Do you have questions about the U.S.passport application form?
We are aware that a number of people are experiencing problems completing the on-line passport application forms. In order to help you, we have created a YouTube video that takes you through the form, step-by-step providing the answers you need to successfully complete the form. Please take the time to view the video; it may save you time!
Paying for Passport Services
The Passport Unit receives many declined debit/credit card payments for passport renewal services which considerably delays the processing of the application. Prevent this from happening to you by notifying your credit or debit card company of your intention to use your card to pay for this service; payment will be deducted in dollars and you will be charged at the rate of exchange used by the card company.
US Passport validity and travel
We are often contacted by U.S. citizens concerned that there is insufficient validity on their passport for travel to the United States or other countries. You may find the following useful in making your travel plans.
Observing Memorial Day, 27th May 2012
Services will be taking place at the Brookwood American Military Ceremony and the Cambridge American Cemetery this year for Memorial Day, which we observe this year on May 27th.
For Brookwood Cemetery – At 3pm on Sunday, May 26th 2013, there will be a special memorial service and celebration, honoring US servicemen buried at the American Military Cemetery at the Brookwood Cemetery in Woking, Surrey. The Brookwood Cemetery is the principal American cemetery in the UK for casualties from the First World War. Read more
THE GOLDEN QUESTIONS ~ or everything you wanted to know about Social Security but were afraid to ask
When people think about Social Security and what it means to them, they usually have many different questions.
We have picked up a handful of the most common ones:
Security Information for U.S. Citizens
As widely reported in the media, the death of former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Baroness Margaret Thatcher, has resulted in a number of outbreaks of public disorder. The event has also initiated wide-scale discussion across various forms of social media with some expressing violent and anti-police/anti-establishment intentions. The passing of the former Prime Minister has united many extreme left-wing groups who appear determined and intent on ‘celebrating’ her death through various events, particularly in the run up to her funeral which takes place on April 17, 2013. Many of these groups hold long-term enmity towards Baroness Thatcher’s political policies and are opposed to current Conservative policies. With the potential large gathering of such groups, it is reasonable to expect that as the evening draws to a close and people become intoxicated, the events will turn more volatile, with some participants focusing their anger on any sign of authority.
See below for the primary demonstrations being organized:
Message from the SSA
Direct Express is currently blocking ATM withdrawals in countries outside the United States and its territories. This will impact the ability of some international cardholders to withdraw cash.
Changes in U.S. Passport Information Services
On April 2, 2013, the U.S. Passport Unit’s telephone service will be replaced by an expanded email information service. This will enable us to provide faster, more comprehensive service.
Sequestration and Social Security
Since the automatic budget cuts to government agencies, which came into effect on March 1, 2013 – otherwise known as sequestration, we have had various enquiries from beneficiaries who are concerned about their monthly benefits.
The Social Security Administration has, therefore, issued the following statement:
Have you booked an appointment to apply for a U.S. passport or report of birth?
If you are applying for a U.S. passport, or for a passport or report of birth for your child, and you are required to appear in person, you may find the following tips on using the appointment booking system useful.
