Show All Answers

1. Why is the Department of State requiring a photocopy of my citizenship evidence and the original/certified copy?

While we return the original to you, we retain the additional copy with your passport record. This assists the Department’s effort to preserve the integrity of the passport issuance process, and reduces the risk of another person attempting to use evidence in your name to get a passport.

2. It states on my U.S. birth certificate that it is illegal to make a copy. What should I do?

If you elect not to submit a photocopy, you can submit a second certified copy of your birth certificate.

3. It states on my naturalization certificate or citizenship certificate “do not copy”. What should I do?

USCIS does not prohibit photocopies of these certificates for passport purposes 

4. The photocopy of my citizenship evidence is not clear. It has lines and watermarks that make it difficult to read. What should I do?

The lines and watermarks may be a feature of the safety paper your evidence is printed on. Please submit the clearest copy possible. 

5. Do I need to submit a photocopy of my passport book or card?

No, you do not need to submit a photocopy of the passport book or card that you are using as primary evidence of citizenship evidence.