The United States government has published a clear, step-by-step guide for new citizens and first-time adult applicants looking to obtain an American passport for the first time. The instructions apply specifically to adults aged 18 and older who have never held a US passport or who do not qualify to renew one.
Unlike renewal applicants, first-timers cannot complete the process entirely by post — they are required to appear in person at an authorised passport acceptance facility.
How to Complete the American Passport Application
The process begins with filling out Form DS-11 using the government's online Form Filler tool on a computer, then printing it on single-sided paper. Applicants are instructed not to sign the form until a passport acceptance agent asks them to do so in person. Those who travel internationally several times a year can request a larger passport book with extra visa pages by ticking the "large book" box on the application.
Next, applicants must provide proof of US citizenship. Accepted documents include a US birth certificate, a fully valid undamaged US passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or any birth document issued by the US Department of State, or a Certificate of Naturalisation or Citizenship. Those with an Alien Registration Number from US Citizenship and Immigration Services must include it on the application if applying for the first time.
Providing Photo ID and Photocopies
A physical photo ID is also required at the time of submission. A fully valid driver's licence or enhanced driver's licence with a photo is the most common form accepted. Anyone applying in a state different from where their ID was issued should bring a second form of photo identification.
Alongside the original citizenship document, applicants must submit photocopies of both their citizenship evidence and the front and back of their photo ID. All photocopies must be printed on standard 8.5 by 11 inch single-sided paper.
Photo and Submission Requirements
One passport-compliant photograph must also be included with the application. Applicants are advised not to attach or staple the photo themselves, as the acceptance agent will handle that step after reviewing it.
The final step involves submitting all documents and paying the required fees at an authorised acceptance facility. Two separate fees apply: one goes directly to the US Department of State as the passport application fee, and the other is paid to the facility handling the submission. Passport book costs $130 while passport card costs $130. The facility acceptance fee is $35.
Processing Time for American Passport Application
Once submitted, routine applications are currently processed within four to six weeks, while expedited processing takes two to three weeks at an additional cost of $60. The government notes that these timeframes do not account for mailing time, and applicants are encouraged to factor in the full delivery period when planning upcoming travel.
Legit.ng has also published residency years for foreigners who want to become Qatari citizens. Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Australia's Department of Home Affairs has outlined the residence requirement foreigners must meet before applying for citizenship. Applicants must have lived in Australia on a valid visa for a number of years before the date they apply for citizenship, and the rules specify how much time applicants are allowed to have spent outside Australia during that period.
