Here I thought the NYC embassy chup lup (close shop). I called the NYC Malaysian embassy this morning at 8:30 a.m. on the nuts. Both lines were busy, but I kept hitting the “Last # Dialed” button. Thank God for that feature. I have practically memorized the number 212-490-2722/3.
Finally, after 27 minutes of hitting that same button, someone answered the phone. I told the girl I want to renew my passport. Here is what I needed to do…..
1. Write a letter to the Consulate to request for a form for the renewal, and
2. Enclose a self-addressed together with a 39 cents stamped envelope.
Mailed the above to the NYC office. After I have received the form and completed it, mail the form together with the below items:
1. Original IC
2. Original Birth Certificate
3. Original passport
4. A copy each of IC and BC
5. $80 money order for the renewal fee
6. $14.40 stamp or I can do FedEx for the
7. 3 blue color background photos
Sounds easy enough. I then asked her how long it takes to process the passport. Boy, I got a surprised. It only takes 2 weeks. If I come in person to the NYC office, it takes 1 day. I told her what I heard on the recorded message from the DC office which it says it takes 6 months or longer. The girl told me only in NYC has an immigration office. If citizens send their passports to the DC and LA office, it will take at least 3 months to get them back.
Peace of mind!