A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a US Passport After Naturalization

Becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen has a wide variety of different benefits that can’t be ignored. All other opportunities that U.S. citizens have, you will also have. You can work for the government in various positions (except the presidency).

You can enlist in the armed forces, vote, pay taxes, and more.

Or, you can also get a US passport. With this document, you can travel from the US to other countries in the world. The process of getting a passport after naturalization is relatively straightforward, as long as you follow a few basic steps.

Passport Application Form

In order to get your US passport after naturalization, you must make sure to have all the documents to begin the process.

You will need a completed passport application, for example, which is form DS-11. Form DS-11 is the application for a new passport, as opposed to other forms, which can be used to update existing passports and more.

Proof of Citizenship (Naturalization Certificate)

You will also need to be able to submit proof of your US citizenship (which should be no problem at all thanks to the recently completed naturalization process) and proof of your identity.

Keep in mind that these are the requirements for adults to obtain passports after the naturalization process. Children and other minors have their own special set of rules.

Documents and Fees for U.S. Passport

You will also need to provide a photocopy of your identification. In addition, you will need to pay a passport fee, which can vary in price from $130 to $225, depending on the circumstances of the situation. If you only want to submit the form itself, the fee will be $130.

To expedite the process, you must pay another $60. This will ultimately add to an acceptance agency fee of $35, for a grand total of $225.

Passport Photo

You will also need to have passport photos taken, which is something that you can do at a pharmacy, at a post office, or at similar locations in your area.

You must make sure that your photos meet the requirements. Requirements such as being between 1 x 1 and 3/8ths inches in size.

Submitting Your Application and Documents

Once you have all of the materials in place, the next step will be to submit your paperwork. You will need all of your forms, your identification, your certificate of naturalization, and more. Your application will then be ready for processing.

After paying the appropriate fees, you will visit an acceptance agent this agent would witness your signature and check all documents to make sure it is valid.

Then you will have the option to submit your passport application for processing at any of the following places regional passport agency, passport offices, or a private expediting company.

Keep in mind that if you are in a hurry and need your passport before an upcoming trip, there are a wide variety of passport expediting services. This service will reduce the time you have a passport in your hand.

Conclusion

As can be seen, the process to get a US passport after naturalization is quite straightforward.

It requires thorough preparation but can be completed in a matter of weeks. To ensure a smooth process, it is vital to have all the required documents ready and to fill out any electronic application forms correctly.

Once these steps are complete, applicants will need to attend their interview at the designated time and place as instructed.

Upon successful completion of the interview, US citizens should receive their official passports within 4-6 weeks.

All in all, having a US passport after naturalization is an important step for newly naturalized citizens to prove their identity and enjoy all the rights that come with being a United States citizen.

With this guide to assist them, they’ll be well on their way.