First-Time Passport: Complete Checklist for 2025
Everything you need to know when applying for your first U.S. passport, including required documents and fees.
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Getting your U.S. passport while living the island life in St. Thomas, USVI, doesn’t have to be a headache! Whether you’re planning an international getaway or just need to update your travel documents, this guide will walk you through the process. We’ll help you navigate the steps smoothly, ensuring you have everything in order right here in paradise.
Before anything else, figure out your passport status. Are you applying for your very first U.S. passport (a ‘new application’) or simply giving your old one a facelift (a ‘renewal’)? This crucial distinction dictates which form you’ll need. New applicants typically complete Form DS-11, requiring an in-person appearance. If you’re renewing an eligible adult passport, you’ll likely use Form DS-82, which can often be mailed in, saving you a trip. Double-check the eligibility requirements for mail-in renewals on the Department of State’s website to ensure your old passport isn’t too damaged or expired. Knowing this upfront streamlines the entire journey.
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 it’s time to gather all the necessary proof of who you are and where you come from. For a new passport, you’ll need original evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as your birth certificate or previous, undamaged U.S. passport, plus a valid government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license. Renewals might just need your expired passport. Crucially, bring photocopies of both sides of your citizenship evidence and photo ID. These copies must be single-sided. On St. Thomas, finding convenient printing or copying services can sometimes be a quest, so it’s wise to handle this step before you head out the door from home. Don’t forget originals and copies!
Make copies of all documents before submitting. Birth certificates must be certified originals with a raised seal—hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Your passport photo needs to meet very specific criteria: it must be recent (taken within the last six months), in color, 2×2 inches, against a plain white or off-white background, and you should have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile. No glasses allowed! You can get these done at several places around St. Thomas. Consider popping into Walgreens or CVS Pharmacy, as they usually offer passport photo services. Alternatively, some local photography studios might provide this service; just call ahead to confirm their hours and pricing. Ensure the photographer is familiar with U.S. passport photo requirements to avoid rejections.
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.
With your documents and photo in hand, it’s time to tackle the application form itself. If you’re a first-timer, you’ll fill out Form DS-11; for eligible renewals, it’s Form DS-82. You can download and print these from the Department of State website. Make sure to use black ink and print everything single-sided. Accuracy is key—any errors could delay your application. For DS-11 applicants, resist the urge to sign the form until you are physically in front of a passport acceptance agent. They need to witness your signature, so leave that section blank until your appointment. Read all instructions thoroughly before beginning.
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 new applications (DS-11), you must appear in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. In St. Thomas, your primary options are the U.S. Post Office in Charlotte Amalie or the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands (Clerk of Courts). It’s incredibly important to call ahead and schedule an appointment, as walk-ins are often not accommodated, especially on a busy island schedule. Confirm their operating hours and any specific requirements they might have. Remember to bring your completed, unsigned DS-11 form, all original documents and their photocopies, and your passport photo to your appointment.
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.
There are usually two separate fees: the passport application fee and the execution fee. The application fee typically needs to be paid by check or money order made out to the ‘U.S. Department of State.’ The execution fee (for DS-11 applications submitted in person) is paid directly to the acceptance facility and might be payable by cash, check, or money order; confirm accepted payment methods when you make your appointment at the Post Office or Court. Once everything is paid and submitted, you’ll receive a receipt. You can track your application’s status online. Consider opting for expedited processing and shipping if you’re in a hurry for your new travel companion.
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 ST. THOMAS
Make sure you have everything needed for ST. THOMAS facilities
Verify your photo meets official requirements before visiting facilities
We’ve analyzed 1,200+ ST. THOMAS 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 ST. THOMAS’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 ST. THOMAS facility visit needed. But mailing takes 56+ days. Our expedited service gets it done in 1-3 days from ST. THOMAS.
Parking typically costs $2 per hour in ST. THOMAS. 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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