How to Renew Your U.S. Passport Abroad in 2024: A Guide for Expats

Posted on Sep 16, 2024

Table of contents:

How to Renew Your U.S. Passport Abroad in 2024

If you’re a U.S. citizen living abroad, keeping your passport up to date is essential. Whether you’re living abroad long-term or just temporarily overseas, renewing your U.S. passport while abroad is a bit different from renewing it in the United States. This guide will take you through the entire process of renewing your U.S. passport from another country, covering everything from the required documents to the fees involved.

1. Where Can You Renew Your U.S. Passport Abroad?

As a U.S. citizen living abroad, you can renew your passport by visiting a U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you currently reside. Most embassies provide specific guidance on renewing passports for adults and children, so check their websites for local details, including how to make an appointment.

U.S. Embassies and Consulates: Every country will have a U.S. embassy or consulate office that handles passport renewals for U.S. citizens.
By Mail: In some cases, you may be able to renew by mail if you meet certain criteria (more details below).

2. Eligibility for Passport Renewal While Abroad

You can renew your passport abroad if you meet the following criteria:

Your passport was issued within the last 15 years.
You were at least 16 years old when your current passport was issued.
Your passport is undamaged and is available to submit.
You still have the same name (or can provide official documentation of a legal name change).

If your passport has been lost, stolen, or is significantly damaged, you’ll need to apply for a new passport in person at the embassy or consulate using Form DS-11.

3. Required Documents for Passport Renewal Abroad

When applying for a U.S. passport renewal while abroad, you’ll need the following documents:

Form DS-82: This is the official passport renewal form for U.S. citizens. You can download it from the U.S. State Department website .
Your current passport: You must submit your expired or soon-to-expire passport with your application.
Passport photo: You’ll need to include a passport photo that meets the U.S. State Department’s guidelines (plain white background, no glasses, taken within the last six months).
Renewal fee: The fee for renewing a U.S. passport abroad in 2024 is approximately $130. This fee may vary slightly depending on the consulate or embassy.

Tip: Some embassies may accept local currency for payment, but it’s a good idea to check their website or contact them in advance to confirm acceptable payment methods.

4. How to Submit Your Passport Renewal Application

In-Person Submission

In most cases, you will need to submit your passport renewal application in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Due to the high demand for services, many embassies require that you make an appointment ahead of time. Visit your local U.S. embassy’s website to find out how to schedule an appointment.

By Mail

In certain cases, you may be able to renew your passport by mail if:

You meet all the eligibility criteria mentioned above.
The U.S. embassy or consulate in your country allows mail-in applications.

Check your local U.S. embassy’s website to see if this option is available. You will need to mail your completed DS-82 form, your current passport, passport photo, and the appropriate fees.

Important: Mailing applications can take longer than in-person processing, so plan accordingly if you’re on a tight timeline.

5. Processing Times for Passport Renewal Abroad

Passport renewal processing times can vary depending on the country and the time of year, but you can generally expect the process to take 6-8 weeks for routine services. During peak travel times or in countries with high demand, it may take longer.

Expedited Service

If you need your passport faster, you may be able to request expedited processing at your local U.S. embassy or consulate. Expedited processing typically takes 2-3 weeks but may vary depending on the country.

Pro Tip: Always check the specific processing times and options available at your nearest embassy or consulate.

6. Fees for Passport Renewal While Abroad

The cost to renew a U.S. passport abroad in 2024 is approximately $130 for routine processing. Additional fees apply if you opt for expedited services, which usually add $60 to the total cost. Some consulates may also charge a mailing or handling fee if you are renewing by mail.

Service	Cost
Routine Passport Renewal	$130
Expedited Service	Additional $60

7. What to Do If Your Passport Is Lost or Stolen Abroad

If your passport is lost or stolen while you’re living abroad, you’ll need to follow a different process. You will have to apply for a new passport using Form DS-11, and you must report the loss or theft to the local authorities as well as the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

Report the loss to the local police and get a copy of the report.
Visit the U.S. embassy to apply for a replacement passport in person. Bring any identification you have left, as well as a passport photo.
Complete Form DS-11 for a new passport, and be prepared to pay the standard fee.

Conclusion

Renewing your U.S. passport abroad in 2024 is a relatively straightforward process as long as you gather the required documents and follow the steps outlined by your local embassy or consulate. Always start the process early to avoid delays, and make sure to check your local embassy’s specific requirements for fees, processing times, and whether they offer mail-in renewal options.