Passport Renewal question, I'm worried about the process since I'm an expat

by Joel
(Philippines)

When I checked my passport the other day I was shocked to see it's expiring very soon. I need to get it renewed especially since I am traveling later this year. The problem is that I am living in the Philippines and I'm not really sure how one would go about doing a passport renewal while living abroad. At first I was thinking to go to the closest US Embassy. I'm not sure now since I don't want to waste a bunch of time and what if they can't help. I then thought I could just do it through the mail or fedex but I'm nervous about listing someone else's address as my own. It would be one of my family member's address but I'm not sure if the passport processing facilities really do a thorough background check or not. So I wouldn't want to get caught in a white lie about the US address not really being mine. I mean there has to be a reasonable way to do this right? It's not like all expats have to jump through hoops to get their passports renewed. Thanks for your help if you can answer this.

ANSWER:

Hi Joel,

You'll be happy to know that you already have the right answer. Find the nearest US Embassy and they should be able to help you out. Call them first to make sure what time they will see you. It should be as simple as taking your current travel documents, ID and then filling out some paperwork there.

I'm not sure what type of currency they will take. I'm guessing probably only dollars, US-based checks or US-based credit cards. You can ask them that on the phone when you call for the hours you can visit. Here is their phone number: (632) 301-2000
Enjoy your stay in the Philippines!