How to add passport pages if you are a US Citizen (and hopefully more info if you are from other countries)

I just completed this process and it was relatively painless. The last time I did it was a few years ago (in a much simpler time) when it was possible to just "walk in" and get it done.

Now it entails setting up an appointment online and paying a higher fee ($82 US - payable by RMB, US dolllars, or credit card, but no Chinese bank debit cards) - but it's still pretty straightforward.

1. Visit the US embassy in Beijing website (beijing.usembassy-china.org.cn/acs_extra.html)

2. Here you'll do two things -
- click on a link to schedule an appointment on the online calendar and print out the appointment confirmation sheet
- download the PDF application form (DS-4085) and fill it out and bring the physical printed copy with you the day of your appointment

3. Show up at the US embassy (55 Anjia Lou Lu - just south of the Laitai Flower Market) on your scheduled appointment date and time - go through security and note that you do not have to wait in the long visa line - just proceed up to American Citizen Services on the 2nd floor and check in at Window 1.

4. You will be directed to pay your fee (see the first part above), hand in your receipt and forms and you wait about an hour and voila - your passport has extra pages (24 or 48, same charge).

The process will vary from country to country of course, but if any of you have useful info to share for other readers on processing paperwork, passports etc at the various embassies around town, feel free to share below.