Passport Card Vs Passport book- Pros and cons
Passport card, introduced recently in the US, is a boon for those are not frequenting trips abroad. It is an innovative step taken by the authorities on demands by the people of America. Passport card is a card form of passport, which is in the same size of a credit card. The main advantage is that it can be inserted in a wallet or a card holder. More over it is less costly than a conventional passport book is. However, it can be used as an ID proof while travelling in and around the US while you need to have a passport booklet itself if you would want to travel abroad. So it is always advisable to have both since both are different from each other as far as its utility value is concerned. passport card can be used if you travel by sea to other neibouring countries like Bermuda, Canada etc. It can also be used as a valid document when you travel by road to Mexico, Canada and Bermuda islands.
Official formalities to get both passport booklets and cards are almost same. passport application form is same and passport renewal form is also same for both these documents. Passport card was introduced in the US only in the year 2008 and the response for the same was overwhelming. It was reported that almost 3 lakh passport cards were issued in a span of just 3 years’ time. The fancy about it is nothing but its small and cute size.
One ca applies for a passport card also while submitting his/her passport renewal form. The validity of both booklet and card is 10 years for adults and 5 years for children below 16 years. Cost of passport card for adults is $45 and $35 for children while passport booklets cost $100 and $85 respectively. Passport cards are found to be more useful for those who are staying on the boarde4s of the US. They can cross and come back to US by road, showing passport card as ID proof.
Passport card has radio frequency ID chip with a unique number that protect the identity of the passport card holders. This can also be used as an ID proof to enter the federal building s of the US for some employment or educational purposes. The chances of misplacing are comparatively less in the case of passport cards since it can be inserted in a wallet or card holder.
Anyways, it is up to an individual to decide whether he/she goes for passport book or card or both. It depends upon their usage and convenience.
passport card has some limitations which are not there in the case of passport booklets. It is the most accepted travel document all across.
When it comes to practical side of the story, passport booklets have an edge over the passport card for sure. But, when you are free to have both these documents, it is better to have both and use it accordingly.
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