Visas and Passports
Apply for the correct international passports and visas before you travel
Passports and visas are an absolute necessity for international travel. While passport expedition is possible, it is always best to apply for your visas and passports well before your business travel date.Previously, US travelers did not need a passport for traveling to and from certain Western Hemisphere countries (including Canada and Mexico). As regulations tighten, it is best now to carry a passport wherever you travel for business or leisure.
Some things that you should know about passports and visas:
1. All US citizens should carry their US passports when traveling internationally.
2. Resident aliens may use the passport from their country of origin, but must be able to produce their US visas upon re-entering the US.
3. Visa requirements vary by country. Most countries allow tourists to enter their country for a short amount of time (typically less than 3 months) without a complicated visa application process. However, you should always check the visa requirements before traveling.
Learn about passports and visa requirements
If you travel internationally, it is important that you understand the passports and visa requirements of the country you visit. Failure to comply may bring serious consequences.
Try: While your travel agent may have recommendations as to whether you need visas and passports for the country you visit, the best source of information is the US Department of State. They conveniently list the requirements needed for all countries.
Gather the necessary documents for international passports and visas
There is nothing more frustrating than waiting in line to apply for a visa or passport and learning that you do not have all of the necessary documents to make your business trip. Make sure you gather everything before you apply.
Try: For passports, you will need to bring the application for new passports, a valid form of photo identification (such as a driver's license), proof of US citizenship (a birth certificate), and 2 photographs of yourself. If you have lost your birth certificate, you can contact your state's record department or use a service such as BirthCertificatesUSA.com. Visa requirements vary by country. Check the US Department of State's country specific information for details about the country you will visit.
Apply for your visas and passports
You must apply for international passports and visas in person. The process typically takes about 4 weeks, but passport expedition is possible.
Try: Search for a passport acceptance facility in your area. There is an additional cost for passport expedition services, but that may be necessary in order to get urgent passports and visas. In most cases, you do not need to apply for a tourist visa, but it is best to verify that this is the case. If you are traveling for work, your company should help you gather the necessary documents to get a work visa in your destination country.
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