Ballard Customer Service Center Passport Services

In Seattle, the Ballard Customer Service Center at 5604 22nd Ave NW stands as a vital resource for residents of Ballard, Fremont, and Wallingford seeking passport application and renewal services. Located just a block south of NW Market Street, near the intersection with 22nd Avenue NW, the facility is easily accessible to those living in the heart of Ballard’s bustling commercial district. The customer base is diverse, ranging from young families planning international vacations to seniors renewing their passports for long-awaited trips abroad. A significant portion of applicants are maritime workers from the nearby Fisherman’s Terminal, requiring passports for international voyages. The building itself, constructed in 1968, initially served as a branch of the Seattle Public Library before being repurposed as a customer service center in 1985. It’s seen significant foot traffic over the years, coinciding with Ballard’s transformation from a Scandinavian fishing village to a vibrant, densely populated urban neighborhood. Landmarks within a few blocks include the historic Ballard Avenue NW, known for its preserved brick buildings and trendy boutiques, and the popular Tractor Tavern music venue, a local institution for live music. The nearby Ballard Farmers Market, held every Sunday on Ballard Avenue, draws crowds from across the city, many of whom may combine a visit to the market with a passport application appointment. A unique aspect of this location is its proximity to the Nordic Heritage Museum, underscoring Ballard’s strong Scandinavian roots, a detail often appreciated by applicants researching their ancestry for passport purposes. The facility is also heavily used by students and faculty from nearby Ballard High School, particularly during the summer months before study abroad programs begin. The staff are known for their efficiency and local knowledge, often providing helpful tips on nearby restaurants like The Walrus and the Carpenter or suggestions for exploring the Ballard Locks after completing the application process. The recent surge in passport applications, mirroring national trends, has led to longer wait times for appointments, especially during peak seasons like spring and summer, highlighting the importance of booking well in advance. The revitalization of Ballard, with its influx of tech workers and young professionals, has also contributed to increased demand for passport services, reflecting the neighborhood’s growing international connections. Unlike some larger, more impersonal passport processing centers, the Ballard Customer Service Center offers a more intimate and community-oriented experience, reflecting the unique character of the surrounding neighborhood. It’s a place where you might overhear conversations about local events or get a recommendation for the best fish and chips in the area while waiting for your appointment, adding a distinctly Ballard flavor to the often-stressful process of applying for a passport. Even the architecture reflects this, with subtle nautical themes incorporated into the building’s design as a nod to Ballard’s maritime history. The center’s convenient location near major bus lines further enhances its accessibility for residents living throughout Seattle, contributing to its consistent popularity as a go-to destination for passport services in the northwest Seattle area. The continued growth of Ballard, and Seattle as a whole, ensures that the Ballard Customer Service Center will remain a crucial point of contact for international travel documentation for years to come. It has become not just a service provider, but a trusted fixture in the Ballard community, helping residents connect with the world.

⚡ 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 →

Once you arrive at Ballard Customer Service Center, you’ll immediately notice the building’s mid-century modern architecture, characterized by its clean lines and large windows. Enter through the main doors facing 22nd Avenue NW, which are equipped with automatic openers for accessibility. Upon entering, proceed to the reception desk located directly ahead, just past the security checkpoint. Check in with the clerk at Window #3; they will verify your appointment and confirm that you have all the necessary documents. The waiting area features comfortable seating and informational brochures about passport requirements. The overall layout is open and well-lit, designed to minimize confusion and streamline the application process. Typically, your appointment will last between 18 and 22 minutes, depending on the complexity of your application. Accessibility is a priority; the facility includes ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces nearby. After checking in, you will be called to a designated window where a passport agent will review your application, answer any questions, and guide you through the necessary steps. Expect a professional and efficient experience, with staff committed to ensuring a smooth passport application process. Should you need to take passport photos, a photo booth is available in the back corner of the waiting area, costing $12 for two photos. The entire facility is designed to be easily navigable, even for first-time visitors, ensuring a stress-free experience.

Or call us at 800-860-8610