Gather the necessary documents needed to prove your citizenship. U.S. citizens can supply a birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad or certification of birth, naturalization certificate or certificate of citizenship.
Access the U.S. Department of State website and print out form DS-11, the U.S. passport application. Do not sign it yet, because you will need to sign it in person at an approved passport acceptance agency.
Photocopy your proof of identification. Though you will need to produce the original at the time you submit your application, you are still required to submit a copy of the front and back of this document. Acceptable forms of identification include a previous, undamaged U.S. passport, a driver's license, a current government-issued ID or a current military ID.
Make an appointment online at the U.S. Department of State website, visit a walk-in location or call your local passport acceptance agency to schedule an appointment over the phone. For convenience, consider visiting a facility that will allow you to take your two 2-by-2-inch passport-sized photos at the time of application.
Bring the appropriate fees for your application and photos. You can view current fees on the U.S. Department of State's website.
Allow four to six weeks for your passport to arrive in the mail, unless you have purchased expedited services.
Visit the U.S. Department of State's website for information concerning the country you'd like to visit. The International Travel section includes detailed and up-to-date information concerning entry and exit criteria, as well as precautions and tips. Here you might find that your trip doesn't require a visa. Links to each country's embassy are found in their respective sections.
Visit your destination's consulate or embassy website. For less hassle, apply with one within the borders of your country of citizenship.
Print out the application and complete it. Some consulates require that applications be made in person. Find this information in advance, as one consulate or embassy services several states, making it possible that your nearest embassy is a few hundred miles away. To assist in this process, some embassies allow applicants to send a representative in their place or even to mail their applications. Follow the route most convenient for you.
Submit your application, two passport-sized photos, your passport with at least six months of validity remaining on it, your travel itinerary and any other supplemental materials you may need. Sometimes a bank statement or letter of sponsorship is required as well.
Allow four weeks for the return of your passport and an update concerning your visa status. When you get the update, ensure that all your information is correct. Incorrect information can lead to trouble when traveling.
