Passports shall be used by only one person entitled within, but if there is even one error, let us say with the spelling of the owner’s name, it can become a problem that will cause to keep the owner from travelling abroad. That is why there is a form known as the DS-5504 Form to correct this kind of mistake. It is a form request wherein the owner will provide the right information with supporting documents that will prove it. If a person’s passport was given with an error on spelling of his name, or wrong date of birth, then he can use this. As well as changes in a woman’s name specifically when they get married since their middle and last name is supposed to be changed. Divorced woman can also use this form. Most of the cases do not require cost or fees when filing.
Just like any other forms, this one should have some steps to be made to avoid mistakes and repeating the process. One may apply the following:
Step1Get a printed copy.
There is a downloadable form that can be easily found on the internet. Make sure to print the pages only one sided.
Step2Prepare all the supporting evidence.
Since you need to prove that the changes you want to be made are true you need to make sure that it is unified and prepared. A divorce paper/decree or a marriage contract for women is a necessary document proof if she has been issued a valid ID. Also provide a passport type photo because there is a part where you need to attach it.
Step3Complete and Sign the Form.
There are several pages in the form that the applicant must read and fill out carefully . The first page consists of a fillable space for date, remember to put the exact date of application. Below are boxes which an applicant will choose in order to know if he/she is entitled to use it and so on. He/she must give the correct information needed that will match the previous passport in most of it aside from the details that is wished to change. There are billing and addressing notes on the following pages that should be fully understood by the applicant. At the last page, this is where to put all the necessary information that should be given, this includes personal information and a swift description of the person’s physical attributes.
Step4Sending the Form.
Now it can be done through mails, but it is recommended to submit it personally at any authorized Passport Processing Agency along with the mentioned supporting evidences above. There are two mailing addresses included on the second page of the form.
1
Read. Be sure to understand everything that is written in the form since there are lots of terms and conditions stated. This also applies to the informations asked in the form make sure to put everything in the right places.
2
Pen. Use a black pen when writing informations for a more formal and clean presentation.
3
Faster Transaction. There are notes written in the form in case you want to hasten the processing of the application. Certain rules are going to be applied when it comes to paying checks within or outside the country.
4
Do not include cash in the mail.
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Mailing Address. A permanent address is always required when giving mail addresses.
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Sign. Do not forget to sign the form at the end of the paper.
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Duration. Standard processing lasts about 6-8 weeks, while the expedited forms mostly about 2-3 weeks.
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