Merchant mariners have access to specialized passport services that accommodate their unique travel requirements, including expedited processing and no-fee work passports. The process involves submitting a DS-82 renewal application (for those with existing passports expiring within 7 months) or applying for a new no-fee passport through the Special Issuance Agency. Key requirements include a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), a letter from an employer or union confirming job-related travel needs, and specific documentation like passport photos and payment (for standard passports). Processing times range from 1 week for expedited renewals to 4-6 weeks for no-fee passports, with options for urgent COVID-19-related assistance.

• Eligibility: Must be a credentialed merchant mariner with a current or recently expired passport (within 7 months) to use DS-82 renewal ^[1][2][10].
• Required Documents: DS-82 application, passport photo, current passport, MMC copy (front/back), employer/union letter, and payment (check/money order for $208.32 for standard renewals) ^[1][2][5].
• No-Fee Passport Option: Available for work-related travel only; requires two simultaneous applications (personal + no-fee), MMC copy, and employer letter ^[3][5][7].
• Processing Locations: Standard renewals go to the El Paso Passport Agency; no-fee passports to the Special Issuance Agency in Sterling, VA ^[2][5].

Passport Application Process for Merchant Mariners

Standard Passport Renewal via DS-82

Merchant mariners can renew their passports using the DS-82 form if their current passport is expired or will expire within 7 months. This streamlined process is managed through the El Paso Passport Agency and is designed to accommodate the urgent travel needs of mariners. The Seafarers International Union highlights that completed applications are processed within approximately one week, with passports mailed back within 1-2 days of approval ^[1][2].

To qualify for this renewal process, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and submit a copy (front and back) with the application ^[1][2].
• Provide a letter from a supervisor or union confirming their status as a merchant mariner and the need for expedited processing ^[1][8].
• Include a completed DS-82 application, a recent passport photo (taken within the last 6 months), and their current passport ^[1][2].
• Submit a check or money order for $208.32, payable to the U.S. Department of State ^[1].

The Maritime Institute emphasizes that this process is specifically for credentialed mariners and requires eligibility for DS-82 renewal, which excludes first-time applicants or those with passports expired for over 5 years ^[10]. Applications should be mailed directly to:

El Paso Passport Agency
915-544-0220 [Address details available via union/employer resources]

For mariners facing COVID-19-related delays, the National Passport Information Center offers urgent assistance for those with passports expiring within 13 months or less. This requires scheduling an appointment and providing an employer/union letter ^[9].

No-Fee Passport for Work-Related Travel

Merchant mariners can obtain a no-fee passport exclusively for job-related international travel, issued through the Special Issuance Agency in Sterling, VA. This passport is valid for 5 years and must be applied for simultaneously with a personal passport (which can be used for both work and leisure travel) ^[5]. The process requires submitting two separate applications at the same time, along with supporting documentation ^[3][5].

Key requirements for the no-fee passport include:

• A copy of the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) to verify professional status ^[5].
• A letter from the employer or union stating that the passport is required for work and confirming the mariner’s role. The letter should explicitly mention the need for a no-fee passport ^[3][5].
• A current personal passport (if renewing) or a completed application for a new personal passport, submitted alongside the no-fee application ^[5].
• Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks, though expedited options may be available for urgent cases ^[5].

The Professional Mariner Forum notes that applicants must mail both applications to:

Special Issuance Agency
Attn: No-Fee Passport Section 1111 19th St NW, Suite 400 Sterling, VA 20166