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US Passport

United States Passports

This article contains tops tips from our experts, backed by in-depth research.

Writer: Katherine Read

Written by
Katherine Read

Financial Writer

Katherine Read is a financial writer known for her work on financial planning and retirement finance, covering equity release, lifetime mortgages, home reversion, retirement planning, SIPPs, pension drawdown, and interest-only mortgages.

At WorldPassports she takes a deep dive into global migration trends, specializing in the intricate world of investment-based mobility. She brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into the dynamics of Passport Programs, Golden Visas, and Economic Citizenship.

Reviewer: Bert Hofhuis

Reviewed by
Bert Hofhuis

Entrepreneur & Founder

Bert Hofhuis is a founder & entrepreneur simplifying the complexities of visas, passports, and immigration. He navigates the intricacies of international travel documentation with clarity and expertise, helping individuals and businesses easily manage global mobility challenges.

Editor: Nadia Read Thaele

Edited by
Nadia Read Thaele

Specialist in Citizenship by Investment & International Real Estate

Nadia Read-Thaele is a renowned expert in Citizenship by Investment (CBI), specializing in Golden Visa Programs and Economic Citizenship.

With extensive knowledge in Investor Visa processes, Nadia adeptly guides clients through the intricacies of acquiring a Second Passport through Investment.

Last Updated: 23 Jul 2025

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Our team recently fact checked this article for accuracy. However, things do change, so please do your own research.

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What Is a U.S. Passport?

A U.S. passport is an official government-issued document verifying identity and citizenship, required for international travel outside the United States. It is also a federally approved REAL ID, valid for air and land travel within the U.S. and access to certain federal facilities as of May 7, 2025. There are two types: the passport book and the passport card.

Eligibility and Requirements

To be eligible for a U.S. passport, you must be:

• A U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization, or
• A qualifying U.S. non-citizen national.

Core Requirements

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate)
• Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, state ID)
• Application form DS-11 (new or first-time applicants)
• Passport-compliant photo (2x2 inches, meeting official standards)
• Payment of required fees

Step-by-Step Application Process

The process differs for new and renewal applicants:

First-Time Applicants

1. Complete Form DS-11:
   Fill in online or print and complete by hand. Do not sign before your in-person appointment.
2. Gather Required Documents:
   Proof of citizenship, government-issued photo ID, passport photo, copies of documents, and payment.
3. Apply In Person at a Passport Acceptance Facility:
   Post offices, libraries, and county clerk’s offices are common locations; some require appointments.
4. Pay Fees:
   Standard fee for an adult passport book in 2025 is approximately $165; additional fees apply for expedited service or passport card.
5. Submit and Track:
   Turn in your application, sign in front of the agent, and get a receipt. You can track status online.

Renewing an Existing Passport

• Eligible if your most recent adult passport is undamaged, issued within the last 15 years, and you were at least 16 at issuance. Use Form DS-82 and mail your application and documents per instructions.

Required Documents Checklist

• DS-11 (or DS-82 for eligible renewals), unsigned
• Proof of U.S. citizenship: certified U.S. birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or previous passport
• Valid government-issued photo ID and clear photocopy
• One recent passport photo (2x2 inches)
• Applicable fees (payment methods vary by facility)
• Parental consent documentation for applicants under 16, if applicable

Passport Types: Book vs. Card

Note: Card is not valid for international air travel.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits

• Visa-Free/On-Arrival Access:
  Up to 172–182 countries and territories, ranking among the world’s top passports for global mobility.
• Official Government ID:
  Accepted for REAL ID-compliant activities, domestic flights, and certain federal buildings as of May 2025.
• Family Inclusions:
  Passports for minors under 16 require both parents’ consent, offering security for international family travel.
• Indefinite Renewals:
  Renewable every 10 years (5 years for minors).

Drawbacks

• Application in Person:
  New passports must be applied for in person; no online application for first-timers.
• Processing Times:
  Standard processing can take 6–8 weeks; expedited fees needed for urgent cases.
• Cost:
  More expensive than just a driver’s license or standard ID.
• IRS Reporting and Tax Requirements:
  U.S. citizens overseas retain U.S. tax obligations.

Validity & Renewal

• Adults: 10 years from the date of issue
• Minors (under 16): 5 years from date of issue
• Renewal: Start the process 6–12 months before expiry, especially if traveling to countries requiring 6 months’ passport validity.
• Six-Month Rule: Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your arrival or departure date.

U.S. Passport: International Travel Access

• Visa-Free/On-Arrival:
  U.S. citizens can travel to around 172–182 countries and territories without a pre-arranged visa, including the EU, UK, Japan, and more.
• Length of Stay:
  Varies by country—for example, up to 90 days in the Schengen Area, up to 6 months in the UK.
• New Requirements:
  Travelers to the EU will need ETIAS authorization from 2025 onward. The UK will require ETA registration for Americans starting Jan. 8, 2025.

Common Questions

In Conclusion

A U.S. passport is essential for international travel, serves as a secure identity document for domestic purposes, and is a top-ranked passport for global mobility. Despite robust benefits, careful attention to timing, validity, and new travel authorization requirements is key. Prepare early, keep your passport up to date, and consult official sources for any policy or requirement changes.

Disclaimer: Information provided in this guide is accurate as of July 2025. Policy changes and requirements can occur—always check the latest guidance from the U.S. Department of State and official travel authorities before applying or traveling.