7 US Passport Application mistakes to avoid
- USA Passport Application
- Aug 19
- 4 min read
US Passport Application: Considering the present backlog, acquiring your US passport may now take up to 17 weeks, compared to the 6 to 8 weeks that was the usual timeframe before the pandemic. With expedited processing, the procedure still might last 7 to 9 weeks, according to the US Department of State.
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The delay might be worse if you commit mistakes in the passport application. A tiny slip on your photo, paperwork, or a spelling error could determine the difference between experiencing the food and traditions of a foreign country and sitting at home over a canceled vacation.
We spoke with specialists at Rush My Passport, a prominent digital US passport and visa company, to identify the 7 frequent errors people make when requesting a US passport, along with guidance on how to prevent them.
1. Your US Passport Application Photo Fails To Meet The Standards
Did you capture the picture against a patterned wall? That’s unacceptable. A selfie? Not allowed. A passport photo error is the number one cause of processing setbacks. Ensure your colored passport picture (taken within the past 6 months) meets these conditions:
The image must be 2 x 2 inches square.
The background must be plain white or off-white, no patterns or artwork.
The lighting must be balanced and should not cast shadows on your face.
Don’t grin widely for the shot. A gentle closed-mouth smile is acceptable, but you should maintain a neutral look, with both eyes open and facing forward.
The picture must be sharp, with clear resolution and strong contrast.
Do not apply filters or digital edits.
2. You Wear Incorrect Attire And Accessories In Your Picture
Forget about fashion shots. Avoid white shirts, spectacles or sunglasses, or other clothing and items that break the rules. Hats and head coverings are forbidden unless used for religious or medical purposes.
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Passport photographs are simple and plain. Rush My Passport’s recommendation? Your face must remain clear with nothing obstructing it. Put on normal clothing.
3. US Passport Application: You Make Typographical Errors In The Application
When you’re rushing through an online form, it’s easy to swap digits in your birth date or make a typo. Carefully check your application for spelling or numerical mistakes before submitting.
The paperwork required to apply for a U.S. passport can be complicated and confusing. You must present “primary” proof of US nationality. If you were born in the United States that may be a birth certificate that fulfills these standards may be:
Issued by the city, county, or state of birth.
Displays the applicant’s complete name, date of birth, and birthplace.
Displays the parents’ full names.
Bears the registrar’s signature from the city, county, or state.
Contains the filing date with the registrar’s office.
Includes the official seal of the issuing authority; digital versions are not valid.
4. You Miscalculate The Official Government Charges
Government passport costs differ depending on the passport type requested, the urgency of processing, and add-ons such as a US Passport Application card, express shipping, and more. The expenses can increase, sometimes reaching several hundred dollars. There’s an application charge and an execution charge, an expedite charge, and a fee for 1- to 2-day mailing. Miscalculating the payment results in a postponed passport.
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5. US Passport Application: You Fail To Provide Proof Of Travel Itinerary
Many expedited passport choices require proof of upcoming travel. Accepted evidence includes:
An electronic airline ticket or email confirmation of your booking.
A flight reservation with an airline.
A reservation with a travel agency.
For business journeys, you must show a letter on company stationery that contains:
Expected dates of travel.
Destination of the trip.
Short explanation describing the business purpose.
Original signature of someone in the company other than yourself.
6. Apply USA Passport: Your Passport Is Close To Expiration
Several nations demand that a US Passport Application remain valid for at least 6 months past your intended date of return. Plan your renewal or new application early to make sure you satisfy the requirements. By being aware and prepared, you can confirm that your passport meets the validity rules and avoid disruptions in your travels.
Even if you don’t have immediate vacation plans, verify your passport’s validity. If it has expired or is expiring soon, apply early to save stress and costs.

7. US Passport Application; You Skip Using An Expedited Passport Provider
For an easy way to reduce errors and speed up a new or renewal application, consider a passport service such as Rush My Passport. The USA Passport belongs to the Expedited Travel Family of brands, which simplifies the U.S. passport process to ensure you receive your renewed passport much quicker than handling it alone. The company offers different service levels but recommends the accelerated option for the best value.
Applying for a USA Passport Application is now easier than ever. With the Online Passport Application USA service, you can complete the process from the comfort of your home. The American Passport Application Online system ensures quick and secure submissions. Whether it is your first passport or a passport renewal, everything is just a few clicks away.
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