Key Takeaways:
- Passport processing times have returned to pre-pandemic levels, with routine service taking 6-8 weeks and expedited service taking 2-3 weeks.
- The State Department advises applying for passports well in advance due to historic demand for passports and urges travelers to follow best practices.
- Passport renewal costs $130 with an additional $60 for expedited service, and the State Department has implemented initiatives to ease the application process.
Passport Processing Times Return to Pre-Pandemic Levels
Good news for travelers and globetrotters: passport renewal and application processing times have bounced back to their fast, pre-pandemic speed. The U.S. Department of State recently announced that routine passport service now takes between six and eight weeks, while expedited service can be completed in just two to three weeks. This turnaround is a return to “pre-pandemic norm,” providing much-needed relief for those accustomed to brisk proceedings.
“With this update, we have fulfilled our commitment to return to benchmarks from March 2020,” the State Department expressed, acknowledging the efforts of its staff in normalizing operations.
During the height of the pandemic, some travelers faced wait times of up to 18 weeks. However, processing durations have steadily declined, dropping to eight to 11 weeks in October, and further to seven to 10 weeks in November.
Record-Breaking Passport Issuance and Current Best Practices
The recent slowdown was, in part, due to “unprecedented demand for passports” according to the State Department. Over the October 2022 to September 2023 period, more than 24 million passport books and cards were issued— a historic high for the department.
Despite the return to normalcy, the State Department advises all U.S. citizens to apply for a passport well in advance of any planned international travel. This foresight helps avoid any last-minute issues that might arise, ensuring you have all your travel documentation in order.
How Much Does Passport Renewal Cost?
For those looking to update their passports, the current fee stands at $130 for renewal of passport books, with an additional $60 charge for expedited service. Promptness comes at a premium, but for those who need to travel urgently, it’s a boon.
New Initiatives to Ease Passport Application
Understanding the importance of accessibility, the State Department has initiated “Special Passport Acceptance Fairs,” which aid new applicants. These fairs take place in convenient public settings such as libraries and recreation centers. Designed to streamline the passport application process, these fairs are running in various states, including New Jersey and California.
In addition, the department launched an online passport renewal pilot program last year. Although currently on hold, this digital initiative represents a significant step forward in modernizing the passport application process.
For more information on renewing your passport or to check the status of an application, you can enroll in email updates through the State Department’s official passport website.
As the world opens up and travel regains momentum, the best time to renew your passport is now—securing your ticket to the world without the lengthy wait, and ensuring you’re ready to embark on your next adventure.
So there you have it, folks! Passport processing times are back to their speedy, pre-pandemic selves. No more pulling your hair out waiting for months on end. Now you can get that shiny new passport in just six to eight weeks, or expedite the process and have it in your hands in two to three weeks. Ready to jet set? Check out visaverge.com for more travel tips and info. Bon voyage!
This Article in a Nutshell:
Passport processing times are back to pre-pandemic levels, with routine service taking 6-8 weeks and expedited service just 2-3 weeks. During the pandemic, wait times reached 18 weeks. The State Department advises applying in advance and offers acceptance fairs and online renewal options. Renewal costs $130. Happy travels!
