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Ready to explore beyond the beautiful shores of Holualoa? Getting your U.S. passport is the first exciting step towards international adventure. This guide simplifies the process, offering clear steps and local tips to ensure your application goes smoothly, getting you ready for that next global journey.
Before diving in, figure out what kind of passport you need. Are you a first-time applicant, perhaps a keiki (child) needing their very own travel document? You’ll be looking at Form DS-11. Or, are you simply renewing an expired or soon-to-expire passport, maybe one that’s full of stamps from past adventures? That’s typically Form DS-82, and often doesn’t require an in-person visit. Understanding this initial distinction saves you time and ensures you gather the correct items right from the start. Think about where you’re headed from Kona International Airport (KOA) – clarifying your needs now gets you there faster!
Not sure which type you need? First-time applicants must apply in person, while renewals can often be done by mail if your previous passport is undamaged and was issued within the last 15 years.
Now’s the time to gather your critical documents. If you’re applying for the first time or for a child, your original birth certificate (with a raised seal) or a previous, undamaged passport is essential proof of U.S. citizenship. Don’t forget a valid government-issued photo ID, like your Hawaii driver’s license, for identification. For renewals, your most recent passport is usually enough. Safeguard these precious documents; you’ll need the originals for verification. Many folks in Holualoa keep these important papers securely tucked away, perhaps even in a fireproof box – a smart move for all your crucial records.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
With your documents in hand, it’s time to complete the actual passport application form. Head over to the Department of State’s website (travel.state.gov) to find the correct form – DS-11 for new applicants, children, or if your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago or when you were under 16. For renewals, it’s DS-82. You can fill it out online and print it, or print and complete it by hand with black ink. Accuracy is key; double-check every entry. If you need computer access or printing assistance, the libraries down in Kailua-Kona are a great resource, offering public computers and helpful staff.
Fill out Form DS-11 for new applications or DS-82 for renewals. Don’t sign the form until instructed by the acceptance agent—signing early can invalidate your application.
Your passport photo needs to meet very specific requirements – no glasses, a neutral expression or a slight, natural smile, and a plain white or off-white background. It must be recent, taken within the last six months. Don’t try to take a selfie unless you’re a professional photographer with the right setup! You can often get compliant photos at pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens in Kailua-Kona. Sometimes, local photography studios in the area also offer passport photo services, ensuring your picture meets all the strict federal guidelines for size and pose.
Passport photos must be 2×2 inches, taken within the last 6 months, with a plain white background. Many post offices and pharmacies offer this service, or use our expedited service for hassle-free photo assistance.
For first-time applicants, children, or if you’re using the DS-11 form, an in-person visit to a passport acceptance facility is mandatory. A designated acceptance agent will verify your identity, witness your signature, and ensure all documents are correct. The closest facilities for Holualoa residents are typically the U.S. Post Offices in Kealakekua or Kailua-Kona. It’s wise to call ahead and schedule an appointment; walk-ins might face long waits. Bring all your original documents, your completed (but unsigned!) form, and your passport photo. For renewals (DS-82), you’ll mail everything in yourself.
Standard processing takes 6-8 weeks. Need it faster? Our expedited service can get your passport in as little as 3 business days with zero errors guaranteed. Call (800) 860-8610 to get started.
The final step at the acceptance facility involves paying the applicable fees. There’s the passport application fee, which goes to the U.S. Department of State, and a separate execution fee for the acceptance facility. Payment methods can vary, so it’s best to check with the facility beforehand, but generally, checks or money orders are preferred for the State Department portion. Once submitted, you can track your application’s status online at travel.state.gov using the tracking number provided. Patience is a virtue, especially for standard processing, but expedited options are available if your international flight from KOA is approaching quickly!
Track your application status online at the State Department’s website using your last name, date of birth, and last 4 digits of your Social Security number. Updates typically appear within 7-10 days of submission.
Use these free tools to plan your passport application
Find out if standard processing will work for your trip from HOLUALOA
Make sure you have everything needed for HOLUALOA facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ HOLUALOA applications and found the top errors: incorrect photo specifications (38%), photocopied birth certificates instead of originals (31%), and unsigned forms (22%). Our expert review catches these errors before submission—we maintain a 99.2% error-free rate, saving you weeks of delays.
Understanding which process applies to you
New passport applications require you to visit one of HOLUALOA’s acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no HOLUALOA facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from HOLUALOA.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in HOLUALOA. Most passport acceptance facilities offer free street parking or metered parking nearby. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to allow time for parking and check-in.
Find the nearest acceptance location — or skip the hassle entirely
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