USPS Hosts Passport Fair in Miami This Saturday: Essential Information and Required Documents

This Saturday, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is hosting a passport fair at its main Miami facility, the Miami General Mail Facility, located at 2200 NW 72nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33152. The event, as reported by Telemundo 51, does not require an appointment.

Running from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the fair is open to all U.S. citizens needing to apply for or renew their passports.

Attendees must bring original proof of U.S. citizenship—such as a certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a previous passport—along with a photocopy of this document, a valid photo ID with its copy, and a completed yet unsigned application form.

The DS-11 form is for first-time applicants, while the DS-82 is for eligible renewals.

USPS will also provide passport photo services on-site for a fee of $15.

For inquiries about the event, USPS has made available the phone numbers 305-470-0689 and 1-800-275-8777. Those unable to attend can check passport costs and requirements for future planning.

Passport Costs and Expedited Processing

For adults aged 16 and older, the initial passport fee is $130, payable to the Department of State, plus a $35 acceptance fee to "Postmaster," totaling $165.

For children under 16, the federal fee is $100, with the same acceptance charge, amounting to $135. It's crucial to note that payments to the Department of State cannot be made via credit or debit cards; they must be via personal check, certified check, cashier's check, traveler's check, or money order.

Those requiring expedited service can pay an additional $60, reducing processing time from the typical four to six weeks to approximately two to three weeks. Fast delivery within one to three days costs an extra $26.87 and is available only for passport books, not cards.

For children under 16, applications must be submitted in person with both parents or guardians present. If one parent cannot attend, the DS-3053 form—"Statement of Consent for Issuance of a Passport to a Minor"—must be notarized and submitted alongside a photocopy of the absent parent's ID. This form is valid for 90 days from the date of notarization.

Remember, passports for children under 16 cannot be renewed; a new application is required upon expiration.

State Department Advisory

This event holds particular importance for Cuban Americans with dual citizenship. In July, the Department of State reminded U.S. citizens with dual nationality—including Cuban Americans and their minor children—that they must use a valid U.S. passport to enter and exit the country.

Additionally, flying to Cuba requires a valid passport book, as the passport card—which costs a total of $65—is not valid for international flights, including those between the United States and Cuba.