How to Apply-General Information

Applications for passport renewals/replacements must be made in person. American Citizen Services is permitted to issue limited-validity passports immediately only to Americans who have emergency travel needs. All routine renewal and first-time applications are processed in the United States. Applications transmitted to the U.S. take approximately 10 to 15 working days to process, after which time each applicant is issued a secure photo-digitized passport.  Each applicant will be notified by email when processing is complete, and must bring their existing passport to the Consulate to retrieve the new passport.

Applicants should submit a completed application form accompanied by two photographs measuring 2x2 inches square.

• Please see Photo Requirements for more details and for a list of photo shops near our office. 
  
• Please see https://pptform.state.gov/?Submit=COMPLETE+FORM+DS-4085+ONLINE  for a printable passport application form. 
  

  Effective Feb 1, 2008, all passports applications for children under age 16 must be signed by both parents or have  notarized, written authorization in English of both parents, unless accompanied by a legal document attesting to sole custody. All applicants, including children, must appear in person at the Consulate.

  Click below for more detailed information on:

  • U.S. Passport Renewals

  • Adding Passport Pages

  • Lost Passports

  • Passport Forms 

  Electronic Applications Now Required

  Starting February 15, the Shanghai American Citizen Services Section will require use of electronic application forms for all passport services, including passport renewals and adding visa pages.  After filling out your application on-line, print and bring your application to your appointment.  You may fill out the required forms using the Passport Wizard at the following site:  https://pptform.state.gov/?Submit=COMPLETE+FORM+DS-4085+ONLINE.  Additional information about our passport services may be found here:  http://shanghai.usembassy-china.org.cn/passports.html.  Failure to fill out applications on-line, instead using handwritten applications, will delay processing of your application.