How To Get A Passport Expedited

by erin on January 14, 2011

Surprises happen all the time in life and it is best to know how to deal with them before they are upon you. If you find yourself in a situation where you have to make an international trip but do not have the necessary documents to do so, you can simply get a passport expedited. Although this is helpful in a crunch, it is best to plan ahead and avoid this route if at all possible.

It generally takes a few weeks to receive your document after you send the application. This is because it can take a while for your application to be mailed to the consulate before it even begins to be processed. You then have to wait for it to be shipped back to you. Skip all of this waiting by expediting the process and opting for quicker shipping.

When applying for any passport, you absolutely have to have 2 small photos. They have to be the correct size and style so it is best if you get them taken at FedEx. Companies such as FedEx actually have little booths that are designed specifically for this type of photo. The photos will be included in your application and used in the actual document once you receive it.

Even when you are speeding up the application process, you still need to fill out the application. The form is called a DS-11 and you can get it from most post offices. If you want to print out the application, it can be found on the consulate’s website. Just make sure that the form you print out is an updated form and you understand how to fill it out completely.

Gather all the documents you have acquired up until now including your photos, your application and your birth certificate. Put them all in a package and ship them overnight. You have to clarify which type of service you would like, regular, expedited or same day. However, if you want same day service, you should deliver the application personally.

In order to ensure that the consulate gives your application priority, you have to pay an extra fee. This will make sure that you get your document in time. You have to mark your envelope so they know you are applying for speedy service and send it for overnight delivery. You can either go to pick up the document yourself or send an envelope with postage so the consulate can send your document back.

Do not send in your application if you need the document in less than two weeks. Your best bet is to go to the consulate and try to get your document that same day. You can cut out shipping time and hopefully have it in your hand by the end of the day.

Whenever planning a trip, it is best to get things like this dealt with ahead of time. Although it is possible to expedite passport service, it is easier to deal with it the old fashion way. Only use the special expedited passport renewal services when they are absolutely necessary.

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