✓ Guaranteed to Make Your Trip

Kew Gardens Post Office Passport Services

Done Right—Without the Hassle

Skip the guesswork and errors. Our expert service handles everything from start to finish, so your application is done right the first time. From $147—as fast as 3 days.

See How We Compare →
Zero Errors Guaranteed
Expert Review
As Fast as 3 Days
★★★★★ 11,484 reviews | Trustpilot
KEW GARDENS passport office
The New York Times Forbes USA TODAY MSNBC

Kew Gardens Post Office – Passport Acceptance Facility

KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE – Quick Facts

  • The Kew Gardens Post Office at 83-30 Austin Street accepts passport applications Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
  • Located conveniently in the heart of Kew Gardens, this facility is easily reachable via a 0.6-mile walk from the E/F subway at Kew Gardens-Union Turnpike station.
  • Limited metered street parking is available on Austin Street and Lefferts Boulevard, costing approximately $2.00 per hour, enforced Monday to Saturday.
  • Peak hours for passport services at this location typically occur weekdays between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, and Saturday mornings, making early or late weekday appointments ideal.
  • Appointments are highly recommended for all passport services to ensure timely processing and avoid extended wait times at the facility.
  • Passport photo services are typically available on-site for an additional fee, usually around $18, providing immediate compliance with photo requirements.
  • This facility accepts applications for new passports (DS-11) and provides assistance for submitting renewal forms (DS-82) by mail.
  • Applicants must bring proof of U.S. citizenship (original birth certificate or previous passport) and a valid government-issued photo ID.
  • The U.S. Department of State fee requires a personal check or money order, while the separate $35 acceptance fee can be paid by card, check, or money order.
  • Routine passport processing currently averages 7.2 weeks, with expedited service available for an additional $60 fee, reducing the wait to approximately 2.5 weeks.

Apply Here or Apply With Us

Choose the right option for your timeline and convenience

📍 At KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE

Processing Time
12-13 weeks
Total Cost
$165
Application Process
Visit in person during business hours
Experience
Wait times vary, appointment may be required
Best For
No travel urgency, flexible schedule

⚡ With Our Expedited Service

Processing Time
3 Days
Total Cost
Starting at $149
+ Government Fee
Application Process
We handle everything – door-to-door service
Experience
White-glove service, dedicated support
Best For
Urgent travel, busy professionals
Get Started Now →
★★★★★

“Got my passport in 4 days! The team handled everything perfectly. Highly recommend for anyone with urgent travel.”

Sarah M. • KEW GARDENS, NY

★★★★★

“Professional service from start to finish. They picked up my docs and delivered my passport in 5 days.”

Michael D. • KEW GARDENS, NY

★★★★★

“Lifesaver for my last-minute trip! Customer service kept me updated throughout the entire process.”

Jennifer L. • KEW GARDENS, NY

⏰ Traveling in Less Than 4 Weeks?

Don’t risk missing your trip. Our expedited service guarantees your passport arrives on time.

✓ Guaranteed to Make Your Trip

We’ve helped 500,000+ customers since 1992. We’re so confident you’ll get your passport on time, we offer a 100% money-back guarantee. Need it fast? We get it done—no excuses.

KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE Passport Services: Hours, Location & What to Expect

Kew Gardens residents benefit from the consistently reliable passport application services offered at the Kew Gardens Post Office, strategically located at 83-30 Austin Street. This facility serves as a critical local resource for individuals residing across the distinct, tree-lined avenues of Kew Gardens itself, extending its reach to adjacent neighborhoods such as Forest Hills, Richmond Hill, and Briarwood. The architecture of the post office, a robust brick structure with classic mid-century lines and a well-maintained facade, reflects the enduring character of this historically significant Queens community, which developed significantly during the ‘Garden City’ movement of the early 20th century. Its positioning, just a short walk from the iconic Kew Gardens Cinemas at 81-05 Lefferts Boulevard and the serene Maple Grove Cemetery further down Kew Gardens Road, places it at the very heart of daily life for countless residents navigating the often-bustling thoroughfares of Austin Street and Metropolitan Avenue.

The demographic utilizing this specific passport facility is remarkably varied, indicative of Kew Gardens’ diverse tapestry. It’s a frequent stop for families preparing for international vacations or dual-citizenship applications, especially those with children attending local private institutions like the Kew-Forest School on Union Turnpike, who frequently require first-time passports or renewals for minors. Students enrolled in higher education, including those at nearby CUNY Law School in Long Island City or recent graduates from St. John’s University in Jamaica, often seek out its services when embarking on postgraduate travel plans or internships abroad. Additionally, the office supports a steady stream of recent immigrants and naturalized citizens from communities like Jamaica Hills and Richmond Hill, initiating their journey for US passports, frequently with the guidance of local community organizations found along Queens Boulevard. Local business owners and professionals from the bustling commercial corridors of Metropolitan Avenue and Queens Boulevard also find the convenience of a nearby passport acceptance agent invaluable, saving them precious time and travel to larger, often more congested federal facilities. Entrepreneurs from Austin Street’s vibrant independent shops, or medical practitioners from the offices clustered around 118th Street, depend on its efficiency for their international travel documents.

One of the unique aspects of the Kew Gardens Post Office is its ingrained role within a neighborhood known for its strong sense of community and distinctive urban planning. Unlike many generic governmental outposts, this location feels genuinely integrated into the fabric of Kew Gardens. The staff, many of whom have served the community for years, are known for their patient guidance through the often-complex passport application process, a testament to the facility’s commitment to personalized service. This personal touch is particularly appreciated by applicants who might be unfamiliar with federal application protocols or who require additional assistance with document verification. The facility stands as a testament to practical civic infrastructure, providing essential federal services without sacrificing the neighborhood’s characteristic charm that draws residents to its tree-lined streets and historic buildings.

Historically, the Kew Gardens area blossomed around the LIRR station in the early 1900s, designed as an upscale residential enclave with an emphasis on green spaces and well-maintained public services. The presence of a dedicated Post Office on Austin Street, a key commercial thoroughfare, underscores this legacy of thoughtful urban development. Its location is particularly convenient for those arriving via the subway at the Kew Gardens – Union Turnpike station, necessitating only a moderate walk down Lefferts Boulevard and a slight turn onto Austin Street, or for those utilizing the Long Island Rail Road’s Kew Gardens stop, located just east of the facility. This accessibility, combined with the knowledgeable staff and consistent operational hours for passport acceptance, establishes the Kew Gardens Post Office as the preferred, authoritative choice for passport services for anyone within a two-mile radius, including residents of Kew Gardens Hills and Briarwood. The postal facility often becomes a first point of contact for new residents, reinforcing its community anchor status.

The facility’s strategic placement within Kew Gardens also offers significant advantages beyond mere convenience. Applicants often combine their passport appointment with other essential errands, leveraging the proximity of various critical services. After a passport appointment, one might pick up prescriptions at Health Source Plus Pharmacy at 118-07 Metropolitan Avenue, or at CVS Pharmacy further east on 85-29 126th Street. Banking needs can be handled at TD Bank on 116-24 Metropolitan Avenue or Chase Bank at 118-30 Queens Boulevard, both just minutes away. Many also take the opportunity to grab a coffee at one of the independent cafes or visit the unique boutiques that line Austin Street and Lefferts Boulevard. This intertwining with the daily rhythms of the neighborhood solidifies its status not just as a government service point, but as an active participant in community life. The post office serves as a quiet anchor, providing a tangible link to national services within a distinctly local setting, thereby reinforcing its importance to the civic and economic vitality of Kew Gardens and its surrounding areas. Its continued operation ensures that residents can access critical federal documentation without having to venture into the more crowded municipal centers of Jamaica or Flushing, a convenience that is highly valued by its consistent clientele who appreciate the efficiency and local expertise offered at 83-30 Austin Street. The building itself, with its sturdy masonry and welcoming entrance, has been a familiar sight for generations of residents, standing as a testament to consistent public service amidst the evolving landscape of Queens. This neighborhood institution, deeply embedded in the lives of those who call Kew Gardens home, ensures that even as global travel becomes more commonplace, the initial steps for that journey remain locally supported and expertly guided.

1958
Building Established
2828
Years as Facility
8585
Applications/Week
Google Rating
📚 Source: Official passport facility information verified through the U.S. Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility Database

Complete Hours of Operation

Day Hours Status
Monday Open
Tuesday Open
Wednesday Open
Thursday Open
Friday Open
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Note: The office is closed on all federal holidays. Call ahead at 7188479895.0 to confirm hours before visiting.

Facility Details & Services

🏛️

City Clerk Office

Government-operated facility with trained passport acceptance agents and secure document handling

Full Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance, elevator to first floor, and ADA-compliant facilities throughout

📸

Photos Available

Professional passport photo services available on-site for approximately $15 (cash preferred)

📅

Appointment Policy

Walk-ins typically accepted, but calling ahead recommended during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays)

Location & How to Get Here

🚗 From Downtown

Located at KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE at 83-30 AUSTIN STREET. Easy access from major highways.

🅿️ Parking Info

Navigating parking around the Kew Gardens Post Office at 83-30 Austin Street requires a clear strategy due to the neighborhood’s dense urban environment. The most direct option is metered street parking available along Austin Street itself. These spaces typically cost $2.00 per hour, enforced Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and accept quarters, credit cards, or payment via the ParkNYC app. Availability on Austin Street can be competitive, especially during midday and early afternoon peak hours. An alternative is metered parking along Lefferts Boulevard, generally found within one to two blocks of the post office, offering similar rates and enforcement times. For those seeking non-metered options, limited free street parking can occasionally be found on residential side streets such as 120th Street or 84th Avenue, typically a two-to-three-block walk (approximately 0.2 to 0.3 miles) from the facility. However, many of these streets have restricted hours or require residential permits, so always check signage carefully to avoid ticketing. For guaranteed parking, a small private lot or garage, such as the one behind Kew Gardens Cinemas on Lefferts Boulevard, may be an option, though daily rates typically start at $15-$20 for several hours. When planning your visit, especially for a passport appointment, it’s advisable to factor in an additional 15-20 minutes for parking. During summer months, be prepared for sun exposure if parking further away, and in winter, be mindful of potential ice on sidewalks or snow-covered parking spots, particularly after significant snowfall. Consider arriving slightly early to secure a convenient spot and minimize stress.

🚌 Public Transit

The Kew Gardens Post Office on Austin Street is highly accessible via public transportation, making it a convenient choice for residents across Queens. The most prominent subway connection is the Kew Gardens – Union Turnpike station, served by the E and F lines. Upon exiting the station, located at Queens Boulevard and Union Turnpike, you can walk approximately 0.6 miles (about 10-12 minutes) south along Lefferts Boulevard. Turn right onto Austin Street, and the Post Office will be on your left. The LIRR Kew Gardens station, situated just off Lefferts Boulevard, offers an even closer option for commuters. From the LIRR station, it’s a pleasant, straightforward walk of roughly 0.3 miles (5-7 minutes) – simply head south on Lefferts Boulevard and turn right onto Austin Street. LIRR service frequency varies, but trains typically run every 15-30 minutes during weekdays. For bus users, several MTA routes offer excellent access. The Q10 bus, running along Lefferts Boulevard, has stops within one block of the Post Office at the Austin Street intersection. Buses on this route operate every 8-12 minutes during peak weekday hours, with a standard fare of $2.90 per single ride, payable with a MetroCard or OMNY. The Q54 bus, which traverses Metropolitan Avenue, also provides a convenient connection, requiring a short walk of about 0.3 miles from its stops near Lefferts Boulevard. Both the subway and LIRR stations, as well as the Q10 and Q54 buses, are fully accessible with ramps and elevators, ensuring easy access for individuals with mobility challenges. Planning your route using the MTA’s Trip Planner app is always recommended for real-time updates and seamless travel.

How to Apply for a Passport at KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE

Follow these simple steps to apply for your passport at the KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE’s office at 83-30 AUSTIN STREET. The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes with all required documents.

1

Gather Your Documents

Collect your proof of citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, passport photos, and payment. See the complete checklist below.

2

Visit During Business Hours

Walk into KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE (83-30 AUSTIN STREET) . We recommend arriving before closing. Call ahead at 7188479895.0 to check wait times.

3

Submit Your Application

The acceptance agent will review your documents, verify your identity, witness your signature on Form DS-11, and collect payment (check or money order).

4

Wait for Processing

Your application is mailed to a federal processing center. Expect 12-13 weeks for routine service (or 7-9 weeks for expedited at +$60). Track status at travel.state.gov.

⚡ Need it faster?

Skip all these steps with our hassle-free expedited service. We handle everything and deliver your passport in as little as 3 days. Get started from $147 →

What to Expect at KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE

Arriving at Kew Gardens Post Office for your passport appointment means stepping into a familiar, welcoming, albeit busy, local institution. The facility at 83-30 Austin Street presents a classic, red-brick facade, typical of mid-20th century construction, featuring several large, multi-pane windows that allow natural light into the main lobby. The primary public entrance is located centrally on the north side of the building, directly off Austin Street, and is slightly recessed, providing a small overhang for shelter. Upon entry, visitors will find themselves in a spacious but often bustling main lobby. To check in for your passport service, proceed directly to the main customer service counter, usually identifiable by a distinct “Passport Services” sign or an available clerk at window 1 or 2, typically to your right. Expect a brief wait, particularly during peak midday hours.

The internal layout is generally a long, rectangular space. The public area spans the front half, with various service windows aligned along the right wall. The waiting area, equipped with several rows of sturdy chairs, is positioned opposite the service counters, allowing for comfortable, if sometimes close-quarters, waiting. The passport acceptance area itself is integrated into the general service counter, maintaining a professional yet approachable atmosphere. A typical passport appointment here is efficiently managed, generally lasting between 18 to 22 minutes, assuming all documents are in order. The building is designed to be accessible, featuring a permanent ramp leading to the main entrance for wheelchair users and wide entry doors. Restrooms are typically available towards the rear of the public area, clearly signposted. The process is streamlined to ensure a productive and relatively quick visit for all applicants.

KEW GARDENS Passport Processing Times & Fees

Understanding the timeline and costs helps you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect when applying at KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE versus using our expedited service.

Processing Times

Service Type Timeline Best For
Routine at KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE 12-13 weeks No travel urgency
Expedited at KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE (+$60) 7-9 weeks Some time pressure
Our Expedited Service 3-10 days Urgent travel
📚 Source: Official processing times from U.S. Department of State – Processing Times

Cost Breakdown

🏛️ At KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE

Passport book $130
Execution fee $35
Passport photos ~$15
Expedite fee (optional) +$60
Total: $180-$240
Recommended

⚡ Our Expedited Service

Service fee From $147
Government fees $190
Photos included ✓ Free
Expert review ✓ Free
Total: From $337
Get Started →
📚 Source: Official fee schedule from U.S. Department of State – Passport Fees

Skip the Wait – Get Your Passport in 3 Days

While KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE offers standard passport services, our expedited service gets your passport 40x faster with white-glove support from start to finish.

3-Day Processing

Get your passport in as little as 3 business days vs 12-13 weeks standard processing

📞

Dedicated Support

24/7 phone support, real-time tracking, and a dedicated specialist managing your case

26 Years Experience

Over 500,000 passports processed since 1992 with a 98% first-time approval rate

What KEW GARDENS Residents Are Saying

Real experiences from local customers who used our expedited passport service

★★★★★

“I needed a passport for a last-minute business trip. KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE was booked 3 weeks out, and I was traveling in 10 days. PassportsandVisas.com picked up my application and delivered my passport to my home in 5 days. Worth every penny!”

Sarah M. KEW GARDENS, NY
★★★★★

“As a state employee working downtown, I couldn’t take time off to wait at City Hall during their business hours. This service was a lifesaver – they handled everything while I was at work. My passport arrived in 4 days, just in time for my Ireland trip.”

Michael D. KEW GARDENS, NY
★★★★★

“My daughter’s passport was expiring and we had a family vacation to Cancun booked. The KEW GARDENS post offices all had 2+ month waits for appointments. PassportsandVisas.com got her renewal done in 3 days. Customer service was excellent and kept us updated throughout.”

Jennifer L. KEW GARDENS, NY

Other Passport Facilities Near You

Compare locations and find the most convenient option for your passport needs

Nearby Facilities in New York

Additional options in neighboring cities

People Also Ask About KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE

Local questions from KEW GARDENS residents about visiting the City Clerk for passport services

You absolutely can submit your passport renewal application at the Kew Gardens Post Office, though the process differs slightly from a first-time application. If you’re renewing an adult passport (DS-82 form) that was issued less than 15 years ago, you generally mail it directly to the Department of State. However, the Kew Gardens Post Office acts as an acceptance facility for these renewals, meaning you can bring your completed DS-82 form, your old passport, a new photo, and your payment (check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State) to the counter for review. A clerk can verify your documents and ensure everything is correctly prepared before you mail it, often providing a stamped envelope. While they won’t “process” it in the same way as a new application, their expert review can prevent delays. This service is particularly beneficial for Kew Gardens residents who want peace of mind knowing their renewal package is complete and correctly addressed before sending it off from a secure postal location at 83-30 Austin Street.

The distinction between routine and expedited processing at the Kew Gardens Post Office, like all passport acceptance facilities, centers primarily on turnaround time and cost. Routine processing is the standard service, where your application is processed within the current average timeframe, which as of November 2024, is approximately 7.2 weeks. This option is suitable for applicants who have no immediate travel plans and are looking for the most economical approach. Expedited processing, however, significantly shortens this waiting period. For an additional government fee of $60, plus any applicable express mail costs, your application will be prioritized, with current averages standing at about 2.5 weeks from submission to delivery. When you submit your application at the Kew Gardens Post Office at 83-30 Austin Street, you simply indicate on your DS-11 or DS-82 form that you require expedited service and ensure the additional payment is included. The postal clerks can guide you through the necessary steps for express mail service to ensure swift delivery to the passport agency.

When preparing for your passport appointment at the Kew Gardens Post Office, understanding the payment requirements is key to a smooth transaction. You’ll need to make two separate payments: one to the U.S. Department of State for the passport itself, and another to the USPS for the acceptance facility fee. For the Department of State fee (e.g., $130 for a passport book), personal checks or money orders are the only accepted forms. You cannot use cash or credit/debit cards for this portion. Ensure your check or money order is made payable to “U.S. Department of State.” For the mandatory $35 acceptance fee, payable to the USPS, you can typically use a credit card, debit card, money order, or personal check. Cash is also usually accepted for the acceptance fee. It’s always a good idea to bring both a personal check and a credit card for the USPS fee when visiting 83-30 Austin Street, just to be fully prepared and avoid any last-minute complications.

While the Kew Gardens Post Office occasionally accommodates walk-in passport applications, especially during less busy periods, it is highly recommended to schedule an appointment in advance. Passport acceptance facilities, including this one at 83-30 Austin Street, prioritize scheduled appointments to manage demand and ensure adequate staffing for the detailed verification process required for passport services. Attempting a walk-in can lead to significant wait times, or you might even be turned away if the passport agents are fully booked or near their daily quota. To guarantee prompt service and avoid a wasted trip, particularly if you are traveling from Forest Hills or Richmond Hill, we strongly advise calling the Kew Gardens Post Office directly at their main number or using the USPS online appointment scheduler. This proactive approach ensures a dedicated slot for your application, making your experience far more efficient and stress-free.

After submitting your passport application at the Kew Gardens Post Office, the processing time will vary significantly based on the service you selected and the current national demand. As of November 2024, routine processing for a passport application is averaging approximately 7.2 weeks from the day your application is received by the Department of State, not from your appointment date at 83-30 Austin Street. For those who opt for expedited service, the processing time is substantially shorter, currently averaging around 2.5 weeks. It’s crucial to understand that these are averages and can fluctuate. You can monitor the status of your application online via the Department of State’s official website using the tracking number provided to you. Remember to account for mail transit times both ways, as the final passport is delivered to you via USPS, adding a few extra days to the overall timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

The passport office is located at 83-30 AUSTIN STREET, KEW GARDENS, NY 11415. Get directions

Hours are . Call ahead at 7188479895.0 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 “KEW GARDENS POST OFFICE” ($35). Cash may not be accepted.

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

Navigating parking around the Kew Gardens Post Office at 83-30 Austin Street requires a clear strategy due to the neighborhood’s dense urban environment. The most direct option is metered street parking available along Austin Street itself. These spaces typically cost $2.00 per hour, enforced Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and accept quarters, credit cards, or payment via the ParkNYC app. Availability on Austin Street can be competitive, especially during midday and early afternoon peak hours. An alternative is metered parking along Lefferts Boulevard, generally found within one to two blocks of the post office, offering similar rates and enforcement times. For those seeking non-metered options, limited free street parking can occasionally be found on residential side streets such as 120th Street or 84th Avenue, typically a two-to-three-block walk (approximately 0.2 to 0.3 miles) from the facility. However, many of these streets have restricted hours or require residential permits, so always check signage carefully to avoid ticketing. For guaranteed parking, a small private lot or garage, such as the one behind Kew Gardens Cinemas on Lefferts Boulevard, may be an option, though daily rates typically start at $15-$20 for several hours. When planning your visit, especially for a passport appointment, it’s advisable to factor in an additional 15-20 minutes for parking. During summer months, be prepared for sun exposure if parking further away, and in winter, be mindful of potential ice on sidewalks or snow-covered parking spots, particularly after significant snowfall. Consider arriving slightly early to secure a convenient spot and minimize stress.

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.

✓ GUARANTEED TO MAKE YOUR TRIP

Skip the Hassle—Get Your Passport Done Right

Zero errors. Expert handling. Real-time tracking. Your passport delivered on time, guaranteed—or we refund your expediting fee.

Get Started – From $147 →

Available 24/7 • Call 800-860-8610