Passports

Passport Renewal

1. How long does it take to get a new passport?
   Applications are processed in approximately 10 business days.  The National Passport Agency is closed on weekends and American holidays; this may affect processing time.  
2. Is there any way to expedite my application?
   No. The processing time is already quite fast. We may issue limited validity passports locally for Americans who have emergency travel needs and who have proof of their immediate travel plans. Your need to renew a passport in order to apply for a visa does NOT constitute an emergency. Individuals who have lost more than one passport cannot be issued an emergency passport.
3. Why do we have to bring our child?
   To enhance the accurate identification of passport applicants and aid in the prevention of international child abduction and trafficking, the Department of State has begun requiring the personal appearance of all minors applying for U.S. passports, even if the child has previously been issued a passport.  In cases where this requirement would cause a severe and unusual hardship, such as a health risk to the minor, the parents may request a waiver.
4. Why do we both have to sign our child’s form?
   To help address the issue of abducted and runaway children, effective February 1, 2008, both parents must appear and sign the passport application of children under age 16.
5. What if my spouse can’t come in with me?
   As of November 1, 2004, if only one parent is applying with the child, then a notarized, signed DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) form from the non-present parent or a court order showing sole custody has been granted to the present parent is required. You must provide documentary evidence such as a divorce decree granting sole custody, a guardianship decree, a court order specifically authorizing passport issuance regardless of custodial arrangements or a copy of your spouse’s death certificate.
6. What else may be required for a child application?
   Photos of the child showing his/her growth since the last passport application may be required if the child's appearance has changed significantly.  Transition photos must be presented for all children whose last passport photo was a newborn baby photograph.
7. Photo Guidelines
   Two recent, identical photos, 2”x2” on a white background (see sample ).  Please present this sheet to the photographer to ensure that you receive the correct size photos.
   

REQUIREMENTS

Adults – 16 or older

• Applicant must appear in person and present their most recent passport
• Form DSP-82    (DSP-11 if FIRST 10 year passport)
• Two photos

Children under age 16

• Both parents and the child must appear in person.  Everyone must present their current passports.
• If only one parent can appear, notarized Form DS-3053 (see question No. 4 & 5 )
• Form DSP-11
• Two photos
• Applicant’s original birth certificate
• Other supporting documents (see question No. 6 )

Passport FEE

Adults $75 ($100 if FIRST 10 year passport)
Children $85 or RMB Equivalent