Travel & Education Abroad | Russia

There is a different online passport application for those applying for their initial passport than for those renewing a passport. A person applying for an initial passport completes the DS-11 Application for a U.S. Passport. Someone who is renewing a passport may renew via mail if certain requirements are met. In this case, the person will complete Form DS-82: Application for a U.S. Passport by Mail. The application may be downloaded from the U.S. Department of State or private passport processing company Web sites.

Whichever online passport application that is necessary will need to be printed out and completed before sending in. This goes for all the different types, as these are not allowed to be done and filed electronically like some forms. Therefore, access to a printer will be necessary to complete this step and continue in the application process.

The supporting documentation provided with a passport application is intended to verify the applicant’s identity. They include evidence of U.S. citizenship and present identification. A birth certificate will fulfill the first category and a driver’s license will fulfill the second.

The birth certificate must be a certified version containing the registrar’s seal, signature, and date the certificate was filed with the registrar’s office. The birth certificate may be issued by the city, county, or state of birth. The driver’s license must still be valid and must be submitted in person by the first-time applicant. A copy of the driver’s license must also be provided. Should the applicant not have a driver’s license, a current government or military ID may be substituted.

If the applicant does not have one of these forms of identification, secondary identification will be accepted. A combination of signature documents may be provided including a Social Security Card, credit card, employee identification card, and a library card. An identifying witness who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and has known the applicant for at least two years may accompany the applicant and serve as secondary proof of identity. The applicant is encouraged to submit as much secondary identification as possible because these applicants are handled on a case-by-case basis.

The private service providers and the government list all of this information on their Web sites. There is a wealth of detail on these sites, so read through everything carefully. The Web sites also contain information regarding the various government fees and additional charges established by the service providers. Different providers charge different fees, so some research will be required in order to obtain the best deal.

First-time passport applicants will need to visit an authorized agent in person. All applicants will need to compile the documents into one package and mail it to the service provider for processing. Two photos of the applicant must be included in the package. These photos must meet certain requirements in order to be accepted for inclusion on the passport book. Check the Web sites for the photo specifications because they are very detailed.

Downloading an Online Passport Application and completing it either electronically or by hand will save some time. Any questions related to the application will be answered from the processing company’s customer service representatives. The entire passport application is made quick and easy by taking advantage of technology. The new U S passport will arrive within no time and the traveler will be equipped to take that dream vacation abroad.