Americans applying for their first U.S. passport are expected to be able to complete the process online next year, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Sept. 29.
The planned service would be offered through America.gov, a new federal government website. In a demonstration, Rubio showed a user looking up how to apply, submitting a passport photo, previewing how it would appear and paying online, according to The Hill.
The service is not yet available. The State Department’s current guidance says adults applying for a first passport generally must apply in person at an authorized acceptance facility. Some adults who already have a passport can renew online through a separate State Department system.
Rubio described the online first-time application as a way to avoid printing forms and scheduling an in-person appointment. The department has not yet provided full details about eligibility, fees or the rollout schedule.
For current application requirements and updates, visit the U.S. Department of State’s passport application page.
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