StarTribune.com
passport022108

Home | Local + Metro | West Metro

Twin Cities is promised office with same-day passport service

Last-minute treks to Chicago for a passport will be a thing of the past, Sen. Norm Coleman's office said Wednesday.

Last update: February 21, 2008 - 7:27 AM

Last-minute treks to Chicago for a passport will be a thing of the past, Sen. Norm Coleman's office said Wednesday.

The U.S. State Department has promised the Twin Cities its own regional passport agency, where applicants can get same-day passport service, said Luke Friedrich, a spokesman for Coleman.

Now, the closest regional passport agency is in Chicago.

Coleman's office did not have information about when or where the agency would open.

Passports have become more important as Homeland Security rules require them more often. As of January, travelers must present photo ID and proof of citizenship -- a passport or birth certificate -- to cross the U.S.-Canadian boarder. Beginning in June 2009, those travelers will need a passport.

Coleman requested a passport agency last June, when passport delays topped the news. Both he and Sen. Amy Klobuchar said their offices have saved thousands of honeymoons and other trips in spite of those delays.

There are dozens of places in the metro area that accept passport applications, including six in Minneapolis, but none has same-day service.

JENNA ROSS

Recent West Metro stories

Stimulus funds will improve, extend Carver County bike rail trail - February 21, 2008
Stimulus funds will improve, extend Carver County bike rail trail - The $3.5 million will be used to build bridges in two spots where the popular west-metro trail intersects with busy roadways. It will extend to Lake Waconia. More

Comment on this story  |  Be the first to comment  |  Hide reader comments

Subscribe
Shopping + Classifieds
Personal Recruiter

No resume? No problem!

Create a skills profile in minutes, let a recruiter match you to an open position. Click here to get started.
Find A Job

Open positions!

A new career awaits. Look through thousands of listings to find your new job. Start now!

Win one of two $50 gift certificates to Barbette.

Vita.mn and Barbette present the Bastille Day Block Party at Barbette on Irving Avenue on July 12. The party features live music including Brooklyn-based Frenchie band Les Sans Culottes, locals Halloween Alaska, Romantica, Sims and more.

See all contests