Beitel travel advice

If you’re planning to do any international travelling, you’re going to need a passport.  However, many people don’t know exactly what getting a passport entails, and once they find out, they realise that they can’t get their passport in time for their international trip.  If you’re looking to travel abroad, here are some things you need to know about getting a passport.

First of all, it takes time.  It’s best to start your passport application a good nine months to a year before you really need your passport.  True, there are often ways of expediting the process (usually be paying an express fee), but you still need to start the process three to six months before your trip.  There is a good amount of paperwork to fill out, but the main thing is processing time.  It simply takes a while for the paperwork to get through all of the necessary offices.  Also, you need to include a few months extra to handle any problems with your paperwork.

Second, be sure to read all of the requirements for the passport photo.  It’s your responsibility to take this photo and include it with your application.  There are restrictions on what you can wear (no hats, for example) and on the size of the photo.  If your photo doesn’t fit the requirements, your application will be put on hold until you correct the issue.

Finally, once you have your passport, be careful not to lose it.  I’m not talking about losing it while travelling, although that can be a very real concern.  Some people actually put their passport away in a “safe” place before their trip and then can’t find it when they need it.  Yes, you want to put your passport somewhere safe, but be sure you know where it is so you don’t panic the day before your trip.