2020-21 was a strange year for all and the uncertainty of it affected a vast number of industries. With global lockdowns in effect, the travel industry was virtually shut down too.
However, 2021 brought upon us the light at the end of a\the lockdown tunnel and travel has begun booming once again. That being said, if you’ve never had a passport, have snoozed and let your passport expire, or it’s close to expiring, there’s no time like the now to fix that and make up for lost time.
Without a doubt, the U.S has some unbelievable sights to see. Each U.S. state has its charm, and some beaches look straight out of every tropical dream. But if you’ve been procrastinating or keep pondering whether to make that international trip, let the pent-up cabin fever of 2020 be your reason to go for it— because YOLO.
Due to COVID, the passport application process has seen some changes that are important to note, but not to worry we’ve compiled all the important details. Let’s get started!
Getting Your Passport
First off, the turnaround time from the time of passport application or renewal to the time of you should expect to receive your passport is longer than before. If you are renewing your passport, you have the advantage of renewing it online. Some people still prefer to renew their passport by mail and if that rings true to you, this will help. However, if you are a newbie you will need to apply in person. The process might seem a bit overwhelming but we’ve got you covered.
When planning your vacation, make sure that you coordinate your renewal/application accordingly because regular service for your passport can take up to 18 weeks! For an additional fee, you have the option to expedite your passport, but just how soon you will receive it depends on several factors.
If you seek to expedite your passport, make sure to do your due diligence. Many independent companies offer expedited service, but all at varying prices and with varying guarantees. Make sure that you seek out a registered passport expediting service. Usually, individuals who are seeking to get expedited service are desperate to get their passport to meet a specific time frame and, unfortunately, their desperation makes them easy prey. Like any other online transaction, you should keep your wits about you when scouting a company and do your research before submitting personal information and paying any money.
Now that we’ve discussed the time expectancy, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of what you will need and need to do when applying for your passport. A passport is probably the most formal ID type so you will need to prove your identity not just in one way, but two. You will need to show proof of citizenship and an ID, such as a driver’s license or military ID.
You will also need to provide a passport photo. Although there are a variety of programs online that allow you to snap your own passport photo, submitting a selfie or polaroid will definitely not do. We recommend you leave it to the pros and just pay a visit to your local drugstore or mailbox and delivery store to get a proper passport photo taken. You can find answers to specific questions about passport photo requirements here.
Along with your passport photos you will need to submit your completed application form. You can get your hands on the form online by clicking here and printing it or you could pick one up at your local post office. Once, you’ve got your form filled, forms of identification ready, and photos taken, you will just need to set your appointment to get everything submitted.
Not all post offices offer passport appointments so to save time we recommend that you check out this nifty tool to help you locate a place nearest to you where you can make an appointment. During your appointment, you will submit all of your documents, pay your passport fees, and “voila!” You can calculate your passport fee here by simply answering a few short questions.
Keep in mind that mail times vary and delays happen so always be prepared, plan, and give yourself plenty of time. The last thing you want is to plan the perfect trip and have it pass you by because your passport isn’t ready. Contact our Denver travel agency to speak with a representative and let us get you vacationing—you deserve it.
