If you want to visit foreign countries, you must obtain a valid passport. Getting a new passport, however, takes a little more effort than just filling out a form and checking a few boxes. If you go through the traditional route to get your passport, you’ll need to start the process long before your trip. Fortunately, there are a few methods to get an expedited passport for an urgent trip.

Gather Your Documents

If you choose to apply for your first passport directly through the government, you’ll need to gather a few documents to proceed. On the State Department website, you can download Form DS-11; you must fill it out with a black ink pen. You will also need to get a picture of yourself for your passport. Your picture must be a recent color photo taken in front of a white background. The picture must show your entire face and your shoulders. Some retail stores and post office locations offer passport photo service at an affordable price.

You will also need to provide documentation proving your United States citizenship, such as a birth certificate. You must also bring along your driver’s license or another government-issued identification card. In addition to showing your identification, you will also need to submit a photocopy of your identification card.

Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility or Passport Agency

To apply for a new passport, you must visit a processing facility in person. You can find a facility close to your location on the State Department’s website. When you visit the facility, you will need to submit your DS-11 form, your passport photograph, proof of citizenship and a photocopy of your identification. Your proof of citizenship will be returned to you in your passport package. Finally, you will need to pay an application and execution fee for your passport processing.

Without fast passport services, your passport will probably not arrive at your home for at least six weeks. International travelers can opt for an expedited passport directly from the government if they have an urgent need for a passport. You will have to pay an additional fee for expedited service.

How to Get an Expedited Passport with FastPort Passport

FastPort Passport is a private company that focuses on helping you acquire your passport within 30 days. In some cases, you can even get your passport processed in 24 hours. If you’re getting your passport for the first time, using this service eliminates the stress and confusion of the process. The company’s website, fastportpassport.com, will guide you through all of the necessary steps to receive your passport. If you still need additional help, you can even talk to a customer support member through an online chat service.

To get your passport quickly through this service, follow the website’s detailed checklist for the passport that you need. To start the passport process, you will need to perform the same steps you would undertake if you were applying through the government. However, once you go in person to a passport acceptance facility, you will need to ask the facility representative for the sealed package containing your documents. After you get the package, send it to the offices of FastPort Passport for processing. The cost of this service depends on how quickly you need your passport.

Once you’ve submitted your paperwork, you can relax and wait for your passport to come to you. You can even track your passport’s progress through the company’s passport status check. Thanks to this fast passport service, you won’t miss your exotic vacation or important international business trip.