The most important step in order to obtain a new U.S. passport is submitting a properly filled out U.S. passport application. The government uses this to not only gather the required information about the applicant, but also to assess his “intentions” of traveling.
Choosing the right form is to make application is important. First time applicants use the “DS-11″ Form. Applicants for renewals by mail utilize the “DS-82.” Instructions to the “DS-11″ require that this form only be used by first time applicants, so renewals should not be filed using the aDS-11.a
When changing or validating a passport, applicants need to submit the “DS-19.” Amendments to any information contained on the existing passport must be included on the “DS-19″ Form. In some special circumstances, multiple forms are required. If a passport in lost or stolen, not only does a “DS-11″ need to be sent, but also a “DS-64″ Form. Further, when applying on behalf of a child under the age of 14, the “DS-11″ is submitted in addition to the “DS-3053.”
Most applications are processed within two weeks, but busier travel seasons like spring or summer, may require longer time periods. When applying, the applicant must not only complete the applicant, but also submit two passport-sized pictures of themselves and the required processing fee.
The total fee charged is $97 for citizens above 16 years of age, and $82 for those who are under 16- a very low price indeed to obtain your right to travel.When you are traveling outside the USA, you must have your passport with you. A passport issued by the US Department of State certifies you as a citizen of your country, when requesting permission to enter other countries.
Application for a new passport must be in person and submitted by those who have never had a passport, whose passport has been expired for more than 12 years, or those who had their passport lost, stolen or damaged. The right to travel internationally is afforded to U.S. citizens and an important freedom we all share. But even as recently as the early 20th century, passport applications have been denied based on individuals’ political affiliations. During the Red Scare of the 1940s, alleged Communist affiliates, Paul Robeson and W.E.B Dubois, had their passports withheld. Currently, the Department of State denies passports to Libya, Lebanon, and Iraq, and argues that the right to travel internationally permits our government to deny passports in necessary situations.
As security safeguards have become more stringent, the U.S. passport has started including biometric data as to the applicant’s individualized traits like fingerprints, retinal scans, birthmarks and tattoos for enhanced security features. These advances have made travel safer for those seeking to travel all over the world.
A contemporary US “e-passport” has been proposed which will be a unique combination of both tighter security features and a novel design. It will have a computer chip attached to it, containing important data. This design will capture the essence of hope and success for the citizens of the USA.
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