How to Apply Passport Online USA?
Efficiency and convenience are perhaps more important than ever in today's digital age. One area where digitalization is making a tangible difference is in government services. Of these, the U.S. Department of State has already begun to bring modernity to the process of USA passport applications. "Passport Online USA" reports on efforts to allow U.S. citizens to apply for or renew their passports entirely online. This program is a monumental shift in how Americans deal with the federal government and offers numerous benefits—with caveats.
What Is Passport Online USA?
Passport Online USA refers to the U.S. State Department's website on which U.S. citizens can apply for or renew a passport through an electronic procedure. The service was rolled out on a phased basis with pilot testing and beta versions beginning in 2022 under the Biden administration's executive order to improve the customer experience with federal services.
The objective is to accelerate the passport application procedure, protect it, and render it less reliant on visits or mailing documents.
Background and Development
Traditionally, getting a U.S. passport meant completing a DS-11 or DS-82 form, taking a passport photo, and sending it in or visiting a passport acceptance agent such as a post office. Those were labor-intensive and sometimes USA frustrating processes—especially for individuals living in rural areas or those with disabilities.
In order to modernize this process, the White House released an executive order in December 2021 titled "Transforming Federal USA Customer Experience and Service Delivery to Rebuild Trust in Government." As part of this initiative, the U.S. Department of State was requested to develop a full end-to-end online passport renewal process that does away with both mailing stuff in physical form and visiting an office.
How the Online Passport System Works
As of mid-2025, the completely online passport system is still in rolled-out phases, with greater access on the horizon. Below is how process typically works for USA passport renewal through online system:
1. Eligibility Check
Not everyone can renew online. Those who typically: Have a valid passport which was/was issued for 10 years. Are 25 and above. Have not changed name since previous passport issue (unless legally confirmed proof can be uploaded). Have had their passport printed out between 2009 and 2015 (according to the latest requirements).
2. Set a MyTravelGov USA Account
Applicants are to set up a MyTravelGov account on the website of the U.S. State Department. The secure account stores customer data and enables communication.
3. Fill in the Online Form
The DS-82 form is filled out electronically online. The user can have a passport-type photo taken right from the computer or phone, following detailed instructions on expression, background, and lighting.
4. Pay Online
Renewal of USA passport book is paid using a credit or debit card. As of USA 2025, the flat rate for adult passport book renewal is $130. Expedited service and other services cost more.
5. USA Submit and Track Application
After they have been submitted, candidates can track the status of their passport online via the MyTravelGov website.
Benefits of Online Application
1. Convenience
No more standing in line at the post office or printing out forms. It's all done from home.
2. Speed
While standard processing times are still 6–8 weeks, USA online submission saves time wasted with mailing checks and documents. Rush processing is also simplified.
3. Eco-Friendly
The decrease in paper and mailing materials consumption makes it an eco-friendly process more.
4. Security and Transparency
Use of a secure government portal reduces the loss of documents and USA allows users to keep track of their application status in real-time.
5. Increased Accessibility
Online applications are especially helpful to those overseas, those with mobility issues, or those who are distant from USA passport acceptance facilities.
Limitations and Challenges
1. Limited to Renewals (at present)
Currently, only a few renewals can be requested online. New applicants must still come in person with a DS-11 form.
2. Digital Access and Literacy
Not everybody is comfortable with web-based forms or has easy access to the internet. Older citizens or individuals in impoverished communities may struggle with it.
3. Photo Quality Requirements
Most applicants struggle to take satisfactory USA passport photos at home, resulting in delays or rejection of their applications.
4. Beta Status
Since the online system is still under beta USA development, occasional bugs or glitches may occur, which would annoy users.
Recent Updates in 2025
Until June 2025, the USA Department of State is preparing to implement wider online access for renewing USA passports to a broader group of the USA public. These are some of the recent updates: Increased USA Eligibility Convenience: The Department is testing ways to facilitate customers with name changes or passports more than 15 years past
expiration to apply online. AI-Assisted Photo Check: A new AI system pre-screen uploaded photos to verify against passport standards before submission.Mobile Improvements: The MyTravelGov portal has been redesigned for easier use on smartphones and tablets.
Tips for an Online Passport Application Success
Use a High-Quality Camera: Smartphone cameras are usually sufficient, but make sure the photo meets all State Department criteria. Follow Background Guidelines: A plain white or off-white background is essential. Dress Appropriately: Avoid uniforms or white clothing that could blend into the background. Double-Check Information: Any mistake in your name, birthdate, or passport number can delay the process. Monitor Your Email: You’ll receive notifications if additional documentation is needed.
Future of Passport Services
The online passport initiative is one part of a government-wide USA digital transformation. In the next few years, we can expect: Full support for online initial passport application, perhaps with remote identity proofing. Integration with other digital government services like TSA PreCheck, REAL ID, and global travel notifications. Mobile passport apps that save an encrypted USA digital version of your passport to present at certain points or in crisis cases.
Passport Online USA represents a giant leap towards simplifying and making modern the way Americans interact with federal services. Though the 
service is currently limited to certain types of passport renewals, the USA potential of expansion promises greater access, less red tape, and a quicker process for tens of millions of travelers. With any new system, there are issues to overcome—but the way forward is clear: the United States' passport future is online.
For the latest information and to verify your eligiblity, visit the U.S. State Department passport web site at travel.state.gov.
Apply for a new adult passport
You need a passport to travel to most countries outside the U.S. Learn how to apply for a passport in person, check your application status, and get it changed or corrected. Renew an adult passport
Find out if you can renew your passport or need a new one. Learn how to renew your passport online or by mail, get it changed or corrected, or what to do if it expires soon. Get a passport for a minor under 18
Find out how to get a child's passport, depending on their age. Lost or stolen passports
If your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the State Department right away. How you replace it depends on if you are inside or outside the U.S.
Notice There is no walk-in service for U.S. citizens who require a service related to passports, reporting a birth abroad, or notary. USA services are by appointment only. You do not need an appointment if you are picking up a U.S. passport.
ARE YOU A U.S. CITIZEN WHO NEEDS A PASSPORT?
Welcome to the American Citizen Services (ACS) Unit of the U.S. Embassy Colombo. To receive passport related services, review all of our instructions to find the form you need and begin the process of completing and submitting your passport application.
If you are unsure which form you need, the Passport Wizard can guide you to the correct form. The passport processing times for USA routine passport renewals is 4 weeks, with an additional 2 weeks for passport cards. If you are traveling within the next two weeks with a confirmed flight, please see the Emergency Passports section. Passport services are not available on weekends or on Sri Lanka or U.S. holidays.
Eligibility to get a passport
If you are not able to renew your U.S. passport, or if this is your first one, you will need to apply for a USA new passport. To be eligible, you must be either:
A U.S. citizen by birth or naturalization or A qualifying U.S. non-citizen national
You must apply in person at a passport acceptance USA facility for a new passport. It cannot be done online or by mail.
What do you need to get a passport?
The application process for USA passport books and passport cards is the same. You will choose which type of passport you want when you fill out the application. Learn about the differences between passport books and passport cards. There are 4 things you will need to apply for and get your U.S. passport. Application - You will need Form DS-11.
You can Fill out Form DS-11 USA online and print it, or
Download Form DS-11 [PDF, 5 pages, 1.9 MB] and fill it out by hand, or
Find your local passport acceptance facility or regional agency and pick up Form DS-11.
Do not sign Form DS-11 until you are at your USA appointment and the passport acceptance official tells you to do so.
Personal documents including:
Original proof of USA citizenship - Learn about what qualifies as primary citizenship evidence or what secondary evidence may qualify if you do not have primary evidence. If you submit your current or expired U.S. passport as proof, it may take up to 4 weeks to get it back after you receive your new passport.
An acceptable USA photo ID A photocopy of both your citizenship document and photo ID Passport photo Passport fee Apply in person. Find your local passport acceptance facility.
Apply for a First-Time Passport
If you've never had a U.S. passport, are 16 or under, or aren't allowed to renew an existing passport by mail, you need to apply for a new passport in person at the Post Office.
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Step 1: Gather USA Documents Early
USA Generally, you should apply for your new passport as soon as you know you’ll be traveling internationally—at least several months in advance. Passport processing times may vary, so be sure to check the latest State Department service estimates. First-time applicants, minors, and applicants who need a new passport but may not renew by mail may submit their passport application at the Post Office. The U.S. State Department website explains what you'll need to bring with you. Show More
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package
Visit the U.S. Department of State website to learn how to apply for a passport and what USA documents you need.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Post Offices that offer USA passport services have set hours, and you'll need to schedule an appointment using the online Retail USA Customer Appointment Scheduler or a Post Office lobby self-service kiosk. Show More
Step 4: Pay Passport Acceptance & Processing Fees
First-time passport applications have two types of basic fees, the USA application acceptance fee and the application processing fee. Passport photos and fees for faster processing are extra. Learn how to calculate fees and what you can use to pay for them.
Application Status Updates
Use the Online Passport Status System to check your application status if you applied by mail or in person. You may not be able to get a status update for 2 weeks after you apply or renew. During these weeks, your application and supporting documents are on their way to the Department of State. See more information about current processing times on the Department of State page "U.S. Passports."
Renew a Passport
Eligible U.S. citizens who don't need expedited service can now renew their passports USA online: Select Renew Online and follow the instructions to get started. (If you need expedited service, you must renew by mail.) If you do not qualify to renew online, you may also renew by mail. If you are eligible to renew your passport by mail, please complete Passport Renewal Application Form DS-82 (see completion instructions on the form), and mail your completed renewal application directly to the State USA Department for processing. To verify if your passport is eligible for renewal by USA mail, please visit State Department Renew By Mail.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility to Renew by Mail
A minor's passport may not be renewed by mail; to renew a minor's USA passport, you need to submit a new, first-time passport application in person. An adult passport may be renewed by mail if it meets certain requirements. Show More
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package
Apply early for renewals as many countries require that passports be valid for at least 6 months after you enter their country. Learn how to properly prepare your USA application package and include all the necessary documents so your passport is processed on time. Show More
Step 3: Mail Your USA Renewal Application
Department of State recommends using a USPS delivery tracking service to mail your renewal application. Show More
Step 4: Follow Your USA Application Progress
If you use a USA delivery tracking service, go to USPS Tracking® to see when your package is delivered.
Expedited Passport Service
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Get a New Passport Faster in Emergencies & Special Cases
If you need your passport faster for emergency travel or another special case, you can send your passport application via Priority Mail Express® service and pay the State Department fee for faster delivery. Show More
Renew Your Passport Fast
If you pay an additional $60 for expedited USA service and mail it with Priority Mail Express, you can get your renewed passport within 10 weeks.
Passports for Minors Under 16
USA Passport applications for children under 16 have special requirements. Both parents/guardians must authorize the issuance of a child's passport. The best way to give consent is for both parents/guardians to go with the child when applying.
- USA Children need evidence of citizenship.
- USA Parents/guardians need proof of parental relationship.
- NOTE: Children's USA passports are only valid for 5 years. They are not "renewable": When a child's passport expires, you must apply for a new passport for them. When making a passport appointment for a child, please choose "New Passport Only" or "New Passport with Photo Services."
State Department Travel Resources
U.S. State Department Website
Department of State Passport Website English | Español
Ask Questions at the National Passport Information Center
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Plan Your Trip with the USA Traveler's Checklist
Get Help in an USA Emergency Overseas
What is a passport?
USA passport is an official document that proves your citizenship and identity. It allows you to travel internationally and is typically required for USA air travel. Once you have your USA passport, you can use it to enter any country that has an agreement with your home country.
USA Passports are also necessary for many other international activities, such as applying for a visa or opening a USA bank account. Travel abroad A passport is an essential document for anyone who plans to USA travel internationally. Whenever you go through customs or immigration, they will always ask to see your passport. This is to ensure that you are who you say you are, and that you are allowed to be in the country.
Get an additional form of identification
A USA passport can also be used as an additional form of identification when applying for a job, opening a USA bank account, or renting an USA apartment. When used in conjunction with other forms of ID, such as a driver's USA license or birth certificate, a passport can help to prove your identity.
Frequently asked passport questions
How do I receive my passport?
Your passport and relevant documents may arrive in multiple shipments, depending on the types you requested. For example:
Passport book or card – Your passport book or card and your citizenship documents may come in two separate mailings within ten days of each other.
Passport book and passport card – Your documents, card, and book may arrive in three individual USA mailings. The second and third packages should arrive within ten days of the first.
How much will it cost in USA government fees?
The cost to apply for a new passport depends on the passport type and your age. The USA passport fee through the USA government varies by type and is as follows:
Passport book (adult) – $165
Passport book (minor) – $135
Passport card (adult) – $65
Passport card (minor) – $50
Passport card and book (adult) – $195
Passport card and book (minor) – $150
When can I expect my passport?
USA Government processing can take up to 12 weeks based on USA demand. With USA GovPlus, you can fast-track your application and get your USA passport in as little as 2 weeks. Complete your application online in minutes — no paperwork confusion, no lines, no guessing.
USA INSTRUCTION FOR OVERSEAS APPLICANTS A Sri Lankan citizen can apply for a new USA passport or passport renewal, while he is in another country, through the Sri Lankan Mission in that country or in the nearest country (where a USA misssion is not available in the resident country). These applications are processed by the Overseas Missions USA Branch at the Head Office of Department of Immigration and Emigration Immigration.
Posted on 2025/06/17 04:42 PM