How Can a Foreigner Get a US Passport?
A US passport is a highly secure travel document. It enables you to enter other countries and return to the U.S.
To get a passport, you must apply in person at a passport
acceptance facility. These can include state government offices, public
libraries and post offices.
Citizenship
Citizenship is a legal status that grants a person the right
to live in a particular country. It can be conferred at birth or by
'naturalisation' and in some states it may also bring with it rights such as
voting or welfare.
Citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis) is a form of
citizenship that may be granted to people born outside the state but with one
or both parents being citizens of the state. Some states limit this right to a
number of generations, while others grant it freely.
The United States is in the minority of countries that still
grant birthright citizenship. This means that anyone who was born on United
States soil regardless of whether or not they break any laws is a citizen of the
United States.
Requirements
There are a number of ways that a foreigner can get a US
passport. One of the easiest and quickest ways is to apply for citizenship by
naturalization.
Applicants must meet all the required citizenship
requirements and provide proof of their United States birth. This can include a
birth certificate or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
The applicant must also submit a photo that meets specific
passport photo requirements. This photo should be clear, front view and show
the applicant's full face.
A photograph that is digitized can also be submitted.
However, it must be free of visible dots that distort the image.
The application process for a US passport is relatively
simple and involves submitting a completed application form, citizenship
evidence, a photocopy of ID, and a photograph. Fees are then paid in person at
a passport acceptance facility.
Application process
A US passport is one of the strongest travel documents
available. It allows a holder to travel to 185 countries visa-free.
The process of getting a US passport is very simple. It
requires the submission of application Form DS-11, proof of citizenship, and a
passport photo to a passport acceptance facility.
This process can be completed in person or by mail. It
typically takes 4 to 6 weeks for routine processing, and upwards of 10 weeks
for expedited service.
You should also be aware that there are a number of fees
associated with the passport process. These can vary based on your age, whether
you are a first-time applicant, and where you apply.
For the best possible experience, make sure you take your
time and complete your application properly. Using the wrong form may delay the
processing of your passport.
Fees
The fees associated with obtaining a US passport vary depending
on the service you need. These fees can be paid by personal check, cashier’s
check, money order or credit card, depending on where you are applying.
A passport application can take 4 to 6 weeks, but applicants
can accelerate the process by requesting expedited service. Using this option
will require a higher fee, but you’ll be assured of receiving your travel
document in just a few weeks.
Children under the age of 16 must apply for their passports
in person with Form DS-11, along with a parent or guardian. This means they
must be accompanied by someone who can provide a government-issued photo ID and
certify that they are aware their child will receive a passport.
The list of general passport requirements is just an
introduction to what you need to get a US passport. Select the type of service
that you need from the menu in the left column for more specific instructions.