RSS Home > Constituent Services > Passport and Visa Service
Passports are obtained through the Passport Services Division of the U.S. Department of State. Through your local passport acceptance agent, usually the Post Office, you can apply for a new passport, renew your old one, replace a lost, stolen, or damaged passport, or update your existing one.

Traveling Overseas

You've got your passport and you're ready to go on your trip, right? Not quite. You still have to check with the country or countries you'll be visiting to determine whether or not you'll need a visa. A visa is permission from a country to cross their borders, and it comes in the form of a stamp in your U.S. Passport.  You usually have to mail your passport to the Embassy or Consulate of the country you'll be visiting, so allow plenty of time to let the process play out.

Also, check the State Department website for travel warnings and consular information sheets that provide very helpful information about the country you plan on visiting. The State Department services website also contains comprehensive information crisis assistance for U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad and various other travel information.

American Embassies and Consulates General

Please visit the U.S. Department of State website for links to U.S. Embassies and Consulates worldwide.

Commonly Asked Passport and Visa Questions

How do I get a passport?

Passports are obtained through the Passport Services Division of the Department of State. Through your local passport acceptance agent, usually a Post Office, you can apply for a new passport, renew your old one, or do any of a number of things, including replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged passport, or adding new pages to your existing book. You can search for application locations near you and print out passport forms at the website.

How can I renew my existing passport?

If you already have a passport that is not damaged, was issued in the past 15 years, was received after your 16th birthday, and has your same name, you can apply for a passport renewal by mail. Click here for more detailed information on passport renewal procedures.

How long will it take to get my passport?

Passports usually take from 30 to 40 days to issue.

I can't wait that long. Can I request an expedite?

Yes. Securing a new passport usually takes from 30 to 40 days. For a $60.00 fee--plus the cost of 2-way overnight mail--you can "expedite" this process and receive your passport in 7 to 10 days. Click here for more detailed information on how to get your passport in a hurry.

If international departure is in less than 2 weeks, please contact:

Colorado Passport Agency
Cherry Creek III
3151 South Vaughn Way, Suite 600
Aurora, CO 80014
Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., local time, M-F, excluding Federal holidays
Automated Appointment Number: 1-877-487-2778

Do I need a travel visa in addition to my passport?

Some countries also require U.S. citizens to have a visa in order to enter. Check here with the State Department to determine whether or not you'll need a visa for travel or as a student. A visa is permission from a country to cross their borders and comes in the form of a stamp in your U.S. Passport.

I will be traveling to several countries this summer. I've got a passport, but are there any other entry requirements?

Every country's entry requirements can be different. You should inquire about entry visas for each country you will be visiting. Click here for the State Department's information on entry requirements for travel abroad.

I will be traveling to the Middle East next month. How can I find out if it is safe for me to go?

With the situation in the Middle East changing on a daily basis, you should check with the State Department to find out the most current public information available before traveling to the region. Click here for more updated information on travel warnings and public information from the U.S. State Department.

I will be traveling abroad this summer with my family. Will we need certain vaccinations?

Many countries require travelers to get vaccines against certain diseases. Click here to find out if your travel plans require a vaccination.
 
Office Contact

In order to open a case on your behalf , I need a signed letter or privacy authorization form from you, giving permission to look into your case. Due to the Privacy Act of 1974, no inquiries can be made without such written consent. As such, an e-mail will not suffice as a release. A written signature must be given.

For all passport and visa issues, please download and fill out the privacy authorization form and mail or fax it to Jorge Loweree in my Boulder office.
En Español