UA Passports - Tucson, Arizona

UA Passports: Your Official Passport Processing Center

For individuals requiring US passports or passport card renewals, the UA Passports service at the University of Arizona stands as a crucial resource, particularly for the Tucson community and visitors to the region. Located within the Student Union Memorial Center, this facility operates as the designated passport office on the campus, offering a convenient and relatively accessible location for official travel document needs. It's worth noting that while it is an official passport acceptance facility authorized by the US government, it functions primarily as an application submission point; the actual processing and issuance of passports are handled by the US Department of State, with results typically communicated via mail. Understanding the specific role of UA Passports versus the federal agency it collaborates with is essential for setting proper expectations regarding timelines and outcomes.

Location and Accessibility

Nestled within the bustling Student Union Memorial Center, the UA Passports facility is situated at Address: Student Union Memorial Center, 1303 E University Blvd Room 142, Tucson, AZ 85719, United States. This central location places passport services within easy reach of many on-campus offices, student centers, and university-affiliated businesses, contributing to its popularity among the university population and surrounding community members needing services. Accessibility is a key consideration for many visitors; fortunately, the location boasts a Wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring physical access for individuals with mobility challenges upon arrival. Furthermore, the site features a Wheelchair-accessible car park, providing designated, convenient parking spaces for patrons with disabilities, enhancing the overall accessibility of the service. This commitment to accessibility reflects the university's dedication to serving a diverse clientele, including students, faculty, staff, and local residents.

Core Function and Specialties

The primary function of this facility is its designation as a dedicated Passport office. Its official specialties revolve around processing passport applications and applications for US passport cards. This includes managing the initial stages of the application process – verifying applicant information, collecting required fees, gathering necessary documentation, taking official passport photographs (subject to machine availability), and submitting completed applications to the US Department of State. It is not a place to physically obtain a passport directly from the government; rather, it serves as a crucial intermediary, handling the application submission and supporting documentation for those seeking or renewing their travel documents. This specialization makes it an invaluable hub for all pre-submission logistical requirements related to obtaining US travel credentials.

Information and Recommendations for Potential Applicants

When approaching UA Passports, preparation is paramount for a smooth experience. Based on operational feedback, several recommendations can significantly facilitate the application process:

1. 
   

   Proof and Payment

   Applicants must be prepared to present various forms of proof of US citizenship and identity. Commonly accepted documents include a valid US birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Equally important is the acceptable payment method. It is strongly advised to bring a personal check drawn on a US bank, as the facility typically does not accept credit cards or cash for the passport application fees. Finding out the exact fee beforehand is recommended, as payment is a critical step without which the application cannot be accepted.

2. 
   

   Bring All Required Documents

   Having all necessary documents readily available beyond just identification and proof of citizenship is crucial. This often includes a DS-11 form (for new applicants), or the appropriate application form (DS-82 for renewal by mail, or DS-11 for in-person renewal) along with the required number of recent photos. The volume of business at this location means that being fully prepared from the outset can help minimize delays. The need to present a check and other documents upfront is a recurring point in feedback, underscoring the importance of prior research into requirements.

3. 
   

   Manage Expectations Regarding Wait Times

   As highlighted by numerous reviews, the UA Passports location is a high-traffic facility. Patrons should anticipate significant wait times, with average processing times per customer reportedly reaching around fifteen minutes. This includes wait time in the queue and the time taken for processing the application and taking photos. Being prepared for a potentially lengthy visit is essential. It is recommended to arrive with patience and consider scheduling during less peak hours if possible, although wait times can fluctuate based on daily volume.

4. 
   

   Contingency Planning for Technical Issues

   Occasionally, as noted by some visitors, the in-house photo service may encounter technical difficulties, such as malfunctioning equipment. In such cases, staff may suggest alternatives, like being directed to a nearby commercial vendor (like the CVS mentioned in one review) to have a photo taken that meets the strict government requirements. While this adds a step, it is presented as a solution when the facility's own capabilities are temporarily unavailable. It's wise to be aware of nearby options in case this situation arises.

5. 
   

   Understand the Processing Limitations

   Crucially, applicants should understand that UA Passports itself does not handle the actual physical processing or mailing of the passports to applicants. Their role stops at submitting the application package to the US government. The timeline for receiving the actual passport or card, which can vary significantly from weeks to months depending on the service requested and current government processing times, is entirely outside the control of the university facility and requires patience. Regularly checking the official US Department of State website for processing times is recommended.

Assessing the Experience

Feedback from the community provides a nuanced picture of the UA Passports experience. While wait times can be substantial, many reviews acknowledge the helpfulness and friendliness of the employees working there. Their professionalism in guiding applicants through the sometimes confusing federal requirements is often noted positively. Despite the busy nature of the location, the overall process is frequently described as manageable. The experience is further enhanced by the university's location and its commitment to accessibility features. Although the average rating seen online might suggest room for improvement regarding wait times and potential minor hiccups (like photo machine downtime), the facility remains a practical and necessary option for passport services in the Tucson area, especially for the university community. Patience and thorough preparation are key to navigating its procedures effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, UA Passports represents a vital service facility located conveniently within the main university complex in Tucson. Its primary role is efficiently managing the application submission process for US passports and passport cards, though it is essential to distinguish its function from actual government processing. While lauded for helpful staff and accessibility, it faces common challenges associated with high volume, including significant wait times and the requirement to use specific payment methods like checks. By understanding these operational aspects and preparing thoroughly with the necessary documentation and patience, individuals can successfully utilize the services offered by this UA Passports facility to embark on their travels with confidence.

For further details regarding the application process, required documents, and current wait time estimates, the primary source of information is the official university portal, accessible via Website: union.arizona.edu. This resource provides up-to-date guidelines and forms, reinforcing the facility's role as a facilitator for obtaining essential travel documents.

👍 Reviews of UA Passports

Chris

4/5

Helpful and friendly employees. This location is super busy with a fifteen minute average processing time per customer. Make sure you have all your documents including a check since the government doesn't except card or cash for passports etc. Their photo machine was out of order when I arrived so they sent me around the corner the the CVS to get that done but everything went pretty smoothly and it was a good experience overall.

Alexandra L.

5/5

Very impressed with Charity and the passport office staff! I was worried coming in for Canadian passport photos might cause some difficulty, but it didn't phase them one bit. Also, when a customer came in needing a quicker turnaround on his passport than this office could provide, Charity was able to explain exactly where else to go and what to do to make that happen. Again, really impressed!

ERL

1/5

Pathetic office full of rude employees who will try harder to send you away than they will try to help you. Take your money anywhere else!!! No parking, terrible location, and DISRESPECTFUL attitudes are all that is available here. Zero stars should be an option because one star is far too generous.

Ed L.

1/5

Most unpleasant experience. 5 people sitting in the office snacking no one offered help or looked up from their food. Also you have to make an appointment which it does not say on their website. What a waste of time. Rude rude rude. I doubt UofA will adress this.

marwan A.

1/5

Long wait
Only one employee out there, and she is slow. I had to wait 30 mins to take my photos only. I will never get here again.

Update (4/1/2021) after one year of the previous review:

This place is disorganized, with only one person working. Guess what? I arrived at 9, and the reservation system was closed as “ALL” slots were taken. I came again at 12:00 as the mentioned and guess what too, ppl who reserved before noon didn't finish yet!!!

It is 2021, which means you can make a reservation for an appointment online. Free hint for you: Online is reasonable to protect ppl from spreading the virus. Why would I need to come twice and I am not able to get an appointment!!

If you plan to come, please don't. Go somewhere else.

Zech B.

1/5

I got there on time, had all my paperwork, had my money order. And it all went through, but the lady at the front desk was so eager to find a reason to not have to do her job it was insane. She was borderline aggressive. Asking for the certain form and as I look in my stack of paperwork, within 3 seconds she said "Sir if you don't have it this whole appointment is cancelled" in a tone that made me feel like she was livid about something. As she files something she tells her coworker how much she hates this place and the lunch scheduling or some nonsense. When she took my picture I sat down and without warning or anything she took the picture. The whole time aggressively directing me to the chair and back to the desk where she continued to nag to her poor coworker. When I mentioned the website said the picture fee was 20$ ish but I was getting charged 50... which it is what it is. But all I said was I thought the website said 20$ and she instantly starts like crumbling up the paper work and said if you can't pay the whole appointment is cancelled... super aggressively... I finally snapped and said "Chill out". The most unpleasant person I've ever dealt with. I was there June 24th , 11:15 am appointment

Cece M.

1/5

VERY RUDE STAFF. I came here for an appointment, my 1st time ever getting a passport. Super excited, went in great attitude and immediately was shut down by the staff who was so mean to me, snapped at me because i didn't have my ONE page filled out prior to my arrival, she claimed it was going to take 30 min to fill out, it was a 5 minute form. Not only was she rude but she purposely INSULTED me and stated this " I don't know if your Mom booked this appt but you should have read the rules before you walked in now I wont see you". I totally understand rules are rules but it was the way she delivered the message to me. Very mean and insinuating my MOM made the appt. I made it on my own and I'm guessing she thinks I'm a college student that's why she was talking down on me. I'm not a student I'm young. Now she rescheduled me for 2 weeks away, I feel like she did that on purpose to be mean. her delivery and tone was just totally uncalled for. Didn't catch her name but she was Hispanic, older and on the large size. Next time a little compassion and customer service would be great. Most people coming into these places are doing it for the very first time.

Cecilia M.

1/5

I went at 4pm and you were already completely closed and locked up. I took time off of work to be able to do this because I work within your exact hours of operation. You guys suck. Do your jobs.