posted by Vacation Home Rentals on Jan 30
Sometimes you suddenly need to travel to a destination requiring a US passport only to find out that either you don’t have one or that it has already expired. Routine passport processing usually takes around four to six weeks. While that’s fine for most travelers, this may not be an option for you, considering your situation. If you need to know how to get a american passport fast, find out in this article.
One instance where you will need to get a pass port quickly is when a family emergency occurs that requires you to travel to another country within 48 hours. If you don’t have a passport to travel, or if it has already expired, you can call the National Passport Information Agency (NPIA). They will help you to schedule an appointment with the nearest passport agency to facilitate your application for an emergency passport.
You can call the NPIA any time of the day. However, there are times when they are unable to help you get a schedule with the passport agency. In case that happens, simply stay on the line and they will forward you to a customer service representative (CSR). The CSR will then provide you with other options and instructions on how you can get your emergency passport.
For non-emergency situations, you have an option of having your passport application expedited. This type of passport application processing is generally recommended to those who need to have a passport in less than four weeks. But sometimes the processing may take longer than that, so the US Department of State further recommends those who need to travel in less than ten weeks have their application expedited.
Getting an expedited passport is also important if you need to travel to a foreign destination within two weeks or need your passport to obtain a foreign visa in less than four weeks. Current processing times for expedited passport services are is around two to three weeks. It is therefore advisable that you apply for a US passport if you are already expecting to travel in the coming months.
Now let’s talk about how you can get your passport application expedited. You can send your passport application through the mail; however, there are a few things you need to remember before doing this. First, make sure that you use an envelope that won’t get damaged easily. Also, make sure you write, “EXPEDITED” outside of the envelope. Then finally, ensure that you are able to track the mail to check that it’s received by the addressee.
Keep in mind that getting an expedited passport service requires an additional fee on top of the regular processing fees. It can be hefty for some, but if you’re after speed and convenience, it’s well worth the money. Consult with your nearest passport agency regarding the fees you need to pay.
After reading this article, we’re pretty sure you now know how to get a passport quickly. To sum up, you can get a passport faster than a routine service during family emergencies that require you to travel out of the country. Aside from that, choosing an expedited United States passport service would help speed up your passport application.