US Offers Guidance for Urgent Passport Appointments

The US Department of State has published guidance for American citizens on obtaining a passport urgently when international travel is required within 14 calendar days. There are two pathways outlined for applicants.

The first pathway is for those facing a life-or-death family emergency abroad, qualifying if an immediate family member has died, is in hospice care, or is suffering from a life-threatening condition. Immediate family members include parents, legal guardians, children, spouses, siblings, and grandparents.

The second pathway is for anyone with confirmed international travel within 14 days needing a passport urgently, regardless of the reason. Required documentation for the life-or-death emergency includes a death certificate, a mortuary statement, or a hospital letter signed by a doctor.

All applicants must also provide proof of upcoming travel, a completed passport application form, a passport photo, and a valid government-issued photo ID. Documents not in English must be professionally translated.

Applicants are advised to book appointments online once their documents are ready.