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Normally, you would need to go through the routine passport application when getting your passport. It’s fine if you don’t have to travel soon, and if you can be patient enough to wait for the long processing times for routine applications. Otherwise, you have an option of getting an Emergency Passport, or at least have your passport application expedited.

Let’s talk about having an expedited passport first. This is the more common type of passport application that’s given to those who want to get their passports faster than the routine application. So if you cannot wait for the typical four to six week processing periods in routine applications, getting your application expedited is a better option.

Unlike routine passport applications, the expedited USA Passport option usually takes around two to three weeks to process. But sometimes, routine passport applications may take more than just six weeks. Because of this, the US Department of State recommends the expedited passport to those who need to travel to another country within ten weeks.

Who needs an expedited passport? Let’s be a little more particular here. Those who need an expedited passport are those who need to travel in less than two weeks, or those who need their passport within four weeks to apply for a foreign visa. That’s the rule of thumb when you’re thinking about applying for an expedited passport.

But then again, two to three weeks can still be a very long waiting period for some people. What if an emergency happens to your loved ones who are based outside the United States? You definitely would need to be there sooner than later. And in these emergency situations, waiting for two to three weeks is definitely not an option.

In times of family emergencies, the US Department of State issues emergency passports to its citizens. This is applicable to anyone who has family emergencies outside of the country and has to travel in 48 hours or less. So if this kind of situation applies to you, you will be eligible to apply for an emergency passport.

Now how does one apply for an emergency passport? In case you find your family outside the country in an emergency situation, all you need to do is to contact the National Passport Information Agency. This agency is the one tasked to deal with emergency passport applications. Because of the nature of its work, you can call the agency’s office at any time of the day. However, in cases where you cannot set an appointment with them, you can talk to a customer service representative who can provide you with further assistance.

Usually, an expedited passport application would work for most people. But in cases where you are faced with a family emergency, the Emergency United States Passport is what you need to leave the country in less than 48 hours.