USPS Passport Day Is April 28

The waiting time for processing of passport requests has increased to ten weeks or longer due to a recent change in federal law that requires a passport for travel to popular vacation destinations including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. The new regulations have spurred an unprecedented upsurge in passport applications.

To help local residents apply quickly and conveniently for this official US Department of State document, the Hawleyville Post Office has scheduled “Passport Day” through 4 pm on Saturday, April 28. An appointment is necessary, and applicants are encouraged to arrive early because of the large number of residents expected to apply. A similar Passport Day held on March 4 attracted thousands of state residents to post offices across the Constitution State.

Applicants need to bring an original copy of their birth certificate (with a raised seal) and proof of identity. Children under 14 require both parents present and need a long form birth certificate. Postal staff will have a camera available for passport photos for $15. Passport fees are $67 ($52 for children under 16), made payable to the Department of State, and $30, made payable to the US Postal Service. Only cash, checks, or debit cards can be accepted.

Expedited mailing services are available if needed to reduce processing time to about four weeks. This is a convenient opportunity to obtain a passport, which will be valid for ten years (or five years if under age 16). For questions on the new regulations, go to www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html.

For more information about the Hawleyville event, call the Hawleyville post office at 270-6062 or e-mail mark.j.favale@usps.gov.