What form do I use to apply for my first U.S. passport after naturalization?

Use Form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport). As a new citizen applying for the first time, you must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility. You cannot apply online or by mail for your first passport.

How much does a first U.S. passport cost after becoming a citizen?

An adult passport book costs $130 in application fees plus a $35 acceptance facility fee, totaling $165. Fees may change, so check travel.state.gov for current pricing before applying.

How long does it take to get a passport after the oath ceremony?

Routine processing takes 4 to 6 weeks from the date you submit your application. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee if you need it sooner.

How to Apply for a U.S. Passport After the Oath Ceremony

New U.S. citizen applying for a passport at a passport acceptance facility

This article covers general steps for applying for your first U.S. passport after naturalization. Fees and processing times may change, so always check travel.state.gov for the most current information.

After your oath ceremony, you can apply for a first-time U.S. passport in person at a passport acceptance facility using Form DS-11. The total cost is about $165 for an adult passport book, and routine processing takes 4 to 6 weeks.

You Must Apply in Person

As a newly naturalized citizen applying for your first U.S. passport, you cannot apply online or by mail. You must visit a passport acceptance facility in person. These facilities include post offices, county clerk offices, public libraries, and other government buildings that process passport applications.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Gather these documents before your visit:

Original Certificate of Naturalization (plus one photocopy)
A valid government-issued photo ID (plus one photocopy)
One passport photo (2x2 inches, taken within the last 6 months)
Completed Form DS-11 (filled out but NOT signed)
Two forms of payment (one for the application fee, one for the acceptance facility fee)

Do not sign the DS-11 form at home. The acceptance agent at the facility must witness your signature, so wait until they instruct you to sign.

How Much It Costs

For an adult passport book, expect to pay approximately:

$130 application fee (paid to the U.S. Department of State)
$35 acceptance facility fee (paid to the facility)
$165 total

If you also want a passport card, there is an additional fee. Expedited processing costs extra as well. Check the current fee schedule before your appointment.

Processing Times

Routine processing currently takes 4 to 6 weeks. If you need your passport sooner, you can pay for expedited processing (typically 2 to 3 weeks) or request urgent travel service at a passport agency if you have qualifying travel within 14 days.

Protect Your Certificate of Naturalization

Your Certificate of Naturalization is your only proof of U.S. citizenship until your passport arrives. After submitting your application, the acceptance agent will return your original certificate. Keep it in a safe place. If you lose it before receiving your passport, replacing it requires filing Form N-565 with USCIS and paying a separate fee.

Book Your Appointment Early

Many passport acceptance facilities require appointments, and wait times can be long. A helpful strategy is to book your appointment before your oath ceremony so you can apply the day after you receive your Certificate of Naturalization. This avoids delays and gets the process started as quickly as possible.

After You Receive Your Passport

Once your passport arrives, verify that all information (name, date of birth, photo) is correct. Your U.S. passport serves as proof of citizenship for international travel, domestic identification, and future government applications.

Getting through the oath ceremony is the final step of a long journey. If you are still preparing for your citizenship interview and test, Citizenry can help you practice with mock interviews and study the civics questions so you reach that milestone with confidence.

About the Author

Dr. Jennifer Brisbane is a researcher and engineer focused on helping applicants navigate the U.S. citizenship and naturalization process. She previously served as an adjunct assistant professor at the City University of New York, where she taught courses and conducted research related to immigration and public policy.

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