Scott Averbach, Author at PassportInfoGuide.com

Renew Your U.S. Passport Online: A Simple Guide to the New Process

In recent years, the U.S. Department of State has worked to make passport renewal easier. Now, if you qualify, you can renew your passport online, skipping paper forms and in-person appointments. This online system lets you renew your passport from home. Here’s everything you need to know about this new renewal option and how it works. Who Can Renew Their Passport Online? Online passport renewal is available to eligible U.S. citizens. This option isn’t for everyone, but if you meet the following criteria, you may be able to use it. Eligibility Checklist: If you meet all these criteria, you can renew your passport online. How to Renew Your Passport[…]

What is the Difference Between a Passport Book and Passport Card?

Traveling can be fun. It allows you to explore all the places you’ve dreamed of and take an escape from the pressures of everyday life. However, in order to do the international destination that you desire, you need a passport. Today, United States citizens need a passport to travel to neighboring countries such as Mexico and Canada. There are two options available. One is a passport book, the traditional passport with the pages that get stamped. The other is the passport card, which is just like a driver’s license. The application process is the same for both. Both documents are valid for 10 years for adults 16 and older,[…]

Understanding the Colors of U.S. Passports: What They Represent and Why They Matter

US Passports aren’t only blue, but usually when thinking of a passport, the iconic blue cover likely comes to mind. This US passport is often seen as a “gateway to the world”, it’s a symbol of American citizenship and the freedom to travel (to most places). However, did you know that the United States also issues passports in additional colors, each with its own significance. Let’s see a quick walkthrough and the meanings behind the different colors of U.S.-issued passports. The Blue Passport: Your Key to the World The blue passport is the most common type issued by the United States. It’s known as the Regular Passport and is[…]

US Passport for Minors: How the Application Process Differs

When it comes to traveling internationally with children, the one vital document that parents or guardians must secure is a U.S. passport for the minor. However, unlike the relatively straightforward process for adults, the application process for obtaining a passport for a child under the age of 16 involves additional steps, requirements and/or documentation. Understanding these differences is important to having a smooth application process and avoiding delays. 1. The Importance of Both Parents’ Consent One of the most significant differences in the passport application process for minors is the requirement for both parents or legal guardians to provide consent. This rule is in place to prevent international child[…]

Benefits of Applying for a Second US Passport

There are multiple international geo-political conflicts, our society is completely mobile and for many people, having a passport is a necessity in order to travel internationally. However, what most people may not know is that it is actually possible and sometimes necessary to have a second passport. In addition to the regional conflicts around the world, there are several benefits to having a second US passport. What is a Second US Passport? A second US passport is exactly what it sounds like – a second passport issued to an individual who already holds a valid US passport. It is important to note that obtaining a second passport does not[…]

Online Passport Renewal is Now a Reality

Starting in June 2024, the Department of State is finally allowing passport renewals to be done completely online. In addition to the program being a “Beta” and having limited availability, there are a few requirements that applicants must meet in order to be able to use the new renewal system. The passport you are renewing is or was valid for 10 years, and you are age 25 or older.  The passport you are renewing was issued between 2009 and 2015, or over 9 years but less than 15 years from the date you plan to submit your application. You are not changing your name, gender, date of birth, or[…]