Do you need a passport to go on a cruise? Passport requirements for cruises depend on where you are going. If your boat only stops at US ports, then a passport may not be necessary. However, the US Department of State highly recommends all international travelers carry a valid passport. US Citizens are required to present one of the following documents to re-enter the country: A US passport book A US passport card (Note: Unlike the US passport book, the…
If you're applying for a passport, you should be aware that the Department of State revised its guidelines concerning which birth certificates it will accept as proof of citizenship. As of April 1st, 2011, all birth certificates submitted with passport applications must include your parent or parents' names. So, before you send in your paperwork, take your birth certificate and double-check to make sure that your parents' names are on the document. Birth Certificate Requirements for Passports Even if the birth…
The passport photo is the number one reason for applications to be denied. It's important you take the perfect passport photo to avoid costly delays. Routine passport processing takes 6-8 weeks or longer. If your passport photo is rejected, it could take another few weeks before your passport is ready. Our expedited passport services are available for travelers that need their passport fast. Our processing times range from 2 weeks to as fast as 24 hours. We also help make…
Did you know you can't wear eyeglasses for a passport photo anymore? Did you know you shouldn't smile in your passport photo? The passport photo is the number one reason passport applications are denied, rejected, or suspended. That's because the government has certain rules about what types of facial expressions are acceptable, and if you break these rules, your passport application could be rejected causing lengthy processing delays. A routine passport takes 6-8 weeks or longer. If you need your…
Think your passport is valid and ready to go for your next trip overseas? You may be wrong. Every day thousands of travelers get stuck at the airport due to issues with their passport. We will explain the four most common passport validity issues that might prevent you from making your next trip. 1. Your Passport Expires Too Soon If your passport expires in the next six months, you may need to renew it before you can travel. Some countries…
When you apply for a passport, you need to be able to convince the government of two things: you are who you say you are, and you are a US citizen. Usually, this is easily accomplished by submitting proof of identity and proof of citizenship. The following documents can be used to prove your identity: An old US passport in good condition. Naturalization certificate. Valid driver's license issued at least 6 months ago. Government-issued ID Military ID These documents can…
What are the cruise passport requirements? For most cruises, a valid passport is often the best ID to carry. The U.S. Department of State recommends all travelers carry a valid passport anytime you leave the country. This includes driving to Canada and Mexico and also cruises. Even most cruiselines now highly recommend a valid passport, even if it's a closed-loop cruise. Passport Requirements for Closed Loop Cruises A “closed loop voyage” means the cruise ship begins and ends at the…
One of the worst things about applying for a passport is the paperwork. Not sure which passport forms you need to fill out? Use our helpful guide to slice through the confusion! Read on to determine which forms you need and where to find them: New Passports Passport Renewals Child Passport Lost or Stolen Passports Damaged Passports Passport Name Changes Passport Cards Passport Forms for New Passports If you've never had a passport before, you'll use Form DS-11. To use form…
