Getting a Passport
The very first thing you should do to start your study abroad experience is apply for a passport.
A passport is "an internationally recognized travel document that verifies the identity and nationality of the holder" (NAFSA). You cannot travel internationally without a passport. In addition, your passport must be good for at least 6 months after you return from your international destination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To apply for a US passport, you will need the following:
- Passport application
- Two passport photos
- Valid photo ID (driver's license)
- Previous US passport, original certified birth certificate, or naturalization certificate/certificate of citizenship
For the most up-to-date and accurate passport requirements, plus everything else passport related (lost or stolen passports, passport corrections), check out the State Department's passport website.
The fees you pay depend on:
- Your age
- If you want a passport book, passport card, or both documents
- How fast you need your passport
- Where you apply
To learn more about passport fees and to use the passport fee calculator, please visit the U.S. Department of State website.
There are two places in Canton where you can apply for a US passport:
The St. Lawrence County Clerk's Office: located in Building #2 on 48 Court Street.
http://www.co.st-lawrence.ny.us/Departments/CountyClerk/Passports. The Clerk's Office processes passport applications and fees, and does take photos for an $8 fee. You can also have passport photos taken at most other major drug stores.
- US Post Office: located on 100 Main Street, Canton. The Post Office processes applications, fees, and takes pictures for a fee of $15. (315) 386-4502
For an online passport application, go online here.
Passports generally take 4 - 6 weeks to process.
You can, for an extra $60 fee (plus shipping costs) expedite your passport application if you feel it is necessary. For more details see the Get Your passport in a Hurry page of the State Department's website.