USA Passport Application: Who is Eligible to Use Form DS-5504?

Renewing a USA passport can seem complex, but when it comes to special circumstances, the DS-5504 application form is your best. If you meet specific eligibility criteria, this form allows you to renew or correct your passport free of charge. We take care of the entire USA passport application and renewal process for you no need for guides or complicated steps. Simply submit your documents, and we’ll handle everything to ensure a seamless, hassle-free experience. From USA Passport Applications to selecting the correct passport application form, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your passport, we guarantee an error-free process with swift approval.

This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to ensure your application is processed smoothly and quickly. Whether you’re correcting a data error, requesting a name change, or replacing a limited-validity passport, we’ve got you covered.

What is Form DS-5504?

Form DS-5504, also known as the Application for a U.S. Passport: Name Change, Data Correction, and Limited Passport Replacement, is used in specific situations that do not require a standard renewal or full reapplication. It’s ideal for quick corrections or changes within a limited time after your passport was issued.

Who is Eligible to Use DS-5504?

You may use Form DS-5504 if you meet one of the following conditions:

1. Emergency-Issued Limited Passport

If your passport was issued in an emergency situation and:

• • It was issued less than one year ago, and

• • You were provided with a letter stating you can apply using Form DS-5504, then you’re eligible to submit this form for a free, full-validity replacement.

2. Data or Printing Error

If your current passport has:

• • A data error (e.g., incorrect name, gender, or place of birth), or

• • A printing error (e.g., missing data, smudges, discoloration, or alignment issues), and is still valid, you can request a corrected passport free of charge.

3. Name Change Within One Year

If your legal name has changed and:

• • The name change occurred less than one year after your passport was issued, and

• • You have legal documents (such as a marriage certificate or court order) to support the change, you may use DS-5504 to update your passport without paying a fee.

What You’ll Need to Submit

To successfully apply using Form DS-5504, you must prepare the following documents:

Step 1: Complete the DS-5504 Form

• • You can either fill out the form online or download and print it as a PDF.

• • The form must be printed on single-sided paper. Do not print it double-sided.

• • Ensure all fields are completed, including:
    • • Your current mailing address (e.g., in Ukraine if you reside there)
    • • Your last U.S. address as your permanent residence
    • • A valid local cell phone number
    • • Your U.S. Social Security Number (SSN)
        • • If you never had an SSN, you must submit a signed and dated statement declaring: “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.”
        • • If you forgot your SSN, you must contact the Federal Benefits Unit before submitting your application.
    • • An emergency contact, with the country name listed in the “City” field if the contact is located outside the U.S.

Step 2: Submit Your Most Recent Passport

• • Include both the original and a photocopy of your most recent passport.

• • Make sure it’s in good condition and still valid.

Step 3: Provide a Compliant Passport Photo

• • Include one recent color photo, sized 2×2 inches (5cm x 5cm).

• • The photo must meet official passport photo requirements (e.g., neutral expression, white background).

• • An improperly formatted photo may cause delays or denial of your application.

Step 4: Name Change Documentation (If Applicable)

• • Provide the original name change document (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

• • A copy must also be included.

• • If the document is not in English, a certified English translation must accompany it.

Step 5: Schedule Your Appointment

• • Once your documents are ready, schedule an appointment using the official appointment system of your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

• • You must appear in person to submit your application, especially if you’re located overseas.

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Processing Time

Processing usually takes about three weeks from the date of submission, assuming your application is complete and all requirements are met. Keep in mind that this timeline may vary depending on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate location and local factors.

Emergency Travel Needs

If you have an urgent travel need, you may qualify for an emergency passport, typically issued on a limited-validity basis. These are designed for immediate travel situations, such as:

• • Medical emergencies

• • Death or serious illness of a family member

• • Short-notice work assignments

Important Note:

Not all countries accept emergency passports. It’s your responsibility to check entry requirements for your destination country before traveling. Always verify if a limited-validity passport is accepted.

DS-5504: Key Advantages

Using Form DS-5504 comes with several benefits:

• • No application fees for most cases

• • Faster processing compared to a new passport application

• • Ideal for correcting mistakes or updating personal details shortly after issuance

• • Allows for seamless transition from a limited passport to a full-validity one

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your application is not delayed or rejected, avoid these common errors:

• • Submitting double-sided printouts of the form

• • Forgetting to sign and date your form

• • Using an outdated or incorrect photo size

• • Failing to provide a Social Security statement if you don’t have an SSN

• • Not including translations for foreign-language documents

• • Scheduling your appointment without complete documentation

Tips for a Successful DS-5504 Application

Here are some final tips to streamline your process:

• • Double-check your form for any missing fields or spelling errors

• • Use black ink if filling by hand

• • Label all photocopies clearly, and do not staple documents together

• • Bring original documents and copies to your appointment

• • If unsure about eligibility, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate before applying

Final Thoughts

The DS-5504 form is a practical and cost-effective solution for those who need to correct or update their US passport under specific conditions. Whether you’ve undergone a name change, received an emergency passport, or noticed a printing error, this form provides a clear and easy path to getting a new, valid passport.

Form DS-5504 is used to update or correct a US passport in special cases like a recent name change, emergency-issued passport, or data error. It’s free if submitted within one year of passport issuance. You must submit the original passport, a 2×2 photo, and supporting documents. Processing takes about three weeks, and urgent cases may qualify for an emergency passport. We take the hassle out of your USA Passport Applications, and no confusion, just a seamless experience. Submit your USA Passport Renewal Application, verify your documents effortlessly, and easily access the correct passport application form. Whether it’s your first application or a renewal, we guarantee a smooth, error-free, and expedited process.