After naturalization, you can apply for a U.S. passport by completing the form online and gathering the required documents. Follow our guide to learn about essential steps, documents, and submission details for a smooth process.
Congratulations on becoming a U.S. citizen! As a naturalized citizen, you now have the opportunity to obtain a U.S. passport, one of the most powerful travel documents in the world. With a U.S. passport, you can travel to over 180 destinations without requiring a specific visa. The application process can seem complex, but don't worry! Here's how to get a passport after naturalization.
Read on as we will walk you through the following:
• The perks of having a U.S. passport
• Requirements for obtaining a U.S. passport after naturalization
• Tips for navigating the U.S. passport application process
Simplify your passport process—get expert legal assistance today and avoid common pitfalls!
Table of Contents
A U.S. passport grants you various benefits other than visa-free travel, including:
The U.S. Department of State offers consular services to U.S. citizens abroad. In case of emergencies, such as lost or stolen passports, the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate can assist you.
A U.S. passport serves as an official proof of your U.S. citizenship. It is a valuable document that you can use for various purposes, such as employment verification or applying for government benefits.
Before you embark on the journey to apply for your new U.S. passport after naturalization, prepare thoroughly to ensure a smooth process.
Initial Steps and Documentation
• Update your Social Security record: Visit the Social Security Administration to update your record. This is an essential step in ensuring your new citizenship status is accurately reflected across government records.
• Obtain vital documents: Secure a Certificate of Citizenship for your child if applicable, and replace your Certificate of Naturalization if lost, by filing Form N-565 online.
• Register to vote: As a new citizen, you have the right to vote. Visit the U.S. Election Assistance Commission’s website at eac.gov for comprehensive guidance on registering to vote.
To apply for your new U.S. passport after naturalization, one of the most crucial steps involves accurately completing Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport. Here’s how to navigate this step effectively:
Choose How to Fill Out Form DS-11
• Option 1: Use the Form Filler tool available on the official State Department website.
• Option 2: Download the form or get a copy at a local passport acceptance facility. Fill it out by hand. Remember, it must be completed in black ink only.
Completing the Form
When filling out Form DS-11, pay close attention to the following sections to ensure accuracy and completeness:
• Personal information, including your name, gender, date and place of birth, email address, Social Security Number, and phone number.
• Indicate whether you are applying for a passport book, passport card, or both.
• Additional details include any other names you've used, your occupation, school (if applicable), and personal identification details.
• Provide details about any upcoming travel dates, an alternate address if applicable, and emergency contact information.
Gathering the necessary supporting documents is a critical step in applying for a new U.S. passport. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need:
• For Adults: Submit your original Form N-550, Certificate of Naturalization, along with a photocopy. If you're applying for a child, file Form N-600 online to obtain evidence of your child’s acquired U.S. citizenship status.
• For Children Under 16: Provide original or certified, physical copy of U.S. citizenship evidence such as a U.S. birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or Certificate of Citizenship. Documentation that lists the child's parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must also be submitted.
• General requirement: Present a valid form of legal identification. Acceptable IDs include a valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or card, in-state fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license, government employee ID, and others.
• For minors: Both parents or guardians must approve the issuance of a passport for a child under age 16, with evidence of the parental relationship required. Minors aged 16 and 17 must appear in person and present evidence of parental awareness.
• Size and quality: Obtain a 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) passport photo. The photo must be recent, taken by someone else within the last six months, clear and unedited, without filters or obstructions.
• Appearance: The photo must be in color, not black and white, with a white or off-white background. Glasses are not allowed, and hats or head coverings are only permitted for religious or medical reasons.
Make sure the photo accurately represents your current appearance and follows the guidelines provided by the State Department.
Photocopies: If the primary document is unavailable, you may need to provide additional secondary citizenship evidence. Bring a photocopy of your valid ID that you present to the acceptance agent. A photocopy of the U.S. citizenship evidence, with a legible, single-sided, black-and-white copy on standard paper, must also be submitted.
Special circumstances: Determine any special circumstances that may apply to your situation, such as if one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, additional documents are required.
Hire a St. Louis Citizenship Lawyer
When you're ready to submit your application for a new U.S. passport after naturalization, follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
Use the Department of State's search tool to find a passport agency near you, including post offices, clerks of court, public libraries, and other local government offices authorized to accept passport applications.
Refine your search by zip code, state, city, and even by a passport acceptance agent offering handicap access and on-site photo services.
• Adult ( age 16 and above) passport book: $130, passport card: $30, or both: $160.
• Child (under 16) passport book: $100, passport card: $15, or both: $115.
• An additional execution fee of $35 is payable to the acceptance facility.
Payment methods include checks or money orders for the application fee payable to the U.S. Department of State and money orders, checks, or credit cards for the execution fee.
For All Applicants:
• Completed Form DS-11 without signing it.
• Original or certified evidence of U.S. citizenship.
• Photocopy of citizenship evidence.
• Acceptable photo ID and its photocopy.
• One passport photo meeting all requirements.
• Application and execution fees calculated based on the product and method of payment.
For Child Applicants (Under 16):
• Both parents or guardians must provide consent for the passport to be issued and, if possible, accompany the child when applying.
• Provide one photo of the child that meets the passport photo requirements.
To avoid delays, schedule your in-person appointment online where possible.
As of December 2023, routine passport applications are processed in 6-8 weeks, while expedited applications are processed in 2-3 weeks. These processing times do not include the time it takes for the government to mail you your new passport. If you require your passport quickly, you may consider applying for an expedited passport for an additional fee of $60.
After you have submitted your application for a new U.S. passport following naturalization, it's essential to know how to track its status and what steps to follow next:
Checking Application Status:
Visit passportstatus.state.gov to access the online system designed to track your U.S. passport application status. Input the needed details, such as your last name and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
For urgent travel needs, check the Get My Passport Fast page.
Confused about the documents needed for your passport? Click here to get professional legal advice now!
Hire St. Louis Immigration Attorneys
Do I need to update my Social Security record after becoming a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have changed your immigration status or have become a U.S. citizen, it is important to inform the Social Security Administration so they can update your records. You will need to provide documents that verify your new status or citizenship.
Do I need to surrender my original passport from my home country after I become a U.S. citizen?
After you are naturalized as a U.S. citizen, you will not be required to surrender your foreign passport or the passport from your country of origin.
Can I apply for a passport outside the U.S.?
The process may differ from applying within the country. U.S. citizens living abroad are generally required to apply for passports in person at a U.S. Embassy or consulate in their country of residence. Each embassy or consulate has its own procedures and requirements for passport services. Visit your country of residence's embassy or consulate webpage for more information.
Obtaining a U.S. passport after receiving your naturalization certificate is a thrilling accomplishment in your new life as a U.S. citizen. It unlocks a world of travel possibilities and serves as official proof of your citizenship.
While the process is generally straightforward, immigration law can be complex. To ensure a smooth application journey, consider consulting with an experienced immigration attorney. Explore our citizenship and immigration services to empower yourself with knowledge and ensure a successful passport application.
