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Do You need a passport in the military?

Do You Need a Passport in the Military?

As a member of the military, you may be wondering if you need a passport for your service. The answer is not a simple yes or no. The requirements for a passport in the military depend on various factors, including your branch of service, deployment location, and type of duty. In this article, we will explore the need for a passport in the military and provide guidance on how to obtain one if necessary.

What is a Passport?

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Before we dive into the military-specific requirements, let’s define what a passport is. A passport is a travel document issued by a country’s government to its citizens, which confirms their identity and citizenship. It is typically required for international travel, and its validity varies depending on the country of issuance.

Do You Need a Passport in the Military?

The answer to this question is not straightforward. In some cases, military personnel may not need a passport, while in others, it is mandatory. Here are some scenarios where a passport may be required:

Deployments to Foreign Countries: If you are deployed to a foreign country, you will likely need a passport. This is because your deployment will take you outside the United States, and a passport is required for international travel.
Travel to Countries Requiring a Passport: Some countries require all visitors, including military personnel, to have a valid passport. If you are traveling to one of these countries, you will need a passport.
TDY (Temporary Duty) Travel: If you are traveling on temporary duty (TDY) to a foreign country, you may need a passport. This is especially true if you will be staying in the country for an extended period.

Who Does Not Need a Passport in the Military?

Not all military personnel need a passport. Here are some scenarios where a passport may not be required:

Travel Within the United States: If you are traveling within the United States, you do not need a passport. A valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, is sufficient.
Travel to U.S. Territories: If you are traveling to U.S. territories, such as Puerto Rico or Guam, you do not need a passport. A valid government-issued ID is sufficient.
Travel to Canada: If you are traveling to Canada, you do not need a passport. A valid government-issued ID and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate) are sufficient.

How to Obtain a Passport in the Military

If you need a passport in the military, you can apply for one through the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

  • Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or naturalization certificate)
  • Proof of identity (driver’s license or government-issued ID)
  • Photocopy of both sides of your ID
  • Passport photo

Step 2: Fill Out the Application

  • Download and complete form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport)
  • Fill out the form online and print it, or fill it out by hand using black ink
  • Do not sign the form until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent

Step 3: Get Your Photo Taken

  • Bring the completed application and required documents to a passport acceptance facility
  • Have your photo taken at the facility or bring a passport photo

Step 4: Submit Your Application

  • Submit your application, supporting documents, and payment to the acceptance facility
  • Pay the application fee (currently $110 for a U.S. passport book or $40 for a U.S. passport card)

Step 5: Receive Your Passport

  • Your passport will be processed and mailed to you within 6-8 weeks
  • Expedited service is available for an additional fee (currently $60)

Fees and Processing Times

Here are the current fees and processing times for obtaining a passport in the military:

FeeCost
Application Fee$110 (book) or $40 (card)
Execution Fee$35
Expedited Service$60
Total Fee$185 (book) or $75 (card)

Processing times may vary depending on the workload of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. Expedited service is available for an additional fee, which guarantees processing within 2-3 weeks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether or not you need a passport in the military depends on your branch of service, deployment location, and type of duty. If you are deployed to a foreign country, traveling to a country that requires a passport, or traveling on TDY, you may need a passport. However, if you are traveling within the United States, to U.S. territories, or to Canada, you do not need a passport. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can obtain a passport in the military if necessary. Remember to plan ahead and allow sufficient time for processing and travel.

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