Getting a U.S. Passport just got easier.
As new passport requirements go into effect I want to remind the residents of Hastings-on-Hudson that our staff will be visiting James Harmon Community Center, 44 Main Street on Saturday, July 26th to process passport applications from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Passports have always been a necessary document for those who traveled outside of the North American continent, but now a U.S. Passport will be required for travel even closer to home. So as you are planning your next vacation or business trip, here are some things to keep in mind:
Do not wait until the last minute: Apply now. Routine passport applications generally take approximately four to six weeks. For an additional charge, expedited service will result in your obtaining your passport in no more than three weeks. But only in emergency circumstances can a passport application be processed more quickly, so do not delay.
The new rules: As of January 23, 2007, everyone, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda will be required to have a passport or other acceptable documentation in order to enter the United States. Requirements will eventually be extended to adults traveling by land or sea. And please note that many cruise lines are already requiring a passport to travel to any destination outside of the United States.
Be sure to bring the proper documentation: You will need proof that you are a United States citizen such as a previous unexpired U.S. Passport, an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad or a naturalization certificate. You will also need proof of your identity such as a current valid driver's license or a government issued identification card. For minors under the age of 16, both parents should appear together and sign the application of the child. However, if only one parent appears and signs, that parent must submit the other parent's notarized Statement of Consent form (DS-3053) and a photocopy of their identification. The Statement of Consent form can be found at www.WestchesterClerk.com.
Fees: The fee for an adult passport is $110.00 and for a child's passport is $80.00. Fees can be paid by money order or check, only. There is an additional $25.00 service fee that can be paid by money order, check or credit card. Applications will also be accepted for the U.S. Passport Card for land and sea border travel, only. The fee for adults is $30.00 and for children, the fee is $15.00 with an additional $25.00 service fee. Be sure to bring original documents with raised seals to avoid having to make a second trip. If you have questions about whether you have what you need to apply, do not hesitate to call our office at 995-3082 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. (you must arrive by 4:30 p.m.) or visit our website at www.westchesterclerk.com.
We look forward to the opportunity to help you with your U.S. Passport application when our staff visits Hastings-on-Hudson.
Timothy C. Idoni
Westchester County Clerk
