State Dept Seeks Comments on Secret Defense Export Form
Published Date: 5/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of State wants your thoughts on updating the form used to apply for exporting or importing secret defense stuff, like classified tech and equipment. This affects businesses, nonprofits, and individuals who handle these sensitive items. You’ve got until July 27, 2026, to share your feedback, and filling out the form takes about 30 minutes—no surprise fees, just a little paperwork time!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Must File DSP-85 to Move Classified Items
If you intend to permanently export, temporarily export, or temporarily import classified defense articles or classified technical data covered by the U.S. Munitions List, you must submit Form DSP-85 to the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. When completed and approved by the Bureau of Political Military Affairs, the approved DSP-85 constitutes the official authorization under the Arms Export Control Act and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
Paperwork Time Burden: 30 Minutes Per Application
Completing Form DSP-85 takes an average of 30 minutes per response. The Department estimates 280 respondents and 280 responses for a total estimated burden of 140 hours; submissions may be sent electronically or by mail. Comments on this information collection are being accepted through July 27, 2026.
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Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20079, International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR): Review of the U.S. Munitions List and Related Definitions and License Exemptions
The U.S. Department of State wants to update the rules that control the export of military gear and tech to focus only on the most sensitive stuff. They’re making the list clearer, removing some items, and adding new ways to skip licenses for certain exports. If you deal with defense exports, get ready to review these changes and send your thoughts by November 30, 2026!
2026-17655, Passports: Expanding Online Passport Renewal Overseas
The Department proposes to amend 22 CFR 51.21 by consolidating requirements for persons applying by mail and online in the United States and overseas. This proposed change includes expanding online passport application availability to qualified applicants located in foreign countries. In addition, the Department is proposing to remove the requirement that an applicant's most recently issued passport must have a year or less of remaining validity to qualify to submit an online passport application. Finally, the Department is proposing technical corrections to 51.8(b) to change "on-line" to read "online" for consistency.
2026-04931, Schedule of Fees for Consular Services-Fee for Administrative Processing of Request for Certificate of Loss of Nationality of the United States
Good news for U.S. citizens and nationals who want to give up their citizenship! Starting April 13, 2026, the fee for processing a Certificate of Loss of Nationality drops from $2,350 to just $450. This big price cut makes it way easier and cheaper to handle this important paperwork at U.S. embassies and consulates.
2025-17851, Schedule of Fees for Consular Services, Department of State and Overseas Embassies and Consulates-Visa Services Fee Changes
The Department of State is adding a $1 fee to enter the Diversity Visa lottery to share costs more fairly among all applicants. This means everyone who wants to try their luck at the visa lottery will pay a small fee upfront, instead of only winners paying later. The new fee will start when you register online, so get ready to pay a buck when you apply!
2025-14826, Visas: Visa Bond Pilot Program
The Department of State is launching a 12-month pilot program where some travelers applying for B-1/B-2 visas from certain countries might need to pay a bond up to $15,000. This applies to visitors from places with high visa overstays or special citizenship rules. The goal? To make sure folks follow visa rules and keep travel safe and fair.
2026-20082, International Traffic in Arms Regulations: Syria Country Policy Revision
Starting October 1, 2026, the U.S. will no longer automatically block defense trade licenses for Syria. Instead, companies and individuals can apply for permission to export or import defense-related items to or from Syria, and each request will be reviewed carefully. This change opens the door for case-by-case approvals, signaling a big shift for anyone dealing with defense trade involving Syria.
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