Becoming a U.S. citizen comes with many benefits, including the ability to apply for a U.S. passport. A U.S. passport is one of the world’s most powerful travel documents, allowing you to travel to over 180 countries without needing a visa. If you’ve recently become a U.S. citizen and are ready to apply for your first passport, here’s a simple guide to help you through the process.
Passport Processing Times
As of October 2024, routine passport applications are processed in 6-8 weeks, while expedited applications take around 2-3 weeks. These times do not include mailing time for your passport.
How to Apply for Your First U.S. Passport as an Immigrant
Applying Inside the U.S.
Follow these steps to apply for your first passport:
Complete Form DS-11:
The first step is to fill out Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport. You can download this form from the State Department’s website or fill it out online.
Provide Proof of U.S. Citizenship:
You must provide proof of U.S. citizenship. As a newly naturalized citizen, you can submit your Certificate of Naturalization. If you don’t have this, you may need to provide other types of evidence. Visit the State Department’s website for more details on the required documents.
Present a Valid ID:
Along with your citizenship proof, you’ll need to show a valid legal ID. This can be a state-issued driver’s license, a current foreign passport, or another form of accepted ID. You must also provide a photocopy of the front and back of your ID.
Get a Passport Photo:
You’ll need to submit one passport-sized photo that meets the 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) requirement. Tips for getting the right photo can be found on the State Department’s website.
Submit Your Application:
For first-time applicants, you must apply in person at an official passport acceptance facility. These can include post offices, libraries, and other designated locations. Use the State Department’s website to find the nearest facility to you. Once there, submit Form DS-11, your proof of citizenship, ID photocopies, passport photo, and the required fees.
Track Your Application:
After submission, you can track the status of your passport online using the State Department’s system.
Applying Outside the U.S.
If you live outside the U.S., you must apply for your U.S. passport in person at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Each location has its specific instructions, so be sure to check the embassy’s website in your country for details on the process.
Costs of Applying for a U.S. Passport as an Immigrant
The passport application fees vary depending on your age and whether you’re a first-time applicant or immigrant. Here are the costs:
- For adults (16 and older) applying for the first time:
- Application Fee: $130
- Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35
- For children under 16:
- Application Fee: $100
- Execution (Acceptance) Fee: $35
To calculate your specific fees, visit the State Department’s fee calculator online.
Passport Processing Timeline For Immigrant
- Routine applications take 6-8 weeks to process.
- If you need your passport sooner, you can request expedited service for an additional $60 fee, and your application will be processed in 2-3 weeks.
For urgent travel needs, there are also emergency options available to get your passport quickly.
How to Renew a U.S. Passport as an Immigrant
U.S. passports for adults are valid for 10 years, while passports for children under 16 are valid for 5 years. Be mindful of your passport’s expiration date and start the renewal process early.
To renew a passport:
Complete Form DS-82:
Fill out Form DS-82: U.S. Passport Renewal Application. You can complete the form online or download it.
Include Supporting Documents:
Include your most recent passport and any legal documents if your name has changed. You’ll also need a passport photo that meets the requirements.
Pay the Renewal Fees:
Payment must be made via personal check or money order. Online payments are not accepted for passport renewals. Visit the State Department’s website to check the exact fees and where to mail your application.
What documents are needed to prove U.S. citizenship
To prove U.S. citizenship, individuals can use a variety of documents. The acceptable forms of proof include:
Primary Documents
- U.S. Passport: A valid or expired passport serves as proof of citizenship.
- Birth Certificate: A certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a U.S. state, which must include the individual’s name, date of birth, and parents’ names. The certificate should have a raised seal and the registrar’s signature.
- Certificate of Citizenship: Issued by USCIS, this document confirms citizenship status.
- Certificate of Naturalization: This document is also issued by USCIS to individuals who have become citizens through naturalization.
Secondary Evidence (if primary documents are unavailable)
If the primary documents cannot be obtained, secondary evidence may be used:
- Baptismal Certificate
- Early Census Records
- Family Bible Records
- Hospital Birth Records
- School Records
- Newspaper Files
These documents should ideally be accompanied by an affidavit from someone with personal knowledge of the individual’s birth.
Special Cases for Individuals Born Abroad
For those born outside the U.S., the following documents can serve as proof:
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240)
- Certification of Birth (Form FS-545 or DS-1350)
- Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization
What are the steps to obtain a certified copy of a birth certificate
Identify the Correct Vital Records Office:
If you were born in the United States, contact the vital records office in the state where you were born. You will need to know the city and county of your birth.
For those born abroad, check with the U.S. Department of State or the embassy/consulate in your country for the appropriate issuing authority.
Gather Required Information:
Prepare essential details such as your full name at birth, date of birth, place of birth, and parents’ names.
Complete the Application Form:
Fill out the application for a certified copy of a birth certificate. This form can usually be found on the website of your state’s vital records office.
Provide Identification:
Include a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport) with your application. Some states may require notarization of your application or additional identification forms if you’re unable to provide standard ID.
Pay the Required Fees:
Fees for obtaining a certified copy can vary by state, typically ranging from $15 to $30 per copy. Payment methods may include checks or money orders made out to the appropriate agency.
Submit Your Application:
You can usually submit your application in one of three ways:
- In Person: Visit the local vital records office.
- By Mail: Send your completed application, ID, and payment to the appropriate address.
- Online: Some states allow online requests through authorized vendors like VitalChek, which may charge additional fees.
Wait for Processing:
Processing times can vary significantly; it may take several weeks depending on the state and method of application (in-person requests are often processed faster).
Receive Your Certified Copy:
Once processed, you will receive your certified copy by mail or pick it up in person if you applied that way.
By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to obtaining your U.S. passport and enjoying the benefits of being a U.S. citizen. If you need further assistance, Law and Visas can help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for an EB-1 Visa or an EB-2 Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas have a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need for International travel. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
