The United States Postal Service (USPS) is holding a passport fair this Saturday without the need for an appointment at its main facility in Miami, the Miami General Mail Facility, located at 2200 NW 72nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33152, reported Telemundo 51.
The event runs from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and is open to any U.S. citizen who needs to apply for or renew their passport.
To attend the event, applicants must bring an original proof of U.S. citizenship —certified birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or previous passport—, a photocopy of that document, valid photo ID and its photocopy, and the completed but unsigned application form.
The DS-11 form is for those applying for a passport for the first time; the DS-82 is for eligible renewals.
USPS will offer passport photo services on-site for $15.
For inquiries about the fair, USPS has set up the phone numbers 305-470-0689 and 1-800-275-8777. Those who cannot attend can check the costs and requirements for the U.S. passport to plan their process for another time.
How much does the passport cost?
Regarding the costs, a first adult passport (age 16 or older) has a federal fee of $130, payable to the Department of State, plus a $35 acceptance fee made out to "Postmaster," for a total of $165.
For minors under 16 years old, the federal fee is $100, with the same acceptance charge, totaling $135. It's important to note that payments to the Department of State are not accepted by credit or debit card: they must be made by personal, certified, cashier's check, traveler's check, or money order.
Those who need the document more urgently can opt for the expedited service, which costs an additional $60 and reduces the usual processing time from four to six weeks to approximately two or three weeks. Fast delivery of one to three days incurs an extra cost of $26.87 and is only available for booklets, not for passport cards.
For minors under 16 years of age, the application must be made in person, and both parents or guardians must be present. If one parent cannot attend, it is necessary to submit Form DS-3053 — "Statement of Consent for Issuance of a Passport to a Minor" — signed in front of a notary by the absent parent, along with a photocopy of their identification. This form must be submitted within 90 days of its signing.
It is important to remember that passports for minors under 16 years old cannot be renewed; once they expire, a new complete application must be submitted.
Warning from the Department of State
The event is especially significant for Cuban Americans with dual nationality. In July, the State Department warned American citizens with dual nationality —including Cuban Americans and their minor children— that they must enter and exit the country exclusively with a valid American passport.
In addition, those traveling to Cuba by plane need a valid passport booklet, as the passport card —which costs a total of $65— is not valid for international flights, including routes between the United States and Cuba.
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