As the world continues to navigate through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals are finding themselves faced with the task of renewing their passports. For Americans, this process involves completing the US passport renewal form, a critical step in ensuring that they can continue to travel internationally.
The US passport is an essential document for American citizens who wish to travel abroad. It serves as proof of citizenship and identity, allowing individuals to cross international borders and re-enter the United States. However, passports have an expiration date, usually every ten years for adults and five years for minors.
Renewing a US passport can be a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. The US Department of State provides clear guidelines on how to renew a passport, including the necessary forms and documentation that must be submitted. One of the key documents required for passport renewal is the DS-82 form, also known as the US passport renewal form.
The DS-82 form is used for renewing a US passport by mail. It is available for individuals who meet certain requirements, such as having a valid US passport that is not damaged, lost, or stolen, and was issued within the last 15 years when the applicant was at least 16 years old. Additionally, applicants must have a name change documented with legal evidence to submit along with the form.
When filling out the US passport renewal form, applicants must provide accurate and up-to-date information. This includes personal details such as name, date of birth, and contact information, as well as information about previous passport issuances, travel plans, and any name changes. It is important to double-check all information before submitting the form to avoid delays or rejections.
In addition to the DS-82 form, applicants must also submit their most recent US passport, a passport photo, and payment for the renewal fee. The current fee for passport renewal is $110 for adults and $80 for minors under the age of 16. The fee can be paid by check or money order made payable to the US Department of State.
Once the US passport renewal form and supporting documents have been submitted, applicants can expect to receive their new passport within 4-6 weeks. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee, which can shorten the processing time to 2-3 weeks. However, expedited processing is not available for all applicants, so it is important to check the eligibility criteria before requesting this service.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the US Department of State has made some adjustments to the passport renewal process to accommodate individuals who may be facing challenges due to travel restrictions or health concerns. For example, individuals who are unable to visit a passport acceptance facility to have their passport photo taken can now submit a selfie as their photo, provided it meets certain guidelines.
Overall, renewing a US passport is a necessary task for American citizens who wish to continue traveling internationally. By following the guidelines outlined by the US Department of State and completing the US passport renewal form accurately and on time, individuals can ensure that they have a valid passport that will allow them to travel safely and securely.
