

If you need to travel within 14 days, for example, you can go online to submit your application at a Passport Agency rather than through the mail. If there is an emergency and you need your passport quickly, however, there are some things you can do. This way, you will not need to worry about getting your passport in time and you will be able to adjust to any delays. If possible, wait until you get your passport before making travel plans. This helps prevent the stress and extra expense of trying to obtain a US passport at the last minute. The best option with a US passport is to apply well in advance of your travel date. US passport cards can take slightly longer to process, since they are sent with First Class Mail rather through overnight mail. You can also apply for a US passport book. If you are traveling and need your US passport fast, you can apply for expedited service (at an additional cost) and pay for overnight delivery to send your application. The agency has a website ( ) which lists current processing times for US passports, which helps passport applicants determine how long they need to wait in order to get a passport.Īccording to the website, for example, as of January 23, 2012, the processing times for regular service is about 4 to 6 weeks, while expedited service takes about 2 to 3 weeks. Fortunately, the US Department of State makes it easy to plan ahead. They may be traveling soon and may need to secure a passport before their travel date. In most cases, US citizens applying for a US passport are in a hurry.

Follow the signs posted in the building, which will display the most up-to-date mask and face covering requirements. citizens are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, some of our agencies and centers are located in buildings that have different policies for wearing masks and face coverings. While public health guidance has changed during the pandemic as more U.S. *We ask that you come prepared and bring a mask or face covering to your appointment. You cannot transfer your appointment to another person. We require appointments, and we currently do not offer walk-in services. Both of these options reduce the amount of time you spend in our lobby on the day of your appointment.Īrriving to your Appointment: We have fewer chairs and more signage in our waiting rooms to enable social distancing.
Us passport processing time pdf#
You can also print a PDF of your form and complete it by hand in black ink before you arrive. Use our online form filler to fill out your form and print it before you arrive for your appointment. Bring the information you got in the confirmation email from the National Passport Information Center when you scheduled your appointment. Preparing for your Appointment: Collect all of your application materials before you arrive for your appointment. Our appointment line for Urgent Travel Service is closed on weekends and federal holidays. Urgent Travel Service: Schedule an appointment if you are traveling internationally within 14 calendar days or need a foreign visa within 28 calendar days. Learn more on our Life-or-Death Emergency page. What number you call depends on the day of the week and time of day. Life-or-Death Emergency Service: We are prioritizing customers who are traveling internationally in the next 3 business days due to a qualified life-or-death emergency. If you need this service, call us. When you call to make an appointment, we will provide unique confirmation information that our staff will verify on the day on your appointment. You cannot transfer your appointment to another customer. We do not charge a fee to make an appointment. You can only make an appointment by calling us. We have two types of appointments: Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service.
