A backlog of passport applications has slowed down processing and wait times are longer than ever.
However, there are still ways to speed up the process and ALG Vacations has asked a pro how to get a passport as quickly as possible.
ALGV spoke to David Alwadish, the CEO of ItsEasy.com Passport & Visa Services for his best advice.
One way to ensure that your passport is processed is to ensure that your photo is taken correctly, he said.
“Not all passport photos are accepted,” Alwadish said. “Per the Department of State, the number one reason passport applications are suspended or put on hold is non-compliant photos,” said Alwadish. “Just because a store, pharmacy, or facility sells passport photos does not mean their quality meets the government’s standards."
There are a lot of other moving parts in putting together the passport application. To make sure it's all done appropriately, travelers can use an app such as ItsEasy Passport Renew & Photo to ace the photo and the application.
The app is an “easy, affordable, convenient way to safely and securely renew your U.S. passport without leaving home," Alwadish noted.
While these services are convenient, Alwadish said that travelers should watch out for fees, scams and price gouging.
“Some of our passport courier competitors are publicly gouging and misleading their clients with excessive and inappropriate fees, charging upwards of up to $300 in service fees for the government's [standard] 7 – 9 week or 10 – 12 week renewal programs for services that are free or already charged by the government, and for fewer services than what we provide.”
For example, ItsEasy charges $39.95 or $42.95 inclusive of photos and shipping.
If you need your passport fast, it pays to expedite. While simple services cost around $40, Alwadish said that, if you need a passport fast, such as within 14 business days, costs are in the hundreds of dollars.
Learn more about how you can quickly obtain your passport here.
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