Streamlined instructions for intended parents via surrogacy to obtain a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) and U.S. Passport in a single day.
Quick Summary
Location: U.S. Embassy Bogotá, U.S. Citizen Services (ACS) Entrance.
Efficiency: CRBA and Passport applications are now processed concurrently.
Timeline: Same-day pickup is available if the application is submitted correctly during morning appointments.
Pre-Appointment Checklist
Before arriving at the embassy, ensure the following digital and physical steps are completed:
Payment: Be prepared to pay the fees at the embassy (Major credit cards or USD/COP cash accepted).
Online Application: Complete all forms via the U.S. State Department website.
Dual Filing: Ensure you are applying for the CRBA and DS-11 (Passport) simultaneously.
Appointment Booking: Schedule your visit through the ACS online portal immediately after completing the forms.
Embassy Navigation & Workflow
The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá follows a specific 4-window system. Organizing your documents in this order will significantly speed up your processing time.
The Entrance
- Enter through the U.S. Citizen Services entrance.
- Proceed through two security checkpoints.
- There is a shaded outdoor patio available for final document organization before entry.
The 4-Window Process
- Triage, Initial Intake, Staff will verify you have all necessary forms.
- Window 1, Payment, Pay CRBA and Passport execution fees.
- Window 2–3, Document Review, Submission of birth certificates, DNA results (if applicable), and surrogacy contracts.
- Window 4, Interview & Oath, Final verification with a Consular Officer.
Same-Day Pickup Protocol
After your Window 4 interview, you will be issued a Pickup Card.
- Action: Keep this card secure.
- Timing: Return to the embassy at the time specified on the card (typically late afternoon).
- Result: You will receive the physical passport, allowing for immediate travel coordination.
Pro-Tips for Surrogacy Parents
Document Order: Embassy staff prefer documents organized exactly as requested in the official checklist. Having these “ready to hand over” can shave 30+ minutes off your window time.
Travel Planning: While same-day service is the current standard, it is recommended to book return flights for the day after your appointment to account for any unexpected system delays.
Download the Full Tool Kit
For a detailed map of the embassy grounds and a specific “Surrogacy Document Organizer,” please request the “The American Stork Passport Guide“.
How to access:
- Direct Message: @TheAmericanStork on Instagram.
- Web: Visit the Contact Page at The American Stork website.