The Department of State (DOS) announced on April 15, 2020, that it is limiting U.S. passport operations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as of March 20, 2020. In-person service at agencies or centers is available only for those with a “qualified life-or-death emergency and who need a passport for immediate international travel within 72 hours.”
People can still apply in person for a U.S. passport at some acceptance facilities and renew through the mail, but DOS said it will not be able to meet its commitment of 6 to 8 weeks door-to-door for routine service. “You should expect significant delays” for passports and citizenship evidence documents, the agency said. “Please consider waiting to apply until we resume normal operations.” Expedited service is not being offered, although DOS is still working on a “small number” of expedited applications submitted on or before March 19.
Related Link:
- DOS Announcement, which includes details on what constitutes a “life-or-death emergency” for purposes of passport processing