Applying for a U.S. Passport from Outside the United States FAQs

Applying for a U.S. passport while outside the United States is a different process from applying for a U.S. passport while inside the United States. Although the application forms, supporting documentation, costs and finished products are the same everywhere, each U.S. Embassy and Consulate has different procedures for submitting and processing your final documents. Listed below is information you should know when applying for a U.S. passport while in Uruguay.

Q: Can I call the toll-free number for passport information (National Passport Information Center) from outside the United States?
A: No, that number is meant to answer questions for passport customers applying in the United States.  If you have questions while in Uruguay, the Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Montevideo, Uruguay is the best source of information.

Instructions for applying for a U.S. passport at the Consular Section at U.S. Embassy in Montevideo, Uruguay can be found here. Should you need assistance, contact a Consular Agent via telephone on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 3:30 pm. until 5:00 pm.

You can also email your question to MontevideoACS@state.gov.

Q: Where can I find an Acceptance Agent or Acceptance Facility outside the United States?
A: If you are in Uruguay, your Acceptance Facility is the Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Montevideo, Uruguay. If you are active duty military, check with your chain of command to find a military Acceptance Agent.

Q: Are all the "evidence of citizenship" and "evidence of identity" sections applicable to me?
A: Yes, these requirements are the same for everyone no matter where you apply. You still need to provide acceptable evidence of U.S. citizenship and identity at the time of your interview.

Q: Do I need an appointment to submit a passport application?
A: Yes. All passport applications are accepted by appointment only. Appointments for passport services are available on Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00am to 11:00am. Make an appointment through our Appointment System.

Q: How long will it take to get a new U.S. passport in Uruguay?
A: From the time that your application is submitted during your appointment, the process typically takes 10 business days.

Q:Can I pay extra for Expedited Service or overnight delivery to Uruguay?
A: No. All passports are printed in the United States and we are unable to change the production process. However, our Consular Section can issue limited validity emergency passports if you have urgent travel needs.