Visa & Passport Services TexasTower

Are you familiar with Cinco de Mayo? It is on the 5th of May and commemorates the victory of the Mexican militia over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It is primarily a regional holiday celebrated in the Mexican state capital city of Puebla. But it is also recognized in other parts of Mexico or in US cities with a significant Mexican population.

Or perhaps you are familiar with Mexico's Independence Day celebrated on September 16th. The historic day when Father Hidalgo rang the church bells and shouted to the peasants "Mexicanos, Viva Mexico".

Both of these dates are extremely important in the Mexican culture as you would expect. There are celebrations that range from the most elaborate to the smallest family gathering, all equally important. If you have been considering a vacation to Mexico either of these dates would result in a fascinating trip.

On September 15th they decorate their homes, cars and anything else that can be seen with their flags. They gather outside to celebrate a military parade. If you join them for a taste of their culture and food, you will not be disappointed.

Before traveling be sure to check the new laws that are in effect concerning travel between the US and Mexico. At one time you did not need a passport for this type of travel but so much has changed, to be sure you have the most current information you may want to get in touch with a company that specializes in obtaining travel documents, ensuring you will have everything you need to help Mexico celebrate. Viva Mexico!

Labels: passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

Spring has sprung and many travelers are gearing up for those spring breaks and summer vacations. What about you, have you decided what or where it will be this year?

What about a cruise? There are some really great deals on cruises and they travel to so many different locations. A cruise gives you a chance to enjoy a wider range of experiences. Some cruise lines have cruises for singles only, or seniors only. Looking for a honeymoon cruise? They are abundant and offer some really great extras! There are also many cruise lines that offer family cruises so that everyone gets a chance to enjoy the cruise.

For example, there is a cruise that departs from Galveston, Texas on a 13 night transatlantic cruise. You would cruise into Florida for a few days and then on to Ponta Delgado, Azores, Portugal. Spend a few more days cruising going through the Torres Strait, Queensland, Australia and then to Barcelona, Spain. Sounds great, doesn't it? And, a cruise is loaded with extra activities and adventures for the days at sea.

The staterooms offered are everything from a suite to a smaller suite and the amenities are numerous. Some of these ocean liners have ice-skating rinks, Olympic size pools and all types of entertainment. Whether you are 5 or 50+ there is something for you.

When you book your cruise be sure to ask about the type of travel documents you may need. Remember that even if the cruise-line itself does not require a passport for the trip, it is still a good idea to make sure you have one with you. For example, if you miss any of the departures you may need to catch a flight somewhere in order to get back on track with the cruise. Or, if you were to have some type of emergency where you had to depart unexpectedly by plane, you want to make sure you have all the documents required. You may want to check out their Health/Inoculation requirements before leaving also.

This is a lot of information to take in and remember; perhaps one of the best things to do is contact a company that specializes in travel document procurement. That is your best bet on making sure that you have everything you need to enjoy your vacation and also in case of an emergency. Putting your mind at ease to enjoy the cruise experience.

Labels: passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

It wasn't supposed to happen this way; you had been planning this for months, probably closer to a year. So, why weren't you on that plane that was taking everyone to Rio de Janeiro? Or more specifically why did you miss Carnival 2008?

This was a once in a lifetime opportunity and you had planned on having a good time all 4 days. You thought you had covered everything and yet, it didn't happen.

With all of the different travel regulations and requirements changing almost daily keeping up with everything can be close to impossible. Were you aware that among the entry requirements for Brazil for US citizens one is that both a Passport and Visa are required when traveling to Brazil for any purpose? The Visa must be obtained in advance from the Brazilian Embassy or consulate closest to your place of residence. All Brazilian visas, regardless of their length of validity must initially be used within 90 days of the issuance date or will no longer be valid.

US citizens reentering Brazil must be able to show an entry stamp in their passport proving that the visa was issued within 90 days, or they will not be allowed reentry. As indicated, there are regulations concerning all parts of traveling, most of these requirements have been updated recently, so it requires up to date knowledge at all times.

In order to avoid any type of delay or cancellation you may want to consider contacting a company that specializes in obtaining the correct travel documents. They will be the most up to date on the regulations and paperwork required. Don't miss another Carnival in Rio, make sure you have everything you need.

Labels: brazil travel, passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

A passport is an official government document that certifies one's identity and citizenship. The passport serves two purposes: to regain entry to the country of citizenship and is a requirement by many countries to gain entry to the country you are visiting. For example if you live in the United States and are traveling to Brazil you will need the passport to get into Brazil as well as needing it again to return home to the United States.

A visa is an official government document that temporarily authorizes you to be in the country you are visiting. Many countries also require a visa to gain entry and it is usually in the form of a stamp inside the passport and is obtained from the country you are visiting. All US citizens require a visa to travel to Brazil, whether for business or tourism.

Ok, so you need a visa to go to Brazil, what kind of visa is necessary? A tourist visa would entail visits to relatives and/or friends, scientists, professors or researchers attending cultural, technological or scientific conferences, seminars or meetings. Any of the services provided must not be paid by organizations/corporations in Brazil, except for reimbursement for expenses or per diem allowances. Tourist visa holders are not allowed to engage in any paid activity in Brazil.

Business trips, except when the trip involves the provision of technical assistance services or any nature, travel for media coverage or filming, flight or ship crew members not holding an international crew card. Business visa holders are not allowed to engage in any activity under employment contract with a Brazilian organization.

Ok, so is all that perfectly clear? Didn't think so, it really can be confusing trying to figure out what passport or visa or whatever is needed. In order to hopefully avoid any delays or errors you may want to get in touch with a company that specializes in securing the correct traveling paperwork. It really can help avoid those unnecessary delays that tend to happen.

Labels: brazil travel, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

With all of the new laws and regulations being implemented there are times that the lesser issues may get overlooked or forgotten. Sometimes a refresher course might be in order.

For instance, do you remember one year ago new passport requirements went into effect if traveling to Mexico and many other places? The first stage was if you were traveling to Mexico, the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama and Canada by air or sea you were required to have a passport. The 2nd part of that law went into effect on 1/1/08, meaning the passport requirement was extended to include the land border crossings as well.

However, there are still other requirements that have been in effect but often get over-looked until it happens to you. If you are thinking about traveling over the border into Mexico you now need a passport and depending on the vehicle that is used to cross the border there may be additional requirements. If the vehicle you are taking has a lien holder you may need permission from the financial institution to take the vehicle over the border. Most lien holders require you to purchase Mexican insurance and you must have a letter from them giving you authorization to cross the border.

Of course knowing the laws could very well be a benefit in other ways. If you travel frequently between the US and Canada, you may not need a passport if you qualify for the NEXUS program. Basically it is an opportunity for low risk, pre-screened travelers to be processed with little or no delay at the border and you need only to present the NEXUS photo id card. Of course background checks are required along with other regulations.

The point is that if you are planning any type of travel or if you frequently travel between 2 countries you may want to speak with a company that specializes in obtaining the correct travel documents and perhaps your future travel will be a little easier.

Labels: birth certificate, canada, canadian travel, passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

Traveling abroad has always had a certain appeal, perhaps because it sounds exotic and brings about a feeling of importance. Of course there are others that may see it as all in a days work. But for now, go ahead, let your imagination go and travel abroad.

Where would you go? What would you do there? Or perhaps a better question would be what do you need in order to not just get there, but to actually be allowed into the country? It's true, just because you managed to get there does not mean that the country has to automatically let you in. While some documents are necessary just for travel, still others may be needed to gain entry.

For example, if you arrive in Argentina and your passport appears to be damaged they may refuse entry and be returned to the US at their own expense. The Embassy there cannot provide guarantees for travelers so you would be on your own.

If Kenya, Africa would be your destination you need to be sure that your passport has at least two blank (unstamped) visa pages each time entry is sought. Otherwise, the traveler even if they are in possession of a valid African visa may be refused entry and again be returned at their own expense.

As there are so many different entry/exit requirements it can be difficult keeping up with them all. To be on the safe side if you are traveling to a foreign country get in touch with a company that specializes in obtaining travel documents. They would be up to date on the requirements needed for any country. Not only would this be time saving for you but you would also be sure that you are able to actually enter the country you want to visit.

Labels: africa travel, passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

Ok, by now pretty much everyone knows that passport and travel requirements have changed and are still changing. If you haven't been keeping up try not to feel too bad, it confuses everyone, perhaps even the individuals that came up with the changes to begin with (although you have to admit, that would be worth a great laugh).

Of course just when you think you have it down, something else changes, if not on the whole, then at least in part. For example, say you and the family have finally decided to take a well-deserved vacation. But not just any vacation, no sir you guys are going on a cruise! And while some people may think your nuts when you say family, because, well cruise sounds so romantic (it really does doesn't it?). But again, you guys are doing it right, your taking a cruise on the Disney Cruise Line, perfect family entertainment for both parents and kids. Yes, they do it right, lots of wholesome things for the kids as well as a few surprises for the adults.

This is so cool; you knew you would need passports for the cruise, because you have been following the news. So, bypassing all the middlemen you guys applied for your passports, feeling oh so smart, you had it timed perfectly. You knew the average processing time for passports and made sure you did this in plenty of time for the cruise. Great, right?

Well almost, can you imagine the faces when you are trying to board the ship, passports are being checked and you have yours handy? Until you are told that yes, the passports themselves are in order, however, the cruise line requires you to provide proof that your passport numbers were assigned at least 75 days prior to the travel dates. It doesn't matter that you have them, it doesn't matter that you have had them for 3 weeks in advance. What matters is that you are around 8 weeks too late; at a minimum you should have had them 11 weeks before the cruise.

Perhaps bypassing the middleman is not always the best practice. While you had foresight enough to know you would need them, you did not know there were other requirements. With something this important it can be a wise move to contact a company that specializes in obtaining travel documents. If this were the case they would have naturally asked you questions about all parts of your travel and it is a good bet that they are extremely familiar with most, if not all, requirements, even a cruise line. Being professionals they would have known what questions to ask and offered advice as well. Be sure to keep this in mind for your next vacation.

Labels: Egypt Travel, employment, passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

Is it ok to admit that you are just a little, not fed up, but tired maybe of hearing about all of the new passport laws? We absolutely know that these measures are in place or being put in place for our safety and it is appreciated. However, that does not make it any easier to understand nor does it make it any easier to keep up with all of the changes.

Some say that the government has a way of taking something that should be, or was, basically simple and turning it around so that it is no longer even recognized as something that we might have known. And, if by chance you somehow manage to grasp the initial change, just wait a while because there will be another one coming along to once again leave us in the dark.

If anyone is thinking that it sounds a little like sour grapes you may be right. After all, most of us feel that we are of reasonable intelligence; therefore if something comes along that the general consensus says we should understand and we don't, we certainly don't want to admit that we do not have the ability to grasp it.

However, in something that is as important as our travel and safety we need to make sure that we do grasp it at least well enough to be able to travel and be safe. So, for those of you that may not completely understand all of the new passport/visa/travel regulations and requirements, it's ok. You do not have to admit to your friend or neighbor that you don't get it. Consider contacting a company that specializes in understanding and securing the types of documents that are needed for travel. They have to be current and up to date on all laws and requirements. They can tell you what you need for each and every country you plan to visit. They can help you obtain the documents you need and can walk you through the process. This ensures you will have everything you need to have an enjoyable worry-free trip.

However, you may want to go ahead and tell your wife that you contacted such a company because you will impress her no end. She is always giving you a bad time about not asking for directions, right? Well you may just see tears of joy over this admission or perhaps a free no nag pass for a few months.

Labels: passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 1 Comments

Due to increased security many travel requirements have changed or will be changing in the near future. For example, as of January 2007 if you planned to travel to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada by either air or sea you were required to have a passport. In January 2008, the passport requirement is extended to include all land border crossings as well as land and sea travel. Even though these changes are implemented in stages it can be difficult to understand and keep up with the changes.

If you have plans to visit some Middle Eastern or African countries you may want to double check their entry requirements. Many of these countries will not issue a Visa or allow entry if your passport indicates any travel to Israel. Many people are not aware that if US citizens travel to a country where a valid US Passport is not required they will still need documentary evidence of their citizenship and identity. Appropriate forms of identification may include an expired US Passport or an original birth certificate. A certified copy of the birth certificate may be acceptable, just be sure that it has the raised and embossed seal.

Some countries require that your US Passport be valid at least six months or longer beyond the dates of your trip. If your passport expires before the required validity you will have to apply for a new one. Some countries have departure fees that are either paid at the time you purchase your ticket or when leaving the country.

These are only a few examples of regulations and requirements that may be needed for travel. If you plan to travel you may want to get in touch with a company that specializes in obtaining documents that may be needed for traveling. This assures that you will have everything you need to make your trip a little more enjoyable.

Labels: birth certificate, birth certificate copy, Egypt, Egypt Travel, international drivers license, passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

There are many different reasons for travel; it may be for business or pleasure and perhaps a little of both. In either case hopefully you will be able to enjoy your destination and have a little relaxation since you are not at home.

Unfortunately there are also several reasons that you may have to take an unplanned or unexpected trip due to an illness or death in your family. There are so many details to cover and paperwork that needs to be completed and you really do not have time for mistakes or delays.

Of course, one of the best ways to avoid such problems is to make sure you have everything that you will need before you actually need it. However, this is not always the case, so what can you do? Perhaps the best plan would be to contact a company that specializes in obtaining paperwork that may be required in order to travel outside the country. If a passport is required for your travel and you do not have one then you will have to get one before you can go. In order to get a passport you will most likely need a certified copy of your birth certificate as well.

If you do find yourself in an emergency situation where you have very little time and need everything to go just right, then one of these companies will be your best bet. They are up to date on all current regulations and laws that may be required in your travels and may be able to help you expedite the whole process.

Labels: passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

The holidays are pretty much over and your life is starting to slow down again. Or hopefully it has at least stopped that feeling of flying headlong into all of the Christmas chaos.

You made it through all the relatives' different schedules, visiting and everything else that goes along with family and the holidays. But, you have to admit you did learn a thing or two this year. Everyone was so excited to visit you and your family in your new home in Canada. The kids were extra excited because there was snow and they really don't get too much snow back home. But, your sister looked simply exhausted and you really didn't want to pry, but were afraid things weren't going to well for her.

So, when the kids were out skating and the guys were watching football you had a chance to really talk with her. And, yes, it was a relief to learn that everything was ok, she was just so worn out and tired. Getting everything together for this trip was actually harder than she thought it would be. With so many new laws and regulations for traveling she had a hard time getting everything together. She had never even considered the fact it may be difficult getting into Canada without certain documents, it had never been a problem before.

After all of the excitement and everyone was back home you may have started thinking about your sister and the traveling problems she ran into. So, you have decided that you do not want that to happen to you, but how do you avoid it? What can you do? To start with you may want to get in touch with a company that specializes in obtaining proper traveling documents. Since there are so many new laws it can be difficult for you to keep up with them. Whereas a company such as this is always on top of the laws and requirements for all areas. This reduces your chances of having a really hectic time traveling, or at least the paperwork involved. The rest of the chaos (families, etc.) just comes with the territory.

Labels: canada, canadian travel, passport, passport applications, passport services, passports, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

If you have children you may be well aware that traveling with a child requires a lot of planning and an enormous amount of patience. Actually they do not even have to be your children, you can look around a plane and probably be able to pick out the parents by the completely exhausted and stressed expressions.

It really can be pretty stressful making sure you have everything that you think you will need for the trip as well as a few extra things that probably will not be needed. You know the old saying that says better safe than sorry? When you are traveling with a child this becomes your mantra. With all of the other problems and planning the last thing you should have to worry about is whether or not you will actually be able to take the trip because of the paperwork involved.

Children are no longer allowed to be included in their parent's passport. Each child must have their own passport and some laws are very specific about what is or is not required to obtain the passport. A few are that your child must appear in person and both parents or guardians you will need to provide evidence of their identity. Other laws state specific requirements for children aged 14 to 17 and there are many other laws that you need to be aware of in order for your travel plans to go smoothly.

There are companies that specialize in obtaining documents such as birth certificates and passports. Contacting a company like this may be one of the best things you can do prior to your trip as they can give you information on the most current laws as well as walk you through the whole process. The peace of mind that it brings is well worth the effort.

Labels: birth certificate, birth certificate copy, international drivers license, passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

At times is seems that in order to get paperwork together in an expedited manner customer service takes a back seat. For example, you have just learned that you are finally going to be able to go with the company to Paris for that huge fashion show and you will need a passport. You have never had a passport but it can’t be that difficult to obtain one. Or so you thought.

When you asked the passport office what you would need to get a passport, they gave you information on the requirements, one of which was that you needed your birth certificate. Unfortunately, you have no idea where yours is. So, that’s another phone call or two or many that may be required in an effort to get this handled.

When you try to explain that, you need this birth certificate right away in order to apply for your passport and that without it you will not be allowed to travel, they are not the least bit interested in your problems. You asked if it would be quicker for you to request this information in person at their location and they said no that walk-in application and processing is no longer available. They offer no help or
suggestions on ways to get this done any quicker.

If any of this sounds familiar or if you have pending travel plans, you may want to consider finding a company that will do this for you. It can be a great help having someone that is knowledgeable and up to date on the different laws and requirements, walk you through the process.

Having everything you need, in order and available is likely to help avoid problems and delays. Which of course means you can stop worrying about getting your passport and concentrate on how you are going to get all of those new clothes home.

Labels: passport, passport applications, passport renewal, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

Trying to figure out exactly what documents are necessary for foreign travel can be very frustrating. Is a passport required for travel into Mexico or Canada? What about the Virgin Islands?

It can be even more frustrating when you learn that obtaining a passport, if there are no problems or irregularities on the application, may take up to six weeks to get processed. That time frame increases in peak travel seasons (January through July). If you try to get expedited service it may still be three or four weeks before it is processed.

One common question is whether you need a passport or a visa? And what is the difference between the two? A passport is an official government document that basically certifies your identity and citizenship. It normally serves two purposes, to regain entry to the country of citizenship (such as the United States) and may be a requirement by many countries to gain entry into the country you are visiting.

Whereas, a Visa is an official government document that temporarily authorizes you to be in the country you are visiting. Many countries require a visa to gain entry. Normally the visa is in the form of a stamp inside the passport and is obtained from the country you are visiting.

Which countries require a passport or visa or both if the purpose of the visit is for business? What if you are a tourist just visiting the country? The fact is that many of these requirements as well as other travel related items may change quite frequently.

In order to be completely prepared for your trip it is necessary to be up to date on these requirements and that can be difficult and frustrating. You may want to consider using the services of a company that specializes in obtaining passports, visas and other important documents. They normally walk you through everything step by step helping with forms as well as being up to date on travel requirements. This is a huge help and really reduces the amount of stress you may have experienced without their assistance. Start you trip off worry-free and have a great time.

Labels: passport applications, passport services, passports, travel, visa

@: TexasTower.net 0 Comments

Visa & Passports Services by TexasTower.net