Adult Passport: First Time Applicant

Photo Specifications

Applicants 16 years or older applying for their first 10-year validity passport should follow this process.  Appointments are required.

1.  Make an appointment online and print the appointment letter.  Appointments are available for American citizens Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm. We are closed on the last Wednesday of every month and on American and Indian holidays.

2.  Complete the DS-11 passport application online.  

     Online application tips:       

• Complete the address fields completely. If you are in India, your passport will not be sent back to the United States. When you drop off your application, you can designate if you wish to pick it up or have it sent to you by registered mail to an address in India.
• If completing an application without a social security number, you may enter all zeroes as a placeholder.
• Expedite fee: You do not need to select the "expedite fee" option; passports printed for citizens abroad are automatically expedited.
• Please fill out the emergency contact information even though it is not required to submit the application.
• Print the form but do not use two-sided printing.

3.  Bring all required documents with printed application form:

• Two (2) studio-quality color photographs taken within the last six months measuring 2" x 2" (5cm x 5cm) with a white background. No other photo format will be accepted. More information
• Properly completed and printed passport application form. The form must include a valid telephone number (mobile or landline) and/or e-mail address. 
• Please do not sign the application, you will be asked to do it in front of a Consular Officer.
• Provide current or previous passport OR other proof of identify such as a drivers's license or state photo ID card

Fees

Complete fee information is available here. If applying in person, you may pay with cash dollars, cash rupees (at the current exchange rate), demand draft or a major U.S. credit card. Personal checks are not accepted.

Passport Processing Time

Except in emergencies, passports are printed in the United States and take approximately 7-10 days. Please consider this timeline when renewing or applying for passports. You will receive an automated email when your passport is ready.

Passport Delivery or Pick Up

Your passport will be returned by courier unless you decide to pick it up. You may pick up passports between 2:00 and 4:00 pm. You do not need an appointment to pick up your passport. 

Questions?

Email:  acsnd@state.gov