[rafram]

The process in the US is you open an online form, type in your details, and upload a JPEG of your face! Then you receive a passport in the mail a few weeks later! I would say that is a lot less painful than the Polish process.

[wolvoleo]

Yes but how do they make sure the person receiving the passport is the right one? That's why we have to do both in person.

[rafram]

You give them (a scan of) your state ID, or just send in your previous passport if it’s a renewal.

[ninalanyon]

Same in the UK.