If you are planning a trip, you may find that you are in need of both a passport and a visa. Whether you are traveling to or from the United States, visas and passports are now required for any form of international travel. Even if you are traveling to our neighbors such as Canada or Mexico, you will need to have proper identification to get on an airplane.

• But what is the proper identification?

• I didn’t need a visa or passport last time I traveled to the country. Why do I need it now?

• My passport is about to expire. What do I do?

• How do I know if I need a visa?

Any travel overseas now requires a passport. But not all countries require a visa. You can contact VIP Passports & Services directly, the local embassy, or the consulate to learn about your visa requirements. If you do need a visa, you will want to apply as soon as possible. In addition, VIP Passports & Services provides exceptional information, forms, and assistance when you need a visa. We take the guesswork out of traveling overseas.

In 2009, federal law required all travelers out of and into the United States have the appropriate documentation, which included a US Passport. This law is there to protect visitors and citizens of the United States. This means that even if you did not need a passport a few years ago, you definitely need one today. However, some people can save money by receiving a passport card instead of the traditional passport book. Passport cards are good for traveling to our neighbors such as Mexico or Canada by land.

If you have a passport that is incorrect or about to expire, you should get it renewed and fixed immediately. You may need to correct an error or typo, change your name, add pages, or replace a limited passport; or you may need to replace a lost, stolen, or mutilated passport. In addition, most countries will not accept a passport that will expire in 6 months. If you need a new passport, it is suggested you start the process immediately.

Note: If your passports are stolen, you need to report this ASAP! This protects you from identity theft and protects your neighbors from potential terrorism.

Of course, you will need to insure that all your information on the visa is correct. If you plan on staying a few extra days, you need to contact your embassy or consulate to make arrangements. Never assume that you will be ok for a day or two. This can get you put into prison – or worse. Keep all information updated and correct making changes as soon as possible.

When it comes to your US passports or visas, you will find VIP Passports & Services promotes a positive atmosphere by which you can get your documentation securely, quickly (sometimes in as little as 24 hours), and cheaply. We protect you, our neighbors, and the world.