Different Types Of Passport & Essential Documents

The trend of overseas travel has increased more than ever and so as the number of passport circulation. In 2010, more than one million passports were issued which is reason enough to define the scope of travel and must-have documents. Passports fall into four categories namely; regular, official, diplomatic and passport cards. The term “P-Type” isn’t a specific type but rather a document with letter “P” denoting “passport”.

Let’s have a look at different passports and required paperwork.

1. Regular

Regular passport is issued to the natives who at the time of application must present a certified copy of birth certificates bearing registrar’s seal of office and initials. Non-native candidates who are indeed citizens should cater naturalisation and citizenship certificates; a consular report of birth in a foreign land can be provided as well.

2. Official

This type of passport is best defined through the statement put forward by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security which is;

“Official passport is dispensed to a government employee or official,travelling offshore for business purpose”

Family members of the government personnel can also qualify for this P-type however they also need abiding to the detailed paperwork.

3. Diplomatic

Officers of the Foreign Service or other individuals travelling abroad to execute diplomatic duties for government are given these passports. Like “official”, diplomatic family members are also eligible following the common procedure.

4. Passport cards

Passport card isn’t a complete traveller’sdocument and bearerisn’t allowed moving internationally to most countries. If you’re a resident of the U.S. it’s only valid for domestic commuting and between Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean.

Finding the “P-Type

All of the above documents contain a specific data page that asks for a photograph, name, nationality, passport number, gender, birth place (city), endorsements, issuance and expiry dates. The page also highlights code and type which would define the “P”. You can easily spot it right under the country heading on the left side, next to the photograph.

 Essential Documents

Obtaining a passport is a gateway to a world of travel privileges. The process can be long and tiring as you need to understand about the required documents and how they can save a lot of time. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of required paperwork!

1. Passport Application Form

The first and foremost step is to fill out the application form. If applicant is above 16 years, he’s eligible to fill it up individually or else parents/legal guardians must do the honor. With internet, it can now be filled online and hardly takes 30 minutes.

2. Citizenship Document

Applicant must also conjure citizenship documentation in the country where they’ve plans to move. Form of a previously issued and unspoiled passport, birth and naturalisation certificates would also suffice.

3. Government ID & Photographs

Many applicants go for a driver’s license or previously issued passports to save time, cost and effort. Military identification and naturalisation certificates are also acceptable. Make sure you’ve attached a fresh photograph with plain blue background and a clearly visible face.

Conclusion

In order to qualify for the U.K. residency or for any place else, the first step is obtaining a passport so you better understand the details as given.

 Author Bio:

Asghar Paracha is a digital marketing expert and a content writer from UAE. He has been writing content for different Niche content. He has written this article to provide information about citizenship, passport and residency programs for people who are looking to relocate to another country.