Record numbers are applying for passports and renewals this year! With the offices overwhelmed – processing times are running much longer than normal. These tips will help your application approval go as smoothly as possible.
1. Expiration Date
Be sure to keep tabs on your passport’s expiration date. Many countries require 6 months of validity from the last date of your trip. Allow an abundance of time for your renewal! I had clients apply for renewal in January (with plenty of time – trip departure in late May) and one family member didn’t receive a denial (some weird glitch) until April. At that point, they had to resort to emergency type renewal options. Hearing these type stories – add extra months to what you think is enough time. 😉
2. How to Renew/Apply
Check the government website to see if you can renew online, via mail, or appointment only. Be sure to read the rules on what your scenario requires. Online application renewal has been tested, but is currently closed.
3. Passport Photos
Make sure to follow all the guidelines (no smiling, correct size, ears showing, etc…) when submitting the photos with your application. This seems to be one of the most common mistakes for denials. Many Walgreens, UPS stores and local copy shops take passport photos.
4. Processing Choices
I personally suggest using the expedited option, as the extra cost is worth a faster processing time. I also recommend sending the $20 to have it shipped to you priority (this can save days or weeks off the time to receive it).This is a helpful website to check the status of your passport application… if it’s pending, approved, or when to expect it to arrive via USPS.
5. Receiving Passport
After you’ve received your new passport – don’t forget to sign it! I completely forgot this on my last renewal and the airline had to remind me when I was checking in for my flight – oops! 😉 I also highly recommend you make a digital copy to have handy when you’re traveling. If you encounter an issue with a lost or stolen passport – this will make your life so much easier getting that fixed!
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
