how to renew swiss passport in usa

Renewing a Swiss passport in the USA involves several steps and requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

General Requirements:

1. Eligibility: You must be a Swiss citizen and your current passport must be expired or will expire soon.
2. Valid residence permit: You must have a valid residence permit (Green Card, Visa, or ESTA) in the USA.
3. Personal appearance: You may need to appear in person at a Swiss embassy or consulate for biometric data collection (fingerprints).

Gather Required Documents:

1. Expired or soon-to-expire Swiss passport
2. Completed application form: Download and fill out the application form (available on the Swiss Embassy’s website) or pick one up from the embassy or consulate.
3. Proof of identity: Valid residence permit (Green Card, Visa, or ESTA) and a photocopy of both sides.
4. Proof of citizenship: Birth certificate or naturalization certificate (if applicable).
5. Passport photos: Two recent, biometric-compatible passport photos.

Submit Your Application:

1. Swiss Embassy or Consulate: Choose the Swiss embassy or consulate nearest to your location in the USA. There are six locations:

   • Swiss Embassy in Washington D.C.
   • Swiss Consulate General in Atlanta
   • Swiss Consulate General in Chicago
   • Swiss Consulate General in Los Angeles
   • Swiss Consulate General in New York
   • Swiss Consulate General in San Francisco

2. Book an appointment: Schedule an appointment at the chosen embassy or consulate through their online system or by phone.
3. Submit your application: Bring all required documents and submit your application in person.

Biometric Data Collection:

1. Fingerprints: Your fingerprints will be taken during the application process.
2. Digital signature: Your digital signature will be captured.

Processing Time and Fees:

1. Processing time: Typically 4-6 weeks, but may vary depending on the workload of the embassy or consulate.
2. Fees: The application fee for a Swiss passport is currently CHF 140 (approximately $150 USD) for adults and CHF 60 (approximately $65 USD) for children under 18.

Collect Your New Passport:

1. Pick-up: Once your new passport is ready, you can pick it up at the embassy or consulate where you submitted your application.
2. Mail delivery: If you prefer, your new passport can be mailed to you via a secure courier service.

Additional Tips:

1. Check the Swiss Embassy’s website: For the most up-to-date information on passport renewal requirements and procedures.
2. Contact the Swiss Embassy or Consulate: If you have any questions or concerns about the application process.

Remember to apply for your passport renewal well in advance of your planned travel dates to ensure you receive your new passport in time.