PLAN AHEAD – PASSPORT DELAYS CAN BE LENGTHY

This is the second part of the Passport issue - prices and time frame for processing.

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According to Travel State.gov (US National Passport Information Center: (1-877-487-2778 or 877-4USA-PPT) processing time for an American Passport is 6-weeks – a fast tracked application can be processed in 3 working days for $60.00 more – but postal or courier time could extend this timeframe to two-weeks. However, with the present high demand for new passports, the ‘experts’ suggest applicants apply several months before their trip.

To obtain an American passport for the first time, you need to appear in person to one of over 8,000 passport acceptance facilities located throughout the United States. Applications can be Printed On-line Renewals do not have to be in person.

Canadian details to obtain a Passport can be found at Passports.ca (1-800 567 – 6868). Prior to the new US requirements, scheduled processing time was between 10-20 working days from the time it reaches the Passport office – mail and courier excluded. However with the rush for residents trying to comply with the new regulations, Passport offices are under a very heavy workload. Due to the sharp volume increase in applications Passport Canada has added up to 25 business days - maybe longer to the processing period.

In Canada you can also print a Passport Application On-line or pick an application form at any Canada Post outlet or Service Canada Centre.

Full details for filing Passports in either country can be found at Travel State.gov (USA) and Passports.ca (Canada) – follow links.

Costs For Americans

After age 16 the application fee is $67. plus an execution fee is $30 = $97.00. The application fee includes the $12.00 Security Surcharge as of March 8, 2005. Under age 16 application fee drops to $52.00 plus the execution fee of $30.00 = $82.00. This Passport is good for 10 years.

Costs for Canadians
Fees for adults over 16 cost is $87.00 for a 24-page Passport (a 48-page passport can be requested if you collect many visa stamps for $92.00), Children 3-15 is $37.00 (48-page = $39) and under 3 years old $22 (48-page = $24). Canadian Passport expires in 5 years.

NOTE: Plans are underway on both sides of the border to change Passport requirements for children under age 15. The new requirement is expected to be a special Identity card. Time will tell where this leads to.

Peggi McDonald is WebHost of RVLiving.net and author of several RV books including RV Travel to Canada E-Book – next update Spring 2007 see RV Bookstore for details.