Important Updates on US Passport Services
The US Department of State has halted issuing new passports due to public health measures intended to slow the spread of the coronavirus. However, there are some exceptions that travelers should be aware of.
Passport services in the US are currently limited as the State Department enforces strict restrictions on both new passport applications and renewals. As of March 20, the State Department is only issuing passports for customers experiencing a qualified life-or-death emergency who need to travel internationally within 72 hours. These measures were implemented following a global travel advisory warning US citizens against leaving the country.
Eligibility for Emergency Passports
Citizens who meet the criteria for an expedited life-or-death emergency passport must demonstrate a family emergency that necessitates traveling outside of the US within 72 hours. Acceptable emergencies include serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths involving a “parent, child, spouse, sibling, aunt, uncle, etc.,” according to the department’s guidelines. Travelers are required to provide proof of the emergency, such as a death certificate or a signed letter from a medical professional, with all documentation being in English or officially translated.
Processing of Passport Applications
For those who submitted a passport application or renewal prior to March 19, processing will continue. Typically, this process takes between two to three weeks. Nevertheless, the department has forewarned of substantial delays due to the current situation. Please note that routine applications or renewal requests submitted after March 20 will not be expedited.
In-Person Application Facilities
While some passport facilities—including post offices, clerks of court, and libraries—may still accept in-person applications, it is recommended that customers confirm the operational status of their local facility beforehand. As of March 25, a few post offices have begun requiring customers to sec about making appointments online.
Future of Passport Services
The State Department has not confirmed when full passport services will resume. However, it has indicated that the “status of our operations may change quickly,” so travelers should remain vigilant for updates.
Real ID Compliance Deadline
On another note, the deadline for American citizens to obtain driver’s licenses or state identification cards that are Real ID-compliant for domestic travel has been extended until October 1, 2021.
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