Living in Mexico as a U.S. citizen offers a rich cultural experience, but it also comes with responsibilities like keeping your U.S. documents, such as your passport up-to-date. If you’re planning to renew your U.S. passport while in Mexico, the process might seem daunting at first, but it’s straightforward with the right guidance. This article will walk you through the step-by-step process of renewing your passport at the U.S. embassy, a consulate, or consular agency in Mexico, and the documents you’ll need and other important considerations. 

Why Renew Your U.S. Passport? 

Before diving into the details, it’s essential to understand why you might need to renew your passport while being abroad: 

• • Travel: If your passport is expired or nearing expiration, you won’t be able to travel internationally. Some countries require that your passport be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry. 
  • Residency: In Mexico, having an up-to-date passport is crucial for maintaining your residency status. You’ll need a valid passport when dealing with immigration authorities (Instituto Nacional de Migración – INM), whether for temporary or permanent residency. 
  • Personal identification: Your U.S. passport serves as an essential form of identification, especially for dealing with local authorities, banks, or consular services. 

Step-by-Step Process for Renewing a U.S. Passport

If you’re a U.S. citizen in Mexico, you’ll need to renew your passport through the U.S. embassy, a consulate, or consular agency. Fortunately, there are numerous locations throughout the country where you can do this. The process is as follows: 

Step 1 – Eligibility: You can check the passport navigator tool to determine if you can renew by mail or in-person. There are two ways to renew your passport: 

• • By mail (for eligible applicants). 
  • In-person at the U.S. embassy, a consulate, or consular agency. 
  • There is currently no online option for U.S. citizens who live outside of the 50 states or U.S. territories.

To renew by mail, you must meet certain requirements: 

• • Your passport must be undamaged and issued within the last 15 years. 
  • You were over 16 years old when your passport was issued. 
  • Your name has not changed, or you can provide legal documentation of the change (e.g., marriage certificate). 

If you meet these criteria, you can apply for a renewal by mail. Otherwise, you’ll need to visit the U.S. embassy, a consulate, or consular agency in-person by scheduling an appointment online. 

Step 2 – Requirements: Before you begin the renewal process, make sure you have the following documents and copies ready:

• • Your current U.S. passport: This must be submitted along with your application. 
  • Form DS-82: If you’re renewing your passport, you’ll need to fill out the DS-82 form. You can find all the U.S. passport applications and forms online. 
  • Passport photo: U.S. passport photo requirements are strict. The photo must be 2×2 inches (5×5 cms), taken within the last 6 months, and meet specific guidelines regarding size, background color, and facial expression. Many businesses (e.g., photo studios, pharmacies, etc.) in Mexico offer passport photo services that comply with these requirements. 
  • Payment for the application fee: You can pay the renewal fee in-person at your appointment with a debit/credit card or cash (either U.S. dollars or the equivalent in Mexican pesos). However, each location may differ slightly in their acceptable payment methods. It is advisable to verify beforehand as to the acceptable payment methods. If applying online, you will need a debit/credit card to make payment. 
  • Supporting documents: You will need to provide proof of U.S. citizenship and a form of identification, including originals and copies. Your undamaged U.S. passport (expired or valid) satisfies both of these requirements. 
  • Additional requirements for minors: This is discussed later in the article. 

Step 3 – Application: Once you’ve gathered all your documents, it’s time to submit your application. Here are your options:

Option 1: Renew by mail

 If you’re eligible to renew by mail, follow these steps: 

• • Complete form DS-82. 
  • Include your current passport. 
  • One passport photo (5×5 cms). 
  • Pay your renewal fee online.
  • Name change documents (if applicable). 
  • Mail your documents via DHL ONLY. You will need to purchase two waybills with the following shipping information, which are an outbound and inbound waybill. It appears that all passports are sent to the Guadalajara (GDL) consulate for processing. You can only have your new passport mailed back to a DHL location since they no longer mail to private residences. 

Option 2: Renew in-person

For in-person renewals, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at the U.S. embassy, or nearest consulate, or consular agency. Here’s how to do it: 

• • Find the nearest location: Click here for locations. 
  • Schedule an appointment: Visit the U.S. embassy’s passport online appointment system to book your appointment. Due to high demand, you may need to book several weeks in advance. 
  • Attend your appointment: Bring all your required documents, including the DS-82 form, your current passport, a passport photo, and the renewal fee. You may also need proof of your residency status in Mexico. 

Step 4 – Processing time: Once you’ve submitted your application, the processing time can vary. It generally takes around 6 – 8 weeks to receive your new passport, but processing times can be longer during peak travel seasons, or if additional documentation is required. Additionally, you could potentially get your passport back in as little time as 3 – 4 weeks during less busier times of the year. As such, plan any international travel accordingly or if you need your passport for a particular transaction.

Special Considerations for Children and Minors 

If you are renewing a passport for a child under the age of 16, the process is slightly different: 

• • Both parents or guardians must appear in person with the child. 
  • You’ll need to submit additional documents, such as the child’s birth certificate and proof of parental consent, if both parents or guardians cannot be present. 
  • Children’s passports are only valid for 5 years, unlike adult passports, which are valid for 10 years. 

Make sure to check the specific requirements for child passport renewals by reviewing the passport appointment checklist. 

Renewal Fees and Payment Methods

When renewing your passport in Mexico, the fees are the same as if you were renewing in the U.S. As of 2024, the cost of renewing a passport is as follows: 

• • Passport book: $130 USD. 
  • Passport card (optional): $30 USD (can only be used for land travel between the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean). 

Payment methods: 

• • Debit and credit cards: Accepted at most locations but be sure to verify beforehand. 
  • Cash: Some locations may accept payment in cash, either in U.S. dollars or Mexican pesos. 
  • Bank draft or money order: May be available at certain locations but it’s best to check beforehand. 

Online Renewals: U.S. Residents Only 

While online passport renewal has been introduced by the U.S. Department of State, this service is currently only available to U.S. citizens residing in the 50 U.S. states and territories. Unfortunately, U.S. citizens living abroad, including those in Mexico, must renew their passports either by mail or in-person at the U.S embassy, a consulate, or consular agency. 

What to Do If Your Passport Is Lost or Stolen 

If your passport is lost or stolen while you’re in Mexico, you’ll need to report it to the U.S. embassy, nearest consulate or consular agency immediately. The process for replacing a lost or stolen passport is similar to the renewal process, but you’ll need to fill out Form DS-64 (for lost/stolen passports) along with Form DS-11 (application for a new passport). You will need to schedule an in-person appointment or complete a passport urgent appointment request form. 

Additionally, you may need to provide a police report if the passport was stolen. The U.S. embassy, consulate, or consular agency will issue you a temporary passport if you need to travel urgently. The turn-around time will vary depending on whether this is being being done at the embassy or a consulate versus a consular agency.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: How long does it take to renew a U.S. passport in Mexico?  

A: The average processing time is around 6 – 8 weeks, but this can vary based on the time of year and your location. 

Q: Can I renew my passport online if I live in Mexico?  

A: No, online passport renewal is currently only available to U.S. citizens residing in the 50 U.S. states and territories. 

Q: What if my passport is about to expire but I need to travel soon?  

A: If you have urgent travel needs, the U.S. embassy, a consulate, or consular agency may be able to expedite your application. Be sure to inform them of your travel plans when you apply. 

Q: Do I need a new passport if my name has changed?  

A: Yes, if your name has changed since your last passport was issued, you’ll need to provide legal documentation (e.g., marriage certificate, court order, etc.) to support the name change. 

Helpful Online Resources 

Stay up-to-date on all the current requirements and processes, as outlined in this article, by visiting the following websites: 

• • U.S. Embassy in Mexico City – Passport Services
  • U.S. State Department – Passports

Conclusion 

Renewing your U.S. passport in Mexico is a relatively straightforward process, whether by mail or in-person at the U.S. embassy, a consulate, or consular agency. With proper preparation and by following the steps outlined here, you can ensure your passport remains up to date, allowing you to enjoy your life in Mexico without any hiccups. Be sure to keep an eye on your passport’s expiration date and renew it well in advance of any planned international travel. 

Please feel free to leave us a comment below about your personal experience of renewing your U.S. passport in Mexico. We would love to hear from you!