Renewal of U.S. passport at the U.S. Embassy in Italy
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If you are a U.S. citizen residing in Italy and your U.S. passport has expired or is about to expire, it is important to know how to proceed with its renewal. In this guide you will find all the basic information you need to properly initiate the process at one of the U.S. Embassy or Consulates offices in Italy.
Why it is important to renew your passport on time
The U.S. passport is the primary identity document for U.S. citizens living abroad. In Italy, it is essential for a wide range of administrative and legal procedures. For example, it is essential for:
obtain, renew or convert a residence permit of any kind (study, work, family reunification, waiting for employment, etc.);
enter into lease agreements;
register with the registry office of the municipality of residence;
Whenever possible, it is advisable not to wait until the last moment to renew the document so as to avoid bureaucratic complications or delays in your personal or professional projects. Later in the article we will also discuss exceptional cases such as loss or theft.
Apply for renewal of U.S. passport in Italy
US passport renewal application can be submitted:
Directly from the person concerned;
By a third party (a family member or representative), provided they have a Proxy signed by the holder of the passport e valid identity document.
However, the consular officer always has the authority to personally summon the applicant for an interview at the Embassy if he or she deems it necessary to verify identity or other aspects related to the application.
Step one: book an appointment for U.S. passport renewal
The first step for renewal is to making an appointment at one of the consular offices of the United States in Italy. The cities where the procedure can be carried out are:
Reservations are made online through the official website of the U.S. Embassy in Italy. It is important to come to the appointment with all the necessary documentation, as in the event of missing it will be forced to reschedule the meeting.
Step two: fill out form DS-82
The official form to be filled out for passport renewal is the DS-82, reserved for renewals and not for first releases. This must be filled out accurately and signed the day of the appointment At the embassy or consulate. It is not necessary to notarize the signature.
Documents required for US passport renewal
To renew your passport, you must submit the following documents:
Certificate proving U.S. citizenship (original or copy);
two recent photographs, passport size (with white background, no glasses, neutral expression);
payment of the renewal fee.
U.S. passport: cost
The payment of the fee corresponding for U.S. passport renewal can be made in cash in dollars or euros, or with a credit card recognized in the United States and at the embassy on the day of the interview itself. The cost is $110.00 and once the payment is made the money cannot be refunded under any circumstances, even if the procedure for any defect in form requires a new file.
Timing and receipt of the new passport
After completing the entire process, the new passport will be mailed to the address provided or can be picked up at the consular office, depending on the options available at the time of application. Waiting times may vary, but on average they are around the 5 weeks.
How long does it take to obtain an emergency U.S. passport?
In exceptional cases, if it is stolen or if you you lose your passport, you can obtain a provisional passport (of limited validity). This emergency passport is issued the same day if you turn in your application before 12:00 PM, or the next business day immediately after.
If you have any other questions about renewing your U.S. passport or you are looking for assistance in dealing with the bureaucracy required to live or travel in Italy, you can contact the Welcome Association Italy.
