Are you planning an international adventure or considering a cruise that will take you beyond U.S. borders? If so, you’ll need a passport.
Navigating the passport application process can be daunting, especially if you’re a first-time applicant or have questions about renewing your passport.
To help ease your concerns and provide you with the information you need, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about passports.
Who needs a passport?
If you’re a U.S. citizen planning to exit or return to the United States by air, you’ll need a passport. Additionally, passports are required for cruises with ports outside of the U.S. and for crossing U.S. borders by land.
While minors age 16 or younger can present evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate, when returning from Canada or Mexico by land, all other travelers must possess a valid passport.
Does a baby need a passport?
Yes, even infants, including newborns, must possess a passport if they will be taken outside of the U.S.
How long does it take to get a passport?
The processing time for a passport varies depending on the method of application. Regular processing typically takes 4-6 weeks, while expedited processing at an acceptance facility or by mail takes 2-3 weeks.
For urgent situations, emergency passports can be processed at regional centers, with processing times of up to 8 business days. In certain circumstances, same-day passport service is available.
What is the validity of a passport?
Passports issued to minors age 15 or younger are valid for 5 years, while passports issued to adults are valid for 10 years. Emergency passports are usually valid for 1 year.
When should I apply for a passport renewal?
It is recommended that you begin the passport renewal process approximately 9 months before your current passport expires.
However, you can submit your renewal application at any time. Passports issued to applicants age 16 or older can be renewed by mail up to 5 years after the expiration date.
Passport Requirements
To obtain a U.S. passport, you must meet certain general requirements:
1. U.S. Citizenship:
Learners will examine the legal basis for the issuance of U.S. passports only to citizens and non-citizen nationals. Non-citizen nationals: Persons born in or having ties to American Samoa or Swains Island.
Furthermore, any child who is born abroad and has one or both alien parents living in the United States is automatically a U.S. citizen, so long as the other parent is an American national.
Complete the appropriate application form:
Each passport service requires the completion of a specific passport application form. The form must be filled out as completely as possible, and black ink is required when completing the printed form.
Submit required supporting documents:
Specific supporting documents are required for each passport service. These documents may include evidence of U.S. citizenship, proof of identification, a passport photo, and other documents deemed necessary by the Department of State.
Pay the passport fees:
The fees for passports are different based on the service type and turnaround time. The payment options are personal check, cashier’s check, money order, cash and credit card.
This page will contain the particulars for every passport service requirements as well as step-by-step process in applying for it.
Passport Fees
The fees for obtaining or renewing a passport vary depending on the type of service and the applicant’s age. Here is an overview of the passport fees:
Adult First Time Applicants (Age 16 Years and Older):
- Adult Passport Book & Card: $140 + $25 execution fee
- Adult Passport Book: $110 + $25 execution fee
- Adult Passport Card (if applicant does NOT currently hold a valid Passport Book or Card): $30 + $25 execution fee
Adult Renewals (Age 16 Years and Older):
- Adult Passport Book & Card: $140
- Adult Passport Book: $110
- Adult Passport Card (if applicant currently holds a valid Passport Book or Card): $30
All Minor Applicants (Under Age 16):
- Minor Passport Book & Card: $95 + $25 execution fee
- Minor Passport Book: $80 + $25 execution fee
- Minor Passport Card: $15 + $25 execution fee
In addition to the application and execution fees, expedited service and overnight delivery options are available for an additional fee.
| U.S. PASSPORT BOOK | U.S. PASSPORT CARD |
 |  |
| Valid for international travel by air, sea, or land. | Valid when entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. Not valid for international travel by air. |
Conclusion
Obtaining a passport is an essential step for anyone planning to travel internationally. By familiarizing yourself with the passport application process and understanding the requirements and fees involved, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. For full details on US Passports visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html
Whether you’re applying for your first passport or renewing an existing one, be sure to allow ample time for processing and follow all instructions carefully.
With your passport in hand, you’ll be ready to embark on your next adventure with confidence and peace of mind. Safe travels!
