How to track a passport in a few clicks

Before you embark on your next international journey, you need to make sure that your document is still valid. We will tell you how to check the status of your passport below.

Some countries require the document to be valid for six months after the intended visit. Therefore, to avoid problems, make sure that the validity period is extended. The extension procedure can take up to 13 weeks (detailed information on the current processing time can be found on the State Department's website).

If you have already applied for an extension, there are several ways to check the status of your passport application. To do this, you will need your details:

• surname;
• date of birth;
• the last four digits of your social security number.

With these simple steps, you can make sure you are ready for your next international trip.

How to track your passport status online

If you applied in person or by mail, you can check the status of your application online at the Department of State's website. You can check the status of your passport renewal 14 days after submitting your application.

The status of the application may be marked:

• "Not found";
• "In processing";
• "Approved";
• "Sent by mail".

Sign up for automatic email updates by entering your email address.

If you applied online, you can check the status in your MyTravelGov account.

It's easy to check the status of your passport so you're ready for your next trip.

How to check if your passport is ready by phone

If the online method does not suit you, you can use the telephone service of the National Passport Information Centre.

You can call the number:

• 1-877-487-2778;
• 1-888-874-7793 (for TDD/TTY users).

The centre is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time (excluding federal holidays).

After hours, use the automatic system to check the status of your passport renewal.

What to do if you did not collect your passport

If for some reason you have not received your document after 10 working days from the date of issue, you must call the National Passport Information Centre and fill in form DS-86.

In order not to re-apply and pay the fee again, inform the centre that you have not received your passport within 90 days of its issuance.

Do not postpone solving this problem to avoid unnecessary inconvenience and delays in receiving your documents.

How to check and speed up the passport processing

If you urgently need to obtain a document, you can check the status of your passport application and speed up its receipt online.

In the event of an emergency when you need to travel outside the United States within three days, such as a serious illness, injury, or death of a close relative, you can make an appointment with the emergency passport service. Remember that in such situations, you will need to provide the appropriate documents confirming the urgency of your trip.

How to check your status outside the United States

If you are abroad or travelling, apply for a new document at the nearest embassy or consulate.

If you have already applied, you should contact the consulate or embassy directly to track your passport application.

Be prepared to have the necessary documents and information with you to speed up the procedure.

As you can see, there are several ways to check the status of passport processing. Choose the best one for you and travel with ease.