If I go to a regional agency to get a new passort, will I walk out with it immediately?

Question: Today is Nov 22, I leave for Belize on Dec 8th. If I come in to the agency on the 7th, will I walk out with my new passport that day? I thought the rule was your passport was ok to fly with if it was valid for 3 mos after travel. Now I hear it's 6 mos.

Answer: Yes, it is true that all United States citizens are required to have a U.S. passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Belize.

You must also provide proof of return to the U.S. You are not required to obtain a visa to Belize if you plan to visit for tourism and will not stay more than 30 days.

Concerning the regional passport agency, it is probable that you will leave the processing center with your passport but there is no guarantee. Much depends on the number of requests the agency receives that day and how urgent they are. Life and death emergencies have priority over travel for tourism.

The State Department "requires" applicants to schedule an appointment prior to visiting the agency. However, they usually allow American citizens to apply without an appointment if you can prove your need for expedited services.

One way to guarantee that you receive your passport prior to your departure date is to employ the services of a professional expediter. The fee for this service varies depending on how fast you want to get your passport and is in addition to the application fee of $110 and expedited service fee of $60 paid to the Department of State.

For more information, click the appropriate link below.

Passport Agency Information

Apply for Expedited Passport Service