How to Get a Second Passport

The U.S. Department of State does not allow travelers to possess more than one valid passport unless authorized. You may request a second passport if you have certain visas or markings in your passport that will deny you entry into specific countries. For example, several Middle Eastern countries may deny entry or visas to travelers whose passports show evidence that they have visited Israel. You may also request a second passport if you travel frequently and would be prevented from traveling due to visa processing delays.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Current U.S. passport Completed form DS-82 Written request as to why second passport is needed Signed statement 2 passport photos Passport fee
Current U.S. passport
Completed form DS-82
Written request as to why second passport is needed
Signed statement
2 passport photos
Passport fee

Step 1

Gather evidence as to why you need another passport. Write and sign a detailed letter explaining your circumstances. If you travel on behalf of an organization or company, you must have a signed letter from your supervisor attesting to your need for a second passport. If you are requesting a second passport due to travel regulations, such as entry or visa denial, make sure to explain why you expect to be denied entry with your current passport.

Step 2

Write a statement attesting that you will surrender your second passport to the U.S. Department of State after its two-year validity period. Write that you will immediately report the loss or theft or either of your passports. Sign this statement.

Step 3

Fill in form DS-82. Complete the online version of the form here: http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/ds82/ds82_843.html.

Step 4

Combine two passport photos, the current passport fee, your current passport, completed form DS-82, written request and signed statement and mail them to the address listed on the application form. You can check current passport fees here: http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/fees/fees_837.html. By mail, checks and money orders are accepted. Make all checks and money orders out to Department of State. If applying in a foreign country at a U.S. embassy, pay the amount in local currency.

Tips & Warnings

If you need your passport in a hurry, you can expedite the process for an additional fee. If your current passport is unavailable due to visa processing delays and you need a second one for upcoming travel, you will need to apply for a first time passport. Apply for your second passport early in order to avoid travel delays.

Resources

Form DS-82

Article Written By Heather Carreiro

Heather Carreiro is a certified English teacher who has been writing since 2008. The editor of Matador Abroad, her work has appeared online at BootsnAll, Matador Network, GoNOMAD, Journey Beyond Travel and Expat Women. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in linguistics and Middle Eastern studies from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and is pursuing a Master of Arts in English at Bridgewater State University.

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