When applying for a U.S. passport for the first time, there are certain papers you must fill out, and the DS-11 is one of the most popular ones. For a seamless application process, it is imperative to comprehend not only the DS-11 form itself but also the related fees, such as the DS-11 application charge and the file search fee. When applying for or renewing a U.S. passport, this tutorial will explain the DS-11 form, the associated fees, and what you need to know about the file search fee.

What is a DS-11 Form?

In the US, one of the most popular application forms is DS-11. The form that the US Department of State uses to provide passports to its residents is called DS-11, or US Passport Application Form. The form is available for download on the official website, where it can be used for submission.

DS-11 Fee

•  The Base Charges

There are two main payments associated with using form DS-11 to apply for a U.S. passport: the application fee and the execution charge (sometimes called the acceptance fee).

• Application Cost

Whether you’re applying for a passport book, passport card, or both, will determine the application fee.

The following fees will apply as of 2024:

• $130 for a passport book
• $30 for a passport card
• Fee for both the passport book and card: $160

This is the cost of having your application processed in person at a location that accepts passports. Whether you are applying for a passport book, card, or both, the execution charge is $35.

File Search Fee Passport 

An additional price known as the “file search fee” is assessed when you apply for a passport and are unable to produce documentation of your U.S. citizenship. Typically, along with their DS-11 form, applicants must also provide an original or certified copy of their U.S. birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or another recognized form of proof of citizenship. To confirm your citizenship status, you can, nevertheless, ask for a file search if you are unable to locate your original citizenship paperwork.

You must provide proof of your citizenship in the United States when you apply for a passport. You can ask for a file search if you are unable to obtain proof if:

You are unable to include your previous U.S. passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) with your application.

When Does the Fee for File Searches Apply?

You must pay the file search cost if you are unable to provide any of the following:

• Birth certificate for the United States (certified document, not a photocopy)
• Certificate of Naturalization and Consular Report on Foreign Birth
• A Certificate of Citizenship

Passport Application Process with DS-11 Form 

You will require the following documents when submitting form DS-11 to apply for a passport:

• Completed DS-11 Form: This needs to be signed in front of a licensed passport agency and fully completed.
• Evidence of US Citizenship: usually a certified naturalization or birth certificate from the United States.
• Government-Issued Photo ID: This can be a passport, a military ID, or any other kind of official identification.
• The passport photo must be 2 by 2 inches, taken no more than six months ago, and free of spectacles in order to comply with US passport standards.
• Charges: You will be responsible for paying the application, execution, and maybe a file search charge as mentioned above.

Conclusion 

For people applying for a passport for the first time or for someone whose passport has been lost, stolen, or expired, the DS-11 form is an essential step in the process. To prevent surprises, it is crucial to comprehend the costs involved in this process, including the application, execution, and file search expenses. You may guarantee a more seamless application process for your U.S. passport by organizing the required paperwork and accounting for any extra expenses, such expedited service or file searches.

Getting your U.S. passport is the first step toward your worldwide travels, regardless of whether you intend to travel for business, education, or pleasure.