Everyone needs a passport. "Even me?", you are wondering. Yes, here's why you and your family should be prepared with a passport:
- You may be called unexpectedly to the missionary field, or a global emergency, in a foreign country.
- You may win a vacation, and can't go until you have a passport.
- You may need to travel out of the country for a family member's emergency while traveling abroad.
- You may want to take a trip to Mexico, Canada, or the Caribbean on short notice.
To strengthen border security, the United States implemented new laws requiring all travelers to have a passport for entry into the U.S. Soon passports will be required for all air, sea, AND land border crossings.
For instance, you could drive to Mexico, and be stuck there - not able to return back into the U.S. without a passport.
To get your passport now (instructions for CA):
1. Get a certified copy birth certificate. You will need to get an original, stamped copy from the county in which you were born. The easiest place is online at www.VitalCheck.com and the fees vary to $25.
2. Get your passport photos taken. Agencies which take passport photos include: Kinko's, The UPS Store, Long's Drugs, and various pack & ship stores. The cost is about $10 per set of 2 photos.
3. Apply for your passport. You will have to complete application form DS-11, submit your birth certificate, and submit your passport photos to a government agency. Bring your photo ID with you, and sign the application AT the office. You can apply at U.S. Post Offices (first make an appointment) and at your local County Clerk's office. Note: application form and info: www.travel.state.gov.
4. You will have to submit 2 fees with your application - $97 total (children under 16 are $82). "Rush" service costs additional. Note: children under 14 also need parental ID in office.
Your passport takes 6 weeks to arrive. Many folks will soon be applying due to the restrictive new border laws, which could increase processing time. So apply now, don't delay!
Once you receive your passport, keep it in a safe place, such as a safe deposit box (take it out before your trip!). When traveling with your passport, secure it in a passport holder. Remember it's very valuable, and difficult to replace.
Most importantly: enjoy your trip, learn about other cultures, and return home with a "global" education!
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Regina P. Brown
Broker, Realtor®, e-Pro
Author of eBook "Stop Foreclosure Fast: Solutions to Save your House"
Text copyright © 2009 R.P. Brown, All Rights Reserved
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