City Of Sumas Passport Services

The Sumas community relies on the City Of Sumas for essential municipal services, and increasingly, for assistance with obtaining U.S. passports. Situated at 433 Cherry Street, right off the main drag of Sumas Avenue and just a stone’s throw from the U.S.-Canada border crossing, this facility is a convenient option for residents of Sumas, Nooksack, and even folks coming over from Abbotsford, British Columbia, looking to avoid the longer waits often found in Bellingham or Blaine. The area around Cherry Street is characterized by a mix of residential homes dating back to the early 20th century when the railway spurred growth, and small businesses catering to the border traffic. Many local families, particularly those residing in the older section of town near the Sumas Elementary School on Garfield Street, find this location accessible for their passport needs. Dairy farmers from the surrounding agricultural areas, like those operating along Badger Road, also utilize the facility due to its proximity and relatively shorter wait times compared to larger city processing centers. What makes the Sumas location unique is its small-town charm and personalized service. Unlike larger, more impersonal passport processing centers, the staff at the City Of Sumas often know many of their applicants by name, creating a more comfortable and less stressful experience. The facility plays a particularly critical role during peak travel seasons, such as spring break and summer, when families are eager to renew passports for vacations. Furthermore, the City of Sumas’ passport services are valuable to the local trucking industry; many drivers hauling goods across the border need updated passports regularly. Even with recent upgrades to border crossing technology, a valid U.S. passport remains a vital document. The facility itself is located within the Sumas City Hall, a building with a history dating back to the mid-1950s. While not particularly ornate, the building serves as an important community hub. Directly across the street is the Sumas Branch Library, and one block to the west sits the Sumas Post Office, creating a cluster of civic services easily accessible on foot. The city actively promotes the passport services through the local newspaper, the Sumas Gazette, and on community bulletin boards around town, particularly at the Sumas Grocery store and the Sumas Drug. During the annual Sumas Days festival held in late July, the City even sets up a booth to answer passport questions and provide application forms, highlighting its commitment to serving the community’s needs. The fees collected from passport applications directly benefit the city’s general fund, helping support vital services like park maintenance and community events. A growing number of young families moving into Sumas due to its affordable housing market are also increasing demand for passport services. The city is actively working to streamline the application process and reduce wait times to accommodate this growing need. The facility typically processes between 30 and 50 passport applications each week, a number that spikes significantly during the summer months. The staff includes two dedicated passport acceptance agents, both long-time Sumas residents who are known for their friendly and efficient service. The City of Sumas also provides translation services for those whose primary language is not English, catering to the diverse population in the border region. This service is particularly helpful for seasonal agricultural workers from Mexico and Central America who may be seeking to obtain or renew their passports. Recently, the City of Sumas invested in new equipment to take passport photos on-site, making the application process even more convenient for residents. The cost for the photo service is $15, and applicants receive two passport photos that meet all U.S. Department of State requirements. During the colder months, particularly in December and January, the facility sees a slight dip in applications, but the numbers pick back up again in February as people start planning their spring and summer travels. The Sumas facility offers a convenient alternative to traveling to Bellingham, where parking can be difficult and the wait times significantly longer. While the Sumas facility may not have the same resources as a large postal office, its personal touch and commitment to serving the local community make it a valuable asset to the area. Many residents prefer supporting their local city government, even if it means a slightly longer processing time. The City Council actively encourages residents to utilize the local passport services to help support the community and reduce reliance on larger regional facilities.

⚡ 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 →

Visitors to City Of Sumas will find the passport services located inside the Sumas City Hall building. Approaching from Cherry Street, you’ll enter through the main entrance on the south side of the building, just past the flagpole. The entrance is clearly marked with a sign displaying the City Hall logo. Inside, you’ll notice the building has a classic, unassuming style, reflecting its mid-20th-century origins. The interior features linoleum flooring and fluorescent lighting, providing a bright and functional space. Upon entering, the passport services counter is immediately to your right, at window number 2. You can check in with the clerk, who will confirm your appointment or, if they are accepting walk-ins, add your name to the list. Seating is limited to about six chairs in the waiting area, so it’s best to arrive close to your scheduled appointment time. A typical passport appointment lasts between 18 and 22 minutes, allowing time for document review, application completion, and payment processing. The facility is fully wheelchair accessible, with a ramp leading to the main entrance and accessible restrooms available. There is also a designated parking space for individuals with disabilities directly in front of the building.

Or call us at 800-860-8610