Authorization to use local courier service for ACS passback

UNCLAS LA PAZ 000146

SIPDIS
DEPARTMENT FOR CA/OCS BILL HURST AND CA/FPP MARIA LANE

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: CMGT CPAS CASC KFRD BL
SUBJECT: Authorization to use local courier service for ACS passback

REF: 7 FAM 1362


1. Per instructions in 7 FAM 1362, Embassy La Paz requests
Department authorization to implement an ACS passback system using
a local courier service. Post would like the new system to take
effect on February 1, 2010.




2. The Consular Section's non-immigrant (NIV) and immigrant
visa (IV) units have operated a passback system for ten years using
the local courier service DHL. DHL's service is considered both
secure and dependable. Post believes DHL's high quality of service
is commensurate with the high standard that is placed on handling
American citizen documents including passports, Consular Reports of
Birth Abroad (CRBA),and other personal documentation. The postal
system in Bolivia is considered unreliable and unsecure and would
not be appropriate for the type of service Post is requesting.




3. Post also requests Department authorization to accept
passport applications by mail for qualified adult applicants.




4. Post's ACS Unit would like to implement the passback
system on February 1, 2010 to coincide with the introduction of an
online ACS appointment system. Both initiatives are intended to
improve customer service while reducing the frequency of
applicants' return to the Embassy.




5. Post will await confirmation from CA/OCS and CA/FPP before
proceeding with the ACS passback system.
Creamer