It’s always rewarding to plan a client’s first family vacation or book that bucket list trip they’ve been dreaming about for years. If your clients are new to international travel, passports can be confusing. The following tips will help you keep your clients informed before they head abroad.
1. Where can you apply for a passport?
If your clients are applying for their passports for the first time, they will need to submit their application in person. Their local post office and government offices can accept applications, as well as some library systems. Your clients can use this tool to find a facility in their area.
For renewals, eligible U.S. citizens can complete the process online, but the mail-in option is also available.
2. How long does it take to get a passport?
Checking the official site for both routine and expedited processing times is very helpful, as these can vary depending on a variety of circumstances. If your clients opt to apply for a expedited service at an additional fee, they are likely to receive it more quickly but that is never guaranteed.
Always remind your clients to check their expiration date a few months before they travel to ensure they will have enough time to renew and receive a new passport if needed. Passports issued to travelers 16 and older are valid for 10 years, while those issued to travelers under 16 are only valid for 5 years.
3. What’s the difference between a passport book and a passport card?
A passport book is the only document that is approved for international air travel. It is required for any travel to Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, South America, and Antarctica.
A passport card is a wallet-sized document that can be used to re-enter the United States by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. It cannot be used for air travel to these destinations. The card’s original purpose was to serve those who live close to these borders and must cross them frequently.
Some travelers may be tempted to apply for a card because it is less expensive, but in most cases, it will not meet the requirements for travel. It is important to remind cruising clients that in the event of an emergency, they will not be able to fly without a book. It takes the same amount of time to receive a card as it would the book.
4. Do children need a passport to travel?
Yes. Any person traveling internationally needs a passport, no matter how young they are. A minor under 16 will need to have parental or a legal guardian’s consent to apply. Those under 16 must also apply for their passport in person when applying for the first time and when applying for a renewal.
5. How can you keep your passport safe while traveling?
It’s recommended that you only carry your passport when you need it. In all other cases, it should be locked away. When carrying your passport, it is a good idea to use a cover with RFID shielding to prevent scanning.
You should also be sure to make your passport difficult to reach when carrying it. Keep it in an internal zipped pocket of your purse, in a money belt, or deep down in the bottom of your travel bag. Make sure not to leave it in your luggage or another bag that could be easily taken or lost.
6. What to do if your passport is lost or stolen?
If your clients lose their passport or suspect it was stolen, they should report it according to the instructions from travel.state.gov. Once a passport is reported lost or stolen, it is invalid and cannot be used for travel. The holder must apply for their new passport in person.
If your client’s passport is lost or stolen when traveling internationally, they should follow these steps.
7. Where can my clients and I find out more about passports?
For more information on forms, fees, and wait times, visit travel.state.gov. There you can also find more frequently asked questions and the most up-to-date information.