I have several international trips in the next six months. The expiration date on my passport is this summer. The rumor is that you cannot travel to many foreign countries with a passport that expires in less than six months. I checked it out and there is confusion on the topic online. Truth is that you can’t be assured of being able to travel where you may want to with a passport that expires in less than six months.
The math creates a problem for someone, (me) needing to travel internationally within the next couple of months. With any of the renewal options you must submit your current passport at the time of application.The standard passport renewal process intends to get the new passport to you in six to eight weeks. That can be expedited with an additional $60 fee that reduces the time to two to four weeks. There is a work around if you need a passport sooner…
1. Go to the US Government Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs website and complete the application process including printing the completed application.
2. Get a current photo that meets the specs on the application form. FedEx stores are the best option I found.
3. Call (877) 487-2778 to find the location of the nearest regional Department of State passport office and make an appointment. You will pay $170 and the commitment is to have your passport within ten days.
I’m the Outsider and I will let you know if the ten day commitment is not met.
