Mailing your passport renewal? Do this to prevent rejections

Every year, the U.S. State Department issues over 24 million passports, with over 8 million sent by mail. But did you know that 15% of applications face delays due to mailing mistakes? Don’t let yours be one of them.

This guide will help you securely mail your passport renewal without the stress. Or, skip the guesswork and opt for our passport renewal service to ensure your documents are perfectly prepped, mailed safely, and processed without hiccups.

How do you renew your passport (by mail) with us?

We simplify the process of mailing your passport renewal. Here’s how it works:

1. Complete your application online – Answer a few questions and select your preferred processing speed.
2. Receive your personalized passport renewal kit – It includes:
   • A completed DS-82 renewal form, pre-filled for accuracy.
   • A printed and stapled passport photo (to meet government standards).
   • A bank check covering the required U.S. government fee.
   • A pre-addressed USPS envelope for easy mailing.
3. Review and sign your documents – Follow our instructions to ensure accuracy.
4. Mail your application – Drop it off at a USPS location and always choose a trackable service.
5. Track your renewal – Receive updates via email to monitor your passport status.

Common mistakes that lead to passport renewal rejections

Every year, thousands of passport renewal applications face delays—or worse, rejection—due to avoidable mistakes. To make sure your application isn’t one of them, here’s what not to do:

🚨 Top reasons passport renewals get rejected:

• Incomplete or incorrect DS-82 form – A missing signature or inaccurate details can cause processing delays. Double-check all fields before mailing.
• Wrong payment method – The U.S. State Department only accepts personal checks or money orders—no cash, credit cards, or electronic payments.
• Low-quality passport photo – Blurry images, incorrect sizing, or wearing glasses in the photo can cause rejection. iVisa provides a printed, government-approved passport photo to ensure compliance.
• Damaged or missing passport – If your current passport is torn, heavily damaged, or missing, your renewal application will be rejected.
• Using the wrong mail service – Only USPS is accepted for passport renewals. If you send your documents via FedEx, UPS, or DHL, your application will be returned.
• Forgetting to track your application – If lost in transit, you have no proof of submission without a tracking number.

✅ How to avoid rejection: iVisa’s passport renewal service ensures every document is error-free, correctly prepared, and mailed securely—so you don’t have to worry.

Best practices for packaging your passport renewal application

To avoid rejection or processing delays, it’s crucial to package your documents correctly. The U.S. State Department will not accept applications that arrive in damaged, unsealed, or incorrectly labeled envelopes.

Recommended envelopes for passport renewals

• Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope (USPS): The most commonly used option, offering tracking and delivery confirmation.
• Priority Mail Express Envelope: Ideal for expedited renewals, with faster delivery and insurance up to USD 100 included.
• Padded Envelopes: This adds extra protection against damage to your passport.

Save yourself the stress of finding the right envelope. While the USPS does not offer passport-specific envelopes, we do.

Apply with us to receive a complete kit ready to sign and ship, ensuring compliance with State Department requirements.

"I thought I needed an appointment, but iVisa clarified that renewals need to be mailed. I used the provided envelope, dropped it off at USPS, and tracked it with Priority Mail. Super easy," said Aaron W., Los Angeles.

How to properly package your passport renewal application

To ensure your passport renewal application arrives safely, follow these guidelines:

• Neatly complete the DS-82 form and ensure all fields are accurate.
• Include the required documents, such as your previous passport and payment.
• Use a sturdy envelope to protect against damage.
• Place your passport and documents inside a plastic sleeve to prevent moisture damage.
• Seal the envelope securely and double-check that it’s properly closed.
• Hand it directly to a USPS clerk instead of dropping it in a mailbox to ensure tracking starts immediately.

"I wasn’t sure if I could just drop my passport renewal in the mailbox or if I had to hand it to a USPS clerk. Turns out, handing it in person ensures it’s scanned into the system immediately," advises passport officer Laura T. from Chicago.

Adult passport renewal: choosing the right mail service

You must use the United States Postal Service (USPS) for U.S. passport renewals. Private couriers like FedEx and UPS cannot deliver passport applications to the U.S. State Department.

It typically takes up to two weeks for a passport application to reach the processing center and another two weeks to be mailed back to you once approved. This time is not included in processing estimates, so plan accordingly.

Benefits of using trackable and insured mailing services

Purchase a trackable service to monitor your passport renewal status for extra security. The best options include:

• Priority Mail Express (USPS): Includes tracking and up to USD100 in insurance.
• Certified mail with return receipt: Provides proof of delivery.
• Additional insurance: Can be purchased based on document value.

"I needed my passport fast and paid for expedited service. It turns out that’s just for processing time! If you’re in a rush, use USPS Priority Mail Express to speed up delivery, too," warned Elio F., a frequent flyer from Miami.

How to track the status of your passport renewal application

Once your application is mailed, tracking your passport renewal ensures peace of mind. Here’s how:

• Use your USPS tracking number to check the delivery status.
• Visit the U.S. Department of State’s passport tracker for real-time processing updates.
• If you opted for expedited service, your passport should arrive within 3 to 4 weeks.

Alternatively, let us handle the stress and check the status of your application on the go by using our app to track its status.