However, there are some exceptions to the rule.
In this guide, we will cover the situations that qualify for a second passport as well as the step-by-step process for applying for one.
There are a couple of circumstances in which a second, duplicate passport is issued by the United States Bureau of Consular Affairs:
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For instance, some countries in the Middle East will deny a passport containing a visa stamp from Israel.
In certain cases, if you can provide both resonable proof of why you are without your passport and proof of your urgent travel need, you can be issued a duplicate passport.
Most reliable passport expediting services can help you with this application process and get you a second passport faster than the current 6 to 8 weeks you would have to wait for routine service.
Note: A second passport is only issued in the cases listed above if you are unable to complete your travel through a change of itinerary or you cannot cancel your current passport in order to obtain a new one.
The validity of a second passport is limited to two years and cannot be extended.There are a couple of circumstances where a second passport will not be issued:
It doesn't matter if our passport is locked in a safety deposit box, packed for moving, or simply left in a different city. These are not valid reasons for a duplicate passport to be issued to you.
In these cases, or similar ones, you have to submit the form for a lost passport and apply for a new one. This will invalidate your current passport, leaving you with only your newly issued one.
Note: If you need a passport fast, expediting your application through a registered passport courier service can get a replacement passport delivered to you as quickly as the same day in some cases.
If you do not currently possess a valid passport or your passport is significantly damaged then you first need to submit Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport in person. Once the new passport arrives, you can apply for the second passport using Form DS-82.
Your application request will not even be considered without a second passport request letter. This must also include a statement to the fact that you will immediately report the loss of either passport to Passport Services or the nearest U.S. embassy, consulate or consular agency.
If your reason for a second passport is related to urgent business, provide a formal written statement from your employer,on company letterhead, justifying the need for a duplicate passport. You will need to formally state the bearer's understanding that any loss or theft of either passport will be reported immediately to the nearest Consulate, Embassy, or passport agency.
Your previously-issued, valid and undamaged passport can be submitted for this purpose. If you will need your passport during the application process, you can submit the original or a certified copy of your birth certificate.
Following the steps above give you the best chance of getting a duplicate passport.
Second passport processing times are the same as the current routine and expedited processing times for new or renewed passports.
Routine processing currently takes 6 to 8 weeks.
Expedited processing currently takes 2 to 3 weeks.
If you need faster service, you have two options:
The cost of a second passport is typically the same as for a regular, new adult passport. These passport fees include an application fee and an execution fee, if applicable. Expedited services and courier fees are extra.
A second passport differs mainly in its purpose and validity period. It's issued for specific circumstances like conflicting visa stamps and has a shorter validity, usually two years.
Yes. The second passport should only be used under the circumstances it was issued for. Misuse can lead to legal consequences.
Minors can obtain a second passport under similar conditions as adults. Parental consent and documentation proving the need for a second passport are required.
Renewal of a second passport depends on current regulations and the specific reasons it was issued in the first place.
Generally, second passports are reissued rather than renewed. That said, applications are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Yes, but the process involves reporting the loss or damage immediately. Replacement requires a new application and may need additional justification for the second passport.
You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.