A US Passport is a document used to travel and identify you as a US citizen anywhere in the world. There are a number of requirements, the most important of which is US citizenship, to apply for a US passport.
In addition to the basics, the specifics of your case, the age of the applicant, the type of passport you need, or a legal condition that affects your citizenship status may affect your ability to obtain a passport.
We recommend checking the US Department of State web site or contacting an agency such as Opapeleo for more information on your specific needs and the current application process.
General eligibility requirements
As a US passport is a document reserved for US citizens, being a US citizen is the primary requirement for applying for a US passport.
Documents
Passport application form:
The first passport application form (DS-11) must be filled in.
Proof of citizenship:
Proof of nationality (birth certificate, naturalisation certificate or certificate of nationality) must be provided.
Personal identification
You will need to show a valid form of personal identification (photo ID).
Application process
In-person presentation:
Passport applications generally have to be made in person at a passport agency, a passport application centre or an authorised post office.
Payment of fees:
The fees vary according to the type of passport you are applying for and the age of the applicant.
Photograph:
A recent photograph meeting US Department of State specifications is required.
Tips to speed up the process
If you are attending an in-person passport application, you can bring the DS-11 passport application form with you. Fill in all the fields (either online or by hand after printing). Don’t sign until you are asked to do so by the agent who will be meeting you in person.
Please note that this type of form is only available in the English language and must be completed in the English language.
Underage children
Additional requirements, such as the presence of both parents or a legal guardian at the time of application, must be met for the issuance of a US passport to a minor under the age of 16.
Processing times
Processing times may vary depending on the agency and the time of application.
It is important to check the processing times and to plan your application well in advance.
Passport renewal:
To renew your passport in the event of loss, damage or expiry, you will need to repeat part of the previous process, adding the DS-82 form and the rest of the documents recommended by the body through which you are carrying out the procedure.
About Us
Opapeleo is your agency for procedures 100% online or telephone. We are in Washington DC 150 meters away from the Cuban Consulate. We provide services for the Extension and Renewal of Cuban Passport, Legalisations, Powers of attorney on all kinds, Authorisations for minors to leave the country, DVT, Visas to Cuba, Top-ups, applications for Cuban certificates, delivery of official documents and all kinds of procedures related to Cuba.
