Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013

Passports all about preparation, planning

Obtaining a government-official, no-fee U.S. passport/visa for a permanent change of station, temporary change of station or a temporary duty overseas can be simple, or it can be a crash course in bureaucracy.

If you want simplicity, the best advice is to educate yourself on the process.

Upon notification of a requirement to travel overseas, contact the Transportation Passport Section located in Soldiers Plaza, Building 2627 to arrange an appointment.

Appointments can be made by calling 706-545-7709.

During your appointment, you will be briefed on all steps required to process a U.S. passport/visa application.

To avoid delays, it is imperative that personnel arrive with the proper documentation. You will need to bring original documents for proof of U.S citizenship.

These documents include: birth certificates, naturalization certificates, marriage licenses and identification cards (military or driver’s licenses).

Photocopies are not accepted.

Additionally, you will need current 2-by-2 passport photos that are not older than six months. Please see www.benning.army.mil/tenant/DOL/faq.htm#passport or www.travel.state.gov/passport/get/first/first_830.html for further information.

Personnel should plan on six to eight weeks to process and receive their passport from the State Department. Visas can only be applied for after the receipt of the passport. Therefore, additional processing time should be added, which can be up to another 45 days in some cases.

Proper planning is the key to success. Take the time to assemble your documentation and arrive at your appointment prepared. This will help make your passport experience an enjoyable one.

Hours of operation for the Passport Section are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact one of the passport acceptance agents at 706-545-7709 or 706-545-3644.