Passports! Get your passports!

All US citizens need a passport for any air travel abroad -- including travel to Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean. But some countries require that your US passport be valid not only for the duration of your visit, but also for three to six months after your entry or return from their country. This means you must watch your passport expiration date carefully!

As of Wednesday June 30, 2010 the U.S. State Department is processing routine applications in approximately 4-6 weeks from the time of application. Since passport processing times can vary, we recommend applying at least two months before any scheduled international travel.

If you need your passport quicker your travel agent can help! Travel agents have access to special firms that help expedite the process but here’s the catch-there’s an additional handling fee. Often we agents can help many travelers get their passport in less than a week sometimes as quickly as 48 hours!

Got travel questions? Email thetravelprofessor@gmail.com.