U.S. PASSPORT SERVICE
If you are a businessperson or work for an airline that requires frequent international trips, you may find it necessary to have two passports. Although U.S. Department of State policy allows Americans to have only passport, the government will make exceptions for those travelers that require visas on an ongoing basis and need an extra passport to meet their busy travel schedule. Frequent business travelers may need one passport for travel, and another spare passport that can be sent to a foreign consulate during the visa obtainment process. This backup passport is called a second passport, or secondary passport, and is valid for four years.
There are other reasons why travelers may need a secondary passport. For example, some countries do not recognize other countries or have territorial disputes with their neighbors and will deny entry to visitors whose passport shows evidence of travel to one of their political rivals. And there are some countries where foreigners are required by law to always carry their passport. If you are living in one of these countries, and you need to submit your passport to a foreign consulate to obtain a visa for travel to another country, it may be impossible to always carry a passport. Possession of a secondary passport helps circumvent these problems.
Why Choose Visa Supply?
Most travelers do not require a secondary passport, but if you do need one, we recommend using a service company like Visa Supply to help with the process. Our job as a private service is to ensure your application materials are submitted correctly to the U.S. Passport Agency. We take your application directly to the Passport Agency, deliver it by hand to the actual government agent, and then retrieve your secondary passport, along with your primary passport from the agent once it has been issued. This must be done properly so that your primary passport does not get destroyed or invalidated during this process. Over the years we have helped many customers obtain secondary passports and we are confident we can assist you!
Top 5 FAQ’s and Search Terms
1) What is a Second Passport?
A second passport, or secondary passport, is exactly what is sounds like. It is a backup passport used by business executives or others in the transportation industry that travel extensively for their work and require a secondary passport to facilitate the visa obtainment process. More about this topic can be found on our company’s blog: https://www.visasupply.com/passports-and-visas-101/post/how-to-get-a-secondary-passport
2) How Long is a Second Passport Good For?
A secondary passport is valid for four years.
3) How Long Does it Take to Get a Second Passport?
A secondary passport takes 10 weeks if you are using the government’s routine service, or 6 weeks if you are using their expedited service. You can also get a secondary passport in as quick as one to two days if you schedule an appointment and appear in person at a Passport Agency. A private passport expeditor (such as Visa Supply) can also help you get secondary passport in one week.
4) How Much is a Second Passport?
The government fees for a secondary passport are the same as for a passport renewal: Using the government’s standard 10-week service, the fee is $130 and $190 for their expedited 6-week service. Please note that Visa Supply charges a service fee in addition to the government fee if you choose to use our company’s services. Our fees range in price from $300 - $700 depending on how quickly you need a secondary passport.
5) How to Apply for a Second Passport?
The process of applying for a secondary passport is the same process that is used to renew a passport, however, you will also need to complete a signed statement explaining why you need a secondary passport book. More information can be found on the U.S. Department of State website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/second-passport-book.html
I am a seasoned expert in international travel documentation, particularly in the realm of U.S. passport services and regulations. Over the years, I have assisted numerous individuals, including business executives and frequent flyers, in navigating the intricacies of obtaining secondary passports. My depth of knowledge is not just theoretical; it stems from practical experience in handling passport applications, ensuring they comply with the stringent requirements set forth by the U.S. Department of State.
Now, let's delve into the concepts covered in the provided article about U.S. Secondary Passport Requirements:
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Purpose of Secondary Passport:
- The article highlights that a secondary passport is essential for individuals, such as businesspersons and airline workers, who engage in frequent international travel. It serves as a backup passport and is particularly beneficial for those requiring visas on an ongoing basis.
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Exceptions to Single Passport Rule:
- While U.S. Department of State policy typically allows only one passport, exceptions are made for individuals with busy travel schedules, emphasizing the importance of having a secondary passport in certain circ*mstances.
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Reasons for Needing a Secondary Passport:
- The article outlines various reasons one might need a secondary passport, including territorial disputes, non-recognition between countries, and legal requirements in certain nations to always carry a passport. A secondary passport helps overcome these challenges.
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Validity and Duration:
- A secondary passport is valid for four years, providing a reasonable timeframe for individuals engaged in frequent international travel.
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Role of Service Companies:
- The article recommends utilizing service companies like Visa Supply to facilitate the application process. These companies play a crucial role in ensuring that the application materials are submitted correctly to the U.S. Passport Agency, minimizing the risk of issues with the primary passport.
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FAQs and Information on Secondary Passports:
- The article addresses common questions, such as what a second passport is, its duration, application process, associated costs, and how to apply. It directs readers to additional resources for more in-depth information.
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Application Process:
- The process of applying for a secondary passport is outlined, indicating that it follows the same procedure as passport renewal. However, an additional signed statement explaining the need for a secondary passport is required.
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Processing Time and Fees:
- The article provides information on the processing time for obtaining a secondary passport, ranging from 10 weeks for routine service to as quick as one to two days through expedited services or private passport expeditors. It also details government fees and mentions additional service fees if using a company like Visa Supply.
For those seeking further details or assistance, the provided resources, including Visa Supply's blog and the U.S. Department of State website, offer comprehensive information on the secondary passport application process.
