One of the industries which are greatly affected by the pandemic is the tourism sector. Since countries have initiated total lockdowns, people were not able to travel to different time zones. But since many travel bans were lifted nowadays, more and more people are planning to continue their trips, either for personal or business reasons. If you are considering visiting other time zones, you must prepare your passport. If you still don't have it yet, check this guide on how to obtain a U.S. passport.

How to Obtain A U.S. Passport

Do you want to travel soon? Make sure you have your U.S. passport. Here are some tips to acquire one:

• When acquiring a U.S. passport, you need to be eligible to have it. You can acquire it if you are a U.S. citizen by birth. If not, you can still have a U.S. passport through naturalization or being a U.S. national. 

• Take note that the application process for the passport book or card is the same. This applies even if you want both at the same time. When applying for a passport, you need to go in person to present your application.

From Within the United States

Suppose you will be traveling soon and you need the passport in three weeks or less; you will need an expedited process. However, you need additional fees to obtain the passport quickly. But if you will be traveling in more than three weeks, you may stick with the regular application process and apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. 

From Outside the United States

If you live outside the United States, you can get a passport by contacting the U.S. Embassy or consulate near you. As for more information on obtaining a U.S. passport or bringing the forms needed to request a passport from outside the U.S.

How to Renew Your U.S. Passport

Suppose you already have a U.S. passport, but you need to renew it; you need to follow different steps. It's a bit like getting a new one; you need to pay extra fees if you want to renew your passport right away. Here are some things to remember when renewing your passport.

• Call 1-877-487-2778; TDD/TTY: 1-888-874-7793 Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 10 PM est to make an appointment at a Regional Passport Agency. Take note that the appointment line is closed on weekends and federal holidays.

• Bring proof of immediate travel, an expedited fee, and the items required by the agency to renew your passport. If you live outside the U.S. or Canada, make sure to contact the U.S. embassy or consulate near you for information and forms on all passports requested from overseas.

Who would not want to visit the places you've never been to as well as those destinations you've wanted to see all your life? If given a chance, for sure you would go to many places and do exciting activities. But before you can do all of these things, you need to prepare your travel requirements, and one of them is your passport. If you live in the United States, make sure to follow the guide above on obtaining a passport. Once you get one for yourself, nothing can stop you from visiting your dream destinations.