Let’s Dive Right In

A lot of families haven’t taken their kids on international trips, simply because getting through all the paperwork just seems too long and daunting! But I promise, not only is it easier than you think, it will be so worth it to power through! That way when a great opportunity for an adventure comes along, you are already set to go!

So here is my one stop shop for where to find all the info you need to get those passports in hand ASAP!

Yes, you do have to apply in person if you meet any of this criteria:

First Time Applicants: If your passport was issued when you were under 16 and expired, your passport was lost, or it was issued more than 15 years ago, you must apply in person.

Children Under 16: Passports expire every 5 years (but you MUST renew it 6 months BEFORE it expires or you can’t use it for travel in most countries, so check those dates!!!). And yes…you must apply in person each time until they are 16.

Teens Age 16-17: Passports are valid for 10 years and you most likely must apply in person.

Adult Passport Renewals: In most circumstances, you can renew your passport by mail! Adult passports are valid for 10 years.

The State Department Website is easy to follow and will walk you through all of these steps:

  1. Fill out the required form.

  2. Collect the documents (i.e. birth certificates, or other proof of citizenship) *You will get the original back with your passport!

  3. Get your picture (any pharmacy will do this for about $10…random lesson learned the hard way? Your shirt has to have sleeves)

  4. Calculate payment and write your check correctly! *One check for each person!

  5. Find the nearest passport acceptance facility and make an appointment. *If you are applying for your child, BOTH parents must go with the child to the appointment…UNLESS you fill out and have THIS FORM notarized (said from experience!)

Expedited Service

General “expedited service” takes the time to get your passports down from the estimated 10 weeks to 4-6 weeks for an extra $60/passport. It’s a gamble whether its worth it since my fellow travel mommas have told me they typically get the passports in less than 10 weeks even without paying the extra fee. So, it just depends on if you can risk it or not??

If you happen to pull out your kid's passport as you are getting ready to leave on your trip and realize that it has expired…after you finish your nervous breakdown…there IS hope if you happen to live somewhere near a Passport Agency! You can see where the passport agencies are located and make an appointment here. I happen to have needed this service TWICE, and it was far less painful than I had expected.

There are lots of companies out there that will offer to “expedite” or “help” with the passport application process. I do NOT advise this! I was fortunate enough to speak with a very honest person at one of these companies who reminded me that you will STILL do all of the steps yourself, and STILL need to go in person, so really all you are getting for your $300+ is someone to show you the State Department website! Save your money and spend it on your amazing trip!

Visas

This website has up to date information on Visa Requirements By Country. They also provide help applying for the visa if you determine you need one. This IS a service I would pay for if you need it!

I promise, it really is as simple as clicking the links above, filling out the paperwork, and a short one hour appointment to get 5 years (or more for yourself) of travel opportunity! If you need any extra help navigating this process, or planning the amazing adventure you are dreaming about now that you have your passports, let me help you!

Bon Voyage,