If you find yourself in a situation where you urgently need to travel abroad and don’t have a valid passport, you may need to apply for an emergency passport. Whether you have a last-minute business trip, family emergency, or any other urgent need, the U.S. government offers expedited passport services to help you get on your way quickly. If you’re located in Denver, here's everything you need to know about emergency passport processing, what to expect, and how to prepare for the process.

What is an Emergency Passport?

An emergency passport is a special type of passport issued for urgent travel situations. Unlike a regular passport, which typically takes 6-8 weeks to process, an emergency passport can be issued much faster, sometimes in a matter of hours, depending on your circumstances. Emergency passports are typically valid for a shorter duration (usually one year), and they are issued with limited pages. Once your travel emergency has passed, you may be required to apply for a regular passport.

When Should You Apply for an Emergency Passport in Denver?

There are several reasons why you might need an emergency passport:

1. Unexpected Travel: If you have an urgent family matter or a medical emergency abroad, you might need to travel on short notice.
2. Expired Passport: If you discover your passport has expired and you need to leave immediately, an emergency passport may be your solution.
3. Lost or Stolen Passport: If your passport was lost or stolen while you are in the U.S. or just before a trip, an emergency passport can help you get back on track.
4. Traveling Within 14 Days: If your trip is less than 14 days away and you don’t have a passport, you may qualify for expedited processing.

How to Apply for an Emergency Passport in Denver

Applying for an Emergency passport in Denver can be done at the Denver Passport Agency or the U.S. Department of State’s designated passport facilities. Here’s the process you should expect:

1. Determine Eligibility

Before applying, ensure that you meet the requirements for emergency processing. Emergency passports are typically issued when you have proof of immediate travel plans, such as a flight ticket within 72 hours or documented proof of a life-or-death emergency.

2. Gather Required Documents

To apply for an emergency passport, you’ll need to gather the following documents:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., a birth certificate, expired passport, or naturalization certificate).
• Proof of travel (e.g., your flight itinerary, travel bookings, or emergency situation documentation).
• Passport photo: You will need to provide a recent passport-sized photo. You can get passport photos taken at various locations in Denver, including post offices or passport photo centers.
• Form DS-11: The passport application form, which you can complete online or by hand. Do not sign it until instructed to do so at the passport acceptance facility.
• Form DS-64 (if your passport was lost or stolen): This form reports the loss or theft of your passport.

3. Schedule an Appointment

The next step is to schedule an appointment at the Denver Passport Agency. Emergency appointments are often available on short notice, and the passport agency will make accommodations for urgent situations. It’s recommended to call ahead or check online for available time slots.

4. Attend the Appointment

Once you have an appointment scheduled, visit the Denver Passport Agency or your designated passport office. Be sure to bring all your documents, and arrive early. An officer will review your application and supporting materials. If everything is in order and your emergency is legitimate, your passport will be processed accordingly.

5. Processing Time

For emergency passports, processing time can range from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on your specific circumstances and the type of emergency. If you’re applying for an expedited passport, there may be an additional fee for faster processing.

6. Receive Your Emergency Passport

If your application is approved, you will be issued an emergency passport. While most people receive their passport in a few hours or within the day, you will be given specific instructions on when to pick it up or have it delivered to you.

How Much Does Emergency Passport Processing Cost in Denver?

The cost for an emergency passport is generally higher than standard passport fees due to the expedited service. As of now, the cost for an emergency passport includes:

• Expedited Processing Fee: An additional $60 on top of the regular passport fee.
• Passport Fee: The standard application fee for an adult passport (about $130 for a book, and $30 for a card).
• Other fees: Additional fees may apply for same-day processing, mail delivery, or extra services.

Tips for a Smooth Emergency Passport Application

• Prepare in Advance: Even if you’re in a rush, try to gather all the necessary documents and information beforehand to prevent delays.
• Call the Denver Passport Agency: If you need immediate assistance, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to verify the process, required documents, and appointment availability.
• Know the Requirements: Understand the requirements for expedited passport processing to ensure you’re eligible and prepared.

Conclusion

If you need an emergency passport in Denver, the process can be relatively quick, but it requires careful preparation and documentation. By following these steps and knowing what to expect, you can ensure that your passport is processed as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Whether it’s a last-minute business trip or an urgent family matter, Denver’s passport services are here to help you get back on track and travel as soon as possible.