The No. 1 reason why passports are denied, or significantly delayed, is missing or invalid documents. A passport application requires Form DS-11, evidence of citizenship, photocopy of a photo identification, passport photos and fee. The most common mistake made is submitting an unofficial birth certificate as proof of citizenship. A certified birth certificate must be embossed with the official seal of the governing body which issued the certificate. New rules, implemented on April 1, 2011, require birth certificates to have the full name of the applicant's parents.
Applicants should ensure all information is accurate on the visa application form, and the copy of your identification is legible. When applying for your passport at the nearest processing center the administrator will go over your documents to help point out any missing or incorrect information.
A passport photo that does not meet the requirements can cause processing delays. The U.S. State Department requires passport photos to be two inches by two inches, color, printed on photo paper, taken within six months, provide a clear image of the applicant and be of the full face.
You should always check your passport photos after having them printed. You should look for any shadows or discolorations which affect the face. Ensure the color balance is even. Wear everyday clothing, avoiding glasses, hats or any other clothing which covers the face. When submitting your application have the administrator review your photo as they know which ones are likely to be sent back.
A background check is conducted when processing passport applications. Warrants and past felonies can cause a passport application to be denied. An applicant who is wanted on a criminal warrant (parking violations and civil suits are excluded), or are currently on probation will be denied a passport. Felony convictions which are connected with terrorism, treason or drug trafficking will prevent someone from receiving a passport.
Owing child support can cause a passport application to be denied. If an applicant owes more than $2,500 in child support their passport will be automatically refused. The full amount, and not an authorized payment plan, must be paid to clear any restrictions on receiving a passport -- it can take a few weeks to be cleared for a passport once the amount is paid.
