The Easiest Way To Get New Passport Pages

It is no secret that traveling internationally requires the use of a passport. The secret comes in when one needs to figure out how to apply for this item. The Internet holds all of the answers in the form of documents and instructions on the U.S. Department of State Web site. The information is provided in a systematic fashion and is easy to read. Those who visit this site will also learn that they need to additional U.S. passport pages when blank sheets are running low.

When the passbook contains only two to four blank pages, it is time to get a refill. If the passbook is not due for renewal, the holder will need to have more blank sheets added to the current document. Those who do not travel frequently must remember to complete this task well in advance of embarking on an international trip.

Requesting additional sheets is not a complicated process and it can be done in several ways at varying costs. The passbook holder should go to the Web site for the Department of State and download form DS-4085. This form may be printed and legibly completed by hand or it may be filled out online and then printed. Mail is the only way to submit the completed form because electronic means are not currently accepted.

If obtaining the form via the Web is not possible, individuals may travel to the Passport Acceptance Facility or Agency in order to get a copy of the DS-4085. The completed form and current American passports must be submitted to the appropriate government agency for processing. There is no cost to get more passport pages through the standard government processing service. The documents should be sent in a secure package with confirmation of delivery that will allow the item to be tracked.

The government is currently working within a four to six week turnaround time for processing additional sheets. If a passbook holder needs the updated document within two to three weeks, he or she can pay a $60.00 fee for expedited government processing. To ensure that the item is provided expedited handling, 'expedite' should be written on the outside of the envelope. The package should be sent using an overnight mail service.

If three weeks is still too long, a passbook holder may opt for a rush processing service offered through a private company. Rush handling will provide the holder with the passbook containing additional sheets within as little as 24 hours. The passbook holder will need to pay the private company several hundred dollars for overnight processing, plus the $60.00 expediting fee charged by the government. In addition, shipping charges for overnight mail delivery will be incurred.

The forms required by the private company include the DS-4085, an authorization document, and possibly proof of travel. The authorization form serves as verification that the passbook holder has allowed the private company to handle the processing of the documents directly with the government. Proof of travel is required only of those who request less than a seven business day turnaround for the passbook. It includes either a verification letter from an employer regarding business travel, travel itinerary, or copy of the plane ticket.

The process of getting extra passport pages is not complicated, but it does require some time. It is best that a passbook holder complete and submit the DS-4085 form and pasport to the government as soon as the need for additional sheets is discovered. Expedited government processing or use of the rush service provided by a private company are alternatives that will shorten the processing time.