Once you become naturalized citizen, you also become eligible for a US passport. A passport serves as an additional proof of citizenship while you’re in the United States, and it’s essential if you want to travel outside the country.
The passport application process for naturalized citizens is basically the same as it would be for a native US citizen, except that you’ll use different documents to apply. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
Gather the Required Documents
The first step in the passport application process is to make sure you have all the documents you need to complete the process. You’ll need:
Your naturalization certificate. As a naturalized US citizen, your naturalization certificate serves as both proof of identification and proof of citizenship.
A clear photocopy of your naturalization certificate.
2 passport photos
Visit a US Passport Acceptance Facility
To get your passport, you’ll need to apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, usually a post office, library or county court clerk. Bring the documents listed above. To expedite the process, you can also print and fill out a passport application form, but do not sign it until you are at the office and told to do so.
If you don’t have a printer, don’t worry-they’ll have blank copies of the application at the acceptance facility.
Pay the Fees
Once you’ve submitted the paperwork, all you have to do is pay the necessary fees and wait. An adult passport book is $ 140 plus a $ 25 execution fee. If you need expedited service, you can also pay an additional $ 60 plus fees for overnight shipping to reduce the wait time from 6 weeks to 3 weeks.
Alison Kroulek is a freelance writer and blogger with a focus on the travel industry.
