Expert expedited service from $147 — Processing in as fast as 3 days with zero errors guaranteed
Ask me anything about getting your passport in brazil — instant expert answers
We’ll handle everything from your brazil home or office. Expert review, compliant photos included, delivered in 1-3 days.
Based on verified reports from brazil applicants (last updated: )
Getting your passport squared away while living or traveling in Brazil doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you’re applying for the first time or simply renewing your existing document, a clear process is key. This guide will walk you through each step, offering practical advice and local insights to smooth your path to a new passport.
This initial step clarifies whether you’re a first-time applicant or just need to renew an expired/expiring passport. If you’ve never had a U.S. passport before, or if your previous one was issued when you were under 16, you’ll generally follow the “first-time applicant” procedure, which often requires an in-person interview. For renewals, it’s typically a simpler mail-in process, provided you meet certain criteria like your old passport being undamaged and issued within the last 15 years. Understanding this distinction early on will streamline your document gathering and form completion, saving you potential delays. Be sure to check the specific requirements on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website in Brazil for the most up-to-date guidance, as procedures can sometimes vary slightly.
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.
Prepare to gather your core identity documents. For first-timers, this means proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your original U.S. birth certificate or a previous, undamaged U.S. passport. You’ll also need a valid government-issued photo ID, like a Brazilian RNE (Registro Nacional de Estrangeiros) or your driver’s license. If renewing, your most recent U.S. passport is the primary document. Remember to bring originals and photocopies of everything. Brazilian official documents, especially birth certificates, are usually issued with a “certidão de nascimento” and may require official translations if they are supporting a U.S. citizenship claim for dual nationals, though this is less common for standard passport applications for those already US citizens. Double-check the embassy website for the exact list of what you need to avoid any setbacks.
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Now it’s time to complete the actual passport application form. If you’re a first-time applicant or applying for a minor, you’ll be filling out Form DS-11. For adult renewals, Form DS-82 is your go-to. Both forms are available online on the U.S. Department of State website; you can fill them out electronically and then print them. Ensure every field is accurate and consistent with your supporting documents. Do not sign the DS-11 form until you are instructed to do so by an authorized acceptance agent at your appointment. Accuracy is crucial; any discrepancies could lead to processing delays. Read through all instructions thoroughly before you begin to save yourself from potential mistakes.
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 is more than just a selfie; it needs to meet strict U.S. government requirements. The photo must be recent (taken within the last six months), in color, 2×2 inches (5×5 cm), with a plain white or off-white background. Look directly at the camera with a neutral facial expression or a slight, natural smile, and ensure your full face is visible. No glasses, hats, or uniforms are allowed, unless for medical or religious reasons documented appropriately. In Brazil, many photo studios (“estúdios de fotografia” or “fotocópias”) are well-versed in passport photo standards for various countries. Ask specifically for a U.S. passport photo to ensure they know the correct dimensions and background.
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.
Before you can submit your application, you’ll need to pay the applicable fees. The cost varies depending on whether you’re getting a passport book, a passport card, or both, and if you opt for expedited service. U.S. Embassies and Consulates in Brazil typically accept payment in U.S. Dollars (USD) or the equivalent in Brazilian Reais (BRL). Acceptable payment methods usually include credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) or cash. Personal checks are generally not accepted. Always verify the current fee schedule on the embassy’s official website, as rates can change. Having your payment ready and in the correct format will make your appointment go smoothly.
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.
This is the final step where everything comes together. You’ll need to schedule an appointment online at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Brazil (e.g., Brasília, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Recife, Porto Alegre). Arrive on time with all your completed forms, original documents, photocopies, and passport photos. If you’re a first-time applicant or applying for a minor, you’ll have a brief interview with a Consular Officer. They will review your application, verify your identity, and collect your documents. After submission, you’ll receive information on how to track your passport’s processing status. Processing times can vary, so plan accordingly, especially if you have upcoming travel.
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 brazil
Make sure you have everything needed for brazil facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ brazil 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 brazil’s 10 acceptance facilities. Or use our service—we come to you anywhere in Clay County and handle everything.
Renewals can be mailed to the State Department—no brazil facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from brazil.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in brazil. 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
Honest comparison to help brazil residents choose the right option
We compiled a list of answers to address your most pressing questions regarding our Services.
Please contact us, if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.
Stay informed with our latest guides and tips
Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
Read More →
Discover which destinations welcome U.S. passport holders without additional visa requirements.
Read More →
A comprehensive guide to different visa categories and when you might need them for international travel.
Read More →