Illinois Residents Urged to Apply for Passports as Travel Restrictions Ease
As travel restrictions continue to ease across the country, Illinois residents are being urged to apply for passports in order to be ready for upcoming travel opportunities. With the holiday season approaching and many people eager to start planning trips both domestically and internationally, now is the perfect time to start the passport application process.
The process of applying for a passport in Illinois is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to start early to avoid any potential delays. The first step is to gather all necessary documents, including proof of citizenship, a valid form of ID, a passport photo, and a completed application form. These documents can be submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or county clerk’s office.
One important thing to note is that the passport application process is currently experiencing delays due to a backlog of applications caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to avoid any potential issues, it’s recommended to apply for a passport well in advance of any planned travel dates. The current processing time for a standard passport application is around 10-12 weeks, so it’s crucial to plan ahead.
For those who need their passport more quickly, there is an expedited option available for an additional fee. The expedited processing time is typically around 4-6 weeks. However, due to the current backlog, even expedited applications may take longer than usual. It’s important to keep this in mind when planning any upcoming travel.
In addition to the standard passport book, there is also an option for a passport card, which can be used for land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The passport card is a convenient and affordable alternative to the traditional passport book, but it cannot be used for international air travel. For those who plan to travel internationally by air, the passport book is required.
It’s important to note that children under the age of 16 require their own passport when traveling internationally. Both parents or legal guardians must be present when applying for a child’s passport, and additional documentation may be required. It’s recommended to check the specific requirements for child passports on the U.S. Department of State’s website before beginning the application process.
In addition to the standard passport application process, there are also options for expedited services and passport renewal. For those who already have a passport that is expiring soon, the renewal process is relatively simple and can be done by mail. However, it’s important to make sure the passport meets all eligibility requirements for renewal before submitting the application.
Overall, applying for a passport in Illinois is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s important to plan ahead and allow for extra time due to potential delays. With travel restrictions easing and more opportunities to explore the world opening up, now is the perfect time to start the passport application process and be ready for your next adventure.
