To apply for a passport, the general steps are as follows, with some variations depending on your country:
For Dutch Passports
- You must apply in person at a municipality office if you are in the Netherlands, or at a Dutch embassy or consulate if you are abroad, so your identity can be verified
- Make an appointment if required (some locations require it, others do not)
- Complete the application form online if applying abroad, print it, and bring it to your appointment
- Bring necessary documents, including:
- Proof of Dutch citizenship (nationality)
- Current or expired passports and ID cards
- One recent passport photo (no older than 6 months) that meets official requirements
- A bank card or cash to pay the fee (credit cards are generally not accepted)
- During your appointment, your documents will be checked, fingerprints may be taken, and you will sign the application form
- After processing (typically 6 working days in the Netherlands), you can pick up your passport or have it delivered
For U.S. Passports
- You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility (such as a post office or library) for your first passport or if you cannot renew by mail
- Fill out Form DS-11 online or by hand but do not sign it until instructed at your appointment
- Bring original proof of U.S. citizenship, an acceptable photo ID, photocopies of these documents, a passport photo, and payment for the fee
- Submit your application in person and pay the fee at the acceptance facility
- Processing times vary; you can check status online
For UK Passports
- You can apply online or by post using a paper form from the Post Office
- Online applications are cheaper and faster; you will need a debit or credit card to pay.
- For postal applications, you provide your own photos and can get help at the Post Office for an additional fee
Summary: To apply for a passport, you generally need to fill out an application form, provide proof of citizenship and identity, submit a recent passport photo, pay the fee, and apply in person at an official location (municipality, embassy, passport acceptance facility, or online/postal options depending on the country). Processing times and exact procedures vary by country
