Americans could soon be able to apply for their first passport without making an in-person trip, as the State Department prepares to move the process online.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the government is developing a system through America.gov that would allow applicants to complete the passport process digitally. The planned platform would eliminate much of the paperwork and in-person steps currently involved in applying for a first passport.
The new system is expected to include digital application processing along with real-time updates, including information on an application’s progress and its estimated delivery date.
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Rubio said the administration’s target is to have most Americans able to apply for a passport or passport card through America.gov by the end of 2027.
The change would represent a major shift from the current process. First-time adult passport applicants currently have to apply in person at an authorized acceptance facility and submit required documents, a passport photo and the applicable fee.
The online system is being developed as part of a broader effort to move government services away from paper-based procedures and make them easier to access digitally.
Until the new system is fully implemented, first-time applicants will still need to follow the existing in-person application process.