My Passport Hub editorial team

Moving abroad as a U.S. citizen involves much more paperwork than taking an international vacation. Before departure, you may need to prove your identity, immigration status, employment, qualifications, finances, health coverage, and family relationships—sometimes several times during your first months in a new country. Passport preparation should therefore be one of the first items on the relocation timeline. Giving yourself enough time to prepare the correct form and supporting documents can help prevent avoidable delays before your travel plans depend on them.