6 Tips To Do For Faster Updates On Passport Rules

Applying or updating your passport in a timely manner may be easier said than done temporarily thanks to big spikes in apps, but following some of the lesser known passport rules might help.

Do you know how to take a valid passport photo, for example, and which documents should be included with your form? Plus, there's one big change scheduled this year that can bring your entire online update process.

1. Know When to Apply

The first step for passport renewal is to recognize when you need it. Know when your passport is out of date, especially if you're visiting a country that requires a six-month passport to enter this country, like Brazil and Botswana. Unique passport rules also apply to people who may not look like their photos anymore. The State Department says on its website that you are responsible for the following changes to your appearance:

You may have to apply for a new passport if you have one:

• Undergone significant facial or traumatic surgery
• Add or remove lots of face piercings or tattoos or tattoos
• Undergone large amounts of weight loss or gain
• Through gender transition

2. Remove the Glasses

The following two rules are to take a valid passport photo, which seems to be a rather difficult achievement to achieve. "Photos that do not meet our requirements are the number one reason the app is removed from standard processing," Brosnahan told me. "We want to avoid as many delays as you do."

The latest major change to passport rules is that glasses are no longer allowed in your photos. The rules come into effect in November 2016, and of course also apply to sunglasses. Other passport rules for your photos include size, lighting, and background white or white.

3. Smile, But Not Too Much

Yes, you can smile in your passport photo-not too big. Passport rules for photos determine that your face has "neutral expression or a natural smile, with both eyes open."

"Contrary to popular belief, we have no rules for not smiling!" Said Brosnahan. "We're just looking for a natural expression with both eyes open, with a full face look, that realistically portrays the passport holder."

4. Pay the New Fee

The State Department recently announced that some of the fees for processing passports increased by $ 10. According to Brosnahan, it includes "all of the first passport applicants, all children under 16 years old (first time and renewal), and any adult renewing passport aged over 15. This does not affect anyone using the DS-82 form, which is a standard adult renewal and done by mail. "

5. Do not Forget Your Supporting Documents

Some passport renewal applications require that you collect supporting documents, such as proof of citizenship or signed personal statements. The latter is necessary if you wear religious clothing that may be deemed to consider your passport photo invalid, and those who can not remove goggles or other items for medical reasons may send doctor notes for exceptions.

6. Keep Eye Out for Online Updates

Anyone with internet access, rejoice: You may soon apply for an extension of your passport without sending anything. An online passport extension has been discussed for a while now, with a soft release rumored in mid-2018. Brosnahan told me that "an online passport extension is a planned update to be released in the near future."