Replacing A Stolen Or Lost Passport
Wednesday, September 28th, 2011When even the most experienced traveler loses his or her passport, panic may ensue. However, replacements are easy to obtain and may even be expedited so that travel plans may continue as scheduled. The US State Department recommends the immediate reporting of a stolen or lost US online passport in order to avert an identity theft situation.
Form DS-64
People should start by filling out Form DS-64. The form has spaces for personal information, the card and book numbers for old passports and a paragraph explaining where, when and how the documents were lost. People must also explain any actions they took in an attempt to recover their passports. The form may be mailed to the State department, if travelers are not immediately seeking new documentation and the address is available on the State Department website.
Form DS-11
Those applying for new passports should submit their DS-64, along with Form DS-11. Form DS-11 should be left unsigned and signed only in the presence of the acceptance agent. To provide proof of US citizenship, citizens will have to bring identification to the agency. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, government or military ID or a naturalization certificate. Certain secondary forms of ID may also be accepted including a social security card, an employee ID card or a letter from an identifying witness. Applicants should also be prepared to pay the accompanying fee.
Photocopies Of ID
Applicants must photocopy their identifying documentation. The photocopy should have images of both the back and front of identifying documents and should be printed on white 8 1/2 by 11 inch paper. Images may be increased in size but may not be decreased in size. Also, images may only appear on one side of the page and the page must be clear of other markings or images.
Photograph
For replacement passports, the State Department will need a photograph. Each photograph must reflect an applicant’s current physical appearance and must meet strict State Department guidelines. For most photos, the State Department recommends using a professional photo service.
In Person Or Online?
Applicants replacing lost or stolen passports must apply in person. If scheduled to travel within two weeks, people may set appointments with a regional passport office. Appointments are made using an automated process after which applicants are given an office address, appointment time and confirmation number. Applicants should bring all documentation, including a copy of their travel itinerary or e-ticket and should expect to pay the regular fee plus an additional rush fee.
Expedited Services
Travelers may use a private expediter to secure a lost passports replacement. Before hiring any expediter, applicants should verify the company’s telephone number in addition to asking for a thorough explanation of rates. Often, customers post helpful comments about their experiences with expediters online, which will help applicants with the screening process.
Whatever the circumstances, losing a passport may be an unsettling experience. Reporting the loss right away and replacing documentation quickly will ensure that people experience no delays or identity theft issues because of the stolen or lost U S online passport. To find more detailed information, people may check the US Department of State website or contact their nearest agency. You can always get an expedited new pass port.