It’s time to renew that passport again! Here are 5 simple rules for making the process a breeze:
Know When to Renew
The last thing you need is an expired passport a month before you head out of the country. Be sure you give yourself approximately 8 weeks for the paperwork to process and your passport to be delivered, as some countries require at least 6 months of passport validity before and after your travel dates.
Take the Right Photo
If you’ve made some changes to your appearance, such as noticeable tattoos and piercings, significant weight loss or weight gain, gender transition, etc., you will need to renew your passport and photo. Some things to keep in mind when taking your photo is to remove your glasses (which can distort your facial features) and to have a natural facial expression. You’ll also want to make sure the photo was taken by someone else (no selfies) with a white or off-white background and no social media filters are applied.
Sending Payment
To renew your passport, you’ll need to pay the renewal fees, which winds up being around $110 for the book. This pertains to all first-time passport applicants, kids under the age of 16, and any adult renewing a passport that’s over 15 years old. Payments can be made with a personal check or money order directly to a passport acceptance facility, by mail, or a passport agency. For a further breakdown of costs and acceptable payment methods, click here.
Supporting Documents
In addition to a clear photo and payment, you’ll also want to provide any supporting documents, like citizenship evidence, your identification, or a signed personal statement to the State Department to avoid any hiccups or delays. For children under 16, you’ll need to prepare a Proof of Relationship form to show a parental relationship. You’ll also need to mail in your old passport with your documents as a part of the renewal process.
Use Your Legal Name
It’s very important to use the full legal name that’s on your identification or birth certificate when you apply for or renew your passport. You’ll also want to be sure the name on your airline ticket matches the name on your passport exactly. Think of the confusion that could arise when TSA sees two different names on your boarding pass and passport –eek! Be sure to review your passport for any spelling mistakes or errors as soon as you receive it, as any discrepancies could prevent you from getting to your final destination.
I hope you follow my passport renewal tips when the need arises! For more information on preparing for your next trip overseas, be sure to read up on what documents you might need. To book your next getaway with me, get in touch at kate@katestravel.com!
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