By appointment only
Update in processing time as of November 2023
- Routine Service: 7 – 10 weeks
- Expedited Service: 3 – 5 weeks
Although the issuance of passports is done by the federal passport agency, the County Clerk’s Passport Office, acting as an agent, is available to assist in the preparation of the application which, in turn, is forwarded to the State Department.
As of February 1, 2008, The US Department of State introduced a new travel document for US citizens called the U.S. Passport Card. This card is valid ONLY for land and sea crossings between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean. Citizens traveling by sea are urged to confirm with their cruise line to determine if any other ID is required for travel. If traveling by air, citizens must apply for a U.S. Passport Book. Citizens may apply for both. The requirements are the same for both travel documents.
Two Convenient Locations
2 Broad Street, Room 114, Elizabeth, NJ 07207
908-527-4966
7:30 am – 3:30 pm
300 North Avenue East, Westfield, NJ 07090
908-654-9859
Open Tuesday and Thursday: 8:00 am – 7:30 pm
Open Saturday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Quick References
US Department of State
Passport Applications
Union County Clerk Advises Residents on Passport Expiration Dates and Travel
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi advises residents to check their passport expiration date before making plans for international travel this summer, and fall, and early winter. Some countries will not allow entry for travelers with passports that are within several months of expiring.
“Depending on the country, travelers may be barred if their passport is due to expire within three to six months of their travel date,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “In addition, travelers with expiring passports need to account for the time needed for the U.S. Department of State to process passport renewal applications.”
The State Department currently estimates that it will take 8 – 11 weeks to renew an existing passport. For residents who agree to pay an expedited fee, the wait time is 5 – 7 weeks.
“Although my office can provide assistance with the initial filing of an application, unfortunately we have no control over the processing timeline because that is a State Department function,” said Ms. Rajoppi. “This is the longest delay I have seen in years, and it appears related to the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their operations.”