Types Of Passports

Diplomatic (black cover)
Issued to American diplomats accredited overseas, or to those who reside in the United States but frequently travel abroad for diplomatic work. Valid for a maximum of five years from date of issue.

Official (maroon cover)
Available to U.S. citizen employees of the Federal government assigned overseas (either permanent or temporary) and their dependents, and to members of Congress who are traveling on official business. Valid for a maximum of five years from date of issue.

Tourist/Regular (blue cover)
Ordinary travel passports issued to citizens and nationals. Valid for ten years for those aged 16 and over. Valid for five years for those aged 15 and under. A variation is the "no-fee" passport issued to U.S. citizen dependents of military personnel stationed overseas. Such passports contain an appropriate endorsement and are subject to the same restrictions on personal travel as official passports.

Emergency
Issued to travelers overseas whose document was stolen, misplaced or mutilated. Usually valid for one re-entry into the United States. Can be issued at a nearby United States Embassy or Consulate.

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