The Southfield City Clerk's office accepts and processes applications for U.S. passports as an added service to the community. U.S. passports are issued only to U.S. citizens or non-citizen nationals. Each person must obtain their own passport book.
The Clerk's Office joined the U.S. Department of State "Passport Application Acceptance Program" to assist United States citizens intent on international travel and to protect the integrity of the U.S. passport as proof of U.S. citizenship.
"We are very excited to offer our convenient location for residents and business visitors who need service relating to U.S. passports," said Southfield City Clerk, Nancy L.M. Banks.
On January 23, 2007, U.S. citizens traveling to Canada and Mexico by air, are required to present a valid U.S. passport. By Summer of 2008, citizens will also be required to present a passport for sea and land border crossings as well.
Individuals who wish to apply for a passport must present original documentation of citizenship, such as a previous U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, naturalization certificate, certificate of citizenship, or report of birth abroad.
Proof of identification is also required, such as a valid driver's license, U.S. passport, naturalization/citizenship certificate, or official military identification card. Two recent photographs of good likeness (full face) on a white or off-white background are also required. Minors under the age of 16 require both parents' consent to obtain a passport. All applicants, must appear in person when submitting a passport application.
Effective February 1, 2008, application fees are $75 for applicants 16 years of age or older, and $60 for applicants 15 years of age or younger, payable to U.S. Department of State by check or money order. There is also a $30 execution fee for each application, payable by cash, certified check or money order for each application.
Routine applications are processed within 4-6 weeks; expedited applications are processed within two weeks from the date received by the Passport Agency for an additional $60 (paid by check or money order). Express Mail service for expedited passport applications is available for an additional fee.
For more information, contact the Southfield City Clerk's Office at (248) 796-5150, or visit www.travel.state.gov.