Unalaska Public Library Passport Services

When you visit the Unalaska Public Library for your passport application, it is absolutely crucial to arrive with all necessary documentation to ensure a smooth process. You must bring proof of U.S. citizenship, which can be an original birth certificate with a raised seal, a previous undamaged U.S. passport, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Additionally, a valid government-issued identification document, such as an Alaska state driver’s license or military ID, is required. If you are applying for a minor, both parents and the minor must be present, along with the child’s birth certificate and both parents’ IDs. Having all these primary documents, along with any necessary photocopies, will significantly expedite your appointment at the library’s passport services desk.

For residents utilizing the Unalaska Public Library’s passport services, understanding the distinction between routine and expedited processing is vital for travel planning, especially given our remote location. Routine processing involves standard application handling through the State Department, which, as of November 2024, averages 7.2 weeks for delivery. This option is suitable if your travel plans are several months away. Expedited processing, however, prioritizes your application for a significantly faster turnaround, averaging 2.5 weeks as of November 2024, but incurs an additional fee of $60 per application, plus any associated express shipping costs. The Unalaska Public Library staff can guide you through selecting the appropriate service based on your travel urgency and help you calculate the total cost for the expedited option.

After submitting your passport application at the Unalaska Public Library, tracking its progress is a straightforward process managed by the U.S. Department of State. You will receive a tracking number or can use your personal information to check the status online. Approximately 7-10 days after your application has been mailed from Unalaska and received by a passport agency, you can visit the official Department of State website (travel.state.gov) and navigate to their ‘Check Application Status’ tool. You’ll need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number to access the most current information. While the library staff here in Unalaska can assist with initial application submission, they do not have access to real-time processing updates once the documents leave the facility; all inquiries regarding status should be directed to the national passport information center or the online tracking system.

The Unalaska Public Library is equipped to handle specific types of passport renewals. If your previous passport was issued less than 15 years ago, you were at least 16 years old at the time of issuance, and it is undamaged, you may be eligible to renew by mail using Form DS-82. In this scenario, you would mail your application directly to the National Passport Processing Center. However, if your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago, if you were under 16 at the time of issuance, or if it is damaged, you will need to apply in person using Form DS-11. For these specific in-person renewal scenarios, the Unalaska Public Library welcomes you to schedule an appointment, bringing all required documents as if applying for a new passport.

Yes, appointments are absolutely required for all minor passport applications at the Unalaska Public Library. This is a federal requirement to ensure proper identification and consent. For any applicant under the age of 16, both parents or legal guardians must be present with the minor during the appointment. Each parent needs to bring their valid government-issued identification, along with the child’s original birth certificate and any previous passport. If one parent is unavailable, specific notarized consent forms (DS-3053) are necessary. For minors aged 16 or 17, one parent must be present with their ID, or the minor must provide proof of parental consent. Scheduling ahead ensures dedicated time for the thorough review required for minor applications.

The passport office is located at 64 ELEANOR DRIVE, UNALASKA, AK 99685. Get directions

Hours are 10:00-18:00. Call ahead at 9075815060.0 to confirm before visiting.

Photos on-site: 1. If available, photos typically cost around $15 in cash.

Routine processing takes 12-13 weeks. Expedited service (additional $60 fee) takes 7-9 weeks. Our expedited service gets your passport in 3-10 days.

Most facilities accept check or money order. You’ll need two separate payments: one to “U.S. Department of State” ($130) and one to “UNALASKA PUBLIC LIBRARY” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

Handicap access: 1. The facility is ADA compliant with accessible entrances and facilities.

Parking at the Unalaska Public Library is straightforward and, crucially, free, which is a significant advantage in any Alaskan community. The facility provides a dedicated, paved parking lot directly off Eleanor Drive, immediately to the east of the main entrance. This lot offers 14 clearly marked spaces, including two designated accessible spots. During peak hours, typically weekday afternoons between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM when school is out and community programs are in session, these spaces can fill quickly. An additional gravel overflow area, capable of accommodating 8-10 vehicles, is available about 100 feet further east along Eleanor Drive, adjacent to the public works yard. For those unable to find a spot in the primary lot, parking is also permissible along the shoulder of Eleanor Drive, though applicants should observe local signage for any restrictions, particularly near the school zone. Given Unalaska’s often inclement weather, especially from October through April with its strong winds, heavy rains, and occasional icy conditions, planning to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment is advisable. This allows ample time to secure a space and safely navigate the short walk to the library’s main entrance without rushing through the elements.

No, passport renewals cannot be done at acceptance facilities. Renewals must be mailed directly to the State Department using Form DS-82, or you can use our expedited renewal service.

If you’re traveling soon, our expedited service can get your passport in as little as 3 days. We handle everything from document review to delivery, with 24/7 support. Call 800-860-8610 to get started.