Filling out your passport application is a quick and easy process when you choose to work with a company like Swift. However, even making a small error on your passport application can become a huge problem. In fact, it could actually even delay your travel plans. So, how do you make sure that everything on your passport application is completed correctly the first time?
In this blog, we’re going to share 10 common mistakes that we frequently see, so that you can do your best to avoid them altogether.
1. Applying For the Wrong Type of Passport
When applying for a passport, you first have to consider what type you’ll need. If it’s your first time applying, you’ll need to get a new or first time passport. If you already have a passport and it’s set to expire, you’ll need to apply for a renewal. There are also different applications and steps that you’ll need to take if you’re applying for a second valid passport or a passport for a child. Keep this in mind when you first begin the application process to ensure that you are starting off on the right foot.
Check out this blog for some important passport renewal tips.
2. Sending In Invalid Passport Photos
Another thing to keep in mind is that you cannot just send in any picture to use for your passport photo. There are certain requirements that you’ll need to follow so that your photo will be accepted, and if you don’t follow them, you could run into some issues. For example, some of the requirements include that you cannot wear glasses, sunglasses, headbands, or spaghetti straps, you cannot use a photo of a photo, and your photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. Do your best to review all of the requirements ahead of time so that your photo is accepted.
3. Making Spelling Errors
Believe it or not, even making a simple spelling error can lead to your passport application being rejected. It may sound silly, but it’s easy to make spelling mistakes, which is why it’s so important that you review your application multiple times before submitting it. Double check your spelling, and even review small details like your date of birth. Taking a few extra minutes of time can save you a big headache down the line.
4. Using a Nickname Instead of Your Legal Name
Many people have their legal first name and a nickname that their family and friends call them. Though it may be more common for your loved ones to call you by your nickname, you cannot use this on your application. You must use your full, legal government first, middle, and last name, and spell it correctly. Once you’re done filling out your application, go back and check that you used your legal name, not any nicknames.
5. Missing a Signature
Something that we see quite often is that people make passport signature mistakes. You will have to sign your passport application before you can send it in, but this is something that people tend to forget to do from time to time. If you don’t sign your passport application, it will be considered void, and you will have to go back, redo it, and send your new application in.
6. Trying to Cover Up Mistakes
If you make a mistake on your application, your first instinct may be to try and cover it up or cross it out. Unfortunately, this is only going to do you more harm than good. You cannot cross something out just because you made a mistake, as your application will likely be rejected. Even though it’s going to take you more time, you’re better off starting over and redoing your application. This is why it’s important to take your time and try to do everything right the first time around.
7. Not Asking Questions When Needed
There may be things on the passport application that you may not understand or have questions about. If you find that this is the case, don’t be afraid to contact us. A member of our team would be happy to help answer any questions you may have, so that you know exactly what to do.Â
8. Forgetting to Send in All the Required Documentation
During the application process, you will be sent a list of all the documents that you’ll need to gather and send in to our Chicago office. It’s important that you look over the list multiple times, so that you have all of the required documentation on hand. Forgetting to send in even one thing can cause your passport application to be rejected, so always double check that you have everything.
9. Mailing Documents to the Wrong Address
Once you have filled out your application and completed the checkout process, you will receive a list of all the documents that you’ll need to send to us. You’ll need to ship these to our main office in Chicago. Please use FedEx or UPS to ship us your documents, NOT USPS. Choosing USPS could cause delays, so if possible, please use FedEx or UPS. Below is the address of our office in Chicago:
1 E. Erie St
Suite #525
Chicago, IL 60611
10. Applying Too Late
If you need a passport for an upcoming international trip, it’s important that you apply ahead of time. Applying too late could lead to you missing your trip, as your passport may not arrive in time. However, if you find yourself in a situation where you need a passport in a short amount of time, Swift can help. We specialize in expedited passports, and would be happy to help you obtain your passport in time for your trip.
Conclusion
Knowing about these passport application mistakes ahead of time can help you avoid running into the same problems. If you are ready to start the passport application process, please visit our website. The process is simple, and before you know it, you’ll have your passport in hand, ready for your international trip. No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there.
