Americans flock to renew passports in Bordeaux

American citizens in the west of France have snapped up appointments to renew their passport at the US Bordeaux Consulate, suggesting high demand.

This in-person service is usually only available at the US Embassy in Paris, or the Consulate General in Marseille or Strasbourg.

“Message for US citizens: save the date to apply for your passport,” reads a statement posted on social media by the US Bordeaux Consulate, one month in advance of the passport-only event on October 16. 

The Consulate told The Connexion that all appointment slots have now been filled.

The US Embassy in Paris confirmed that “applying” for a US passport includes renewals and the only first-time passport applicants that can apply are those who have already been documented as US citizens via the Consular Report of Birth Abroad process.

While opportunities to renew US passports in Bordeaux are rare, the Embassy does “try to provide outreach as [they] are able.”  

"We are always available to assist US citizens with ACS [American Citizens Services] in Paris, Marseille, and Strasbourg,” they added.

The US Bordeaux Consulate, which was one of four consulates named as at risk of closure under the Trump administration earlier this year, posts updates and events on its Facebook page.

For more information regarding future outreach events in Bordeaux, contact: usabordeaux@state.gov

Renewing a US passport in France

The passport renewal process for US citizens resident in France is relatively straightforward and can be done by mail, however in-person appointments are required if:

• you are aged 16 or under

• you were 16 or under when your previous passport was issued

• your previous passport was issued more than 15 years ago

• your name has changed since your passport was issued and you do not have any official evidence to support it

• your passport was lost, stolen or damaged