A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies your identity. In addition, it's a document that requests another government to allow you to visit their country and be afforded assistance and protection. In the United States, American pass ports are issued by the US government through the State Department.
When Is It Needed
The first thing to know is why we must have a passport. A passport is necessary when travelling outside the US boarders. Aside from other countries, it is also required when travelling to Canada or Mexico to provide proof of your identity and citizenship. A valid passport will allow a US citizen, including children, to travel outside the "border zone".
How Do You Get A Passport
How does one go about getting a US Passport? The first step is applying for one. Forms for passport application can be found online as well as at the US Department of State. The website lists specific instructions for first time applicants and for those who simply need to renew their passports. As of August 2007, the US has only been issuing e-passports. These are the same as the traditional ones with the added inclusion of a small computer chip.
Download Your Application
The passport application can be downloaded and filled out online and then printed or printed and filled out by hand. Other locations where passport applications may be found include US Post Offices and libraries. No matter where you acquire and fill out your application, it is important to note you do not sign it until instructed to do so by the passport acceptance agent.
Primary Documentation
The application must be submitted in person along with primary evidence of identity and citizenship. This can be the applicant's birth certificate of previous passport. Secondary evidence documents may be provided. Secondary evidence would include a combination of early public records such as a baptismal certificate or school record. Other acceptable evidence is listed on the website.
Primary Identification
One has to present acceptable proof of identification, ideally a government issued identity card or driver's license. A combination of documents can be required for approval. Other commonly used documents include credit cards and social security cards.
A Personal Witness
A witness who identifies you may also be presented as a primary form of evidence. This witness must fill out an "affidavit of identifying witness" form in front of a American passports agent. This witness will swear to your identity so it must be someone who has known you for at least two years and also must be a US Citizen or permanent resident. You also have to provide a photocopy of your identity card along with passport photographs.
When Is It Needed
The first thing to know is why we must have a passport. A passport is necessary when travelling outside the US boarders. Aside from other countries, it is also required when travelling to Canada or Mexico to provide proof of your identity and citizenship. A valid passport will allow a US citizen, including children, to travel outside the "border zone".
How Do You Get A Passport
How does one go about getting a US Passport? The first step is applying for one. Forms for passport application can be found online as well as at the US Department of State. The website lists specific instructions for first time applicants and for those who simply need to renew their passports. As of August 2007, the US has only been issuing e-passports. These are the same as the traditional ones with the added inclusion of a small computer chip.
Download Your Application
The passport application can be downloaded and filled out online and then printed or printed and filled out by hand. Other locations where passport applications may be found include US Post Offices and libraries. No matter where you acquire and fill out your application, it is important to note you do not sign it until instructed to do so by the passport acceptance agent.
Primary Documentation
The application must be submitted in person along with primary evidence of identity and citizenship. This can be the applicant's birth certificate of previous passport. Secondary evidence documents may be provided. Secondary evidence would include a combination of early public records such as a baptismal certificate or school record. Other acceptable evidence is listed on the website.
Primary Identification
One has to present acceptable proof of identification, ideally a government issued identity card or driver's license. A combination of documents can be required for approval. Other commonly used documents include credit cards and social security cards.
A Personal Witness
A witness who identifies you may also be presented as a primary form of evidence. This witness must fill out an "affidavit of identifying witness" form in front of a American passports agent. This witness will swear to your identity so it must be someone who has known you for at least two years and also must be a US Citizen or permanent resident. You also have to provide a photocopy of your identity card along with passport photographs.
About the Author:
The US pasports are valid for ten years, for minors, five years or until they are sixteen. Once you receive your passport, you are free to enjoy your travel plans! Special instructions for American pasport renewal can be found on the official website along with information regarding lost or stolen passports.
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