23 Nov 2025

How can I renew my U.S. passport?

by | Category: US Tourism | 0

An American passport is valid for 10 years from the date of issue for citizens over the age of 16. However, passports issued to individuals below the age of 16 are only valid for 5 years.

The processing time for routine passport applications is typically somewhere between 2 and 4 weeks. If you are traveling sooner and need a new passport, you can apply for an emergency passport.

It’s always a good idea to renew your passport well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any last-minute complications.

Renewing your American passport

Renewing your U.S. passport when you are overseas can be a bit more complicated than doing so in the United States. However, with proper planning and knowledge of the required procedures, you can make sure that the process runs smoothly. This article will mainly focus on Americans who are currently overseas and guide them through the steps to renew a passport while abroad.

Determining eligibility

Before proceeding with the renewal process, you will have to make sure that you meet the relevant eligibility requirements for renewing your passport by mail. You can only renew it by mail if:

– Your current passport is undamaged
– It was issued within the last 15 years
– It was originally issued with a validity period of 10 years
– It was issued in your current name. If you have since changed your name, you should submit legal documentation to prove the details of your name change

If you do not meet the above criteria, you will have to apply in person using form DS-11.

Gather the necessary documentation

In order to renew your passport by mail, you will have to get the following ready:

  • Application form – You can fill out Form DS-82 online or download it as a PDF and fill it out by hand.
  • Passport photo – Ensure that the photo meets the official specifications.
  • Passport fee – The fee must be paid using a personal check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State.
  • Your most recent passport
  • Name change documentation, where this is applicable

Be aware of passport expiration rules

Certain countries and some airlines will not allow an American passport holder to enter if their passport expires in less than six months. We recommend that you check the rules related to U.S. passport expiration for your destination country on the American Department of State’s country information page.

In-person appointments

If you are eligible for an in-person appointment, you can renew your passport in person at the U.S. embassy or consulate nearest to you. You will need to schedule an appointment and pay the fees to the cashier at the Consular Section

What is the correct procedure for renewing an adult U.S. passport in person?

Renewing an adult U.S. passport in person can be a necessary step if you are not eligible to renew by mail. The process for in-person renewal typically involves the following steps:

Determine eligibility

You can renew your passport in person if you meet certain criteria, such as having a passport that is undamaged, issued within the last 15 years, issued with a 10-year validity period, and is in your current name. If you have changed your name, you must have submitted the required legal documentation.

Fill out form DS-11

You also have to fill out form DS-11, the Application for a U.S. Passport. You can complete this form online and print it or download it as a PDF and fill it out by hand.

Submit the necessary documents

You will need to submit the necessary renewal documents, including your most recent passport, passport photo, passport fee, and any necessary name change documentation.

Locate a passport acceptance facility

Find a local passport acceptance facility or regional agency where you can submit your application. These facilities are normally located in U.S. embassies, consulates, or U.S. Post Offices.

Schedule an appointment

Contact the passport acceptance facility to schedule an appointment for your in-person renewal.

Attend the appointment

Go to your scheduled appointment, bring the required documents, and submit your application. You may also need to pay the acceptance fee separately at the facility.

Wait for your new passport

After submitting the application, you will have to wait for your new passport to be processed. The processing time can vary, so it is essential to apply well in advance of any planned travel.

Please note that the specific process for in-person renewal may be different depending on your location and the procedures of the specific passport acceptance facility or regional agency. It is always a good idea to contact the facility in advance to confirm their requirements and procedures.

How to get a U.S. passport for a minor under 18

If you are planning to travel internationally with your child, you will need to obtain a U.S. passport for him or her. The process for getting a passport for a minor under 18 is similar to that for adults, but there are some additional requirements to be aware of. Below we will guide you through the steps.

Determine eligibility

All children under the age of 16 have to apply for a passport in person with two parents or guardians using Form DS-11. If your child is 16 or 17 years old, they may apply for a passport on their own, but they must show that at least one legal parent or guardian is aware of the fact that they are applying for a passport.

Gather the necessary documents

When applying for a passport for a minor under 18, you will need the following:

  • Application form. Complete Form DS-11, the Application for a U.S. Passport. You can either fill out the form online and print it or download it as a PDF and fill it out by hand.
  • Passport photo. Make sure that the minor’s photo meets all the official requirements.
  • Passport fee. The fee will vary depending on the child’s age.
  • The child’s birth certificate. You will also have to submit an original or certified copy of your child’s birth certificate.
  • Parental consent. Both parents or guardians are required to give consent for the child to obtain a passport.
  • Submit the application in person. In most cases children have to be present in person at a passport acceptance facility to apply for a passport. You have to bring your child and the required documents, and pay the fees at the facility.

Be aware of passport expiration rules

Some countries and airlines will not allow an American passport holder to enter if their passport expires in less than six months. It is, therefore, important to check your destination country’s U.S. passport expiration rules on the Department of State’s country information page before your trip.

Lost or stolen passports

In the unfortunate event that your U.S. passport is lost or stolen, you should report it immediately to the Department of State. You can report a lost or stolen passport online or by phone. You will have to fill out Form DS-64, the Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport, and submit it with your application for a new passport.

Passport for dual citizens

If you are a dual citizen of the United States and another country, you may need to provide additional documentation when applying for an American passport. The Department of State website provides detailed information on the requirements for dual citizens, including information on required documents and fees.

Which countries in the world require American citizens to apply for visas?

American passport holders can travel visa-free to almost 150 countries around the world. However, to enter the remaining countries, these individuals have to apply for a visa before the time.

Here are a few examples of countries where American citizens need a visa to visit: China, Russia, India, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Vietnam.

In this regard, it is important to be aware that visa requirements often change overnight, so it’s always a good idea to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are planning to visit before making any final travel arrangements.

Citizens of which countries have to apply for a visa if they would like to visit the United States?

Citizens of the majority of countries around the world actually have to apply for a visa before they will be allowed to enter the United States. However, citizens of those countries that belong to the VWP or Visa Waiver Program can visit the United States without a visa for tourism or business purposes, provided that the visit will not be for longer than 90 days. The Visa Waiver Program countries include the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the majority of countries in the European Union.

If you are not a citizen of one of the Visa Waiver countries, you will have to apply for a visa to enter the United States. The type of visa you should apply for will depend on the purpose of your journey, for example, business, tourism, study, or work.

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