th, 2010

    If your old passport has expired or you’ve never applied for a passport before, you’ll need to arrange a new passport application in order to travel outside of the US. Applying for a new passport can sometimes seem like a confusing process, especially if this is the first time you’ve done it. So if you need to apply for a new passport, where do you start?

    Two Options for a New Passport

    When it comes to your new passport application, you have two options: apply the standard way through the Department of State Web site, or choose to apply though a private passport expediting company.

    What’s the difference? Speed and efficiency. If you apply through a private service then you will be helped through every stage of the process to make it easier for you and to prevent you from making any mistakes. If you send your application form off to the Department of State and there is a mistake it can hold the process up for weeks. But a private passport firm will check through everything first to make sure it’s all correct so you won’t have to worry.

    A private passport company can also offer a new passport service in as little as 24 hours, whereas the standard passport application can take anywhere from three to six weeks. If you need your new passport in a rush you only really have one option.

    Passport Application Process

    Whichever service you choose for your new passport, you will still need to send in the same information. This will include a completed DS-11 application form that has been signed at a passport acceptance facility, two passport photos, fees, travel documentation, and a few other things. For full details of exactly what you will need to send, see our section on new passports.

    Once you’ve collected all of the relevant information, you simply need to send it either to the US Department of State or to your passport expediting service who will do the rest for you.

    All you have to do then is wait for a few weeks (or as little as a day with a passport expediting company) and your new passport will arrive through your door. Easy!

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    Apply for a Passport – The Caribbean Awaits!

    Tuesday, December 29th, 2009

     

    There’s one thing you have to pack if you want to relax on dreamlike beaches and swim in crystal clear waters every day—your passport. The Caribbean remains the dream destination of choice for thousands of Americans every year.

    A passport application to the Caribbean is easy. The passport requirements are not strict because the Caribbean is part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. With over 7,000 islands making up the Caribbean, the main problem is not the passport application itself, but where to go!

    With such fantastic destinations as Jamaica, Haiti, Puerto Rico, The Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, and Antigua, it’s impossible to do everything (unless you happen to be a millionaire). So here are a few ideas for things to do in the Caribbean during your vacation that could help you to make up your mind.

     

    1. Dive with Sharks, Bahamas

    It’s not everyone’s first-choice activity, but diving with sharks will certainly provide you with a few stories to tell on your return home. If you head to the Bahamas there are plenty of tours offering diving with reef sharks. You’ll need to be a proficient scuba diver, but if you’re brave enough this is one of the most thrilling experiences you can have as a tourist in the Caribbean.

     

    2. Hike to the Highest Point in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico

    Head up to the heights with a trip to Pico del Toro, the highest point in the Caribbean, which is located in the El Yunque rainforest in Puerto Rico. You can hike all the way to the top where you will be treated to some truly incredible views of the rainforest below. This is not your average beach activity, so come prepared, but the reward at the top will be worth it.

     

    3. Follow in Bob Marley’s Footsteps, Jamaica

    Any fan of Bob Marley should not miss this opportunity to visit all of the most important places in the reggae legend’s life. Places that tourists can visit include his birthplace, Mt Zion Rock, and Nine Mile Village. You’ll also receive an education about the Rastafarian religion along the way.

     

    4. Take a Ride on a Gondola, Dominica

    This is one of the best things you can do as a tourist during your trip to the Caribbean. Located at Morne Trois Pitons National Park, you can enjoy a half-hour ride on a hanging gondola traveling over the top of the rainforest. You’ll get an unrivalled view of the canopy below and an experienced guide to explain all the things that you will see.

     

    Get Your Passport and Get Going

    If any of these experiences get you excited then you know what to do: apply for your passport today and going! The passport requirements for the Caribbean are not as strict as for other areas of the world, but you still need to make sure you have your passport before leaving home. The passport application is easy and you can get an expedited passport service if you want to receive it even quicker. Just check out the service we provide and choose the one you want!

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    How to Get a Passport Fast

    Friday, December 11th, 2009

    How do you get a Passport Fast?

    It’s everyone’s vacation nightmare: you’ve been planning your vacation for weeks or months, you’ve been dreaming about sandy beaches, hot sun, relaxing days by the pool … but you’ve got so carried away with it all that you’ve forgotten the most important thing of all: your passport.

    What do you do? How do you get your US passport sorted out fast? Luckily there’s a way that’s quick and easy.

    Same Day Passport Service

    With a same day passport application service, you can get your passport within 24 hours. It seems impossible, especially when you visit the US Department of State Web site and find out there’s an average wait of six weeks. But with a private passport application service you can get your US passport delivered on the same-day with ease.

    Why Bother Going Fast?

    There are many reasons why you may need to arrange a passport application fast.

    Perhaps a business meeting has just come up out of the blue and it’s hugely important that you attend, but after buying your flight and booking your accommodation you realize that your passport expired a few weeks ago.

    Sometimes even the most careful planners can get caught. Even if you have your passport ready and you’ve checked and double checked that it is still valid for a few months, you might find out at the last moment that the country you’re visiting requires at least six months validity on your passport or they won’t let you get a visa.

    Most people start to panic when they find they need a passport immediately, and some give up all hope of ever making the trip.

    But with a same day fast passport expediting service you just have to fill in a few forms online, send the required documents, pay the fee, and your US passport will get delivered straight away.

    Streamlined Process

    When you go with a passport expediting service your passport application is handled by a dedicated team who streamline the whole process. That means you’ll bypass all the restrictions that come with applying for your passport in the standard way.

    When you apply for a passport with an expediting service, you get the same passport but just a lot quicker. It makes your life easier and means you never have to worry about missing your vacation or important trip ever again.

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


    Want to Visit the Great Wall of China? Apply for a China Visa Today!

    Sunday, November 22nd, 2009

    The Great Wall of China is surely one of the most incredible structures ever built. This remarkable monument has enthralled tourists from across the world for decades and is surely one of the highlights on any trip to China.

    If you would like to head to China and see the Great Wall, make sure you get your passport early. We offer a passport application service for US travelers, and if you end up leaving your application to the last minute we also offer a passport expediting service.

    You’ll also need a visa if you’re heading to China, and you’ll need the visa for China before you leave the US. Let us take care of your visa for you so you know there won’t be any problems on arrival. You can find more about our China Visa Service.

    History of the Great Wall

    The Great Wall of China was first built in the 7th century BC as a protective barrier along the northern border of the country, and work continued on it right up until the 16th century. It stretches for over 5,000 miles all the way from Shangaiguan in the east to Lop Nur in the west. Despite the popular belief that it can be viewed from space, there has never actually been any proof of this.

    Best Places to See the Great Wall

    The Great Wall is made up of lots of smaller walls, trenches, lookout towers, and natural defenses such as hills. As it is so vast, the first thing many tourists want to know is where they should visit it. As most tourists head to Beijing at some point in their trip, the following options are all located near to the city.

    Badaling is by far the most popular spot to visit the Great Wall. Located very near to Beijing, the area is easily accessible and the wall has also been restored. All of this means there are more tourists here than at most other locations.

    If you want to get further away from the tourist hoards then you could head to Mutianyu. This is about an hour from Beijing, and is therefore less busy. The wall is about 1.4 miles long here, and you can go up to the top in a cable car.

    Further still is Simatai, about 2.5 hours from Beijing. Here you will find some impressive watchtowers, and it is also the starting point for the 7.5 mile trek to Jinshanling. It is hard going but is definitely one of the best ways to see the wall.

    Get Your Passport and Visa Now

    If you’re heading to China or Beijing, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Great Wall. Get your passport and visa today using our speedy and affordable service, and you could soon be on your way.

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    Get your Passport and Go on a Tiger Safari in India

    Sunday, November 22nd, 2009

    Get your Passport and Go on a Tiger Safari in India

    India is fast growing into one of the world’s major economies, and many US travelers are now starting to discover the country for themselves. It is so diverse that there are many things to see and do here, but if you really want an adventure then you can’t beat going on a tiger safari. The national parks open between November and June to avoid the monsoon rains, so now is a great time to visit.

    Essential Luggage: Passport & Visa

    There are two things you will need to head to India for a tiger safari—a valid passport and an Indian visa. We can help you with both to make the planning of your trip a lot easier.

    It’s impossible to get a visa upon arrival in India, and you need to visit the Indian embassy or consulate before leaving the US. Save the hassle and get us to make the application for a visa to India  for you, then you won’t have to worry about a thing.

    We also offer a passport expediting service if you need your passport in a hurry.

    Where to See Tigers in India

    The largest population of tigers can be found in Sunderbands National Park. The name literally means ‘beautiful jungle’ and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 for its beauty and ecological significance. As well as the large number of Royal Bengal Tigers found here, you are also likely to see monitors, pythons, and lots of exotic birds.

    The second biggest population of tigers can be found in Kanha National Park. Here you will also find over 20 species of mammal, including leopards, hyenas, and jackals, as well as over 200 species of bird.

    Other national parks where you can go on a tiger safari include Ranthambhore, Bandhavgarh, and Panna. All of these are spectacular wilderness areas where you’ll have the adventure of a lifetime.

    Get your Passport and Visa Today

    So if you want to head to India on a tiger safari then apply for your passport and visa through us and we’ll do the rest. Soon you could find yourself in the middle of a scene straight out of ‘The Jungle Book.’

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    Want to Study Abroad? Get your Passport and See the World!

    Friday, November 6th, 2009

    Do I need a US passport to study abroad?

    Studying abroad is becoming increasingly popular with US students as it’s the perfect way to enjoy new experiences and see the world. If you decide to undertake some of your studies abroad, make sure you are fully prepared by arranging your passport, visa, and travel insurance in advance.

    Why Study Abroad?

    Studying abroad allows you to work in a completely new environment, meet people you would never meet back home, and learn about a new country in a way that you simply could not achieve through a standard vacation.

    Of course, for those with one eye on a career then studying abroad can really help to give the resume a boost. Whereas including ‘traveling’ on your resume may not give you the edge over other applicants, studying abroad will show prospective employers that you can look after yourself and use your initiative in a new and challenging environment.

    Studying abroad doesn’t just have to be for college credits. Many people choose to study in different countries to pick up language skills that can be used back home. Some people also choose to combine foreign study with an internship to make the most of the opportunity of being abroad.

    Planning your Studies Abroad

    The first step in arranging your trip abroad is to decide where you want to go. Your college advisor should have lots of useful information about which courses you can apply for as well as which countries and institutions you can study in. Once you’ve got your heart set on a particular location, you’ll need to do some planning to ensure everything is in place before you leave.

    Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is essential. Although a standard travel insurance policy should be fine, there are some specialist student travel insurance policies that provide cover for equipment and fees in the event of your having to return home, so it’s worth looking into this first.

    Arranging your Passport and Visa

    One of the most important things to remember is your passport and visa. You may not need a visa for your chosen country, but many countries require one for entry. You might need a special study visa which could involve a letter of confirmation from your chosen institution, but your college should be able to help with the exact details. Not sure whether you need a visa? You can use us to  find out about visa requirements for all countries.

    And of course you won’t be going anywhere without a passport. Our advice is to get your passport as early as possible to avoid any problems. But even if you do leave it to the last minute then we offer a passport expediting service.

    Once you’ve got your passport, make two photocopies of it before leaving home. Leave one copy with your parents or friends, and take one with you, keeping it separate from your passport. Then if you lose your passport you’ll be in a better position to sort out a replacement.

    Start Planning Now

    Interested in studying abroad? Let us take care of all your visa and passport details so you can concentrate on having a great time without worrying about forgetting anything.

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    Apply for a US Passport and China Visa and Head to China’s Forbidden City

    Thursday, November 5th, 2009

    Boasting a vast array of natural and manmade treasures, it’s easy to see why China is fast becoming the destination of choice for many US travelers. One of China’s main attractions is the Forbidden City, and incredible complex of ancient palaces, towers, and squares that’s right up there on the ‘must see’ list.

    China Passport and Visa Information

    If you want to head to China to see the Forbidden City, you’ll need to prepare for your trip. China requires a visa for all US travelers, and you’ll need to get this before you leave the country. Use our china visa service to arrange your visa before you leave the United States and we’ll make sure you won’t have any problems.  We can get your visa in 24 hours if need be!

    You’ll also need to ensure you have a valid passport for your journey. Let us take care of the application process for you and we’ll make sure it all goes smoothly. Left it to the last minute? Don’t worry, we also have a passport expediting service meaning we can get your passport to you within a day.

     

    The Forbidden City: Biggest Palace in the World

    There are 980 surviving buildings in the Forbidden City, including 70 palaces and halls and over 8,700 rooms spanning 720,000 square meters. However, it is all essentially one palace, making it the biggest in the world.

    Construction on the Forbidden City began in 1406 during the Ming Dynasty. Work finished in 1420, and it was then used to house 24 emperors over five centuries up until the Qing Dynasty. Now it is primarily a tourist attraction for the 8 million tourists who pass through its gates each year.

    The exquisite Chinese palatial architecture is immaculately preserved. Due to its size, beauty, and historical importance, the Forbidden City was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. What’s more, seeing as it’s located right in the center of Beijing there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to explore this ancient architectural delight on your trip.

     

    Planning your Trip

    November is a great time to head to the Forbidden City. The holiday season is coming to an end so there will be fewer tourists around, and the weather is pleasant and mild. So get your passport and china visa now using our quick and convenient service, and head to China for an experience you won’t forget.

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    Posted in Tourist Attractions, Visa Updates | 3 Comments »