Is it possible to get a same day passport in Miami? The simple answer is yes, it is possible, but not without its lengthy requirements. Although there are many variables that can stop you from getting the same day passport, it is doable. Here is everything you need to know and do to ensure you get your passport.
You should be aware that applying at a normal passport acceptance facility like a courthouse or post office, will not get you a same day passport. They do offer expedited services, but your passport can still take anywhere from 3 to 5 weeks from the time you sent in your application.
Although it is not the only option, applying with the U.S Department of State is your best bet.
The U.S Department of State
The U.S Department of State handles many important bureaus and offices, including travel and passport agencies. They have brick-and-mortar offices, in about 26 locations. Luckily, they happen to have one in Miami for your same day passport needs.
However, it is not guaranteed that you will receive an appointment. This is because they do not allow walk-ins, and you cannot book an appointment online. Applicants used to be able to apply online, but because the appointments were in such high demand, customers would book appointments and sell them to potential applicants.
To avoid taking appointments away from customers who actually needed them, the U.S Department of State has transferred to a “call only” method of booking appointments. Potential applicants must call and navigate a long phone tree to then speak with a representative to decide if you qualify for a same day passport service. You may not have someone else call for you, and you may not transfer your appointment to another applicant.
Making Your Appointment
Now that you are aware that you must call the U.S Department of State, it is important to know that it make take a while before you reach a representative who is able to book your appointment. This happens because the call volume is fairly high. So, be prepared to sit by your phone for a while.
The phone number for the U.S Department of State is: 877-487-2778
If you are able to reach a representative, they will provide unique confirmation information that will be asked to verify you at your appointment. That being said, grab a pen and paper and write out the information while on the phone call to ensure your appointment will be successful.
Now that you’ve reached a representative, you want to make sure that you qualify for a same day passport.
How Do You Know if You Qualify?
First, you need to have proof of travel within the next 14 days from the time you call to make an appointment. Proof of travel refers to having a booked airline ticket or itinerary that shows that you are indeed traveling within 14 days. If you do not have proof of travel, they will redirect you to apply for a normal passport at a passport acceptance facility. Because it is difficult to get through to a representative due to high call volumes, do not call the U.S Department of State if you do not have proof of travel.
Next, you must decide if you are applying for a Life-or-Death Emergency Service or an Urgent Travel Service. There are major differences between these two options and it is key to know which one you are applying to because it will change the proof and evidence that will be provided.
Life-or Death Emergency Service
The U.S Department of state prioritizes applicants applying through a Life-or-Death Emergency Service. They specifically prioritize those needing to travel within 3 business days. If you are not traveling within 3 business days from your appointment, you may not qualify for Life-or-Death Emergency Services.
You may qualify if your situation falls under one of the following
- If an immediate family member has died, or
- is dying (hospice care), or
- has a life-threatening illness or injury
The direct use of “immediate family members” does include: a parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, or grandparent. It does not include: aunts, uncles, cousins, or other family members. You are also not included, for example, if you are traveling internationally for medical services.
Applying for a Life-or Death Emergency Service
You are able to call to book your appointment 2 weeks out from your date of travel. Keep in mind that the actual day of your appointment will be around three days before your date of travel.
- “Get documentation of the emergency such as a death certificate, statement from a mortuary, or a letter from the hospital (on hospital/clinic letterhead, signed by the doctor/medical professional, explaining your relative’s medical condition).” The documentation must be translated into English, and it must be translated by a professional translator, but it does not need to be notarized.
- You need proof of traveling internationally in the next 3 business days such as an itinerary or airline ticket.
- Complete a passport application, and provide supporting documents
- Call the U.S Department of State to see if you qualify for life-or-death emergency service. If you qualify, they will try to make an appointment for you. It is not guaranteed that you will have your passport in time for travel.
- The number you should call to make an appointment for Life-or-Death Emergency Service may differ from the time or day you are planning to call
Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ET): 1-877-487-2778/ 1-888-874-7793 (TTY/TDD).
Alternatively, If you have a life-or-death emergency after 8:00 p.m. (ET) on Mondays through Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays: 202-647-4000.
Urgent Travel Service
Urgent Travel Services are offered to those who are traveling internationally within the next 14 days but do not require Life-or-Death Emergency Services. This service still allows you to apply for a same day passport.
The requirements for Urgent Travel service are not as lengthy, but you are still required to provide proof of travel by either airline ticket or itinerary. Once again, you will need to call to speak with a representative to book your appointment.
Alternatives for Same Day Passports
Don’t have any luck trying to reach a representative at the U.S Department of State? There is no need to worry because there are other passport agencies in Miami that can guarantee you an appointment.
A private Miami passport agency, like the Passport Office, has a turnaround of about 3-5 days. This is a much better alternative than waiting for months for an application sent to a post office. All you need is proof of travel within the next 14 days!
Apply today for an expedited passport at their Miami office!
