All passports and visas must be officially issued through a government office, and private individuals and businesses are prohibited from issuing passports. However, a growing business is that of the passport expediter. Since international travel is on the rise, and passport applications are on the rise (up 30 percent in the last 9 years), these businesses help lessen the burden on government offices.

These expediters and services are loosely affiliated under the National Association of Passport and Visa Services. This is an association of businesses that provide hurried service to travelers who do not have the time or geographic convenience to procure all proper documentations prior to departure. For a fee in addition to the government passport and visa charges, these businesses will get your travel documents for you in almost no time.

How Passport and Visa Services Work

These businesses will make sure all your documents are in order, and then quarterback them through the official channels, getting your official paperwork for you. They even will go to consulates in person to get visas from offices that do not take mail-in or online applications. Most have money-back guarantees that promise to get your passport and visas as soon as you need them.

The charge for these services depends on the speed at which you need to get your documents. Average rates come to about $60 for seven to 10 day service, $100 for three to seven days, and $160 for one to three day service. Instant passports and visas can also be procured on 24 hours notice (plus shipping time).