Appointments are limited, minimum processing takes 3 days to process when arranged with JIDS, call us 914-592-2760. Proof of travel and letter of authorizations will be required.
CALL OR EMAIL us for updated information,
RUSH requests include our pre check service.
- Also available is an expedite service which can take approx. 3-7 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day a new passport is received once they start process. Which is less time than the post office with their processing time at 18 weeks.
TWO SERVICES AVAILABLE
- EXPEDITED SERVICE with proof of travel and letter of authorization, this is a limited appointment made by JIDS if traveling within 14 days (30 days if proof of VISA) JIDS service fee includes prechecking your documents. (ONLINE APPLICATIONS ONLY with bar codes which include the $60 expedite fee )
- Expedite Service without proof of travel –can take up to 5-7 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day a new passport is received. $60.00 expedite fee and 19.32/ 2 day UPS fee must be marked on each application. is marked on the online application before printing it. These fees are in addition to JIDS service fee.
- Personal, business ,money orders or bank checks are accepted written directly to the US DEPARTMENT OF STATE. JIDS is no longer allowed to use third party checks to submit.
September 2023
EUROPE UNION will require ETA VISAS FOR MANY NATIONALITIES that previously did not require it as of 2024 US CITIZENS ARE ON THIS LIST . The rules of travel to Europe have changed. Starting from 2024, some 1.4 billion people from over 60 visa-exempt countries are required to have a travel authorisation to enter most European countries. STARTING 2024. JIDS can assist you. CHECK YOUR PASSPORTS for a minimum of 3 months validity from last day of international travel date. CALL JIDS TO RENEW YOUR PASSPORT if you do not have this validity.
It is possible however that your application may take longer to process. If so, you will receive a decision within four days. Please note that this period could be extended by up to 14 days if you are requested to provide additional information or documentation, or up to 30 days if you are invited to an interview. This is why you should apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation well in advance of your planned journey.
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February 2023
Consulate General of China has finally opened for VISA PROCESSING. They have all new requirements and processing rules. JIDS can assist you with a CONCIERGE SERVICE TO COMPLETE THE APPLICATION FOR YOU. If you do your own application we will precheck it and once it is approved we can then make the APPOINTMENT TO PRESENT YOUR DOCUMENTS to the Consulate. Please note: You should apply at least 30 days in advance of your trip. CALL us to send you the requirement’s and checklist. The Consulate is jurisdictional so be sure to tell us if you are outside the NY Jurisdiction, we can assist you but need to know before you do your ONLINE APPLICATION.
CALL JIDS for any international travel. EACH COUNTRY HAS NEW RULES OF TRAVEL WE ARE HAPPY TO ASSIST. CALL 914-592-2769
COVID-19 Update: Passport Agency June 23,2021
What to Expect Notice from PASSPORT AGENCY:
- POST OFFICE: Mail delays are impacting when we receive passport applications for processing. Processing times begin the day we receive your application, not the day it is given to them.
- Routine service can take up to 18 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day a new passport is received. The 18-week timeframe includes up to 12 weeks for processing and up to 6 weeks for mailing times on the front and back end.
- Expedite service (for an additional $60) can take up to 8-12 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day a new passport is received. The 12-week timeframe includes up to 6 weeks for processing and up to 6 weeks depending upon volume at the agency and mailing times back to you. We can assist with application process so the mail time will be cut down.
Our processing times (As of June 23,2021 expedited service can range from up 6-12 weeks for expedite) do not include mailing times. Once submitted JIDS can register your email for notifications but we cannot further assist with processing return times.
The US DEPARTMENT OF STATE is still in LEVEL OE SECURITY due to COVID and HIGH VOLUME of passport processing. Once PHASE 3 occurs, Justin Document Service will be given permission to expedite passport requests. Please call us if you would like us to put your name on our call back list.
Important notice from the CONSULATE GENERAL OF CHINA in New York:
Foreign nationals (US CITIZENS and ALL PASSPORT HOLDERS) holding visas or residence permits still valid to the time of the announcement are temporarily suspended the entry into China. The valid visa you are holding now is temporarily not valid for entry into China.
When the above-mentioned arrangement will be adjusted cannot be estimated at present time.
Anyone applying for NEW VISAS, the procedures have been updated. See our CHINA PAGE for further details
If you have questions about other countries visa processing call us. As of July 9th, they are still not visa processing.
FEE INCREASE as of June 2021 NORMAL Consulate PROCESSING TIME varies from $175.00 to $275.00.
November 2019
We can now process visas for tourism for Saudi Arabia
Oct 2019
Russia-We can do RUSH for valid reasons, letter of intent required as well as flight itinerary. CALL JIDS.
RUSSIA FEE INCREASE
Single $160.00—–10-20 business days
Double $160.00—–10-20 business days
Multiple $160.00—-13-20 business days
ALL FEES VARY, the outsource office upon reviewing the documents may charge an additional fee for any corrections at time of submission. Ask JIDS if you have further questions.
RUSH SERVICE
Single entry only $50.00—Under 9 days at discretion of the consulate with additional documents CALL JIDS
Premium Outsource Fee is Mandatory 45.00-95.00
JIDS Rush fee if same day submission is available is 75.00 in addition to our service fee.
Safety and Security
We have made it easy for you to get clear, timely, and reliable safety and security information about every country in the world and access it at home or on the go via our mobile-friendly website, travel.state.gov.
Take Us With You Wherever You Go Abroad
The mission of the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs is to protect the lives and serve the interests of U.S. citizens abroad. We provide information to help you assess for yourself the risks of international travel and what steps to take to ensure your safety when you decide to go abroad.
JIDS can sign you up for the STEP ALERT PROGRAM, call us at 914-592-2760.
France Travel Advisory
Travel Advisory
April 1, 2019
France – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in France due to terrorism and civil unrest.
Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in France. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.
Demonstrations in Paris and other major cities continue in France and are expected to continue in the coming weeks. Property damage, including looting and arson, in populated tourist areas has occurred with reckless disregard for public safety. Police have responded with water cannons, rubber bullets, and tear gas. The U.S. Embassy is advising official U.S. government travelers to avoid travel to Paris and other major cities in France on the weekends.
If you decide to travel to France:
- Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and large crowded public venues.
- Avoid demonstrations.
- Review travel plans if you will be in France on weekends.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
- Find a safe location, and shelter in place if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Report for France.
- U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations.
Travel Warnings
Travel Advisory
The Bahamas – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime.
Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assault, is common, even during the day and in tourist areas. Although the family islands are not crime-free, the vast majority of crime occurs on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. U.S. government personnel are not permitted to visit the Sand Trap area in Nassau due to crime. Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft are often not maintained, and many companies do not have safety certifications to operate in The Bahamas. Jet-ski operators have been known to commit sexual assaults against tourists. As a result, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.
If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:
- Exercise caution in the area known as “Over the Hill” (south of Shirley Street) and the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay in Nassau, especially at night.
- Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Report for The Bahamas.
- U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations.
U.S. Travelers in Europe
If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. The Schengen Agreement is a treaty creating Europe’s Schengen Area, which encompasses 26 European countries, where internal border checks have largely been abolished for short-term tourism, a business trip, or transit to a non-Schengen destination. Because many Schengen countries assume that all travelers will stay for the full three months allowed for visa-free visitors, we recommend the following:
PASSPORT
- Have at least six-month’s validity remaining on your passport whenever you travel abroad. Call JIDS to renew your book if it does not have pages for entry and exit stamps or it expires within 6 months of your trip.
- Check the expiration date on your passport carefully before traveling to Europe – especially children’s passports, which are valid five years, not 10 years like those issued to U.S. citizens aged 16 and older.
- Carry your passport when traveling to another country in the Schengen area. Even if there is no border check at that time, officials may reinstate border controls without notice.
- If your passport does not meet the Schengen requirements, you may be:
- Refused boarding by the airline at your point of origin or while transferring planes.
- Denied entry when you arrive in the Schengen area, regardless of how long you will stay.
An immigration official will determine if you qualify for entry when you first cross any external border of the Schengen area and present your passport. The officer may bar your entry if you do not qualify.
**Make sure you receive a stamp in your passport when you enter and exit the Schengen area.**
VISA
If you:
- Spend three months in the Schengen area during any six-month period, you must wait another three months from the last date of departure from the Schengen area before you can apply to enter the Schengen area again without a visa.
- Do not meet these conditions, or if you plan to stay in the Schengen area longer than three months, contact the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the majority of your time to apply for a visa.
Schengen area countries may reinstate temporary internal and external border control without advanced notice. U.S. citizens should carry their U.S. passport at all times when traveling to/from and within the Schengen area.
JIDS price increase takes effect September 4th, 2018. See pricing page. Order form has not been updated as of yet, however the prices will change.
PASSPORT AGENCY :
Important notice: Effective April 2, 2018, the passport execution fee will increase from $25 to $35 for U.S. passport applicants using the DS-11 form, including first-time applicants over age 16, children under age 16, and applicants who reapply after reporting their previous passport lost or stolen. Accordingly, the total passport fee for such applicants will increase by $10. For more details, please visit our website at travel.state.gov.
Turkey 1/2018 EVISAS Available again
News:
TURKEY: U.S.-Turkey Visa Standoff Disrupts Business and Tourism for the past month.
The consulate has resumed issuing visas however they require a PERSONAL APPEARANCE TO THE CONSULATE. THE ETA is still not working.
What Americans Need to Know About Travel to Turkey
To see if you are eligible go to www.evisa.gov.tr
To launch an application go to www.visa.gove.tr
you can also email the consulate at consulate.newyork@mfa.gov.tr
Attention to BOUSHRA
BRAZIL: We would like to inform all visa and travel agencies registered with us that effective November 22, 2018, all Brazilian visa types have been updated as well as some of the visa fees.
Special attention must be made to applicable fees for Chinese and Australian passport holders traveling on tourism or business.
We also remind you that our processing times may vary according to our demand, specially during the holidays season. We recommend all agencies to always plan to submit clients’ visa applications within a two-week deadline
As of November 8th ,2017 the Consulate of Turkey is still suspended from issuing visas to US citizens. As of now you cannot do E-Visas online. Please call JIDS to get updates if you are traveling to Turkey in the future.
US takes steps to make it harder for Americans to visit Cuba
Updated: Nov 8, 2017 – 10:00 AM
Americans who visit Cuba must now avoid hotels, shops, tour companies and other businesses on a lengthy list released Wednesday by the Trump administration as part of a new policy aimed at cracking down on the communist-run island’s government.
U.S. travelers will once again be required to go as part of organized tour groups run by U.S. companies, and a representative of the sponsoring group must accompany the travelers. That’s a return to the stricter rules that existed before former President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro restored diplomatic relations in 2015.
The new rules and list of off-limits entities are intended to put in place the tougher Cuba policy that President Donald Trump announced in June. Trump’s administration took several months to finalize the details of that policy, which will take affect Thursday.
Some exceptions will accommodate Americans who made plans or entered into business agreements before Trump’s policy announcement June 16, such as “people to people” trips to Cuba.
But at the same time, the Treasury Department said it is expanding and simplifying a license that allows some products to be exported to Cuba without specific permission from the U.S. government. The goal in allowing those exports is to enable Americans to help the growing private sector in Cuba, including small businesses that have popped up across the island in recent years.
“We have strengthened our Cuba policies to channel economic activity away from the Cuban military and to encourage the government to move toward greater political and economic freedom for the Cuban people,” Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said.
The list of off-limits entities bars American business with the large military-run corporations that dominate the Cuban economy. These include GAESA and CIMEX, the holding companies that control most retail business on the island; Gaviota, the largest tourism company; and Habaguanex, the firm that runs Old Havana.
It also places off limits a new cargo port and special trade zone outside the city of Mariel that has been the focus of Cuba’s efforts to draw foreign investment in manufacturing and distribution.
A list of blacklisted military-run hotels includes the Manzana Kempinski, which opened with great fanfare this year as Cuba’s first hotel to meet the international five-star standard.
The actual impact on American business with Cuba will likely be limited because that trade is already sparse, and the rules allow it to largely continue. Many American travelers stay at hotels not on the new list, and the company that imports most American food products to Cuba is similarly unaffected. U.S. flight and cruises are exempted as well.
Left unchanged is a U.S. travel warning that urges all Americans to stay away from Cuba. The administration issued that warning in September amid a series of invisible, unexplained attacks that have harmed the health of U.S. government personnel in Havana. The U.S. says 24 Americans are “medically confirmed” to have been affected by those attacks.
As of October 3, 2017
Consulate General of Brazil, has added a POWER OF ATTORNEY FORM. See page on Brazil requirements for the link.
INDIA-AS of August 2017 RETURN OF PASSPORT with VISA
will be DIRECTLY from the Consulate of India, JIDS will no longer be responsible for pick up of visa once issued in the passport. Shipping once issued will come directly from CKGS (which is the third party facilitator contracted by the Consulate of India) They tell us approx. date from submission is 5-7 days. Depending upon passport type, and when approval comes from India to issue the visa. This also can vary sooner or longer. THE CONSULATE WILL USE UPS or FEDEX and charge you and will ship to ONLY HOME ADDRESS on your application.
NEW Letter of Authorization as of July 5, 2017. For all PASSPORT SERVICES.
INDIA
New as of 7/2017 as Transfer of Visa category has been removed.
Transfer Of Tourist: Applicants are requested to note that they will no longer be able to apply for Transfer of Visa as the same has been removed from Government of India Website.If you already have an Indian visa in your old passport then you are requested to:
- Carry your old passport (with the Indian Visa) and new valid passport.
Or - Apply for NEW Regular visa
Transfer Of Business Visa
Please Note: Applicants are requested to note that they will no longer be able to apply for Transfer of Visa as the same has been removed from Government of India Website.
If you already have an Indian visa in your old passport then you are requested to:
- Carry your old passport (with the Indian Visa) and new valid passport.
Or - Apply for NEW Regular visa
RUSSIA NEWS
2017 FIFA Confederations Cup – Address Registration within 24 Hours
Starting June 1st through July 12th, 2017, foreign nationals arriving in the cities of Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, and Sochi will be required to register their place of stay or residence within 24 hours of arrival, rather than the usual allotted 7 days.The registration process is usually carried out by the hotel upon check-in. Those staying in a private accommodation can register with the local authority of the Ministry of the Interior of Russia by presenting a passport and immigration card. The shortened registration window comes as heightened security measures during the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup. Failure to register on time may result in fines and possible deportation from Russia.
FIFA Confederations Cup 2017 and the FIFA World Cup 2018 visa information
In accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation, entry (exit) of foreign citizens and stateless persons arriving in Russia as spectators for sports events within the framework of the FIFA Confederations Cup 2017 (will be held from June 17 to July 2, 2017 in the cities of Moscow, St. Petersburg, Sochi, Kazan) and the FIFA 2018 World Cup (will be held from June 14 to July 15, 2018 in the cities of Moscow, St. Petersburg, Sochi, Kazan, Ekaterinburg, Kaliningrad, Nizhny Novgorod, Rostov-on-Don, Samara, Saransk, Volgograd), is carried out without issued Russian visas.
However, in order to be admitted to Russia foreign citizens/stateless persons must have a valid identity document (“tourist” passport) and a “Personalized card of the spectator” (also known as a “Fan ID”).
Information on the procedure for obtaining a Fan ID can be found on the websites of the organizers of the above sports events at: www.fan-id.ru and www.welcome2018.com.
IMPORTANT PASSPORT AGENCY NEWS MAY 1, 2017
As of May 1, 2017, the times for submissions has changed at the passport agency. ALL PASSPORT AGENCY REQUESTS MUST BE advised to us at least the day before you overnight mail to us, so we can advise procedures and times.
Walk-ins must be here by 9AM, our courier leaves at 915am, nothing will be accepted for that day if you arrive after 9am or do not call us to advise you are coming the passport is submitted the following day.
April -U.S. CITIZEN MESSAGES Mozambique
New Enforcement of Visa Requirements for Entry
U.S. citizens traveling to Mozambique should be aware of newly enforced entry requirements to obtain a visa in advance of arrival in the country. With the exception of nationals from a few neighboring countries, all foreigners traveling to the country require a visa. JIDS can help you obtain the visa. Call 914-592-2760.
Officially, since 2003 foreigners traveling to Mozambique have been instructed to obtain a visa in advance if they are arriving from a country that has a Mozambique embassy. Travelers arriving from other countries without Mozambican representation have been able to purchase single-entry visitors’ visas valid for 30 days at the airport or other points of entry for $82. Unofficially, until recently almost all foreigners have been permitted to purchase these visas on arrival. The only factor being different from obtaining a visa in advance was that the ‘visto de fronteira’ was $25 more expensive and limited to a single entry.
This is no longer the case. Foreigners arriving without a visa from a country with a Mozambican mission will likely be denied entry and sent to South Africa or another country on the next available flight. Many U.S. citizens have recently been denied entry and deported. In practice, even Americans arriving from a country without a Mozambican diplomatic presence are sometimes being denied entry if arriving without a visa.
Travelers to Mozambique should also pay careful attention to other requirements of their visas and be prepared to show any documentation which accompanied their applications. U.S. citizens have been denied entry for not being able to produce an invitation letter, other requested documentation, or correctly completed arrival forms.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Mozambique enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at travel.state.gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. JIDS can also help you register for the STEP program.
If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Kenya Travel Alert
LAST UPDATED: APRIL 6, 2017
The State Department alerts U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Kenya that general elections are scheduled for August 8, 2017. Candidate selection for national and county offices will take place throughout the country in April, followed by nationwide campaigning. This Travel Alert expires on August 31, 2017.
Rallies, demonstrations, and protests may occur with little notice and even those intended to be peaceful can escalate into violence. As with all large events, there is also the opportunity for criminal elements or terrorists to target participants and visitors. You should avoid areas of gatherings, protests, and demonstrations, and exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of any such events.
- U.S. citizens are urged to exercise caution and remain abreast of the security situation.
Monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities. - Avoid crowds and remain alert when using public transportation.
- Report specific safety concerns to local law enforcement authorities.
- Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
- Restrictions on traffic circulation, either imposed by the authorities or caused by political rallies, could occur during the elections period. Please refer to our Security Message dated March 13, 2017 for tips on personal preparedness.
PASSPORT AGENCY NEWS :
2017-PHOTOS
CHEST up photos taken have been rejected, and they are giving us new guidelines of shoulders up, Please look at the photos before they are printed at CVS or any other place doing passport photos. They have rejected many photos from the chest up saying the head is too small.
As of September 19th -SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS MUST BE PROVIDED ON ALL PASSPORT APPLICATIONS. Customers who do not provide their SSN will experience delays in the processing of their application. If you cannot provide SSN ,call us 914-592-2760
PASSPORT AGENCY – As of November 1, 2016, NO EYE GLASSES PERMITTED IN PASSPORT PHOTOS.
Vietnam
Consulate General of Vietnam will now ONLY ISSUE A ONE YEAR MULTIPLE VISA FOR Tourist or Business, Fee is 200.00, Rush fees still apply as well.
It is Passport Awareness Month and the U.S. Department of State wants you to have a picture perfect passport.
Why is a PASSPORT PHOTO Denied ??
Bad photos are the #1 reason passport applications get held up during the application process. In 2015, we received more than 200,000 unacceptable passport photos! Submitting a passport application with a bad photo will delay processing your application and could interfere with planned travel.
That’s why during the month of September the U.S. Department of State is promoting the #PicturePerfectPassport campaign.
Save yourself the anxiety of delay and make sure you’re not making these mistakes!
- Glare on glasses
It’s tough not have glare on your glasses
It’s actually more common that you think. Glare can appear even when the camera doesn’t flash. So, it may be easier to take them off. In fact, coming soon, glasses won’t be allowed anymore in passport photos. - Too light or too dark
Photos that are too bright or that show shadows on your face will also cause you problems. Your photo needs to be clear, reflecting your true skin tone. Remember, photo filters are good for social media, not your passport photo. - Photo is not recent
Your passport photo needs to have been taken within 6 months of submitting your passport photo. We verify that the photo looks like you. So, save your old photos for throw-back Thursdays. - Image size
Selfies are a bad idea when it comes to passport photos. Photos that are taken too close or too far away will be rejected. For help, use our smart photo tool. - Low quality image or paper
Photo is blurry, grainy, pixelated, or printed on the wrong paper. Photos should be high resolution and not damaged.
6/2016-Consulate General of Saudi
Mandatory Insurance on Non US Visitors to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia cost varies per nationality and is paid directly to outsource agency upon application by JIDS on your behalf.
June 2016-PASSPORT AGENCY NEWS
SECOND DUPLICATE PASSPORT – The Validity of a second passport is now 4 years instead of two years. The requirements remain the same.
Saudi Arabia– New procedure 2016 – Business letter needs to be notarized.
5/26/2016 Right now, no individual needs to adjust travel plans, or rush out to get a new driver’s license or a passport for domestic air travel. Until January 22, 2018, residents of all states will still be able to use a state-issued driver’s license or identification card for domestic air travel. Passengers can also continue to use any of the various other forms of identification accepted by TSA (such as a Passport or Passport Card, Global Entry card, U.S. military ID, airline or airport-issued ID, federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID).
Effective January 22, 2018, air travelers with a driver’s license or identification card issued by a state that does not meet the requirements of the REAL ID Act (unless that state has been granted an extension to comply with the Act) must present an alternative form of identification acceptable to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in order to board a commercial domestic flight.
Travelers are encouraged to check the REAL ID compliance status of their state on the DHS website and review TSA’s list of acceptable forms of identification. Travelers may also check with their state’s driver’s licensing agency about how to acquire a REAL ID compliant license.
If your passport has been lost or stolen, it should be reported immediately to help protect yourself against identity theft and to prevent someone else from using the passport.
Report Your Lost or Stolen Passport Online
You may now electronically submit form DS-64 to report your passport lost or stolen!
Replace a Lost or Stolen Passport – Submit DS-64 Online
Entry requirements for NON US Citizens even with a US RESIDENCY GREEN CARD:
Important Notice
Starting March 15, 2016, visa-exempt foreign nationals who fly to or transit through Canada will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travelers with a valid visa. Call JIDS if you would like assistance obtaining this visa.
PASSPORT NEWS :
If you have a United States passport expiring any time in 2016, the State Department has a message for you: Renew it now.
The department anticipates a surge in passport demand throughout this year, and officials hope to avoid a crush that could leave some Americans fuming in frustration with no passport in hand on the day they planned to travel outside the country.
Officials are expecting a flood of renewals of 10-year passports issued in 2006 and 2007. The latter was the year when the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative went into effect, for the first time requiring passports for Americans returning by air from Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean and Bermuda. As millions of citizens scrambled to apply for their first passports, backlogs swelled and many were stranded.
“We were overwhelmed then, and we are not going to be overwhelmed again,” said Michele Bond, the assistant secretary of state for consular affairs, who oversees passports. She has been on a campaign to cajole Americans into renewing early.
Credit James Nieves/The New York Times
There has also been an uptick, officials said, in first-time applications from Americans in states that have not yet complied with the Real ID Act, which sets stricter standards for driver’s licenses and other identity cards. Many people seem to have a mistaken belief that a deadline is imminent after which they will not be able to present licenses from those states for flights within the United States.
The Department of Homeland Security recently clarified the deadline: Jan. 22, 2018. As of that date, residents of states that still have not complied with Real ID will have to show an alternative, approved form of identification, such as a passport.
For now there is no hurry for travelers in the five states and a territory that have not complied so far — Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, Washington and American Samoa — if they are not planning to go abroad. But some are rushing to get passports anyway (travel.state.gov), adding to congestion in the system.
State Department officials say another reason to renew soon is that many countries are now enforcing a requirement for at least six months’ validity on a United States passport. The department has experienced an increase in frantic calls from Americans who were denied entry at foreign airports and borders because their passports had less than six months to go.
Officials said they expected to issue more than 17 million new passports and renewals this year, about 1.5 million more than in 2015.
JIDS New procedure:
As of Monday Nov. 30, 2015 copies of all your documents sent to JIDS for processing must be enclosed or a $10.00 copy fee will apply.
GET A PASSPORT if you do not have one,for domestic travel as well as international.
Homeland Security Issues New ID Requirements for New Yorkers—and Thousands of Others—Heading to the Airport
by Daniel McCarthy / September 09, 2015
Customers from New York, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Hampshire, or American Samoa, head’s up. Travelers from those locations soon will be out of luck if they try to travel using a driver’s license as ID.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, driver’s licenses from the four states and Samoa do not comply with the minimum standards of the federal Real ID system.
The system was created by an act of Congress following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission that the Federal Government should “set standards of the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” DHS will begin enforcing its final phase, allowing only travelers from compliant states to use their driver’s licenses as ID for domestic air travel, in 2016. New York and Minnesota had obtained a federal extension for implementing the Real ID system, but it will expire on Jan. 19.
The Act requires that all state IDs issued after Dec. 1, 1964, comply with the REAL ID system, under which the issuing state’s DMV records must include social security numbers, photographs, and home addresses of drivers.
While New York does offer enhanced licenses, which the state believes makes it compliant with the law, it does not require that its residents get one. According to a story in today’s Newsday in New York, 11.5 million driver licenses are active in the state, and only 800,000—just 6.9%—are enhanced.
New Hampshire has a separate problem with the Act, as state law there does not require the DMV to store social security numbers. Meanwhile, New Hampshire law doesn’t require a photograph to be stored at the DMV or a home address be printed on the license, two things that the Real ID law requires.
In Louisiana, though the state’s House voted to adopt federal REAL ID regulations, Gov. Bobby Jindal vetoed legislation in June, 2014, citing issues with state versus federal rights as the reason. The same problem came up when Minnesota tried to pass laws requiring REAL IDs last April.
Beside the extra cost of obtaining an enhanced license, there are also privacy concerns over the Real ID requirements. Douglas Kidd, the executive director of the National Association of Airline Passengers, told Newsday that while his organization understands the need for extra security “whether the Real ID and the additional personal data associated with it actually provides any real security remains to be seen.”
Debates notwithstanding—and especially with the wait for passports already getting longer—travel agents can help their customers by reminding them that citizens from these four states who were born after Dec. 1, 1964, will no longer be able to board a domestic flight or cruise without a passport. And the sooner they get on line, the better.
VISA NEWS:
Malawi Entry requirements:
- Effective October 1, 2015 the government of Malawi will require US nationals as well as many other nationalities to apply for a visa for short stays in the country, call JIDS for further details.
PASSPORT AGENCY NEWS:
11/20/15 Americans: Pay Your Taxes—Or Lose Your Passport
Congress is poised to enact a law denying or revoking passports for U.S. citizens who haven’t paid their taxes.
Under a new law expected to take effect in January, the State Department will block Americans with “seriously delinquent” tax debt from receiving new passports and will be allowed to rescind existing passports of people who fall into that category. The list of affected taxpayers will be compiled by the Internal Revenue Service using a threshold of $50,000 of unpaid federal taxes, including penalties and interest, which would be adjusted for inflation.
The rule has been passed in similar versions by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. It is part of a highway-funding bill, H.R. 22, that is now before a conference committee. Congress is expected to pass it in early December.
U.S. government will be able to deny new passports or revoke ones held by people with serious tax debts
Read more here …
Extra Visa Pages no Longer Issued Effective January 1, 2016
The U.S. Department of State will no longer add visa pages into U.S. passports beginning January 1, 2016. Previously, U.S. passport holders had the option to pay for the insertion of additional 24-page visa inserts when valid passports lacked adequate space for entry or exit visa stamps. The decision to discontinue this service was made to enhance the security of the passport and to abide by international passport standards.
To mitigate the impact on frequent travelers, the Department began issuing 52-page passports to all applicants outside the United States starting October 1, 2014 for no additional cost. Applicants within the United States may choose a 28-page or 52-page book.
Requests for additional 24-page visa inserts will only be accepted until December 31, 2015. Beginning January 1, 2016, applicants in need of additional pages in their valid passports must obtain a new passport
Right now you can still expedite them for $142.00 government fees plus JIDS fees.
What this means to travelers who have VALID VISAS in the passport :
Some countries allow you to carry both passports, the cancelled one with the valid visas and the current passport. However some countries do not allow this and VISAS must be transferred or you must apply for a new visa in your new current passport.
Get pages added before 2016.
Passport Agency Alert
Ten years ago the US State Department and Homeland Security enforced a new policy making carrying a passport mandatory when travelling in the western hemisphere. Millions of Americans who secured a passport to travel will find themselves in need of a renewal in or around 2016. Those passports are starting to expire and the US Passport Offices are already experiencing processing delays. Check your passports and let us know if we can help you get those passports renewed with our expedited services in as little as 24hrs. Same day appointments are available as well, all with valid proof of travel. Call us 914 – 592 – 2760.
Iraq Travel Warning
LAST UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 14, 2015
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all but essential travel to Iraq. Travel within Iraq remains dangerous given the security situation. The ability of the Embassy to assist U.S. citizens facing difficulty, including arrest, is extremely limited. Private U.S. citizens are strongly discouraged from traveling to Iraq to join in armed conflict. The Embassy in Baghdad and the Consulates General in Basrah and Erbil are open and operating. This Travel Warning supersedes the Travel Warning dated June 22, 2015.
Potential Implications for Travel Because of Ebola in Parts of West Africa
LAST UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 15, 2015
The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to screening procedures, travel restrictions, and reduced aviation transportation options in response to the outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.
This Travel Alert will expire on March 15, 2016.
Latest News
POSTED BY JOANNE SCHINELLI ON OCT 5, 2015 IN NEWS
CLOSURES:
Good Friday: March 30th,2018 and April 2
Many consulates including Vietnam and Brazil will be closed. Check with JIDS for any time sensitive issues.
Passport News:
Important notice: Effective April 2, 2018, the passport execution fee will increase from $25 to $35 for U.S. passport applicants using the DS-11 form, including first-time applicants over age 16, children under age 16, and applicants who reapply after reporting their previous passport lost or stolen. Accordingly, the total passport fee for such applicants will increase by $10. For more details, please visit our website at travel.state.gov.
VISA NEWS:
Malawi Entry requirements:
Effective October 1, 2015 the government of Malawi will require US nationals as well as many other nationalities to apply for a visa for short stays in the country, call JIDS for further details.
PASSPORT AGENCY NEWS:
Adding additional pages in your US passport has been a option for US passport holders when they need more pages to add visas to the book.
Right now you can still expedite them for $142.00 government fees plus JIDS fees. The US Department of State has been talking about discontinuing this and according to a announcement made by Brenda Sprague, deputy assistant secretary of Passport Services at the U.S. State Department next January citizens who run out of visa pages will have to obtain a new passport instead of having additional pages inserted. Two options will be available: either 28 or 52 pages with no difference in cost.
What this means to travelers who have VALID VISAS in the passport :
Some countries allow you to carry both passports, the cancelled one with the valid visas and the current passport. However some countries do not allow this and VISAS must be transferred or you must apply for a new visa in your new current passport.
Get pages added before 2016 if you are expediting. The official date has not yet been announced.
Passport Agency Alert
Ten years ago the US State Department and Homeland Security enforced a new policy making carrying a passport mandatory when travelling in the western hemisphere. Millions of Americans who secured a passport to travel will find themselves in need of a renewal in or around 2016. Those passports are starting to expire and the US Passport Offices are already experiencing processing delays. Check your passports and let us know if we can help you get those passports renewed with our expedited services in as little as 24hrs. Same day appointments are available as well, all with valid proof of travel. Call us 914 – 592 – 2760.
Iraq Travel Warning
LAST UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 14, 2015
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all but essential travel to Iraq. Travel within Iraq remains dangerous given the security situation. The ability of the Embassy to assist U.S. citizens facing difficulty, including arrest, is extremely limited. Private U.S. citizens are strongly discouraged from traveling to Iraq to join in armed conflict. The Embassy in Baghdad and the Consulates General in Basrah and Erbil are open and operating. This Travel Warning supersedes the Travel Warning dated June 22, 2015.
Potential Implications for Travel Because of Ebola in Parts of West Africa
LAST UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 15, 2015
The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to screening procedures, travel restrictions, and reduced aviation transportation options in response to the outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.
This Travel Alert will expire on March 15, 2016.
Always Available To Help!
If you have any questions feel free to call us at (914) 592-2760