Union County, NJ – Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi invites County residents to take advantage of a free passport photo opportunity on Passport Day, Saturday, April 9, by applying for a passport during extended hours at the County Clerk’s Office Annex in Westfield, at 300 North Avenue East, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
As a special Passport Day offer, the County Clerk’s normal fee of $10.00 per passport photo will be waived for all applicants, including renewals as well as new passport applications.
“Residents who don’t have a U.S. passport should consider Passport Day for applying for their passport,” said Clerk Rajoppi. “Travel plans could come up quickly, whether for business or vacation. Many countries require six months validity on a U.S. passport, so it is important to check your passport’s expiration date now and take this opportunity to renew.”
No appointment is necessary but applicants must arrive by 1:30 p.m.
Ms. Rajoppi also noted that new national standards for driver’s licenses are being phased in to enhance safety at airports and other federal facilities. New Jersey has an extended deadline of October 2016 to comply with the new standards.
“A valid U.S. passport will enable you to board your flight whether you are traveling domestically or overseas. It provides you with peace of mind, regardless of your driver’s license status,” said Ms. Rajoppi.
Passport Day was established as a national program by the U.S. Department of State in 2008, to help travelers avoid the stress and expense of last-minute passport issues. Budget cuts forced an end to the State Department’s program but Ms. Rajoppi has continued to host an annual Passport Day.
“My office provides an easy, convenient way to conduct your passport business,” said Ms. Rajoppi, “Especially if you’re traveling with a family, the free photo savings on Passport Day can add up to a significant savings.”
For more details about the County Clerk’s passport services, including convenient links to passport information from the State Department, visit the County Clerk online at ucnj.org/county-clerk, call the Westfield Annex at 908-654-9859, or call the main office in Elizabeth at 908-527-4966.
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