51FSS

Special Issuance Passport (SIP)

Why do you need a SIP?

In order to PCS or travel on official orders, DoD ID holders MUST obtain a Special Issuance Passport. Largely due to COVID-19, official travel on a US tourist passport to South Korea, Japan, Germany and other foreign countries will no longer be allowed. An ETP may be applied for proof of submission of an SIP until 30 September 2022.

How long is the process?

The SIP- Special Issuance Passport may take 10 weeks or longer to arrive in Korea. The wait time may even be longer with an influx of DoD ID cardholders applying for their SIPs.

Who needs a SIP?

  • Dependents of Service Members (CSP) – US Citizens
  • Non-CSP-US Citizens- If leaving South Korea on official orders to a foreign location
  • US Government Employed Civilians & Dependents

Individuals that DO NOT require (or cannot obtain) a SIP – Non-Command Sponsored Dependents, Non-US Dependents (Command Sponsored or not), US Contractors.

Where and when can I apply for my SIP?

SIPs may be processed through the Passport Office.

  • Building 936/Room 936 115
  • Operation Hours: 0730-1530
  • DSN: 784-4354

Do you have everything you need to process you SIP?
Note: All passport application forms (DS-82 and DS-11) must be completed via the “Passport Wizard” on travel.state.gov, and printed singled sided. DO NOT use the PDF download forms and DO NOT sign the application form.

Click here to view Passport Application Instructions.

  • DS-82 For members 16+yrs and are renewing their Official/No-Fee Passport
  • DS-11 For members applying for an Official/No-Fee Passport for the first time.
  • Original Proof of Citizenship such as birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, naturalization certificate, current or expired passport
    • First time applicants and minor applicants under 16 years of age – Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth, or U.S. birth certificate: issued by city, county or state of birth, lists applicant’s full name, date and place of birth, list parent(s)’ full names, has registrar’s signature and date filed with office (must be within 1 year of birth), and has the seal of the issuing authority.
  • Military IDs of sponsor and authorized dependents. Parents must show ID for their dependent child.
  • Orders/Command Sponsor or LOE Military PCS Orders and Command Sponsor orders or Civilian Letter of Employment.
  • Previous/Expired Passport (If applicable): Only 1 special issued passport is permitted at one time.-Proof of name change documents (If applicable): : If sponsor and dependents have different last names
  • 2 Passport Photos (2″x2″) taken within the last 6 months.

Passport photos may also be taken at Studio 51.

  • Building 937/Room 106
  • Passport Photo Operation Hours: Monday-Friday from 0730-1600.
  • DSN 784-8061
  • No appointment needed
  • Studio 51 Passport Photos Fee: $15 (cash or credit/debit accepted)

For additional questions or concerns please contact the Passport Office at DSN 784-4354 or via email 51FSS.passport@us.af.mil.