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Passport Agencies

Life-or-Death Emergencies

Courier and Expeditor Companies

• * Life-or-Death Emergency
• * Urgent Travel
• Routine      
• Consider the total time it will take to get a passport, including mailing times, when booking your international travel. 
• *Restrictions apply for Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service. You must also have an appointment for these services.
• Use our Form Filler tool to fill out your form online. Print the form at home to save time and reduce errors caused by handwriting.  
• Expand the options below to learn more about the four types of service we offer.

Choose this service if you have a life-or-death emergency that requires international travel within 72 hours (3 business days). See our  Life-or-Death Emergencies  page for more information on how to make an appointment. 

Choose this service if you are traveling internationally within our expedited service times, which are currently 3-5 weeks.  if you have not applied, your appointment at a  passport agency or center  must be scheduled within 14 calendar days of your international travel date. if you have already applied, your appointment must be scheduled within 5 calendar days of your international travel date. call  1-877-487-2778  to make an appointment. appointments are limited and we cannot guarantee one will be available. , choose this service if you are traveling in less than 10 weeks from the date you submit your application.  expedited service takes 3-5 weeks. you can  expedite at an acceptance facility  or  expedite a renewal by mail . mailing times are not included in  processing times . processing times only include the time your application is at one of our passport agencies or centers. the total time to get your passport includes both processing and mailing times. it may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive by mail at a passport agency or center, and up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport in the mail after we print it.  consider the total time it will take to receive your passport when you are booking travel.  , choose this service if you are traveling over 10 weeks from the date you submit your application. routine service takes 7-10 weeks. you can apply for routine service at an  acceptance facility  or  renew by mail .   mailing times are not included in  processing times . processing times only include the time your application is at one of our passport agencies or centers. the total time to get your passport includes both processing and mailing times. it may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive by mail at a passport agency or center, and up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport in the mail after we print it.  consider the total time it will take to receive your passport when you are booking travel. , contacting us if you have urgent travel.

We encourage customers who have already applied to check their application status online and sign up for updates via email . How our contact center can help you depends on your travel date, and if you have applied or not yet applied...

I have already applied and do not have my passport

I have not applied yet, reminders for contacting us.

• Representatives are available Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. We are closed on federal holidays.
• Our primary number is 1-877-487-2778 .
• Se habla español.
• If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call 1-888-874-7793 for TDD/TTY teletype services.
• Contact your local U.S. embassy or consulate if you are applying outside the United States.
• Email us only if you need to cancel an appointment at a passport agency or center. Do not email us if you are requesting a status update or you have a travel emergency. Our email is [email protected] .

Traveling in Less Than 3-5 Weeks

Make an appointment at a passport agency or center.

We have two types of appointments:  Life-or-Death Emergency Service  and  Urgent Travel Service .

• You can only make an appointment by calling us. 
• You cannot walk in without an appointment. 
• We do not charge a fee to make an appointment.
• You cannot transfer your appointment to another customer.
• We will provide unique confirmation information that our staff will verify on the day on your appointment. 

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. What number you call to make an appointment depends on the day of the week and time of day. Learn more on our  Life-or-Death Emergency page .

Urgent Travel Service : Schedule an appointment if you are traveling internationally within 14 calendar days or need a foreign visa within 28 calendar days. Call  1-877-487-2778  from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, Mondays through Fridays, or Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET. The call center is closed on federal holidays.

Traveling in Less Than 10 Weeks

Expedite a first-time application or a child's application.

Use our Form Filler to fill out Form DS-11 and apply in person at an acceptance facility.

Here's how you expedite at an acceptance facility: 

• Fill out your DS-11 application and collect your documents. See  How to Apply  for more information. 
• Be sure to include the $60 expedite fee in addition to the normal application fee. See  Passport Fees  for more information.
• Find an  acceptance facility  near you to submit your application and fees. Some facilities may require appointments. 
• Purchase USPS' Priority Mail Express for faster shipping of your application to us.
• The expedite fee does not include the optional 1-2 day delivery fee of your completed passport.

Expedite a Renewal or Name Change by Mail

Here's how to expedite the application by mail:

• Use our Form Filler tool , and follow the instructions for completing Form DS-82 if you are renewing, or Form DS-5504 if you are changing your name within one year of a passport being issued.
• Collect your supporting documents.
• Be sure to include the $60 expedite fee in addition to the normal application fee. See  Passport Fees  for more information.
• Clearly mark "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope. 
• The expedite fee does not include the optional 1-2 day delivery fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i pay for faster delivery and return shipping.

Yes. You may choose one or both of the following shipment options:

• Delivery to us : Purchase Priority Mail  Express from the United States Postal Service for faster shipping of your application to us. The price for this service varies depending on the area of the country.
• Return to you : Pay $19.53 for 1-2 day delivery. This means you will receive your passport   1-2 days after we send it. Include the fee with your passport fee in your check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State for fastest return shipping. Do not submit a return envelope to us with postage pre-paid. 

You may receive your passport and the supporting documents submitted with your application in separate mailings. If you are renewing a passport card, we will send it to you via First Class Mail. We do not use 1-2 day delivery services if you only applied for a passport card.

I need my passport sooner than I thought. What should I do?

You can upgrade your application from routine processing to expedited processing for an additional $60. You may also choose to add a 1-2 delivery service of your completed passport book for an additional $19.53. One-to-two day delivery is not available for passport cards. We only send cards via First Class Mail.

If you applied in person or renewed by mail, call the National Passport Information Center at  1-877-487-2778  ( 1-888-874-7793  TDD/TTY) and ask to upgrade your application service type. You’ll need either your application number or your last name and date of birth. The National Passport Information Center will email you additional information about how to upgrade your application to expedited service or 1-2 day delivery.

What are passport expeditors and courier companies?

Passport expeditors and couriers are private companies that are not part of the U.S. Department of State. Some of these companies are registered at our passport agencies, and are allowed to submit expedited passport applications on behalf of customers.

These companies may charge several hundred dollars in additional fees for expediting services, or charge for services that we offer for free such as making an appointment and filling out a form. 

To learn more about these companies, visit our  Passport Expeditor and Courier page .

Make An Appointment at a Passport Agency or Center

We have two types of appointments: Life-or-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service . You cannot walk-in. We do not charge a fee to make an appointment.

You can only make an appointment by calling  1-877-487-2778 . Se habla español. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call  1-888-874-7793  for TDD/TTY teletype services. 

You cannot transfer your appointment to another customer. 

Processing Times

Routine:  7-10 weeks*

Expedited: 3-5 weeks and an extra $60*

*Mailing times are not included in processing times . Processing times only include the time your application is at one of our passport agencies or centers. The total time to get your passport includes both processing and mailing times. It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive by mail at a passport agency or center, and up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport in the mail after we print it. Consider the total time it will take to receive your passport when you are booking travel . 

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

Requesting a Refund for Expedited Service

Service Commitment

If you paid the $60 fee for expedited service when you applied and you did not receive expedited service, you may be eligible to  request a refund  of this fee. We cannot refund any other passport fees or your travel expenses if you miss your trip.

Non-Refundable Fees

We cannot refund the passport application fee and the execution fee. By law, we collect both fees and keep them even if a passport is not issued.

Learn more about refunds on our Refund of Expedited Passport Fee page.

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Alert: Some of our applications are undergoing routine maintenance on Monday, October 30 from 10-11 PM ET and may be unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: We are currently experiencing issues with some of our applications. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Alert: Payment transactions on some applications will be temporarily unavailable from 10 PM ET, Saturday, September 9 through 4 AM ET, Sunday, September 10, 2023. We apologize for any inconvenience.

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Alert: Some of our applications are undergoing routine maintenance from Saturday, August 26 through Sunday, August 27 and may be unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: USPS.com is undergoing routine maintenance from 10 PM ET, Saturday, July 15 through 4 AM ET, Sunday July 16, 2023. During this time, you may not be able to sign into your account and payment transactions on some applications will be temporarily unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Thousands of Post Offices ™ accept first-time passport applications for the U.S. Department of State. Most of those locations can also take your passport photo.

• Renewing Passports : If you answer 'Yes' to all 5 eligibility questions in the " Renew a Passport by Mail " section, mail your renewal form directly to the State Department. If you don't meet all the renewal requirements, you'll need to go to a Post Office in person and do a new, first-time passport application.
• First-Time Passports (and Passport Photos) : Schedule your in-person appointment online.

Schedule an Appointment

Alert: --> online scheduler to make an appointment for passport services to ensure the safety of our employees and customers. The State Department has extremely limited passport services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Expect significant delays of several months before receiving your new U.S. passport. Learn More

Alert: Please use our online scheduler , a Post Office lobby self-service kiosk, or visit a Post Office retail counter to make an appointment for first-time passport and photo services. Alternatively, find a location near you with passport walk-in acceptance hours.

First-Time Passports

First-time applicants and people who aren’t allowed to get a new passport by mail.

Apply at a Post Office

Expedited Delivery

Renewing Passports

Most people renewing a passport should mail their application directly to the State Department.

Renew by Mail

Passports for Minors

Passports for children under 16 have special requirements. Make sure you are prepared.

Apply for a First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport, are 16 or under, or aren't allowed to renew an existing passport by mail, you need to apply for a new passport in person at the Post Office.

Step 1: Gather Documents Early

Generally, you should apply for your new passport as soon as you know you’ll be traveling internationally—at least several months in advance. Passport processing times may vary, so be sure to check the latest State Department service estimates . First-time applicants, minors, and applicants who need a new passport but may not renew by mail may submit their passport application at the Post Office. The U.S. State Department website explains what you'll need to bring with you.

• Application forms (unsigned)
• Proof of identity document and a photocopy of the front and back
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship document and a photocopy of the front and back
• Passport fees

Apply for a Passport in Person

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package

Visit the U.S. Department of State website to learn how to apply for a passport and what documents you need.

• Complete your Form DS-11 Application for U.S. Passport on the State Department website.
• Print your completed application. DO NOT SIGN YOUR APPLICATION. A Postal employee must witness your signature.
• Have a passport photo taken.
• Photocopy your proof of identity and U.S. Citizenship documents.
• Post Offices accept credit cards, checks, and money orders for Post Office acceptance fees.
• State Department fees are mailed with your application. You can pay with a personal, certified, cashier's, traveler's check, or money order, payable to "U.S. Department of State."

Get Started on Your Application

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment

Post Offices that offer passport services have set hours, and you'll need to schedule an appointment using the online Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler or a Post Office lobby self-service kiosk.

Scheduling Online

• Go to Schedule an Appointment .
• Choose the passport service you need, along with the number of adults and minors who need appointments.
• You can search for appointment by location or date first. If you search by location first, you'll then be asked to choose a date and time; if you search by date first, you'll then need to choose a location and time.
• After you choose your appointment location and time, provide your contact information, and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
• Click Review Appointment , then confirm your appointment.

If you need to modify or cancel your appointment, click the Manage Appointments tab and enter your confirmation number and email address or phone number.

Using a Self-Service Kiosk

• Go to a Post Office location with lobby self-service kiosks. Find USPS Locations
• At the self-service kiosk, touch the screen to begin, then select "Other Services," then "Passport Scheduler."
• Choose the passport service you need, then enter the number of adults and minors who need appointments.
• Search for Post Office locations by ZIP Code™ or City/State and choose a location.
• Select an available appointment date and time, then agree to the Terms and Conditions.
• Enter your contact information and decide if you'd like to receive SMS text notifications.
• Review and confirm your information, then select “Schedule Appointment” to finalize.
• Take your printed receipt listing your confirmation number and appointment details.

Step 4: Pay Passport Acceptance & Processing Fees

First-time passport applications have two types of basic fees, the application acceptance fee and the application processing fee. Passport photos and fees for faster processing are extra. Learn how to calculate fees and what you can use to pay for them.

Application Acceptance Fees – Postal Service

Pay acceptance fees in person at the Post Office. You may pay by check or money order, payable to "Postmaster," debit card, or credit card.

• $35.00 - Post Office acceptance fee
• $15.00 - Post Office photo fee (if needed)

Application Processing Fees – Department of State

State Department payment is sent with your application package. State Department fees are paid separately from USPS fees.

• State Department Fees State Department passport fees vary. Calculate passport fees online .
• Personal, certified, cashier's, or traveler's check, payable to "U.S. Department of State."
• Money order payable to "U.S. Department of State." You can buy a money order at the Post Office with cash, a debit card, or a traveler's check. You cannot pay with a credit card.

Application Status Updates

• Use the Online Passport Status System to check your application status if you applied by mail or in person. You may not be able to get a status update for 2 weeks after you apply or renew. During these weeks, your application and supporting documents are on their way to the Department of State. See more information about current processing times on the Department of State page " U.S. Passports ."

Renew a Passport by Mail

If you are eligible to renew your passport, please complete Passport Renewal Application Form DS-82 (see completion instructions on the form), and mail your completed renewal application directly to the State Department for processing. To verify if your passport is eligible for renewal by mail, please visit State Department Renew By Mail .

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail

A minor's passport may not be renewed by mail; to renew a minor's passport, you need to submit a new, first-time passport application in person . An adult passport may be renewed by mail if it meets certain requirements.

You can renew your adult passport by mail if you answer "Yes" to all 5 of the following statements:

Your passport:

• Is in your possession to submit with your application.
• Is undamaged other than normal "wear and tear."
• Was issued when you were age 16 or older.
• Was issued within the last 15 years.
• Was issued in your current name or you can document your name change. (Name changes are explained on Change a Passport .)

If your passport does not meet all these requirements, do not mail your renewal application. You must prepare the same application package as a first-time passport applicant.

State Department Renew by Mail

Apply early for renewals as many countries require that passports be valid for at least 6 months after you enter their country. Learn how to properly prepare your application package and include all the necessary documents so your passport is processed on time.

• Complete your Passport Renewal Application Form DS-82 on the State Department website.
• Print and sign your DS-82 form.
• Have a passport photo taken. You can schedule a passport photo-only appointment at a Post Office ™ location.
• Calculate your passport renewal fees .
• Collect your most recent passport, completed and signed application, renewal fees, and name change documents, if needed.
• Use an envelope large enough to fit the application without folding it.
• TIP : Pay for Priority Mail Express ® or Priority Mail ® service and get free envelopes that are large enough to hold your application. Order easily online: Priority Mail Express Flat Rate Envelope or Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope .
• Address the envelope to the location for your state. See page 2 of your DS-82 form.

How to Renew a Passport - Details

Step 3: Mail Your Renewal Application

Department of State recommends using a USPS delivery tracking service to mail your renewal application.

Choose one of the following services:

• USPS Priority Mail ® Service with Delivery Confirmation
• USPS Priority Mail ® Service with Signature Confirmation
• USPS Priority Mail Express ® Service (for overnight delivery requests)

Compare Delivery Tracking Services

Step 4: Follow Your Application Progress

If you use a USPS delivery tracking service, go to USPS Tracking ® to see when your package is delivered.

• With a USPS tracking service, you can see when your application arrived using the tracking number on your receipt.

USPS Tracking Status

U.S. Passport Application Status

Expedited Passport Delivery

Get a new passport faster in emergencies & special cases.

If you need your passport faster for emergency travel or another special case, you can send your passport application via Priority Mail Express ® service and pay the State Department fee for faster delivery.

Life-or-Death Emergency

If you need to travel within 72 hours (3 business days) for an immediate family member who is dead, dying, or has a life-threatening illness or injury:

• Visit the Life-or-Death Emergencies page on travel.state.gov to learn if you are eligible.
• The State Department processes these requests by appointment only.
• Your appointment date must be within 72 hours (3 business days) of travel.

Urgent Travel in Less than 10 Weeks

If you are traveling in less than 10 weeks, you must call the State Department Passport Agency to schedule an appointment:

• You can call 1-877-487-2778 (1-888-874-7793 TDD/TTY) to schedule an appointment.
• Your appointment date must be within 72 hours (3 business days) of travel, and you must provide proof of travel.

Note : An extremely limited number of appointments are available for customers who are traveling internationally in the next 72 hours (3 business days), and other restrictions apply .

Get My Passport Fast

Renew Your Passport Fast

If you pay an additional $60 for expedited service and mail it with Priority Mail Express , you can get your renewed passport within 10 weeks.

• Check your eligibility under Renew Your Passport by Mail, Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail .
• Prepare your application as listed under Renew a Passport by Mail, Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package .
• Add these special fees, both payable to the U.S. Department of State, to your regular processing fees.
• $60.00—Expedited application processing at the State Department
• $18.32—1- to 2-day delivery service for faster return shipping to you from the State Department
• Clearly mark "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope.
• Ship your application to the State Department by Priority Mail Express. Cost varies by location.
• Both parents/guardians must authorize the issuance of a child's passport. The best way to give consent is for both parents/guardians to go with the child when applying.
• Children need evidence of citizenship.
• Parents/guardians need proof of parental relationship.
• NOTE: Children's passports are only valid for 5 years. They are not "renewable": When a child's passport expires, you must apply for a new passport for them. When making a passport appointment for a child, please choose "New Passport Only" or "New Passport with Photo Services."

Apply for a Minor's Passport

• Department of State Passport Website English | Español
• Ask Questions at the National Passport Information Center
• Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
• Plan Your Trip with the Traveler's Checklist
• Get Help in an Emergency Overseas

Lost or Stolen Passports

If your passport has been lost or stolen, you should report it immediately to the U.S. Department of State.

Report Your Lost/Stolen Passport

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U.S. Department of State

Department of State

• Passport Forms

Form Finder -- Passport Forms

If you are applying for a U.S. passport, use the Passport Form Filler to fill out our primary forms (DS-11, DS-82, DS-5504, and DS-64) online and print them. The Form Filler will save you time and reduce the chance of errors on your form.

Fill Out Online and Print

You can fill out the following forms:.

• Application for a U.S. Passport (DS-11)
• Renewal Application (DS-82)
• Data Corrections, Name Changes, and Limited-Validity Passports (DS-5504)

Report Lost or Stolen

• SUBMIT ONLINE : A lost or stolen report for an adult
• Print out and mail : A lost or stolen report for an adult
• Print out and mail : A lost or stolen report for a minor

Check Status

• Check the status of a recently submitted passport application

Add Visa Pages

• Add blank visa pages to frequently used passports
• Add blank visa pages when traveling to countries that require several blank pages

Protect Your Trip »

The Best Way to Renew a Passport in 2023

Online passport renewals have been paused until later this year.

Don't let an expired passport get in the way of your upcoming travel plans. (Getty Images)

In late 2022, the U.S. Department of State began a pilot program in which volunteers could apply to renew their passport online. More than 500,000 passport holders participated in the trial before it was paused in March 2023. The state department is currently working on system improvements based on user feedback and expects online passport renewals to become available nationwide in the near future.

In the meantime, it's best to renew your passport by mail – though there are some instances where you may have no choice but to renew in person. Read on to learn what you need and what to expect when renewing your passport by mail or in person, along with answers to some of the most common questions around passport renewals.

How to renew your passport by mail

If you have an expired or expiring passport in your possession that was issued when you were at least 16 years old and within the past 15 years, you can renew your passport by mail as long as it's relatively undamaged. You'll need to submit the following documentation:

• Form DS-82:  Complete the  DS-82  renewal application.
• Existing passport:  You will need to send your current U.S. passport, but if you're someone who likes to look back fondly at all of your passport stamps, don't worry – you should receive the original passport back with your new one.
• Passport photo:  Include a new photo that meets passport requirements (outlined in more detail in the FAQ section below).
• Check or money order:  Once you determine the applicable fees for your passport renewal, payment must be made with either a check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of State," on the front of which you'll print the full name and date of birth of the applicant. You cannot pay online or send cash at this time.

You can mail all your materials – including your old passport and any name change documents – in a large envelope through the U.S. Postal Service to one of the National Passport Processing Center's designated P.O. boxes; the address varies depending on what state you live in and whether you choose expedited or routine service. Note that if you use a delivery method other than USPS, your application will be returned to you without being processed.

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How to renew your passport in person

If your passport has been damaged, lost or stolen; was issued before you turned 16; or is more than 15 years old, you'll need to renew it in person with the following documentation:

• Form DS-11:  You can fill out the  DS-11  passport application online or by hand, but don't sign the form until an authorized agent instructs you to do so.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship:  This evidence can take the form of an original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, among  certain other options . Aside from the physical proof, you must also bring a photocopy for the State Department to keep.
• Identification document:  Your government-issued photo ID can be a driver's license, a government employee or military ID, a valid foreign passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, or another form of  ID deemed acceptable  by the State Department. Just as with the citizenship proof, you have to make a photocopy of your photo ID too.
• Passport photo:  See the FAQ section below for U.S. passport photo requirements.
• Form of payment:  When submitting your application at a passport acceptance facility (such as designated libraries, post offices or local government offices), you'll need to pay for the application fee with either a check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of State." The acceptance facility will also charge a separate $35 fee that can be paid by money order or (at select locations) by check, cash or card.

Frequently Asked Questions

U.S. passports are valid for 10 years as long as they were issued when you were 16 years of age or older.

It's best to renew your passport at least nine months before it expires. In many countries, visitors' passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you intend to return to the U.S. (and current processing times are 10 to 13 weeks). You can check the U.S. Department of State's website for information on policies by country.

No, but if you can't supply a birth certificate, you must be able to provide either a valid, undamaged passport; a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth; a Certificate of Naturalization; or a Certificate of Citizenship. If your state issued a birth abstract (a summary of your birth record), you can submit it as long as it meets the requirements outlined by the U.S. Department of State.

If you cannot provide any of the above, you will need to submit secondary citizenship evidence such as a delayed birth certificate or a Letter of No Record, plus the DS-10 birth affidavit form and early public records like a baptism certificate or doctor's record of postnatal care. Consult the State Department website for other examples of early public records you can use.

Unless you make an appointment at a passport acceptance facility that is equipped to take passport photos, plan to provide a high-resolution photo taken in the last six months whether you complete the process online, by mail or in person.

Photo specs: The photo should be in color and measure 2 by 2 inches; use the State Department's photo tool to ensure it's the correct size. If you're taking the picture at home, stand in front of a plain white or off-white background that's well lit. You will need to have someone else snap the photo, as selfies are not permitted.

Clothing: Glasses are not permitted in photos, nor is any attire that resembles a uniform. It's best to wear plain, everyday clothing. Hats and head coverings aren't allowed in passport photos, unless you sign a statement verifying they are worn as part of a recognized religious practice or provide a written doctor's note confirming they're for a medical purpose.

Expression: Your head should be centered, in full view and facing forward. Pose with a neutral expression or natural smile (don't show your teeth) and ensure your eyes are open.

If you're confident you can follow the guidelines and want to take your photo at home, you can either print it yourself on matte or glossy photo paper or upload it to a passport photo printing service (offered by CVS, Target, Walmart and others). For online applications, you can simply upload the file.

Otherwise, a passport photo can be easily obtained for a fee from select post offices, shipping stores, passport acceptance facilities, and even big box stores and major drugstores (including the same ones that offer printing services).

Technically, you cannot "renew" a passport for a child younger than age 16. Instead, you must reapply using the same in-person process you went through to acquire their first passport. For a list of step-by-step instructions and required documentation for minors, see How to Get a U.S. Passport for Kids . If your child is at least 16 years of age, however, you can renew their passport using the methods detailed above.

If your name has changed since your last passport was issued, you'll need to provide documentation – such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order – that serves as proof of the name change. This requirement applies with whatever method you choose to renew your passport.

As of 2023, the renewal fee for an adult passport book is $130. The State Department's fee calculator provides additional information on passport fees.

Routine processing times for expired passport renewals currently range from 10 to 13 weeks, beginning when the passport center or agency receives your application to renew your passport, according to the U.S. Department of State. Sometimes the process can take less time, but don't count on it.

If you're in a rush to renew your passport, you can pay for expedited service, which means the processing time will be reduced to between five and seven weeks.

• To expedite your passport online: Simply select this option during the application process.
• To expedite your passport by mail: Clearly write "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope. Be sure to submit payment for the $60 expediting fee with your application; if you also want to request the fastest return shipping (which takes one or two days), you'll need to pay $18.32 on top of that.

If you have a life-or-death emergency that requires your passport to be renewed in days or urgent international travel plans necessitating a passport within two weeks, you'll need to make an appointment with a regional passport agency.

Also an option is a service such as RushMyPassport , touting easy, expedited service in as little as one week (though these services can come with a hefty fee). If you're a member of AAA, you can take advantage of exclusive rates on expedited passport renewals through RushMyPassport.

You might also be interested in:

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• The Best International Travel Insurance
• The Best Travel Insurance for Expats

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Here's how and when to renew your passport according to the US State Dept.

Editor's note: This is a recurring story that has been updated with new information.

Even if you're an avid traveler, chances are you might not be completely aware of when your U.S. passport expires and how to renew it.

You also may have heard that during the pandemic, application renewals were suspended for several months, and there was a huge backlog of renewal applications causing delays.

There's good news, though. Renewal times are back to normal, expedited processing is available — and you often can renew your passport easily from the comfort of your home.

Here's everything you need to know about renewing your passport right now.

When should you renew your passport?

The U.S. State Department website has a handy calculator to help you figure out your passport renewal options and cost.

When timing your passport renewal, keep in mind your expiration date, as well as where and when you're traveling. Ideally, you should renew it at least six months before it expires, especially if you have travel coming up to countries that require six months of passport validity .

Regardless of entry requirements, it's always best to renew ahead of time to avoid backlogs during busy travel periods and possible delays like those we experienced during the pandemic.

A U.S. passport is valid for 10 years for most adults or five years if it was issued before the passport holder reached the age of 16.

Standard passport renewal takes six to nine weeks, plus up to two weeks for processing to begin and another two weeks for your passport to be returned to you, so up to 13 weeks total. You can, however, pay $18.32 to have it delivered within 1-2 days of processing.

Related: Passport expiring soon? Visit these countries within your 3-month renewal deadline

You can also pay an extra $60 to expedite your passport renewal, shortening the turnaround time to three to five weeks (plus mailing time). Again, you can tack on an $18.32 expedited shipping fee to move things along more quickly.

If you need your passport even faster, you can choose the in-person Expedited Agency Processing option, which also costs $60 but requires you to prove you have travel plans within the next 72 hours. This option wasn't available during much of the pandemic, but now that things have normalized and travel demand has skyrocketed, it's back.

A very limited number of appointments are available for both emergency and non-emergency travel within 72 hours.

Related: Why you should renew your child's 5-year passport after 4 years

How should you renew your passport?

You can renew your U.S. passport via mail or in person. You will need to fill out Form DS-82 and provide a photo, your most recent passport and a check for the fees. Make sure your photo complies with the specified guidelines .

In-person emergency renewals were restricted to life-and-death emergencies during the pandemic. Now, this option is expanded again to those with travel booked within the next 72 hours.

If you're mailing your renewal application, keep in mind that you have to use the United States Postal Service — no exceptions. If you use another carrier, your renewal package will be returned to you without being processed. If you're mailing your passport renewal application from Canada, you must use Canada Post.

Related: Should you apply for or renew a passport right now? Everything you need to know

How much does it cost?

Renewing your U.S. passport costs $130 for a passport book, $30 for a limited-use passport card or $160 for both the book and a passport card. Note that the fees outlined above for expedited service ($60) and faster mailing ($18.32) are in addition to these renewal fees.

If you need your passport renewed faster than 12 weeks, you can do so in person at a passport agency . This option can take 24-72 hours and is available if you can provide proof of travel within the next 72 hours. You'll typically be required to show proof of upcoming travel and an official document (i.e., doctor's note) verifying the emergency.

Related: Top credit cards for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Bottom line

Keep in mind that your passport number will change when you renew it. That means if you're part of a trusted travel program like Global Entry , you'll need to update your passport information. Luckily, you can do this online.

Simply log into your account and click on the "Update Documents" tab to enter your new passport number. The only change you can't make online is a name change, for which you'll have to visit a Global Entry enrollment center.

Read more: How Mobile Passport saved me when a banana foiled my Global Entry dreams

Additional reporting by Caroline Tanner and Melissa Klurman.

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Find out what to do in an emergency in another country, including assistance, money and more.

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If you are a U.S. citizen planning to drive while traveling abroad, find out the driver’s license requirements for the country you are visiting.

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Do I Have to Renew my Passport by Mail?

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When it's time to renew your U.S. passport, you’ll probably have to do so by mail. That means sending away your current passport and hoping that not only will you receive a fresh, renewed passport — but also that you'll get your original passport back.

Some people may prefer renewal by mail; there's no need to go to a government office and no need to stand in line. But for others, the idea of sending one of their most important documents through the mail — at the risk of losing it — is hardly preferable at all.

Although there are circumstances in which in-person renewal is required, it's not an option in most situations. Mailing your passport to the National Passport Processing Center is usually the only way to renew it.

With that in mind, here’s what you need to know about renewing a passport, and how to reduce the risk of it getting lost in the mail.

When you have to renew your passport by mail

There was a time when you could renew your passport online, but for now, most passports can be renewed only by mail. The U.S. Department of State requires mail renewals if all of these conditions apply to you:

You can submit your old passport with your application (that is, it has been not lost or stolen).

Your passport has never been reported lost or stolen. 

Your passport is not damaged, other than normal wear and tear.

Your passport was issued within the last 15 years.

Your passport was issued when you were age 16 or older.

Your passport was issued in your current name. Or, you can provide another document such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree that is evidence of your name change.

Your passport was not limited to less than the normal 10-year period of validity. That happens in situations such as having lost or damaged multiple passports.

If all of the above is true, you’re ineligible to apply in person for renewal, and passport acceptance facilities will not take your renewal application.

If any of those statements are not true, then you’ll have to apply in person. (More on that later.)

Tips for applying for a passport renewal by mail

See NerdWallet’s guide to renewing your passport for a step-by-step walkthrough of the renewal process.

If you’re concerned about your original passport getting lost, here are some tips:

Include enough postage: Large envelopes require more postage than usual. The postage for large envelopes starts at $1.35, compared with 66 cents for a regular letter or card, according to the U.S. Postal Service. Avoid having your passport returned because you didn’t include enough postage.

Subscribe to email alerts about your application status: The State Department generates updates about your passport application status . While that won’t prevent your passport from getting lost, it can at least provide peace of mind as to where it is.

Use USPS to send your renewal application: The State Department says you should use the Postal Service to ship your renewal application rather than other delivery services such as UPS, FedEx or DHL. When you do, ask USPS to use a trackable delivery method so you know where your package is in the system.

Submit your application correctly: If your application is incomplete, you may receive a letter requesting that you resubmit your application form, which adds an extra layer of complication. Ensure your application has everything it needs, such as a new photo in the correct format, sufficient fees, a signature with date, all the pages, and yes, your most recent physical passport.

Tips for applying for a passport renewal in person

If one or more of the conditions in the State Department's list above do not apply to you, then you’ll probably have to renew in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility, such as one of the thousands of Postal Service locations around the country.

You’ll need to bring various documents, including a photo, a fresh application form and your most recent passport.

Check out NerdWallet’s guide on how to renew your passport at the post office for more information.

If you need to rush your application

At the time of publication, passport processing times for renewals were seven to 10 weeks, according to the State Department. If you need your passport sooner than that, you might be able to get out of sending it through the mail.

If your international trip is eight to 11 weeks out, then you’ll have the worst of both worlds: You’ll have to drop your passport in the mail, and you’ll have to pay a $60 expedited fee in addition to the normal application fee.

But for those heading abroad within seven weeks, you’ll have to make an appointment at a passport agency or center . That may be inconvenient, but at least you won’t have to put your passport in the mail. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to get a passport in one day .

On a similar note...

The Morning Sun

Do I have to renew my passport by mail?

Posted: November 24, 2023 | Last updated: November 24, 2023

Nov. 24—By Sally French — NerdWallet

When it's time to renew your U.S. passport, you'll probably have to do so by mail. That means sending away your current passport and hoping that not only will you receive a fresh, renewed passport — but also that you'll get your original passport back.

Some people may prefer renewal by mail; there's no need to go to a government office and no need to stand in line. But for others, the idea of sending one of their most important documents through the mail — at the risk of losing it — is hardly preferable at all.

Although there are circumstances in which in-person renewal is required, it's not an option in most situations. Mailing your passport to the National Passport Processing Center is usually the only way to renew it.

With that in mind, here's what you need to know about renewing a passport, and how to reduce the risk of it getting lost in the mail.

When you have to renew your passport by mail

There was a time when you could renew your passport online, but for now, most passports can be renewed only by mail. The U.S. Department of State requires mail renewals if all of these conditions apply to you:

* You can submit your old passport with your application (that is, it has been not lost or stolen).

* Your passport has never been reported lost or stolen.

* Your passport is not damaged, other than normal wear and tear.

* Your passport was issued within the last 15 years.

* Your passport was issued when you were age 16 or older.

* Your passport was issued in your current name. Or, you can provide another document such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree that is evidence of your name change.

* Your passport was not limited to less than the normal 10-year period of validity. That happens in situations such as having lost or damaged multiple passports.

If all of the above is true, you're ineligible to apply in person for renewal, and passport acceptance facilities will not take your renewal application.

If any of those statements are not true, then you'll have to apply in person. (More on that later.)

Tips for applying for a passport renewal by mail

If you're concerned about your original passport getting lost, here are some tips:

* Include enough postage: Large envelopes require more postage than usual. The postage for large envelopes starts at $1.35, compared with 66 cents for a regular letter or card, according to the U.S. Postal Service. Avoid having your passport returned because you didn't include enough postage.

* Subscribe to email alerts about your application status: The State Department generates updates about your passport application status. While that won't prevent your passport from getting lost, it can at least provide peace of mind as to where it is.

* Use USPS to send your renewal application: The State Department says you should use the Postal Service to ship your renewal application rather than other delivery services such as UPS, FedEx or DHL. When you do, ask USPS to use a trackable delivery method so you know where your package is in the system.

* Submit your application correctly: If your application is incomplete, you may receive a letter requesting that you resubmit your application form, which adds an extra layer of complication. Ensure your application has everything it needs, such as a new photo in the correct format, sufficient fees, a signature with date, all the pages, and yes, your most recent physical passport.

Tips for applying for a passport renewal in person

If one or more of the conditions in the State Department's list above do not apply to you, then you'll probably have to renew in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility, such as one of the thousands of Postal Service locations around the country.

You'll need to bring various documents, including a photo, a fresh application form and your most recent passport.

If you need to rush your application

At the time of publication, passport processing times for renewals were seven to 10 weeks, according to the State Department. If you need your passport sooner than that, you might be able to get out of sending it through the mail.

If your international trip is eight to 11 weeks out, then you'll have the worst of both worlds: You'll have to drop your passport in the mail, and you'll have to pay a $60 expedited fee in addition to the normal application fee.

But for those heading abroad within seven weeks, you'll have to make an appointment at a passport agency or center. That may be inconvenient, but at least you won't have to put your passport in the mail. If you're lucky, you might even be able to get a passport in one day.

More From NerdWallet

* Get Ready for an Even Busier Holiday Travel Season in 2023

* Why Travelers Expecting Sticker Shock Could See Sweet Relief Instead

* The Busiest Days to Fly During the Winter Holidays

Sally French writes for NerdWallet. Email: [email protected] . Twitter: @SAFmedia.

The article Do I Have to Renew my Passport by Mail? originally appeared on NerdWallet.

(c)2023 Morning Sun, Mount Pleasant, Mich Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Routine & Expedited Passport Fees 2023

One of the most confusing parts of applying for a new passport or a passport renewal is figuring out how much you need to pay.

The total cost of your passport fees will depend on several factors, including:

• the passport type
• the passport services you require
• additional services you might need or want to add on

Some fees you can't avoid. For instance, there is a mandatory passport application fee for most passport options. There is also an extra acceptance fee when applying for a new passport at an application acceptance agency or center.

Furthermore, there are additional fees you may choose to pay for services like faster processing of your application, 1-to-2-day shipment of your new passport via priority mail express, or a file search for missing citizenship documents.

Some passport services are free of charge. For example, no fee is required to correct a printing error or to change the name in a passport that was issued within the last 12 months.

There are also other costs associated with getting a passport beyond the fees charged by the Department of State. Getting new passport photos, procuring supporting documents like birth certificates, and costs associated with getting your application to the right agency or center can add to the total amount you will pay for a new or renewed passport. So, while you can use the fee calculator on the State Department website , it may not give you the full picture of what you can expect to pay.

All that said, don't stress. Traveling internationally can be challenging enough without worrying about your math. We've compiled the most up-to-date-costs so you don't have to. Use the 2023 Passport Fee charts below to help you calculate the cost of getting your passport.

What Does a Passport Cost?

Carefully read the information below to be sure that your payment is correct. Know that submitting incorrect passport fees or form of payment will delay the processing of your application.

Note: Form DS-11 is used to apply for a new passport or to replace a lost, stolen or damaged one. All applicants submitting this form must apply in person at an Acceptance Facility (which include most post offices), Regional Passport Agency or, if currently outside the United States, at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate General.

Applicants who need new passports expedited quickly but are unable to personally visit the regional agency should apply through a passport expediting service .

Related Links

• New Passport Requirements (Book and Card)
• Passport Card information
• Payment Instructions

The US passport renewal fee is paid by those submitting application Form DS-82 . Adult renewal applicants in the U.S. may apply by mail (recommended). You can also apply in person at a Regional Passport Agency if you have urgent international travel needs within 14 days or a life or death emergency that requires travel within 72 hours. Adult applicants outside the U.S. must apply through a U.S. Embassy or Consulate .

You cannot apply for a passport renewal at a post office or other passport acceptance facility.

Applicants who need their passport renewals expedited but are unable to personally visit the regional agency should apply through a passport expediting service .

• Passport Renewal Requirements (Book and Card)

Use Form DS-11 to apply for a child's passport. All Minor applicants ages 15 or younger, including those who are replacing a previous passport, must apply in person at an Acceptance Facility, Regional Passport Agency, a U.S. Embassy, or American Consulate.

Applicants who need passports expedited quickly but are unable to personally visit the regional agency should apply through a passport expediting service .

• Special Requirements for Children Under Age 16

Why Your Passport May Cost More

Please note that the actual total cost of getting a passport is more than the sum of the fees paid to the U.S. government. There are additional expenses that are not listed below such as postage, the price of a passport photo, and a protective envelope to send the application form. These are just a few of the extra costs you should expect when applying for a new travel document.

If you need a passport faster than the 7 to 10 weeks it takes for routine service, you can add the expedited service fee to the total payment. This will reduce your wait to 3 to 5 weeks

We recommend you also add the cost of 1 to 2 days delivery when sending the application by mail. This is not required if you submit the form at a regional agency , however, you will need to provide proof of imminent/urgent international travel to use this option. Note that this is not an option for passport cards. Passport cards are shipped via First Class Mail only.

If the 5-7 week turnaround offered through typical expedited service is not fast enough or you are unable to visit a processing center, you should apply online for expedited service through a registered courier service . By doing so, you could get your passport as quickly as the same day you apply.

Passport Fees for Optional Services

Expedited service.

Fee: $60 (Applicants in the U.S. only)

See important information about Application Processing Times and follow the instructions on How to Get Your Passport Fast .

When requesting this service, pay the $60.00 Expedited Service Fee for each application, in addition to the required fees noted above.

Passport Book 1-2 Day Delivery

Fee: $19.53

Please note, this fastest delivery service is not available for passport cards , which are delivered via First Class Mail only.

To request 1-2 Day Delivery, pay the $19.533 1-2 Day Delivery fee for each application, in addition to the required fees noted above.

File Search

Required when applicant is unable to present evidence of citizenship.

In addition to the passport application, submit a written request for File Search to verify a previous U.S. Passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad .

Applicants who are overseas and whose passport was lost or stolen are exempt from paying the File Search Fee. For more information, see emergency passport , 22 CFR 22.1 Item No. 6.

Passport Fees for Special Services

Data error correction.

Use form DS-5504 .

See important information on Correcting or Changing Information in Your Passport .

• Name Change

Fee: Varies

• Applicants ages 16 or older whose passports were issued less than a year ago, pay no fee.
• Applicants ages 16 or older who passports were issued more than a year ago, need to apply for a renewal using form DS-82 and pay the renewal fee .
• Applicants ages 16 or older who do not have official documentation of a legal name change, must apply for a new passport .
• Applicants ages 15 or younger must apply for a new passport and pay the appropriate fee .

Passport Fee Payment Instructions

Please Note: The Application Fee is a non-refundable processing fee and is retained by the Department of State whether or not the passport is issued . You can get a refund for the expedited service fee under certain circumstances.

Acceptance Facility

• Checks (personal, certified, cashier's, traveler's) and money orders payable to "U.S. Department of State"
• Credit and debit cards CANNOT be accepted.
• Money orders at all locations, payable as instructed by the Acceptance Facility
• Personal checks and cash (exact change only) at some locations
• Credit cards at U.S. postal facilities and some other locations

Renewal by Mail

• Checks (personal, certified, cashiers, travelers), payable to "U.S. Department of State"
• Money orders (U.S. Postal, international, currency exchange), payable to "U.S. Department of State"
• When renewing your passport by mail from Canada, you must pay by check or money order in U.S. dollars drawn from a U.S. banking institution.

Passport Agency

• Credit Cards (VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) and Debit Cards displaying Visa or MasterCard logo
• Money orders (U.S. Postal, international, currency exchanges) payable to "U.S. Department of State"
• Cash (exact amount only)
• Pre-paid credit card or gift card displaying the Visa or MasterCard logo

U.S. Embassy or Consulate

• Please check with the U.S. embassy or consulate general where you plan to apply for acceptable payment options.

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry? 2. What exactly does a passport expediter do? 3. Are passport expediting services legitimate? 4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor? 5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

U.S. Passport Service Guide - Who we are

For over 20 years, U.S. Passport Service Guide has helped American citizens understand and navigate the passport application process. We use our expertise and experience to help travelers get United States passports quickly and efficiently.

Our website currently receives over half a million visitors a month. We are committed to going the "extra mile" for all of our readers. Both passport officials and website visitors frequently write to express gratitude for the assistance we provide.

Please contact us if you have any travel related questions - especially ones about passports and visa expediting. We usually respond to e-mails within 24 hours, oftentimes the same day. We are committed to working with you until you get the answer you need.

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US Passport Processing Times Are Finally Getting Shorter

By Jessica Puckett

US travelers may finally be free from the bureaucratic scourge of months-long passport wait periods, for the first time in three years. According to the latest estimates, Americans could have their little blue books processed in less than a month.

On November 6, the State Department shortened its passport processing times to 7 to 10 weeks for regular applications and 3 to 5 weeks for expedited service. That’s a significant improvement from earlier this year, when wait times ballooned to as long as 13 weeks for routine service (not including mailing time), thanks to a glut of applications during the popular spring and summer travel seasons.

In fact, the State Department says that despite the delays, it processed a record-breaking amount of passports between October 2022 and September 2023. During that time, the department issued more than 24 million passport books and cards, which was “the most ever in our nation’s history,” according to the department’s website.

Officials say that the goal is to return to pre-pandemic timeframes by the end of 2023—and with this latest update, they’re getting close. Before the COVID-19 backlog, routine passport processing took just 6 to 8 weeks, and expedited applications were turned around in a breezy 2 to 3 weeks.

In order to shave off that added time, the State Department has been ramping up the resources available to its passport teams. “We're addressing the increased workload through a number of efforts,” says a department release. “We're aggressively recruiting and hiring across our passport agencies and centers. Our passport team members nationwide contribute tens of thousands of hours of overtime a month to issue the millions of passports sought by traveling Americans. We have opened a satellite office to help process the large number of applications we are receiving.”

Remember that processing periods from the State Department don’t include mailing time—these time frames only begin when your documents arrive at a passport center. To make the safest estimate, officials advise adding up to two weeks on either end of processing to account for mailing time. (You can also pay an extra $19.53 for one- to two-day delivery of your new passport.)

In addition to mailing costs, submitting a regular first-time application costs $165 and a regular renewal is $130, while expedited processing is an extra $60. If you’re really in a pinch, there are courier services that can help you get a passport in as little as one to three days . This ultra-fast service usually comes with an expensive fee, usually to the tune of several hundred dollars on top of the State Department’s charges.

The State Department also offers urgent processing for travelers with international trips in less than 14 days and emergency processing for those that can prove a life-or-death reason (such as a sick family member) that necessitates traveling outside of the US within three business days. Both of these options involve contacting your nearest passport agency for an in-person appointment. Keep in mind that these are usually competitive to get and require a lot of persistence , like calling frequently and potentially traveling to the first agency location with an available appointment.

It's still best to avoid any procrastination when it comes to your renewal. Earlier this fall, the State Department advised travelers to submit their passport applications at least six to nine months before an international trip. Although wait times have gotten shorter, allowing six months to complete the entire process is still probably the safest bet.

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U.S. Embassy & Consulate in the United Arab Emirates

Message to U.S. Citizens: Travel to the United Arab Emirates During COP28

The 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as COP28, will take place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 30 to December 12, 2023.  U.S. citizens should be aware of logistical challenges due to the large number of anticipated attendees for the event, road closures, and increased law enforcement measures.  U.S. citizens traveling to Dubai during COP28 should remain vigilant and take the following important steps:

• Sign up for the State Department’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  to receive future security notices and to help us contact you in an emergency.
• Review the U.S. Department of State’s  Worldwide Caution , which advises U.S. citizens of the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests worldwide.
• Review the  Travel Advisory  for the UAE, which currently stands at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to the threat of missile or drone attacks and terrorism.
• Review  security messages  to U.S. citizens in the UAE, including the  most recent message  issued on October 27, 2023.
• Comply with the  UAE’s passport and visa requirements ; please note UN-registered participants in COP28 must obtain a special COP28 UAE visa before traveling, following  these instructions .  (For non-participants traveling as tourists, no advance visa is usually required.
• Carefully review the  Local Laws and Special Circumstances  section on the State Department’s travel information webpage for the UAE, which discusses UAE laws and practices related to LGBTQI+ persons, alcohol use, importation of certain medications and substances, possession of narcotics, and other behaviors that could result in arrest or other legal problems.
• Be aware that, according to the UAE government, protests and demonstrations during COP28 will be permitted only within designated areas at the conference site, and that such activity occurring elsewhere may be deemed unlawful by UAE authorities.
• Note also the UAE government’s  social media restrictions  that prohibit the posting of insulting or derogatory material online.

For Assistance:

• U.S. Consulate General Dubai Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed and Al Seef Streets +971 4 309 4000 [email protected]
• U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi Embassies District, Plot 38, Sector W59-02, Street No. 4 +971 2 414 2200 [email protected]
• U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444
• Read our  UAE Country Information 
• Follow us on  Facebook   and  Twitter 

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Passport Renewal in India: Everything You Need to Know

Overview of the Passport Renewal Process in India

Online procedure to renew passport in india.

• Log in to the Passport Seva website.
• If you are a new user, register yourself using the ‘New User Registration’ option. If you already have an account, opt for the ‘Existing User Login’ option and proceed.
• If you are registering for the first time, you may have to fill out a ‘User Registration’ form and choose a ‘Passport Office’. You can select the suitable office nearest to your residential location.
• Provide personal details, such as your name, date of birth, email address, and so on.
• Register yourself after providing the login ID and password.
• You will receive an activation link at the email address you provided.
• Click on the link in the email to create and activate your account.
• Now that your account has been created, log in to the Passport Seva site with the new credentials.
• Apply for the ‘Fresh passport/ Re-issue of Passport’
• Fill out the form that will be available to you with details such as your address and contact information
• Click on ‘Verify’ and submit after you have ensured all the details are accurate.

Offline Passport Renewal Procedure in India 

• Visit the Passport Seva website and download the application form under the ‘Forms and Affidavits’ option.
• Ensure to print the form back to back on an A4 sheet.
• Fill out the form with the correct details.
• Submit it at the District Passport Cell along with copies of the needed paperwork. You can also avail the renewal application form at the District Passport Cell.
• Once the application is verified along with the photos and documents, you have to pay the fees via a Demand Draft.
• After the payment of the fees, you will receive an ‘acknowledgement letter’. This will usually contain a file number which you can use to check the application status online.

Documents Required for Passport Renewal 

• The original passport (with photocopies of its first and last two pages)
• A photocopy of the ECR (Emigration Check Required)/ Non-ECR, whichever is applicable
• A photocopy of the observation document as made by the Passport Issuing Authority
• A photocopy of the observation made by the Passport Issuing Authority
• A photocopy of the validity extension page (made in regard to the short validity passport)
• Proof of current residence (in case there has been a change since the last time the passport was updated)
• A passport-sized photo might also be required If the passport is for a child below the age of 4 years.

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