Did you know that you can apply for a new passport before or after your old passport expires? All you have to do is fill out the US passport renewal application form. It is not unsurprising to realize at the last minute that your passport is about to expire, but you can still apply and get a new one as soon as possible.
Reasons For Passport Renewals
As a US citizen, you can apply for a new passport for the following reasons.
Expired Passport: If your current passport has expired, it cannot be used for future trips or as a means of identification. You can apply for a new one from the Department of State.
Change of name: If you have changed your name by reasons of divorce or any other reason, your current password can no longer be of use to you; in such a situation, you require a new passport. However, you will have to provide evidence to back up your name change, like a marriage or divorce certificate or a court order to that effect.
The document must be in your name.
Second Passport: if you travel frequently, you may apply for a second passport, but only if you meet the criteria of the Department of State. This is not a renewal in a real sense but a duplication exercise.
Damaged Passport: If your current passport is damaged, you can apply for a replacement. To replace a damaged passport, the old one must be presented along with a completed application form.
Lost or stolen: Your passport may have been stolen, or you lost it. Instead of renewing it, you will have to replace it with a new one. Although you will not have the old one to present, a series of information and documents will be required, such as a driver’s license issued no later than 6 months prior.
How To Apply For A US Passport Renewal
If you want to apply for a renewal, you will have to fill out the DS-82 online application form. This can either be done online or via a physical application form. All fields must be filled with none left blank. Endeavor to provide only accurate information, as wrong information may lead to application rejection. A barcode generated for online applications must be included in the form; otherwise, the application will be rejected.
Embassy Application: You may submit the completed application form alongside the required documents to the embassy if you are abroad or mail it to the Department of State in Washington.
Renewal Agency: Another option is to use the services of a reputable renewal agency. Renewal agencies can help you expedite the process so you don’t have to wait too long. The application process visa VisaHQ is straightforward and takes less time. Just follow these steps.
Log onto VisaHQ
Navigate to the passport renewal page
Select the US as your country
Print out and fill out the DS-82 passport renewal form
Attach a colored passport photo
Attach the bio-data page of your current passport
Place the old passport, application form, and any other document in a package
Mail the documents to VisaHQ Passport Services
It is important to place your order for renewal as quickly as possible if you plan to travel. You may also pay for expedited service processing to fast-track the application process. Furthermore, you must submit your renewal application at least 5-7 working days before your travel date.
US Passport Renewal Application Requirements
Here are the requirements for those looking to renew their US passport.
Completed Application Form: A signed and completed DS-82 application form is required. Only accurate information and details will be accepted. Online applications must have the generated security barcode.
Proof of Identity: A valid document must be presented to prove identity, such as your old passport, citizenship certificate, naturalization certificate, or driver’s license not older than 6 months old.
Letter of Authorization: A letter of Authorization completed and signed by you.
Photograph: Two recent passport photographs showing your face clearly without any facial covering. Only recent photographs taken within the last 6 months will be accepted.
US Passport Renewal Eligibility
Only passports issued within the last 15 years can be renewed. Any passport issued more than 15 years before the renewal application is submitted will not be accepted. Secondly, the applicant must have been 16 years old, at least when the previous passport was issued, and not younger than 16. Those who have changed their names must provide a marriage or divorce certificate to prove their identity. Lastly, a mutilated or damaged passport cannot be accepted as proof of identity.
If you want your US passport renewal application expedited on your behalf, visit VisaHQ now to complete the passport application form.