State Dept Goes Digital: FOIA Requests Now Online-Only, No More Paper Chase!
Published Date: 9/21/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting October 21, 2026, the Department of State is making it easier and faster for you to get public information. They’re updating rules to encourage checking online first, accepting only electronic requests through official websites, and simplifying how you describe what you want. These changes help everyone save time and avoid paperwork, with no extra costs involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
9 provisions identified: 8 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Electronic FOIA/PA Submissions Required
Starting October 21, 2026, the Department will accept FOIA and Privacy Act requests for the Information Access Programs Directorate and the Directorate for Passport Services only electronically via the National FOIA Portal (www.foia.gov) or the Department's FOIA website (https://foia.state.gov/).
Privacy Act Identity Verification Rules
Requests under the Privacy Act must include a signed, dated statement (under penalty of perjury) verifying identity that is dated within 6 months of the request. The Department prefers certification via the Department FOIA website, the National FOIA Portal, or submission of form DS-4240-R; forms from other federal agencies will not be accepted.
30-Working-Day Appeal Decision Standard
A/SKS/IAP, OIG, or the Foreign Service Grievance Board will decide appeals from denials of Privacy Act amendment requests within 30 working days of receipt, unless an extension for good cause is needed. Appeals to A/SKS/IAP must be sent by email to [email protected] or by mail to the address on the Department's FOIA website.
Certain Systems Exempt From Privacy Act
The rule updates the list of systems of records that are exempt from specified Privacy Act provisions. Examples named include Passport Records (STATE-26), Visa Records (STATE-39), Security Records (STATE-36), and Office of Inspector General Investigation Management System (STATE-53).
Search FOIA Library First
Before filing, you are encouraged to search the Department's FOIA Library at https://foia.state.gov/FOIALIBRARY/FOIALIB2.aspx to see if the records you want are already public. Doing this can let you find records immediately without filing a FOIA request.
Simplified Record Description Rules
The rule simplifies how you must describe the records you seek and gives examples of helpful details (bureau, dates, names, subject, case number). Visa record requests should include full name and any aliases, current address, email, and date and place of birth.
Passport Records ID Requirement
If you request copies of Passport Services records, you must provide detailed identifying information (dates of birth, passport number if known, etc.) and include a clear copy of both sides of a valid government-issued photo ID (for example, a driver's license).
Parents/Guardians May Request Minors' Records
A parent or guardian may request records under the Privacy Act on behalf of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident minor (an unmarried person under age 18) by providing proof of identity for the child and documentation of the parental or guardian relationship (for example, a birth certificate or court guardianship order).
Records 25+ Years Go to NARA
The Department ordinarily transfers records designated as historically significant to the National Archives when they are 25 years old; requests for Department records 25 years old or older should be submitted to the National Archives.
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Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
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.
2026-19211, International Traffic in Arms Regulations: Modification of U.S. Munitions List Category XX(a)
The Department of State is updating rules to remove some uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) from the strict U.S. Munitions List starting October 19, 2026. This change affects companies and individuals dealing with these UUVs by easing export controls and inviting public feedback to improve future rules. No immediate cost changes are mentioned, but the update aims to make trade smoother and clearer.
2026-19161, International Traffic in Arms Regulations: Clarifying Policies of Denial, Updating the Major Non-NATO Ally List, and Minor Corrections
The Department of State updated the rules about sending defense stuff to certain countries, making the rules clearer and adding Saudi Arabia and Peru as major non-NATO allies. They also changed policies for Ethiopia and Somalia and fixed some small errors. These changes started on September 18, 2026, and affect anyone dealing with defense exports or imports, helping them know exactly what’s allowed and what’s not.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-19211, International Traffic in Arms Regulations: Modification of U.S. Munitions List Category XX(a)
The Department of State is updating rules to remove some uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) from the strict U.S. Munitions List starting October 19, 2026. This change affects companies and individuals dealing with these UUVs by easing export controls and inviting public feedback to improve future rules. No immediate cost changes are mentioned, but the update aims to make trade smoother and clearer.
Next: 2026-19231, Schedules of Controlled Substances: Placement of Diphenidine in Schedule I
Starting October 21, 2026, diphenidine and its related forms will be officially listed as Schedule I drugs, meaning they’re considered highly controlled with no accepted medical use. This change affects anyone who makes, sells, studies, or even possesses diphenidine, bringing strict rules and serious penalties. The move helps the U.S. follow international drug laws and keep communities safer.