The everything guide to the US Passport application process

Passport Fees Increasing as of December 27th 2021

Starting on December 27th, 2021 – Passport Applications are increasing by $20. This applies to all new passport applications and renewals whether they’re for a child or adult. This will undoubtedly cause a lot of application suspensions because many people end up sitting on their applications for weeks or months before they finally send it in (especially for renewals) – In order to not have to be the increased passport fees, be sure to get your application postmarked or submitted directly to the passport agency by December 27th. The reasons given are very vague, but as with everything costs for goods and services are going up. Passports are no[…]

Passport Application Processing Times Update: December 2021

The Department of State has been working through the backlog and processing additional volume that has resulted in marginal improvement of processing times. As of right now, the standard processing times for passport applications are 8-11 weeks (this includes all transit time) and for expedited service, the processing times increased to 5-7 weeks from 4-6 weeks. The option to visit a regional passport office yourself is also available but only if you have confirmed travel within 2 weeks timeframe. Additionally, the passport offices are once again allowing Passport Expediters to submit applications on behalf of others. Please see Expedited Passports if you are in a hurry and need rush[…]

Safe International Travel During a Pandemic

As we approach 2022, most of us are craving a vacation. Whether that is to relax or to inject some adventure into our lives following almost two years of limited freedoms. We are yearning for a break from the troubles this year has thrown our way. That may be a blissful week in the sunshine, a visit to see relatives, or even a work trip. However, navigating international travel during the pandemic is not an easy task. The United States is considered a high-risk country by many others, presenting difficulties when attempting overseas travel. It is important to consider that country rules and regulations are changing rapidly, some even[…]

WARNING: Websites offering PDF document editing for passport forms

There are numerous websites that you may come across that are made to look like websites where you can apply for your passport, they are all in fact selling you a high priced PDF editor that is completely unnecessary and may even get your application suspended if you use it. Google has been allowing these websites to advertise unabated for some time now, in fact Adwords has become infested with these websites even though a PDF editor is completely unnecessary and of no use for filling out your passport application. The Department of State offers an online application form filler tool that you can fill out, make corrections if[…]

Passport Application considerations now that Covid-19 vaccines are readily available. Longer delays expected.

Now that vaccines are readily available and more and more of the US population is being vaccinated each week; travel, specifically International travel is going to quickly rebound. With the rebound in International travel, passport processing times are also going to increase. I figured it was time to provide an update again as people are starting to travel and daily domestic travelers are getting close to pre-pandemic levels again. Americans pent up thirst to “get the hell out of Dodge” is just going to add to the backlog of passport applications at the passport agency this summer. Processing times have already been running extra-long at 10-12 weeks for standard[…]

10 Important Digital Steps to Take to Improve Your Personal and Property Security When Traveling in 2021 and beyond

With over 3 billion Facebook accounts and over 1 billion Instagram users, we have never been more connected in the online world. Whilst the majority of social media sharing is harmless fun, it is important to know the dangers of oversharing online, especially when traveling. What can seem like an innocent photo upload or a meaningless quick tweet can quickly develop into actionable intelligence for criminals. Announcing Your Travel Plans is Giving Criminals an Invitation We are all guilty of oversharing on social media. With no trip to the airport feeling complete without the obligatory Instagram post. We regularly share intimate details about our vacation without even giving it[…]

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