Do You Really Need a Second US Passport?
There are a few tricks that make sense – like using the M obile Passport app to go through any customs line, or booking a flight on a Tuesday when flights can be cheapest – but what about getting a second US passport?
Million Mile Secrets plunged into the process of obtaining a second passport this week; If you travel frequently or are pressed for time, another form of identification while traveling abroad may be useful.
However, you are probably fine with one passport, and there is a good chance that you are not even eligible to get a second one. Here’s what you need to know about getting another passport and the very rare occasions when you may need one.
You may need a second passport if you are awaiting a tourist visa.
According to Million Mile Secrets, in order to receive a second passport, you must be eligible to apply for one of three reasons:
- If you have a stamp from one country that prohibits you from entering another. For example, countries in the Middle East such as Lebanon will refuse entry if an Israeli stamp or visa is found on your passport.
- If frequent international travel prevents you from sending your passport for a visa, because you need it to visit another country.
- If your job requires you to travel constantly, for example, as a pilot or as a reporter.
In other words, second passports are usually for those who really need them . In the case of a tourist visa, you may need to send your original passport to the local embassy, which explains why a second passport may be required, especially in connection with the upcoming trip.
If your reason for applying does not fit any of these circumstances, unfortunately you cannot get another passport (which means you cannot simply apply for a replacement because you fear you might lose your original).
If you are eligible, you must provide documents proving your eligibility, having an application and any other supporting documents (such as travel itinerary) ready when applying for a second passport.
You should be aware that there are some restrictions for a second passport as well. For example, it is only valid for two years and cannot be renewed . Also, when entering the country, be sure to use the same passport as when leaving, otherwise you may run into problems at the airport.
You will need to provide proof of citizenship and pay additional fees.
Even if you qualify, you should be aware that the Department of State does not simplify the process and considers each request (and possible denial) on a case-by-case basis.
You can apply by mail and mail all forms to the National Passport Processing Center, although you can also make an appointment at your nearest U.S. Passport Office to apply in person. (Check your local agency online to be sure.)
If you’re still curious, here are the steps you need to take, as written by Afar :
Complete the DS-82 Passport Application Form by mail or online . To complete this form – the same one used for the passport renewal process – you must already have a valid and intact 10-year passport.
Provide proof of US citizenship and a new passport photo. If you need your primary passport at the time of application, you can provide a certified copy of your birth certificate or government ID. The standard size for a US passport photograph is 2 “x 2” and all photographs must be printed on photographic paper in accordance with the directives of the Department of State.
Submit your “Second Passport Request Letter” to the US Department of State. In this letter, it is necessary to describe and justify the specific reason why the applicant needs a duplicate passport (it is necessary to indicate confirmation of travel plans, for example, a flight route). The applicant must sign the letter of request and include a statement that any loss or theft of the primary or secondary passport will be immediately reported to the passport office or the nearest U.S. embassy, consulate or consular office .
You will also have to pay an additional $ 110 check to the Department of State.
There are also internet es services that will do some running and speed up the process on your behalf, although they can charge you steep fees. You can also pay to have your second passport delivered to you directly; just do not forget to indicate this in your application and pay the additional cost.