Aug 23, 2009

No Need to Wait For Snail Mail to Check Your Passport Application Status

The internet has provided a safe and secure way to check on your passport application status. If you prefer the old fashioned way, phone calls to the Application Agency are still accepted.

Applications: First time passport applications must be made in person. The initial application can be filled out online and printed then taken with you to the Passport Agency or Acceptance Facility nearest you. You will need your driver's license, copy of your birth certificate, and your social security card. Do not sign your application. You are required to sign the form at the office.

What you will need: Before you hop online to check your applications status, you will need to have a few things ready. The online form doesn't recognize punctuation so avoid typing in commas and hyphens. You will need to pay close attention to the formats that it requires such as your date of birth.

When to check: Standard first time applications and expedited applications require four to seven business days before you can check their status online. Attempts to check before then will show that you have not sent in an application.

How long does it take: If you have never applied for a passport the standard application process can take up to six weeks or even longer. Expedited applications take between two and four weeks. Of course, if the Passport Agency experiences a large number of applications this process can take longer. Plan ahead and start the application process as soon as you decide that you are going to vacation in a foreign country.

Potential problems: Applications are occasionally rejected. Criminal convictions are sometimes reason enough to deny someone a passport. The Internal Revenue Service can also have your passport denied or revoked. If your passport is denied, you can appeal the decision.

You no longer have to wait for the postman to check your passport's application status.

C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=CL_Hendricks

No comments:

Post a Comment

Bookmark and Share