Traveling Internationally For Business Or Pleasure - A U.s. Passport Application The Initial Step

International travel reports show that in 2008

, over 922 million people traveled, an increase of 1.9% from the previous year. Travel declined 4% in 2009 to 880 million tourists. The United States, Spain, France, Italy, China, Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia, Turkey and Austria were the top travel destinations. Whether traveling for business or leisure, Americans traveling abroad must complete a passport application form.

Despite the downturn in travel, the travel forecast from the World Tourism Organization predicts an average annual escalation rate of 4%. The travel industry has become more responsive to consumers with custom travel options. Culinary tourism, medical tourism, wildlife tourism, heritage tours, spiritual tourism and similar travel niches have emerged to meet travel tastes. Business and leisure travel have expanded to meet global travel interests.

The reason for travel along with destination can dictate the type of trip planning research needed. Some travelers are going abroad for short term or long term work and others are traveling for academic reasons. Still others are making cultural trips to explore art in Amsterdam or medical tourism in Brazil for inexpensive cosmetic surgery. The destination will determine which international travel identification, visa and immunizations are needed. The State Department and the World Health Organization advise tourists about country specific conditions and requirements.

People can apply either in person or by mail depending on whether it is the first application or a renewal. If it is the first time and you are under age 16 or if a previous one was obtained when you were under the age of 16, you must apply in person, not by mail. If under 18, you'll need to use a child passport application. If a previous passport was stolen, lost or damaged or if it was issued more than 15 years ago, you must also appear in person.

The forms used by the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Passport Services depend on individual needs. The Form DS-11 Application for a U. S. Passport is for first timers. The Form DS-82 Application is for a U. S. Passport by Mail that is a renewal. Form DS-4085 Application is required for additional Visa pages. Form DS-5504 is a form to change the name, correct data, and replace a limited travel document. Form DS-64 is used to provide a statement about loss or theft of the travel identification document. Form DS-3053 is used when minors under 16 are applying for the travel identification document.

The standard duration to process documents for travel is about 4-6 weeks. Adults will complete DS-11 by completing online and printing or printing and completing manually. The document should not be signed until a person appears at the processing center and signature is witnessed by an agent. The completed but not signed form, proof of U. S. Citizenship, valid identification, a copy of front and back of identification, along with two passport photos and payment should be transported to the processing agent. Details of acceptable proof and identification are listed on the form and on the website.

Reputable facilities, agents, required fees and payment methods can be obtained from the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website or via its agents. As a processing facility, the U.S. Postal Service can accept applications and supporting documents and typically provides the required 2x2 inch head shots for a small fee. The photographs can be provided instantly, on site when submitting everything.

by: Ben Pate

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