How To Process Your U. S. Passport Renewal Through Mail
American holidays looking to travel overseas for their holidays should be careful that a passport renewal isn’t pending. The hassle involved in getting this organized quickly is enormous, particularly if it’s done by post. Several factors should be considered when attempting to renew by post.
First, the validity of a passport for adults is ten years and for minors is five years. If you think that the relevant amount of time has nearly passed, check your papers for the due date. Ideally, the best time to start the process is approximately nine months prior to your due date.
Be aware that you can only renew by mail if your initial application was made within the last fifteen years, otherwise will have to renew it in person. Similarly, if it is damaged or was issued before you reached sixteen years of age, you need to renew in person. And that rule also applies to people who have legally changed their name.
If, however, none of the above criteria apply, and you are resident on U. S. Soil, you may proceed with a postal application. In addition to your documents, the fee and a new photo, the application form DS-82 is required. Because you are sending such sensitive documents by mail, you are better off using a tracking agency to ensure their safe delivery.
If you are a U. S. Citizen living outside the jurisdiction of the U. S., you will need to apply at the U. S. Embassy (or Consulate) based in your location. If you are a U. S. Citizen living in Canada, however, you have the same entitlement as a U. S. Citizen living within American jurisdiction. Wherever you are, though, your application will normally be processed within four to six weeks.
If this seems like too long to wait, you can request a speedier processing of your application. If you enclose a sixty dollar check with your documents and mark your application envelope with the word “Expedite”, you will get your application processed in two to three weeks. But you have to be resident in the U. S. To use this service.
Do also be aware that your old passport will be returned to you after your application has been processed. This is handy to have as proof of citizenship. It will likely not be issued with your other processed documentation, though.
If you would rather not complete your passport renewal by mail, you can do it in person. Check with your local authority for any updates on the process. The above, however, is a fair summary of what is required.
Learn more about passport renewal. Stop by Frank Walters’s favorite resource where you can find out all about getting aVietnam Visa for travel to Viet Nam.