Passports
There has been a lot of talk about new passports and how long they are valid. At this time, US citizens are not required to have the new passport type until 2009. But until then, this is what you need to know: To travel to Europe, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after you plan to return from your trip. This is true for cruises and group tours as well. For up-to-date information, go to US Passport office
If you need to expedite obtaining your passport, you do not need to use any special commercial passport services. They are costly and unnecessary. The US system will expedite your passport if necessary. Go to (or call) your local passport office. These offices are generally located in the main post office of your city.
Most passport offices have everything you need to get your passport in person, including passport photo capabilities. If you are applying for passports for your children, BOTH parents must accompany the children to the passport office. This may seem silly, but there have been instances of one parent taking children out of the country without the other parent’s permission. This rule helps to counteract that problem.
Renewing your passport can be easily done by mail if you:
- Already have a passport that is not damaged; and
- Received it within the past 15 years; and
- Were at least age 16 when it was issued; and
- Still have the same name as on the passport (or you can legally document your name change).
Otherwise, you will need to re-apply in person
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