How do I Get a Legal Second Passport?
The United States Department of State, the body responsible for issuing U.S. passports, does not normally allow for U.S. citizens to possess two U.S. passports at one time. However, there are exceptions to this rule, allowing United States citizens to obtain a legal second passport under certain circumstances.
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Exceptions
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You may qualify to obtain a legal second passport if you plan to travel to specific nations that have restrictive entry rules, or if you anticipate delays in obtaining your travel visas. For example, you may get a second passport if you plan to travel to an Arab nation after visiting Israel. You may also obtain one if you plan to visit multiple countries, but a foreign consulate will need to hold on to your passport to process a visa.
Application
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To apply for a second passport, mail a completed application form DS-82, two passport-sized photos, the application fee as a money order or by providing your credit card information, your regular passport, and a signed Statement in Support of Application for a Second Passport form to the American Citizens Services section of the nearest U.S. embassy abroad. You will receive your second passport in the mail.
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Restrictions and Differences
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A second U.S. passport is not identical to the first one. A normal adult passport is valid for 10 years; however, a second passport is only valid for two years. In addition, each passport will have its own unique passport number.
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References
- Photo Credit us passport image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com