Instagram Combined Shape quotation Created with Sketch. 69

Getting a Passport

The very first thing you should do to start your study abroad experience is apply for a passport.

A passport is "an internationally recognized travel document that verifies the identity and nationality of the holder" (NAFSA). You cannot travel internationally without a passport. In addition, your passport must be good for at least 6 months after you return from your international destination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To apply for a US passport, you will need the following:

  • Passport application
  • Two passport photos
  • Valid photo ID (driver's license)
  • Previous US passport, original certified birth certificate, or naturalization certificate/certificate of citizenship

For the most up-to-date and accurate passport requirements, plus everything else passport related (lost or stolen passports, passport corrections), check out the State Department's passport website.

In total, expect to pay about $145 - $200.

The Passport Fee from the US State Department is $110 and must be paid with a check or money order made out to "Department of State". The passport agency fee (charged by any office that processes passport applications) is $35 and can be paid by check, cash, debit, or credit depending on the agency's payment policy. Passport photos usually cost $8 - $15.

 

There are two places in Canton where you can apply for a US passport:

  • The St. Lawrence County Clerk's Office: located in Building #2 on 48 Court Street.

    http://www.co.st-lawrence.ny.us/Departments/CountyClerk/Passports.  The Clerk's Office processes passport applications and fees, and does take photos for an $8 fee. You can also have passport photos taken at most other major drug stores.

  • US Post Office: located on 100 Main Street, Canton. The Post Office processes applications, fees, and takes pictures for a fee of $15. (315) 386-4502

For an online passport application, go online here.

Passports generally take 4 - 6 weeks to process.

You can, for an extra $60 fee (plus shipping costs) expedite your passport application if you feel it is necessary. For more details see the Get Your passport in a Hurry page of the State Department's website.