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5 tips to help you reach your holiday destination on time

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Preparing to head out for the holidays? Travel can become a headache very quickly if you haven’t accounted for the necessary variables. Make sure everything goes smoothly and you arrive at your destination on time by keeping these five holiday travel tips in mind.

Plan in advance

A good plan wins out over no plan every time. Even a bad plan wins over having no plans at all! Take the time to think things through a little in advance, and you’ll be far less likely to run into a surprise when it’s time to get on the road.

Pack for every eventuality

The better you can pack to avoid delays, the faster you’ll reach your destination. While it’s impossible to really pack for every eventually, you can at least make sure you’re well-prepared for the likely suspects—flats, messes, hunger, etc.

Consider your best route, not the best route

While an unfamiliar drive through complex terrain may be theoretically faster, and a dizzying mess of flight transfers may look faster and cheaper on paper, you need to think carefully about whether that’s the right route for you. Sometimes discretion wins out over ambition.

Make sure your passport and other paperwork is in order

If you’re crossing a border, make sure you have your passport and any other necessary documentation ready for the trip. The same goes for tickets, baggage claim slips, hotel packages and anything you might need to get to your destination without headaches. Be especially aware of potential delays; if you don’t have your passport in hand already, don’t be confident you’ll have it on time, especially if you’re still waiting to find out whether your passport photos and applications were acceptable.

Stay on top of travel changes

Weather changes, flights get delayed, roads have accidents – there are plenty of things that can change the rules for your trip at the last minute and derail your plans. That’s okay! Just make sure you’re paying attention to relevant news sources and are staying flexible, so you can account for problems and eliminate them ASAP.

These won’t guarantee your arrival on time—nothing can do that—but they’ll greatly increase the odds you get where you’re going without too much delay.

3 reasons people choose online passport photo services over booths

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

If you’ve been looking into obtaining photos for your passport or the passports of family members, you’re no doubt already quite familiar with the idea of a passport-friendly photo booth. Despite the convenience of such installations, savvy travelers are increasingly leaning upon the benefits of online passport photo services, which allow for self-taken pictures to be assessed and adjusted to meet all relevant standards. Here are a few of the reasons why:

1. Tricky photos

Some photos are simply too finicky to take reliably in a photo booth in a public area. This is especially true if you’re trying to take photos with special considerations for faith, a medical condition, or if you’re taking photos of children or babies. As a child isn’t allowed to have anyone else in the photo, can’t be making too much of an expression, needs to be lined up properly, and can’t have a pacifier, toy, or anything else in place, this is one of the leading reasons for people to prefer online passport photo services. For all of these cases, it’s far easier to take the photo at home, when a good opportunity arises.

2. Reliability

If you take a photo at a booth and submit it, you won’t know of any problems until you receive your rejection. By using a photo service to adjust and submit your photos, you get an extra level of reliability. That means it’s far less likely you’ll find yourself needing to cancel a holiday trip or a cruise due to a surprise passport failure. For many people, this extra safety check is all the reason they need.

3. Convenience

Of course, you don’t need to have any serious reasons to take passport photos at home and use an online service; if it sounds more convenient, that’s because it is. Don’t think an online service is a tool only for emergencies. Plenty of people choose to skip the booth simply because they don’t want to go through the hassle of having to find one. It’s that simple.

If you want to ensure your passport pictures make the grade, then why not use Paspic like lots of other savvy travelers?

3 common sources of holiday travel headaches

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Thinking about traveling for the holidays? Make sure everything goes smoothly by eliminating your holiday travel headaches BEFORE they arise. These three common sources of woe aren’t the only things that can go wrong while traveling, but they’re very common sources of trouble and are very easily dealt with if you plan in advance.

Poor packing

Whether it’s a suitcase full of flight contraband, inadequate laundry for the trip, forgotten toiletries, or broken electronics, poor packing can turn holiday cheer sour in a hurry. Take the time to read up on both general packing tips for safe and effective packing and tips specific to your travel route, to avoid various headaches with airport security, customs, and gatekeepers. You might be surprised by what can’t travel in a cargo hold or cross national borders legally.

Passport woes

One that takes many people traveling across national borders by surprise, passport headaches can become holiday-ruining nightmares if you don’t plan ahead. Perhaps the most important tip for dealing with passports in general would be to read up on all the finicky details. Whether it’s the long list of minor imperfections that can render your passport photos unacceptable or the strict rules governing paperwork, it’s easy to mess up at any stage if you don’t do your homework, but trivial to keep up with it all if you do. Read up, use a reliable passport photo service, and you’ll be fine.

Failure to keep tabs on travel changes

Make sure you have a reliable source of notifications for your travel route. If your plane, train, or bus is going to be delayed, you need to know immediately. If your driving route is closed due to an accident, dangerous due to a storm, or frozen solid – you need to know immediately. The better you can stay informed of conditions along your route, the faster you’ll be able to make adjustments and get back on track.

The holidays are supposed to be fun, so don’t let holiday travel become an annual nightmare you dread. Take your time, plan right, and make the whole thing move along smoothly.

I lost my passport traveling! What do I do?

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

There is no worse feeling while traveling abroad than discovering your passport isn’t where you left it. If you don’t find it after digging through all your portable belongings, there is a good chance it is either lost or stolen. Now, this is a good time to remind you to always have a photocopy of your passport stuffed safely away in another area of your luggage. With that said, here are the steps you need to follow should you no longer have your passport.

Contact the Embassy

First, you need to contact the U.S. embassy in the country you are in. You may need to put some travel on hold as exiting the country you’re in is likely not a possibility. When you contact the embassy, you need to tell them your passport is lost or stolen. While talking with the consular, you need to inform them if you were directly involved in a crime (is there a police report?) or if the passport is simply misplaced. You’ll also need to tell them when you’re planning on exiting the country. This is important as the embassy can issue either a full passport or an emergency passport.

Take a new passport photo

You’ll need to head out to the embassy. Thankfully, this is easier to do in most countries as there is a U.S. embassy in most large cities. Take passport photos before going. You’ll be able to find passport photo locations at most photo or travel centers. Again, it is a good idea to have backup passport photos with you while traveling internationally.

Complete the documentation

When you visit the embassy, you’ll need to fill out a statement regarding what happened to your previous passport. You’ll also need to fill out an application for a new passport. During this application, you need the passport photos, a form of ID (your driver’s license works), travel itinerary (your return plane ticket works) and evidence you are a U.S. citizen. This is where having the photocopy of the passport or birth certificate helps. In a pinch, your driver’s license may suffice.

Pay and wait

You’ll need to the $140 fee for a new passport. You’ll also need to wait a few days for the new passport to be issued. The emergency passport will be issued in 24 hours, but that only lets you get into the U.S. If you can, wait the few days for the new passport.

Passports for internationally adopted children

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Over the years, US families have had the interest of adopting children from different countries around the world. It is a good way to help families to grow, but because of child trafficking that has hit the world, there are legal procedures that must be followed for a child passport to be issued. Obtaining passports, citizenship, and visas are some of the things the new parents should ensure the adopted child has. So as the child can be eligible for a passport, some criteria should be followed because the children were not born in the United States.

Obtaining citizenship

So that the child can be issued with a passport, citizenship must be proofed for the child who is adopted. There are countries which participate in Hague convention, and if a child is adopted from such countries then obtaining citizenship can be easy. The admission of the children in the country is under IH-4 visa or IH-3 visa, whereby IH-4 visa is for children adopted in the U.S while IH-3 visa is for those that are adopted in their country. As long as they have the visa, it is lawful.

The process of application

If the child is from a country not involved in the Hague Convention, there are some forms which should be filled so that they can be granted the visas. Once the documentation is through, for them to obtain a passport, it is the same process as for an American child. Some of the relevant documents include certificate of citizenship of the child; a certificate of adoption; photographs of the parents; passport photo; and consent from both parents. Initially, the application must be submitted manually by those concerned, since there is legislation that does not allow children who are under the age of 16 years to renew their passport through mailing.

A DS-11 form must also be filled, and the submission should be through a legal and approved passport office. Though one may feel that obtaining a passport for children who have been adopted internationally is a complicated process, it is not. All you need is to be thorough with the course of getting citizenship, and you follow suits just like the other citizens. The process can be hastened by working with a passport office.

Mistakes that get your passport photos rejected

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

There are many steps involved in getting your passport, and you don’t want your passport photo being rejected to be one of them. The government has strict parameters about what is acceptable in your passport photos. If you mess up, it can significantly delay them issuing your passport and, consequently, your travel adventures. Here are a few passport photo mistakes to avoid…

Mistake 1: Your face isn’t in the middle

Passport pictures must have your face in the center of the picture, facing completely forward, and looking directly into the camera. They don’t want to see the side of your face, or you peeking out of a corner of a picture. It must be centered, clear, and facing forward.

Mistake 2: You show too much emotion

You should wear a neutral expression in your passport photo. Don’t smile, or tilt your head up or down. Just look directly at the camera with your lips together and without emotion for your shot.

Mistake 3: You accessorize

Accessories in a passport photo are a no no. Hats, sunglasses, scarves, headphones, pacifiers in a baby passport photo, and headpieces will all get your photo rejected. Head scarves worn for religious purposes are an exception to this rule, but your face still must not be obscured by it.

Mistake 4: Your head is the wrong size

There are very specific size requirements for your passport photo. The photo must by 2 inches by 2 inches (or 51 mm by 51 mm). In addition, your head in the shot must be at least 1 inches by 1 3/8 inches.

Mistake 5: You hang out in the shadows

Passport photos must be on a white background, and they can’t have too many shadows in them either. Make sure there is no shadow falling across your face and that there is clear lighting on your features. Also, make sure there are no obstructions in front of your face, like plants or flags.

This list will help you avoid common passport photo mistakes. Steer clear of these and you’ll have your passport in hand faster. If you want to be certain your passport photos meet the requirements, then why not use Paspic to prevent delays?

How to apply for your first passport: a guide for first-time adult applicants

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Applying for your first passport is often an exciting process, as it almost always preludes a big trip! However, the process can also be very arduous and off-putting, even to the point of dissuading some individuals from traveling to places, simply because of the hassle involved in preparation. In order to make the application process as straightforward as possible, we have outlined the process in three easy steps:

1. Assemble all documents that you will need for your application process. They are:

– New Passport Application Form (DS-11), which can be found at https://travel.state.gov

– Proof of US Citizenship (for example, a birth certificate)

– An application fee, which varies depending upon the circumstances of your application process and can be calculated at https://travel.state.gov

– A passport photo, which must follow certain requirements. See our 5 tips for getting the perfect passport photo. You can use Paspic to ensure your passport photo is acceptable, saving you lengthy delays.

– A photocopy of state-issued identification (for example, a driver’s license or state identification card)

2. Visit your local Passport Acceptance Facility:

Post offices, public libraries, and clerks of court throughout the country are authorized to accept passport applications. At https://iafdb.travel.state.gov, you can find the facility nearest to you. Be sure to bring the following documents with you to the Passport Acceptance Facility: application form, proof of citizenship, photo ID, passport fees, and your passport photo.

3. Process your application:

First-time applicants will process their application in person. The routine service will take about a month to process. Expedited service is able to process your application in two to three weeks. Expedited service is not available for US citizens who are applying while abroad.

Although these are the basic steps that you will need to know and take for the application process, there are other rules which vary from circumstance to circumstance. For example, if you had a passport as an infant; if you are applying from outside of the United States; or if you are unable to provide one of the forms of identification required. Check out our blog archive for the answers to many of these questions and more!

Photo: Passport by Tony Webster licensed under Creative commons 2

How to take the perfect baby passport photo

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Looking to travel with your baby or young child? You’re going to need a passport for them as well as yourself, should you head out of the country. The photo requirements are no different for a baby than that of an adult, which can prove rather strict. However, there are a handful of tips you can use in order to take the perfect baby passport photo.

Go simple with the clothing

This isn’t a specialty baby shoot where you’ll be sharing the photograph with all your friends and relatives. Due to this, you’ll want to avoid any kind of fussy clothing. Your best option is simply a one-piece, or a simple shirt, without a collar. The less you need to iron out and fix during the photos the better. Go for a darker shirt color, such as a dark navy blue, green, or purple. This prevents the shirt from blending into the background.

You don’t need to prop

When taking a baby passport photo, you don’t need to prop your child up. This is a major misconception. Naturally, extremely young children are unable to support their own weight, so you may find it better to completely avoid propping up a child against a chair. Instead, you can take a white sheet, place it on the floor and lay your baby down on top of it. This may be more comfortable for your child as well. You can make eye contact with them, smile and wave. This should be enough to hold their attention in order to capture the passport photos.

You know your child best and what they are more likely to cooperate with. Do what works best for you and your baby.

Keep the face straight

One of the main benefits of going with the sheet on the floor passport photo approach is it helps keep your baby’s face straight. Their face may not be tilted, otherwise the photograph will be rejected. Plus, the entire face must be visible in the picture, their eyes must be open and, ideally, their mouth shut (although there is some leeway with newborns and infants).

If you need more help with getting that perfect baby passport photo, contact Paspic today!

I’m taking a cruise. Do I need a passport?

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

Cruising is one of the most popular types of vacations. The price, the convenience, and the hospitality weave together an enjoyable vacation for couples, families, and friends. The variety of onboard entertainment and excursions cater to travelers of all ages. Cruises happen to be great value for a getaway with food and accommodation included. Many cruises branded “all inclusive” are popular with adults who enjoy an open bar. Can you picture it?

Unlike many other all-inclusive vacation packages, cruises offer a rare perk. Last-minute bookings for a cruise tend to be sold at deep discounts. Need another incentive to cruise? Many cruise lines offer three-day cruises for a weekend getaway. The only obstacle between you and your cruise is often a passport.

Passports are sometimes necessary on a cruise. The country’s port of call, Customs and Border Protection, and the cruise line’s regulations determine if a passport is necessary. For many cruises originating and ending in the same United States port of call, a passport is not necessary (these are known as closed-loop cruises.) However, a passport is recommended for any foreign travel so make sure you don’t forget to renew your passport in time.

Although some cruises do not require a passport, being prepared with a passport is still a safe bet. Having an up-to-date passport photo also means you can use your passport as identification during your travels. If you want to take advantage of a last-minute deal, don’t fear! Expedited passport photos are a cinch with PASPIC.com. A passport photo that does not meet the United States Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs will delay the processing of your passport. With PASPIC, you can upload your passport photos to confirm that they meet the requirements. Confirmation is a quick process!

Don’t let an expired passport postpone a great deal on a last-minute cruise vacation. PASPIC.com is your quick and convenient source for passport photos. Whether you plan your cruise vacation months in advance or it’s a spontaneous weekend getaway trip, be confident that PASPIC will make updating your passport photos a quick and stress-free part of the journey.

Obtaining a child’s passport when you’re a single parent

Published on in photography, travel by Paspic

As a single parent, you work very hard to provide your child with everything he or she needs. You have been cutting expenses and saving for the trip of a lifetime. You have already had passport photos taken, but when you get the application for your child’s passport, you learn that it asks for both parents’ signatures.

In many cases, it is just not possible to get both parents to sign. However, this does not mean that you will never be able to travel abroad with your children. These rules were put in place to protect against international abductions. You can rest easy because there are ways to get around such rules when it is not possible to get the signature of the other parent.

The government’s rules on passports for children

On July 2, 2001, it became a requirement for the signatures of both parents to be included on the passport application of any child under 14. Before 2007, children were permitted to enter certain countries without a passport of their own. However, on January 23, 2007, passports became a requirement for traveling between the United States and a number of countries, such as Canada, Bermuda, South America, Central America and the Caribbean.

Options for single parents

Single parents who are not able to obtain the signature of the other parent have a few options to take into consideration. In the event that the absent parent does not object to the child’s passport application, he or she can simply provide a signed and notarized Statement of Consent.

On the bottom of the Statement of Consent, you will find the Statement of Special Circumstances. This is to be used when the other parent is not available. You will be able to provide an explanation as to why the other parent’s signature is not obtainable.

It is important to note that if only one parent is included on the child’s birth certificate, the signatures of both parents will not be required. Additionally, a parent who has been granted sole custody of the child may submit a copy of the court order with the passport application. So, get those passport photos and get ready to have the time of your life.

Photo: IMG_2532 by mastercharlz licensed under Creative commons 2