Passport Guide for Burlington KS: Applications, Renewals, Facilities

Getting Your Passport in Burlington, KS

Residents of Burlington, Kansas, in Coffey County, often need passports for international business trips—such as agricultural exports to Europe or Asia—family vacations to Mexico or the Caribbean during spring and summer peaks, or winter escapes. Kansas sees steady demand from students in exchange programs heading to Europe, and occasional urgent last-minute travel for family emergencies or work. However, high seasonal volumes can strain local facilities, leading to limited appointment slots at the Burlington Post Office, the primary acceptance facility here [1]. This guide covers everything from choosing your service to common pitfalls like photo rejections or missing minor documents, drawing directly from U.S. Department of State guidelines.

Determine Which Passport Service You Need

Before gathering documents, identify your situation to use the correct form and process. Misusing a renewal form for a first-time application, for example, is a top reason for delays [2].

First-Time Passport

If you've never had a U.S. passport or your previous one was issued before age 16, you must apply in person using Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility—there's no mail or online option for first-time applicants.

Full Requirements (Bring Originals—Photocopies Won't Work):

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Certified birth certificate (full version, not short form or hospital keepsake—common rejection). U.S. naturalization certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or prior undamaged passport also qualify.
• Valid Photo ID: Driver's license, state ID, or military ID matching your citizenship document's name. If names differ, bring legal proof like marriage certificate.
• Passport Photo: One recent 2x2-inch color photo (white background, head size 1-1⅜ inches, no glasses/selfies/home prints—major cause of returns).
• Fees: Application fee by check to "U.S. Department of State"; execution fee by cash/check/money order to the facility (verify current amounts online to avoid delays).

Practical Tips for Burlington, KS Area:

• Use travel.state.gov locator (search "Burlington, KS") to find nearby facilities—rural spots often require appointments, have limited hours, and process slower, so apply 10-13 weeks before travel.
• Common mistakes: Forgetting originals, wrong photo specs, or assuming mail-in is possible (delays weeks); not checking expiration (processing takes 6-8 weeks standard, 2-3 expedited).
• For minors under 16: Both parents/guardians must attend with ID and relationship proof, or submit notarized DS-3053 consent form—plan extra time.

Decision Guidance: Before DS-11, confirm if you qualify for renewal via DS-82 (mail-in, faster/cheaper if passport issued after age 16, within 15 years, undamaged, same name). Use State Dept. wizard at travel.state.gov to decide [2].

Passport Renewal

Eligible if your passport was issued within the last 15 years, you're over 16, and it's undamaged/not reported lost/stolen. Use Form DS-82, which you can mail—no in-person visit needed unless adding pages or changing data. Kansas residents with expired passports from post offices like Burlington's can renew by mail to save time [2].

Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport

Step 1: Report the loss or theft immediately. Use Form DS-64 (free, online at travel.state.gov or mail) to notify the State Department and invalidate the passport, preventing identity theft or misuse. Do this before applying for a replacement—common mistake: skipping this, which delays processing and risks liability.

Step 2: Apply for replacement based on your situation.

• Lost or stolen (no passport to return): Treat as a new application—complete Form DS-11 in person at a passport acceptance facility (e.g., many Kansas post offices handle these). Include: 1 passport photo, proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate), photo ID, evidence of loss (police report strongly recommended for stolen cases, especially for reimbursement), fees ($130+ for adult book), and Form DS-64 copy. Processing: 6-8 weeks standard, 2-3 weeks expedited (+$60).
• Damaged (passport available): Use Form DS-5504 by mail if issued within the last year. Include the damaged passport, explanation/photos of damage, 1 photo, ID photocopy, and fees (often waived if not your fault). Common mistake: mailing without marking "Damaged" clearly or omitting damage photos.
• Name change or printing error: Also DS-5504 by mail if recent issue; include legal name change docs (marriage certificate, court order).

Decision guidance:

Track status online with application locator number. Retain receipts/police reports for travel waivers or insurance claims. For Kansas specifics, verify facility hours/services via USPS tool—many small-town spots like those near Burlington process DS-11 efficiently.

Additional Pages

If your passport has fewer than half blank pages, get a renewal even if not expired—use DS-82 by mail [2].

For name changes due to marriage/divorce, use DS-5504 by mail within one year of the change [2].

Passport Acceptance Facilities in Burlington and Nearby

Burlington's main facility is the Burlington Post Office at 106 N 3rd St, Burlington, KS 66839 (phone: 620-364-2494). Hours for passport services are typically weekdays; call ahead for appointments, as Kansas facilities book up fast during spring/summer travel surges and winter breaks [3]. They handle first-time applications (DS-11), minors, and some replacements.

If slots are full:

• Coffey County Clerk (County Courthouse, 110 S 6th St, Burlington, KS 66839; 620-364-2100) may offer services—confirm directly [4].
• Nearby: Emporia Post Office (25 Main St, Emporia, KS 66801, 25 miles west) or Garnett Post Office (20 miles north) [3].

Use the State Department's locator for real-time availability: iafdb.travel.state.gov [1]. Appointments are required at post offices; walk-ins are rare.

Required Documents and Forms

Gather originals—photocopies won't suffice. Kansas birth certificates come from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Vital Statistics [5]. Order online or by mail if needed (allow 2-4 weeks processing).

• Proof of Citizenship: Certified U.S. birth certificate (not hospital short form), naturalization certificate, or previous passport. For minors born abroad, Consular Report of Birth Abroad [2].
• Photo ID: Driver's license, military ID. Must match application name. Provide photocopy of front/back [2].
• Passport Photo: One 2x2 inch color photo, taken within 6 months [6].
• Forms: DS-11 (in person, unsigned until sworn), DS-82 (mail for renewals).
• For Minors under 16: Both parents' consent (Form DS-3053 if one absent), evidence of parental relationship. All minors need in-person appearance [2].

Common challenge: Incomplete minor docs delay 20-30% of apps [2].

Passport Photos: Avoid Rejections

Photos cause most returns—Kansas applicants often face issues from home printers (shadows/glare) or incorrect sizing. Specs [6]:

• 2x2 inches, head 1-1 3/8 inches.
• White/cream background, neutral expression, eyes open.
• No glasses (unless medically necessary), hats (unless religious), uniforms.
• Taken by professional: Walgreens, CVS, or UPS Stores in Emporia (~$15) [7].

Pro tip: Check the State Department's photo tool online before submitting [6]. Rejections add 2-4 weeks.

Fees and Payment

Pay acceptance facility fees separately (check/money order; ~$35) [3]. Passport fees to State Department:

• Adult book (10yr): $130 application + $30 execution.
• Child book (5yr): $100 + $35 execution.
• Expedited: +$60 [2].

1-2 day delivery: +$21.10 [2]. No credit cards at post offices—cashier's check preferred.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Routine: 6-8 weeks (mail) or 10-13 weeks door-to-door [8]. Peaks (spring/summer, winter) stretch to 14+ weeks—don't count on last-minute [8].

• Expedited: 2-3 weeks (+$60). Available at acceptance facilities [8].
• Urgent (travel <14 days): Life-or-death only qualifies for 1-2 day at agency ($60 + overnight fees). Visit Kansas City Passport Agency (by appt only, 816-426-4400) if <14 days away [9]. Expedited ≠ urgent; confusion delays many Kansans [8].

Track at passportstatus.state.gov [1]. No guarantees—plan 3+ months ahead for seasonal travel.

Step-by-Step Checklist for First-Time Adult Passport (DS-11)

1. Fill Form DS-11: Complete online at travel.state.gov, print single-sided. Do not sign [2].
2. Gather Documents: Certified birth certificate, photo ID + photocopy, one photo.
3. Book Appointment: Call Burlington Post Office (620-364-2494) or use online scheduler [3].
4. Pay Fees: Execution fee on-site; passport fee by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State."
5. Attend Appointment: Swear oath, submit in person. Get receipt.
6. Track and Receive: Online after 1 week; passport mails in 10-13 weeks routine.

Checklist for Minors under 16

1. DS-11 + DS-3053 (parental consent if needed):
   Fill out Form DS-11 (application for new passport) by hand in black ink—do not sign until instructed at the acceptance facility. Use DS-3053 only if one or both parents/guardians can't attend (one parent signs it in front of a notary). Download fresh forms from travel.state.gov to avoid outdated versions. Common mistake: Pre-signing DS-11 or using photocopies of forms. Tip: Both parents' consent is federally required; decide upfront if scheduling around work/travel in a small town like Burlington.

2. Both parents/guardians present (or notarized statement):
   All must appear in person with the child under 16. If impossible, the attending parent/guardian brings a notarized DS-3053 from the absent one (include photocopy of their ID). Notarizations must be recent (within 90 days) and done by a commissioned notary. Common mistake: Vague "permission letters" instead of DS-3053, or expired notarizations. Decision guidance: In rural Kansas areas, find notaries at banks or UPS stores early—plan for one parent's travel if needed to avoid delays.

3. Child's birth cert, parents' IDs, relationship proof:
   Bring original U.S. birth certificate (or Consular Report of Birth Abroad) listing both parents' names, plus valid photo IDs for parents/guardians (Kansas driver's license, state ID, or passport accepted). No photocopies for birth cert—must show parent-child link clearly. Common mistake: Assuming hospital birth records suffice (need vital records version) or forgetting to prove custody if applicable (court orders). Tip: Order Kansas birth certs online via vitalcheks.com if lost; allow 2-4 weeks delivery to Burlington-area addresses.

4. Photos (no one else in frame):
   Provide two identical 2x2-inch color photos on white/cream background, taken within 6 months: child facing forward, eyes open/neutral expression, no glasses/headwear (unless medical/religious with proof), full face visible (head 1-1⅜ inches). No selfies, parent in frame, or filters. Common mistake: Drugstore prints too glossy/dark or child smiling/tilted. Decision guidance: Use local pharmacies or photo shops in southeast Kansas for $15/set—verify specs with them first to avoid rejection (90% of issues are photos).

5. Fees: Higher execution for minors [2]:
   Passport fee ($100 child book/5 years) by check/money order to "U.S. Department of State"; separate execution fee ($35+) payable to the facility (cash/check—call ahead for preferences). Minors often incur full execution fee without discounts. Common mistake: Single payment method or forgetting two checks. Tip: In Burlington vicinity, confirm exact execution fee and payment options by phone; add $60 expedite fee if travel within 2-3 weeks, or $21.36 1-2 day delivery. Total ~$160+ without extras.

Renewal by Mail (DS-82) Checklist

Use this streamlined process only if you fully qualify—otherwise, apply in person with DS-11 to avoid rejection and delays. Common mistake: Assuming eligibility without double-checking; verify first to save time.

1. Eligible? Passport issued within last 15 years when you were age 16+, not damaged/report lost/stolen, and you're renewing your own passport (not a child's). Decision tip: If any "no," use DS-11 at an acceptance facility. Mistake: Renewing a passport issued before age 16—must apply as new.

2. Complete DS-82 form accurately. Download from travel.state.gov, fill in black ink (no corrections tape), sign only after printing. Include your most recent passport, one passport photo (2x2 inches, white background, taken within 6 months, head size 1-1⅜ inches, no selfies/glasses/smiles), and fees (check/money order payable to U.S. Department of State; separate execution fee not needed for renewals). Clarity: Track your application online after mailing. Mistake: Poor photo quality or signing too early—leads to return.

3. Mail securely. Send via USPS Priority (with tracking) to: National Passport Processing Center, PO Box 90155, Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155. Decision guidance: Add $60 expedited fee + overnight return envelope for 2-3 week processing (vs. 6-8 weeks routine). Mistake: Using personal check (must be institutional) or forgetting tracking.

Processing: 6-8 weeks routine; status at travel.state.gov. If travel soon, don't mail—go in person.

Special Considerations for Kansas Residents

Coffey County birth certificates (for Burlington residents): No vital records issued locally in Burlington—always order from Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) online at kdhe.ks.gov ($20 first copy, $20 each additional; allow 2-4 weeks processing + mailing). Tip: Upload photo ID; request expedited ($15 extra) if urgent. Mistake: Contacting county clerk for birth certs—they can't issue state-required ones. Decision: Use certified copy (raised seal), not photocopy.

Business travelers: Plan 6+ weeks ahead; opt for expedited service ($60 extra) for trips to Asia/Europe where visas require 6-month passport validity. Clarity: Check destination entry rules at travel.state.gov.

Students: Check Emporia State University (nearby) or local colleges for group passport events—faster photos/docs help. Mistake: Forgetting student ID as secondary proof.

Urgent travel (<14 days out): Skip acceptance facilities; drive to nearest passport agency in Kansas City, MO (~2-hour drive from Burlington) only with confirmed tickets/proof of travel. Call 1-877-487-2778 first—appointments required, no walk-ins. Decision: 2-14 days = expedited at agency; life/death = emergency.

Passport Facilities and Nearby Locations in and Around Burlington

Passport acceptance facilities in Burlington and surrounding Coffey County areas (e.g., post offices, county clerk offices, libraries, municipal buildings) are authorized U.S. Department of State sites for new/renewal applications. They verify docs, witness signatures, collect fees, and forward to processing—no passports issued same-day (expect 6-8 weeks routine). Decision guidance: Use for routine needs; facilities handle most adult/child apps but confirm expedited/child availability via travel.state.gov locator tool (search "Burlington KS").

Preparation essentials (arrive 15-30 min early):

• Completed DS-11 (new/ineligible renewal) or DS-82.
• Two compliant photos (get at pharmacies/CVS; $15-20).
• Original proof of citizenship (e.g., KDHE birth cert) + photocopy.
• Valid photo ID (driver's license/passport) + photocopy.
• Fees: Application ($130 adult/$100 child book) + $35 execution (cash/check/money order; separate payments). Common mistakes: Incomplete forms (pre-fill but don't sign DS-11/82 until instructed), expired ID, non-compliant photos (measure head size), forgetting photocopies (staff provide but delays you), or arriving without appointment (call ahead for busy spots).

Pro tips for Burlington area: Small-town facilities have limited hours (e.g., weekdays only)—use locator for wait times/by appointment. Nearby towns expand options. For kids <16: Both parents/guardians needed or notarized consent. Track status post-submission at travel.state.gov.

Typical Busy Times and Planning Tips

Acceptance facilities in the Burlington area tend to see higher volumes during peak travel seasons like summer and holidays, as well as on Mondays and mid-day periods when working professionals and families converge. To minimize delays, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, and avoid weekends if possible. Always verify current procedures online or by phone beforehand, as availability can vary. Making an appointment through the facility's system, where offered, is wise for smoother service. Pack patience and all documents meticulously—errors can lead to rescheduling. Planning ahead ensures a stress-free experience amid fluctuating demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I apply in Burlington?
Plan 3-6 months ahead, especially spring/summer. Routine processing is 10-13 weeks; peaks add delays [8].

Can I renew my passport at the Burlington Post Office?
No—renewals (DS-82) go by mail. Post office only for DS-11/first-time [3].

What if my child needs a passport urgently?
Same rules: <14 days requires agency visit. Both parents must appear or provide DS-3053 [2].

Why was my photo rejected?
Common: Shadows, glare, wrong size, smiling. Use the validation tool [6].

Do I need an appointment at Burlington Post Office?
Yes—call or check online. High demand fills slots quickly [3].

Can I get a passport for my newborn quickly?
Routine 10-13 weeks. Get birth cert first (KDHE hospital filing takes 1-2 weeks) [5].

What if I lose my passport while traveling?
Report via DS-64 online, contact U.S. embassy abroad [2].

Is expedited service guaranteed?
No—still 2-3 weeks, longer in peaks. Not for <14 day urgent [8].

Sources

[1]U.S. Department of State - Passports
[2]U.S. Department of State - Forms
[3]USPS - Passport Services
[4]Coffey County KS Official Site
[5]Kansas Department of Health and Environment - Vital Statistics
[6]U.S. Department of State - Passport Photos
[7]USPS - Passport Photo Locations
[8]U.S. Department of State - Processing Times
[9]U.S. Department of State - Passport Agencies