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

Gas man cometh, so let him in the house - February 21, 2008
Gas man cometh, so let him in the house - The inspector who just drops by to check the meter on your old house is there for legitimate safety reasons, CenterPoint Energy says. More

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

Subscribe
Shopping + Classifieds
Career Newsletter

Free Jobs E-mail Newsletter

Resources to help further your career. Sign up now.
Homes

Find Your Next Home

Search realtor represented & for sale by owner homes in the Twin Cities. Plus, find open house listings.

Win tickets to the opening night party (Nov. 21) of the MCAD Annual Art Sale.

Vita.mn presents the Minneapolis College of Art and Design Annual Art Sale at MCAD, Nov. 20-21.

See all contests