Canada used to be a hop, step and jump away.
But come next year, it will be a hop, step, jump, and passport away – at least if you hope to return to U.S. soil.
Travel requirements are undergoing some notable changes, and it could effect travel plans for those that don’t take the proper precautions early. As of January 1st, 2007, everyone entering the country must have a passport.
Kimberly Travel of Lake Orion, in conjunction with the United States Postal Service, will hold two ‘Passport Fairs? in the coming weeks to aid in the process.
Both fairs will be held on Sundays at Kimberly Travel, making them somewhat more accessible than having to go to the post office during regular business hours.
The first fair is scheduled for Aug. 20, with the second on Sept. 10. Fairs on both days run from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at Kimberly Travel, located at 135 S. Broadway.
‘If they have everything they need, it can take as little as 20 minutes,? said Ted Banks, Postmaster of the Lake Orion Post Office.
All applicants must appear in person, with two forms of identification (such as birth certificates, driver’s licenses, state ID cards, or naturalization certificates). For children under age 14, call 693-8369.
Banks said clerks from the post office will be on hand and have equipment to take the needed passport photos.
‘We prefer appointments, but walk-ins will be accepted,? said Bob Krywko of Kimberly Travel. To make an appointment, call Kimberly Travel at 814-6800.
‘We’re hoping for a big crowd,? Banks added.
Passport fees ($67 for adults and $52 for children under age 16) are payable to the U.S. Department of State, and execution fees ($30 per applicant) are payable to the Postmaster, and will be accepted in the form of cash, check or money order.
Banks said those looking to pay with credit or debit cards must go through the process during regular hours at the post office.
‘We’re just providing the space,? said Lena Johnston of Kimberly Travel.
‘We’re not charging anything.?
Of course, those looking to put their new passports to work can pick up some brochures, or talk to a travel agent during their visit.
But agents at Kimberly Travel said hosting the fair is primarily intended to bring awareness to the fact that passports will soon be needed, even on short trips across the border.
‘If they wait until fall, when the crunch hits, it’s going to be harder to get them,? said Kimberly Travel agent Liz Tafel.
‘Starting in October, it will probably take at least 12 weeks.?