Mailing Your Application to the LA Consulate: New Address, USPS Tips, 3 Mistakes to Avoid

October 14, 2026 · Visa Knowledge

Applying for a visa, renewing a passport, or replacing a Travel Permit — many people prepare their documents perfectly, only to trip at the very last step: how to mail them. Wrong address or the wrong USPS service means your package gets returned, costing you weeks.

All three tips below come from the Consulate's official notice. Check each one before you mail.

1. Use the new address: 500 Shatto Place — the old one is dead

The Consulate explicitly reminds: the old address at 443 Shatto Place no longer accepts mail — sending there risks losing your documents. Many articles online still list the old address; don't copy them.

2. Choose the right USPS service: tracking yes, signature no

The Consulate requires USPS Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express with tracking, and you should keep your Tracking Number to check the delivery status.

Crucially: do NOT buy or check any service that requires the recipient's signature — including Signature Confirmation, Signature Required, Certified Mail, Registered Mail, Restricted Delivery, Insured Mail, Adult Signature, Return Receipt, and COD Hold For Pickup. Packages with these services will be returned directly by USPS.

• Some Priority Mail Express labels include signature service by default — confirm it is removed when you mail.
• Do not use USPS Smart Lockers: some applicants' documents could not be delivered in time because of them, delaying the whole process.

3. Let us take the hassle off your hands

• Drop-off service: from $120 (excluding consulate fees) — hand us your documents and we handle the mailing, tracking, and timing.
• Mail-in service: available nationwide — document checklist + pre-check + mailing, all handled for you.

Worried about mailing it wrong? Contact us, tell us your document type — consultation is free.