[Hidden-tech] Getting a last-minute passport

[Bronwen Hodgkinson - cdeVision]

I just looked into this recently. Processing times are crazy long right now
because of the new law that requires passports for travel to Canada and
Mexico (which comes into effect in June, I believe?). Everyone who travels
regularly to those places is scrambling to get passports right now, in
addition the the regular summer scramble.
http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

There are some passport agencies that can expedite the process. The Boston
agency in the Tip O'Neill building is probably his best bet:
http://travel.state.gov/passport/about/agencies/agencies_913.html

There are also places online that promise same-day service (e.g.
www.americanpassport.com - do a google search for "passports") - not sure
how legitimate they are.

Bronwen
www.cdeVision.com


-----Original Message-----
From: hidden-discuss-bounces at lists.hidden-tech.net
[mailto:hidden-discuss-bounces at lists.hidden-tech.net] On Behalf Of Deborah
Chandler
Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2007 10:43 PM
To: Hidden-discuss at lists.hidden-tech.net
Subject: [Hidden-tech] Getting a last-minute passport

Hi all,

A friend of mine plans to leave on May 28th for Germany, but has  
misplaced his passport. He had one back in 2003, but just can't find  
it anywhere. He was told by one of the passport offices that he can  
schedule an appointment with them within two weeks of his trip, to  
get an expedited passport, but it has to be AFTER he has purchased  
his plane ticket. So, he's bought the ticket already, a $1000 plane  
ticket.

He has called and made an appointment to get an expedited passport on  
May 29th, the day after he is scheduled to leave. Ugghh....

Does anyone have any experience with this kind of situation and have  
any advice to share? He is aware that there are places that will  
charge good money to help expedite a passport, but it is extra $$  
that he does not want to spend unless it is unavoidable. His next  
step so far is to drive to Boston and wait in person for an  
appointment at the passport office at the Tip O'Neil Federal Building  
on Causeway Street.

Thanks in advance for any helpful info,
Deb