Passport Notice

How can you take care of your passport during your travel? Below are some practical tips you can follow to acquire your passport, keep it in your possession, and preserve it in good condition.

1. Check to see if you even need a passport. Currently, more than 80% of the world's countries require a valid passport for entrance. It's important to verify the foreign entry requirements for the country you plan to visit as early as possible.
2. Apply for your passport early. You should apply for a new passport at least 90 days before your departure date. For a renewal, begin the process 8 to 11 months before your passport expires.
3. Fill out the correct passport form correctly. Each type of passport service has specific criteria that must be met. Make sure you get the right application form, and then fill it in carefully.
4. Follow the passport document instructions exactly.
5. Sign both the passport application form and your check.
6. Sign your passport and fill out the emergency information.
7. Make two copies of your passport and photos. Give one copy of your passport to a friend or relative who can be easily contacted in case of an emergency. Take the other copy and the extra photos with you on your trip.
8. Always keep your passport in a safe place! Never leave your passport in your baggage, backpack, purse, car, hotel room, or anywhere else! When you must carry your passport, keep it in a money belt or inside coat pocket. Upon arrival at the hotel, put your passport in the hotel safe.

9. Never lay your passport down anywhere. Passports placed on a counter, phone booth or table can be easily forgotten or stolen. Practice the habit of immediately putting your passport away after using it.
10. The odds are much greater for one person carrying all the passports to lose them or have them stolen than for all the passports to be stolen or lost if each individual owner carries them.
11. Never let anyone leave your presence with your passport.
12. Immediately report the loss of your passport. If it does occur though, immediately notify the local police and then proceed to the nearest Embassy or Consulate. Take the copy of your passport and extra photos with you. You will be issued a temporary passport that you can replace upon returning back.
13. Schedule your passport renewal. Check the expiration date and make a reminder to renew your passport at the proper time. 14. Check the number of blank pages remaining in your passport.
15. Store your passport in a safe place. If you have a safe in your home, keep your passport there. If not, consider a safety deposit box at your local bank.

Follow the practical tips above and you can easily avoid passport problems and more fully enjoy your international travels.