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How to Apply for a U.S. Passport or Visa

Last updated April 6, 2022  Jump to: First-Time Applications Jump to: Renewals Jump to: Passport Cards Jump to: Fees Jump to: Passport Agencies Jump to: Passport & Visa ExpeditorsAll U.S. citizens, including children, are required to obtain passports in their own names for identification while traveling abroad and for re-entry into the United States. Passports also satisfy the requirements for Real…

The Best Cruises You Don’t Need a Passport For

If you’re among the 52% of Americans without a passport, you might think that taking a cruise is out of the question for you.  But that’s not true—and we’re not only referring to sailings within U.S. waters (though, of course, passengers without passports can absolutely board cruises on U.S. rivers and coastlines as well as…

When to Start a Renewal of a U.S. Passport

Although the event didn't get a lot of attention at the time, in December 2021 President Joe Biden signed a new executive order that will allow Americans to renew their passports online in a matter of days (see Sec. 4 of the official text).  That development is a big deal for regular travelers because until…

Best passports in the world? See the 2024 Nomad Passport Index

Many passport rankings focus on one factor: visa-free travel. But passport strength is more complex than this, according to the tax and immigration consulting firm Nomad Capitalist. That's why it produces a weighted annual index that analyzes five criteria: Visa-free travel — 50% Taxation — 20% Global perception —10% Ability to hold dual citizenship —…