The U.S. Department of State has waived passport fees for members of American search and rescue teams deployed internationally under federal disaster relief agreements. The rule took effect on April 3, 2024, following the publication of a final rule in the Federal Register.
Eligibility and Implementation
The fee waiver applies to U.S. citizens operating under federal contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements for disaster response. It covers individuals deployed overseas or on standby for immediate deployment. Eligibility is determined by the Secretary of State, and passports are issued through the State Department’s Special Issuance Agency. The exemption does not apply to personal travel.
Policy Background
The change implements the First Responders Passport Act, enacted as part of the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. The legislation amended federal passport law to allow fee waivers for disaster response personnel under official U.S. agreements. The State Department covers costs through appropriated funds, invoicing the sponsoring federal agency.
Official Rationale
The State Department stated the rule honors the work of first responders assisting abroad. Assistant Secretary Mora Namdar emphasized the critical role of these teams in international disaster relief.