You’ve heard it before. But some advice bears repeating. Business travelers looking to apply for or renew a passport should start the application process sooner rather than later. DipNote, the U.S. Department of State’s official blog, anticipates a surge in applications that would surpass 2015’s 15.5 million passports. By the department’s estimate, that number could reach as high as 20 million this year. Multiply that by the number of agencies around the world processing requests, and the early-bird advice gains value.
Travel managers may not be able to submit or process passports (or visas), but they can guide business travelers by providing updates and information through a program’s communication channels or via messaging tools, like BCD Travel’s TripSource.
Passport/visas regulations differ by region or country
In the U.S., the time it takes to process an application can be affected by the number of applications being reviewed, high rates of seasonal travel and world events. Routine service takes about six weeks from the time of application. Travelers opting for expedited services typically get processed in two to three weeks. Depending on circumstances, passport offices in U.S. cities may process applications even faster.
Within the U.K., British nationals can expect to wait six weeks for a new adult passport and three weeks for a renewal. Travelers may apply for expedited services at their local Passport Customer Service Centre. Guidelines differ for British nationals applying for a passport when they’re overseas.
Nationals from 38 Visa Waiver Program countries must present an electronic passport to enter America, as required by the e-passport rule implemented in early 2016.
Global passport service companies can facilitate applications or expedite urgent requests. Keep in mind that some countries require passport holders to transact passport applications or reissues in person.
Did you know?
- Some countries require a passport to be valid for a certain number of months after a trip. Travelers should check passport rules at their destination before they depart.
- Glasses, sunglasses and tinted lenses are not permitted in U.S. passport photos. If the glasses cannot be removed for medical reasons, travelers must submit a signed doctor’s statement with the passport application.
- Passports only come in shades of red, black, green and blue; the color is usually determined by geography or national policy.
Want other strategies for helping your travelers get road ready and make smart choices on trips? Download Get Engaged: Empowering Travelers to Make Smart Buying Choices, and check out Advito’s corporate travel playbook, Up Your Game: Build a Social Community of Travelers.
