How to Get a Same-Day Passport for Emergency Travel – 2025 Guide

Why You Might Need a Same-Day Passport

Travel emergencies can strike without warning — a sudden business meeting abroad, a family emergency, or even a last-minute vacation opportunity. If you’re holding a flight ticket but your passport is expired, lost, or missing, you might be panicking. The good news: in 2025, same-day passport services are available for eligible travelers through government passport agencies and specialized expediting services.

This article is your complete guide to getting a passport in just one day — covering requirements, fees, appointment tips, and common mistakes to avoid.

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1. What Is a Same-Day Passport?

A same-day passport is an expedited passport issued on the same day you apply, typically through an official passport agency or an authorized expediting service. Unlike standard processing (which can take 8–11 weeks), urgent passport issuance is reserved for:

• Life-or-death emergencies

• Travel within 24–72 hours (proof of flight required)

• Lost or stolen passport replacements when travel is imminent

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2. Where Can You Get a Passport in One Day?

There are two main options:

a) Regional Passport Agencies

• Operated by your government (e.g., U.S. Passport Agencies, Irish Passport Offices, Portuguese Passport Services).

• Require an appointment, proof of travel within 72 hours, and supporting documents.

• Many offices issue passports within hours, depending on availability.

b) Passport Expediting Services

• Licensed private companies submit your application directly to passport offices.

• Can sometimes process applications even faster than standard walk-in services due to reserved slots.

• Fees are higher than government rates, but they save time and hassle.

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3. Required Documents for Same-Day Passport

Prepare these in advance to avoid delays:

1. Proof of travel – airline ticket, itinerary, or letter from employer.

2. Government-issued ID – driver’s license, national ID card.

3. Passport photo – must meet ICAO standards (many offices have onsite photo booths).

4. Completed application form (DS-11 or equivalent).

5. Payment – both government fee + expedited service fee if using an agency.

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4. Step-by-Step Process to Get a Same-Day Passport

Step 1: Make an Appointment Immediately

Call your local passport agency hotline or book online. Same-day slots are limited and often require calling early morning.

Step 2: Gather All Documents

Incomplete applications are the #1 reason for delays. Double-check everything before arriving.

Step 3: Visit the Passport Office in Person

Bring your documents, photos, payment, and proof of emergency travel. Most agencies print passports onsite.

Step 4: Receive Your Passport Same Day

Depending on office capacity, you might receive it within 4–8 hours, or return later in the day to pick it up.

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5. Fees for Same-Day Passport Service (2025)

• Standard government passport fee: varies by country (e.g., $130–$150 for the U.S., €95 for EU).

• Expedite fee (official): around $60–$100.

• Private expediting services: range $200–$800 depending on urgency.

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6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not bringing proof of travel – you must show you’re flying soon.

• Using old passport photos – agencies reject incorrect sizes or poor quality.

• Arriving late to your appointment – you may lose your slot.

• Choosing regular mail services – standard mail cannot deliver same-day results.

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7. Same-Day Passport FAQs

Q1: Can anyone apply for a same-day passport?
No, only travelers with urgent verified plans (24–72 hours) or emergencies qualify.

Q2: Can children get same-day passports?
Yes, but both parents or guardians must appear in person for minors.

Q3: What if I lost my passport the night before my flight?
Bring a police report or a signed statement — many agencies can still issue a replacement in a day.

Q4: How do I know which office offers same-day service?
Check your government’s official website or call directly — not all locations provide instant printing.

Q5: Is it possible to get a passport within 2–3 hours?
In rare life-or-death cases, yes — but you must provide strong documentation and request immediate service.

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8. Why Use VietnamVisaEasy.com for Travel Document Assistance?

If you’re traveling to Vietnam and realize your passport or visa is not ready, VietnamVisaEasy.com provides urgent visa assistance and guidance on travel documents. While we don’t issue passports, we help travelers:

• Navigate urgent passport agency procedures.

• Get Vietnam e-visas approved in just hours (1-hour, 2-hour, 5-hour processing available).

• Ensure you never miss your flight due to paperwork issues.

Apply Now to Avoid Travel Disruptions

If you’re flying within 24 hours and your passport or Vietnam visa isn’t ready:

• Submit your application NOW at VietnamVisaEasy.com

• Our team will guide you step-by-step to secure your documents the same day

• Don’t risk missing your flight — get expert help immediately!