Nine Passport Tips for International Depositions

By Suzanne Quinson

International depositions require more planning (and time) than depositions here in the U.S.  Travel requirements are a big part of that. Below are a few tips regarding your passport to ensure you aren’t turned away at the gate en route to your depositions!

Double-check Passport/Visa Requirements

1. How many blank pages are needed for entry/exit stamps? For example, Belgium requires 2, Korea requires 1.
2. Is a visa required? If so, how long is the process to obtain one? *See recent changes to the India visa process below.
3. The State Department is a handy tool to quickly review requirements and handle them expeditiously!

India typically requires visitors to apply for visas at an Indian Embassy or Consulate prior to entering the country. This can involve a lengthy wait. However, visitors to India on casual business, planning on staying 30 days or fewer, have the option of applying for an electronic travel authorization at least 4 days before their arrival and receive a visa upon arrival in India. It is recommended to bring a letter of invitation from a local law firm, and you will need six months’ validity on your passport from the date of arrival in India, as well as a return or onward travel ticket.

Renew in Advance

4. Make note of the expiration date on your passport and set an alarm to renew 7-8 months ahead of that date if you are likely to be traveling internationally in that time frame.
5. The application fee to renew your passport book is $110.
6. Standard processing time is four to six weeks, including mailing time.

Need to Expedite?  Here’s How!

7. If you’re traveling within two weeks or need a foreign visa within four weeks, you can make an appointment at a passport center.
8. There is a $60 fee to expedite.
9. Expedited processing time is typically two to three weeks, including mailing time.

Your international court reporting agency can also assist with any travel-related inquiries. Whether you have questions about passports or visas, traveling with exhibits, hotels, etc., they have the experience and knowledge to help! Contact Planet Depos International Scheduling at 888.433.3767 or international@planetdepos.com.