Passport Application On Hold: How to Read and Follow Up on the Status
A passport application on hold means extra review or information is needed. You can track your status online or by phone in the US and Canada and should respond quickly to any requests to avoid delays.
Contents
- What does it mean when my passport application is on hold?
- How can I check the status of my passport application?
- What information do I need to check my passport status online?
- How long does it typically take for a passport application to move from 'on hold' status to processing?
- What should I do if the Department of State requests more information about my passport application?
- Who can I contact if my passport application has been on hold for a long time?
- Are there differences in checking passport application status in the U.S. and Canada?
- Frequently asked questions
- The bottom line
- Sources & methodology
A passport application on hold means your application requires additional review or information before it can move forward. This often happens due to verification needs, documentation gaps, or security checks. You can check your passport application status online, by phone, or in person, and it’s important to promptly follow any instructions from passport authorities to avoid extra delays.
What does it mean when my passport application is on hold?
When your passport application shows an "on hold" status, it indicates that the passport agency needs additional information or verification before proceeding. This status can arise due to reasons such as identity verification issues, incomplete or unclear documents, ongoing background or security checks, or discrepancies flagged during processing.
Essentially, your application is temporarily paused until the agency resolves these concerns or receives any required documentation from you.
How can I check the status of my passport application?
You can check the status of your passport application differently depending on where you applied:
- United States: Use the U.S. Department of State’s online status tool by entering your last name, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number. If you included an email address with your application, you will receive automatic updates by email.
- Canada: You can check your passport status online, by phone, or in person at a passport office after the mandatory waiting periods which vary depending on your method of application.
These approaches help you monitor your application's progress and identify when the hold is resolved. Learn more on checking your U.S. passport status here and Canadian passport status here.
What information do I need to check my passport status online?
The details you need depend on the country where you applied:
- In the U.S.: You will need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to use the Department of State’s online tool.
- In Canada: You typically need your receipt number from your passport application or other identifying details depending on how and where you submitted your application.
Having this information ready allows you to quickly access your application status and receive timely updates.
How long does it typically take for a passport application to move from 'on hold' status to processing?
The timeframe for resolving an "on hold" status can vary widely based on the reason for the hold. Processing can take anywhere from several days to weeks.
For context, in the U.S., it can take up to two weeks from the date of application before your status initially appears as "In Process." However, no specific standard timeline exists for how long a hold may last, as it depends on individual application circumstances.
During this time, promptly responding to requests for additional information or documents can help speed up resolution.
What should I do if the Department of State requests more information about my passport application?
If the passport agency contacts you to request further information or documentation, it is important to:
- Carefully read and follow the instructions in the letter or email received.
- Submit all requested documents promptly to avoid further delays.
- Keep copies of all correspondence and submitted documents for your records.
Timely and accurate responses help ensure your application can move forward without unnecessary hold-ups.
Who can I contact if my passport application has been on hold for a long time?
If your application remains on hold beyond typical processing times, you may consider reaching out for assistance:
- In the U.S.: If you have not received your passport two weeks after the agency mailed it, call 1-877-487-2778 to inquire about the status of your application.
- In Canada: You can inquire about your application status via passport offices or contact centres, typically after the standard waiting periods based on your application method (five business days for in-person submissions and nine business days for mail applications).
Persistent delays warrant checking in to clarify if additional action is required or if your application has encountered specific issues.
Are there differences in checking passport application status in the U.S. and Canada?
Yes, there are notable differences:
| Aspect | United States | Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Status Checking Methods | Online tool and email notifications | Online, phone, and in-person options |
| Information needed | Last name, date of birth, last 4 digits of SSN | Receipt number or application details |
| Waiting periods before status check | Up to 2 weeks before processing starts | 5–9 business days or 19+ business days for applications outside Canada/U.S. |
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean when my passport application is on hold?
It means the passport authority requires additional information, documents, or verification before they can continue processing your application.
How can I check the status of my passport application?
In the U.S., check online using your last name and Social Security info. In Canada, check online, by phone, or in person after applicable waiting periods.
What should I do if the passport office requests additional documents?
Carefully follow the instructions provided, submit the requested documents promptly, and keep copies for your records to help avoid delays.
How long does passport processing usually take after being put on hold?
The time varies depending on the reason for the hold but can range from several days to weeks. Prompt responses can speed up processing.
Who do I contact if my passport application has been delayed for an extended period?
In the U.S., call the Department of State at 1-877-487-2778. In Canada, contact a passport office or service center after standard processing times have passed.
The bottom line
A passport application on hold signals that additional information or checks are required before your application proceeds. Understanding how to check your status and promptly responding to requests can help prevent delays. Whether in the U.S. or Canada, use the country-specific online tools and contacts to track your application and keep your travel plans on schedule.
For related travel communication options, see our guide on using one plan for USA and Canada that simplifies travel communication. For insights into government communication in other countries, you may also find useful information in understanding official roles and government communication in India.
Sources & methodology
We reviewed the primary references below when checking the time-sensitive facts in this guide. Product features, prices, rules and eligibility can change, so confirm important details with the linked authority before acting.
- Check Your Application Status travel.state.govThe U.S. Department of State provides an online tool to check the status of your passport application. To use this service, you need your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you included your email address on your application, you will receive email updates about your status. It can take up to two weeks from the day you apply until your application status is 'In Process.' If you have problems or need to change your mailing address, you can call 877-487-2778. ([travel.state.gov](https://travel.state.gov/en/passports/after-you-apply/application-status.html?utm_source=openai))
- After You Apply for Your Passport travel.state.govAfter applying for a U.S. passport, you can check your application status online using your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you included your email address on your application, you will receive email updates about your status. If you need to respond to a letter or email from the Department of State requesting more information, follow the instructions provided. If you have not received your passport after two weeks from the mailing date, call 1-877-487-2778. ([travel.state.gov](https://travel.state.gov/en/passports/after-you-apply.html?utm_source=openai))
- How to check the status of your passport application www.canada.caIn Canada, you can check the status of your passport application online. If you applied in person and it has been five business days or more, you can use the online tool, call, or visit a passport office. If you applied by mail and it has been nine business days or more, you can use the online tool, call, or visit a passport office. For applications made outside Canada or the U.S., wait 19 business days or more before checking the status. For urgent or express passport services, learn how to get them if you need a passport within 10 business days. ([canada.ca](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/check-passport-travel-document-application.html?utm_source=openai))
