Emergency Passport Replacement For Same-Day Travel

If you need to replace your passport for same-day travel, you may be able to get a same-day passport, but it's not guaranteed. The process can be complex and costly, and there are only a limited number of appointments available. You'll need to meet certain criteria, including having proof of international travel within 14 days or a life-or-death emergency. You'll also need to provide various documents, such as proof of travel and a valid reason for your urgent request. It's recommended that you start the process as soon as possible and be prepared to spend the full day at your appointment.

Same-day passport services: pros and cons

Pros

• You can get a passport in 24 hours, which is great if you're in an extreme rush or have a last-minute panic.
• If you need to travel internationally sooner than the expedited processing time of two to three weeks allows, same-day passport services can help you receive a passport in time for your trip.
• Same-day passport services can be useful if you're travelling within three business days and your case is a life-or-death emergency or urgent travel.
• You can get your passport expedited in as little as 8 hours through a private passport expediting agency.
• Same-day passport services can be convenient if there is a FedEx Office near you that provides expedited passport services.

Cons

• The chances of getting a passport in 24 hours are slim due to the limited number of appointments available at passport agencies.
• Same-day passport services can be costly, with some expeditors charging over $1200 due to the speed factor.
• Shipping delays caused by unusual circumstances such as protests, government shutdowns, or operational slowdowns can defeat the purpose of a same-day passport service.
• Any ambiguity in your documents can activate a chain of logistic jobs, extending the processing time beyond 24 hours.
• It can be tricky to get an appointment at a passport agency, as time slots fill up quickly.
• Even if you get an appointment, it may take longer than 24 hours to process your passport.
• You must meet strict criteria to be eligible for a same-day passport, such as providing authentic documents regarding the patient's condition/illness and having an immediate relationship with the person you will fly for.

How to get a same-day passport

While it is technically possible to get a passport in 24 hours, it is not easy, and the chances of success are slim. The process is challenging, with limited spots available, tough criteria to meet, and high applicant demand, especially on peak days.

When to Get a Same-Day Passport

Before embarking on the process of obtaining a same-day passport, it is important to consider whether it is the best option for your situation. Same-day passports are significantly more expensive than regular passports and may not be worth the extra cost if you can afford to wait a little longer. Shipping delays and document ambiguities can also cause further complications and delays.

Where to Get a Same-Day Passport

In the US, there are 26 Regional Passport Agencies that offer same-day passport services. Some of these agencies include:

• Los Angeles Passport Agency
• San Diego Passport Agency
• San Francisco Passport Agency
• Hot Springs Passport Agency
• Portsmouth Passport Agency
• San Juan Passport Agency
• St Albans Passport Agency
• Stamford Passport Agency

To obtain a same-day passport, you must meet certain criteria and follow specific steps. Here is a general guide:

• You should be travelling within three business days.
• Your case should be a life-or-death emergency or involve urgent travel.
• You must have authentic documents supporting your case, such as proof of the patient's condition or illness.
• You must have an immediate relationship with the person you will be travelling with or caring for.
• Book an appointment at a passport agency or centre. Note that walk-in appointments are not available.
• Bring the required documents, including a completed passport application, a passport photo, a valid government-issued ID, and payment for passport processing.
• Ensure your photo meets the guidelines provided by the State Department.

Alternative Options

If you are unable to obtain a same-day passport, there are alternative options for expedited passport services. These options include:

• Urgent travel service: For travel within 2-3 weeks.
• Expedited service: For travel within 6 weeks.
• Routine service: For travel in more than 6 weeks.

What to do if your passport is lost or stolen

If your passport is lost or stolen, it is important to act quickly to minimise any potential damage and inconvenience. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do:

Report the loss/theft to the State Department

This can be done online, by phone, or by mail. It is important to do this as soon as possible, as it will invalidate the passport and protect you from identity theft. You can use Form DS-64 for this.

Apply for a new passport

If you are in the US, use Form DS-11 to apply for a new passport in person. Follow the guidance provided by the State Department, which will depend on how quickly you need the new passport. Check the current processing times to find out how long it will take.

If you are outside the US, contact your nearest US embassy or consulate. They will be able to help you replace your lost or stolen passport and advise you on the process and how long it will take. In some cases, you may be able to obtain a limited-validity passport if there is not enough time to get a regular passport.

Keep documentation and be prepared for delays

When applying for a new passport, make sure you have all the required documentation and that your passport photo meets the guidelines. Delays can occur due to shipping or application errors, so it is important to be prepared and allow enough time for processing.

Consider using a passport agency

If you need to travel urgently, you may be able to get a same-day passport by visiting a passport agency. However, appointments are limited and hard to come by. There are 26 US passport agencies across the country, and you may need to travel to the nearest one.

Contact your US representative

If you are unable to get an appointment at a passport agency and are running out of time, you can try contacting your US representative's office. They may be able to help expedite the processing of your passport, but this is not guaranteed.

It is important to note that replacing a lost or stolen passport can take time, and even with urgent processing, there may be delays. To avoid last-minute stress, it is recommended to apply for a passport or renew an existing one well in advance of any travel plans.

Expedited passport services

The U.S. Department of State offers four types of passport services: routine, expedited, urgent travel, and emergency. The type of service depends on whether you have proof of confirmed travel dates and when you’re travelling.

Routine Service

Routine passport service is the slowest service available. This option is best for travellers who don’t have any international trips coming up within the timeframe of a faster service. To apply for a new passport or renew an existing one, you’ll need to submit your documents by mail or at an acceptance centre, such as a library or post office. Routine service takes 4-6 weeks and does not include mailing times.

Expedited Service

Expedited passport processing takes 2-3 weeks and does not include mailing times. You’ll submit your application the same way you would for routine processing. Expect to pay a $60 fee on top of the routine passport fee for expedited service.

Urgent Service

If you’re travelling internationally sooner than expedited processing will allow, you’ll need to select non-emergency urgent service to receive a passport in time for your trip. If you’re travelling in less than 2-3 weeks, you must make an appointment at a passport agency or centre. You can do this by calling 1-877-487-2778 or by making an appointment online. You’ll need to provide proof of travel.

Emergency Service

An emergency passport can be processed within 72 hours only if you have a qualifying life-or-death emergency. You must call a passport agency for one of these appointments and provide proof of international travel. Qualifying life-or-death emergencies include:

• An immediate family member has died
• An immediate family member is dying or in hospice care
• An immediate family member has a life-threatening injury or illness

Immediate family members include parents, legal guardians, children, spouses, siblings or grandparents.

Passport renewal options

Renewing a passport can be a stressful process, especially if you need it urgently. Here are the options available for renewing your passport, depending on your circumstances:

Routine Processing

Routine processing is the slowest service, taking around four to six weeks to complete. This option is best if you don't have any international travel planned within this time frame. You can submit your application and supporting documents by mail or at an acceptance centre, such as a library or post office.

Expedited Processing

Expedited processing is faster, taking around two to three weeks. This option is suitable if you need your passport renewed before your upcoming international trip. There is an additional fee of $60 for expedited service. You can submit your application and supporting documents by mail or at an acceptance centre.

Urgent Travel Processing

If you are travelling internationally within the next three weeks, you will need to select urgent travel processing. This option is available if you are travelling within 14 calendar days or need to apply for a visa within 28 days. You must make an appointment at a passport agency and provide proof of travel. Appointments are limited and hard to come by, so it is important to plan ahead if possible.

Emergency Processing

Emergency processing is available only in life-or-death emergencies, such as the serious illness or death of an immediate family member. You must provide documentation of the emergency, such as a death certificate or a letter from a hospital. An emergency passport can be processed within 72 hours of your appointment at a passport agency.

Same-Day Passport Renewal

Technically, it is possible to get a passport renewed in 24 hours through a same-day passport service. However, this option is not always reliable and may not be available due to limited appointments and high demand. If you are seeking a same-day passport, you must visit one of the 26 U.S. passport agencies and have all the required documents. The chances of obtaining a same-day passport are slim, so it is recommended to apply for renewal well in advance if possible.

Frequently asked questions