Determining If You Require New Pages For United States Passport
Tuesday, February 21st, 2012Often times, people who travel frequently find themselves in need of additional pages for their passport document. This is often preferred as apposed to applying for a new passport. This is because your passport has not expired yet. However, there are some things that you should know before getting new pages for pasport.
Four Pages or Less
One of the most important things you must realize is that your document should have less than four visa pages remaining which will signify the need to get more. If this is not the case, you cannot make such an application. If your document satisfies this condition, you can prepare for the application.
What You Need
This process, just like applying for a new document, requires a fee to have your application processed. Your current passport is also required because the new pages will be added to it. Applicants must fill out form DS-4085 and complete all sections accurately. The form provides the address to be used when sending in your existing traveling document.
Critical Care
Since you will be submitting the document via mail, it is important to ensure you use a method that allows tracing of the package. Choosing this option will prove invaluable in case of shipment problems. If possible, you should also opt for a secure mailing option since it is the only way you can be sure that the contents of your document are protected.
At or Near Expiration
Application for additional pages can also be done when your document expires although most people opt for it when their passports are still valid. This is done by making a request for additional pages to be added to the old passport while the new document is being processed. This is common among people who travel frequently. The best process, however, is to apply for a new passport at least six months prior to it expiring.
Written Request Required
In order to be successful following this option, you have to submit a written request detailing your objective of getting these pages added to your document. For those who are sure of their eligibility, you can save time by filling out the DS-82 forms and mailing them to the proper address. Those who are not eligible and want to save time can still go to the website and download the DS-11 forms that they can fill out and take to the passport offices in person.
Again, Traceable Mail
For eligible applicants who mail their forms, it is advisable to use a mailing option that is traceable and reliable. This will save you major loses in case a problem arises in the delivery. It is important to use mailing options that are secure so your United States passport renewal will be safe from unauthorized use and to give you peace of mind.