No matter how many times you’ve asked your clients to double check the expiration dates on their passports, I think almost every travel advisor has a story about a last-minute passport issue. Maybe they looked at the date wrong. Maybe they sent it in for renewal thinking they’d have it back in time for their trip.
Whatever the case might be, it’s no fun being in this situation. According to Condé Nast Traveler, there is still a backlog of passport applications officials are working through, and travelers should apply much earlier than they might think.
There’s a good chance you’re already giving this advice to your clients, but for those who don’t listen to you and find themselves in a passport panic, there is something you can do to help – introduce them to CIBTvisas. The company has been offering passport services for over 30 years and can help your clients get a passport renewed in as little as one to three days if needed.
“CIBTvisas’ expedited passport service means that advisors can help their clients get to where they are planning to go in a seamless, stress-free way,” said Steven Diehl, CIBT's chief corporate development and emerging markets officer. “With passport delays at an all-time high, CIBTvisas can turn around an expedited passport in 1-3 days, as long as that client’s departure is scheduled within two-weeks of departure.”
When a customer uses the Premium Service for passport renewal, CIBTvisas can handle everything from start to finish, including getting the forms filled out, validated and approved for submission. Fees for this service range from $199 to $999 “depending on the traveler and their documentation needs,” Diehl said. For many people, the cost is well worth it if it means they don’t have to cancel their vacation.
“Advisors can access content both online through CIBTvisas’ website (www.cibtvisas.com) and via telephone for passport and visa related needs, further expanding their ability to consult and sell – and advise – clients on all aspects of international travel,” said Diehl.
According to the U.S. Department of State, as of March 2023, passport processing times are 10-13 weeks for routine service and 7-9 weeks for expedited service, not including mailing time.
To learn more about CIBTvisas’ passport services, click here.
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