State Department Expands Passport Fairs to Help First-Time Applicants

Key Takeaways

U.S. Special Passport Acceptance Fairs will occur nationwide in February-March 2025 for first-time applicants and children under 16.
Key requirements include submitting Form DS-11 in person, proof of citizenship, valid ID, and a passport-compliant photo.
Approximately 85 fairs confirmed; one in Bennett, CO on March 21, 2025, offers walk-in access and onsite photo services.

The U.S. Department of State has announced new dates for its “Special Passport Acceptance Fairs,” set to take place across the United States in February and March 2025. These events are aimed at first-time applicants and children under 16, providing a convenient way to apply for a passport in person. With extended hours, including evenings and weekends, the fairs are particularly helpful for those with busy weekday schedules.

Tailored for First-Time Applicants and Children

State Department Expands Passport Fairs to Help First-Time Applicants

These passport fairs are specifically designed for two groups: individuals applying for a passport for the first time and children under 16 years old. According to federal regulations, both groups are required to submit their applications in person using Form DS-11. Unlike adults renewing their passports, who can do so online or by mail using Form DS-82, these applicants must visit an acceptance location for processing. As reported by VisaVerge.com, these events aim to simplify the process for first-timers, providing a supportive environment and onsite staff to guide attendees.

Locations and Accessibility

The fairs will be hosted in various community locations across the country, such as libraries, civic centers, and town halls. Cities already confirmed include Durham, NC🇺🇸; Woodland Park, NJ🇺🇸; and Yuma, AZ🇺🇸. One upcoming fair will take place on March 21, 2025, at the Town Hall in Bennett, CO🇺🇸, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This particular fair is accessible to all applicants, including children and infants, on a walk-in basis—no appointment required. Additionally, photo services will be available onsite in Bennett, and fees for photos and passport acceptance can be paid with cash, card, or check. However, passport application fees must be paid exclusively with a personal check, cashier’s check, or money order.

The variety of locations and extended hours are intended to make passport fairs easily accessible. These features are particularly valuable for families with young children or individuals who may find it difficult to meet standard weekday processing schedules.

Preparing to Attend a Fair

Applicants planning to attend one of these fairs need to come prepared with all required documents. These include proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a certificate of naturalization, valid identification, and a passport-compliant photo. For children under 16, both parents must generally be present to submit the application. If one parent cannot attend, they must provide a notarized consent form. Details on acceptable documents and other requirements can be found on the State Department’s official website here. Applicants are strongly encouraged to verify documentation requirements and any additional conditions for their chosen event before attending.

While many passport fairs allow walk-ins, some locations may require appointments. Event details, including whether pre-registration is necessary, are available on the State Department’s website, which updates its list of fairs regularly. As of February 2025, approximately 85 passport acceptance fairs have been confirmed for the coming two months, providing ample opportunity for eligible applicants to benefit from these events.

Processing Timelines and Options

Attendees at these fairs can choose between routine and expedited processing for their applications. In February 2025, routine processing takes an estimated six to eight weeks. For those needing their documents sooner, expedited processing is available for an additional $60 fee and usually takes two to three weeks. However, these fairs are not designed for urgent travel needs. Individuals requiring a passport for international travel within two weeks are advised to schedule an appointment at one of the State Department’s 26 passport agencies or regional centers instead of attending a fair.

Recent Changes to the Passport Process

These fairs come at a time of notable changes in the U.S. passport application system. In late 2024, the State Department introduced a new online renewal system for eligible applicants. Adults over 25 years old with a passport that expired less than five years ago can now renew their documents entirely through a secure online platform. However, this option is not available for first-time applicants or those applying on behalf of children, making the passport fairs an especially timely service for these specific groups.

Another significant change affecting the application process concerns gender designation. As of February 2025, the State Department has suspended processing applications with “X” selected as the gender marker. This decision follows an executive order that recognizes only male and female genders on official federal documents. Applicants who had initially selected “X” may now need to restart their application process, and the passport fairs may offer them a more streamlined path to apply under these new guidelines. The State Department’s announcement has drawn attention to the wider implications of this policy for individuals seeking greater inclusivity in government services.

Alternatives for Busy Applicants

For those unable to attend a passport fair, the State Department offers a search tool on its website to locate passport acceptance facilities that operate on weekends. This provides an additional layer of convenience for applicants who cannot attend scheduled fairs but still need to apply for their passports in person.

The fairs also offer personalized assistance to help navigate the application process. Onsite staff ensure applicants meet all requirements, which can be a relief for first-timers unfamiliar with federal regulations. This direct support minimizes the chances of delays caused by errors or missing documentation.

Broader Context: Simplifying the Passport Process

The launch of these new passport fair dates highlights the State Department’s broader efforts to make the passport application process more accessible and user-friendly. First-time applicants and families with children often find it challenging to understand the process and compile all the necessary documents. Issues such as work commitments, childcare, and long processing times can further complicate the matter. These fairs aim to address these barriers by offering convenient hours, helpful guidance, and a clear structure designed to reduce confusion.

The fairs also provide a critical support system for those affected by unexpected changes in the application process. For example, people needing to reapply due to the suspension of applications with the “X” gender marker may find these events a practical way to complete their applications quickly.

Conclusion

The State Department’s special passport fairs offer a valuable service to first-time applicants and families needing to apply in person. By hosting events across the country, including a highlighted fair in Bennett, CO🇺🇸, the Department has made significant strides in easing access to passport services. With extended hours, detailed guidance, and an emphasis on convenience, these fairs ensure that applicants can complete their documentation process effectively. The addition of 85 scheduled fairs over two months underscores the Department’s commitment to streamlining travel documentation for Americans. For more details, including fair locations or required forms, visit the State Department’s website.

Learn Today

Special Passport Acceptance Fairs → Events designed to assist first-time applicants and children under 16 in applying for passports in person.
Form DS-11 → A federal application form required for first-time passport applicants and children under 16.
Expedited Processing → A faster passport application service available for an extra fee, reducing processing time to two to three weeks.
Certificate of Naturalization → A document issued to individuals who have obtained U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process.
Gender Marker → An identifier on official documents, indicating an individual’s gender as male, female, or, previously, “X” for nonbinary.

This Article in a Nutshell

Need a passport? The U.S. State Department’s Special Passport Acceptance Fairs, happening February-March 2025, simplify applications for first-timers and children under 16. With extended hours at community locations nationwide, these events offer walk-in convenience and expert guidance. Don’t miss this hassle-free opportunity—visit travel.state.gov for dates, locations, and requirements!
— By VisaVerge.com