WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW ABOUT PASSPORTS

7/20/2021

We all might know that in order to travel internationally, we need a passport--that blue little book granting access to discover the rest of the world! While the process to apply for a passport is fairly straightforward, the age of COVID has caused many delays in terms of processing and mailing times. We wanted to share some new information with you, coming straight from the US State Department.

What to Expect

Mail delays are impacting when the State Department receives passport applications for processing. Processing times begin the day they receive your application, not the day you mail it.
Routine service can take up to 18 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day a new passport is received. The 18-week timeframe includes up to 12 weeks for processing and up to 6 weeks for mailing times on the front and back end.
Expedite service (for an additional $60) can take up to 12 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day a new passport is received. The 12-week timeframe includes up to 6 weeks for processing and up to 6 weeks for mailing times on the front and back end.

Processing times (up to 12 weeks for routine; up to 6 weeks for expedite) do not include mailing times. Mail times vary and delays have been significant. Plan ahead.

WHAT THEY SUGGEST

Send your application via trackable mail, so you can track your application before it enters the system. This can be done whether applying at an acceptance facility or by mail.
Pay an extra $17.56 for 1-2 day delivery for the return of your completed passport.

More about Status Updates: It may take up to 6 weeks from the day you submit your application until your status is “In Process.” During these 6 weeks, your application is delivered to a mail facility, your payment is processed, and your application is entered into our system. Even if your passport status update says, “Not Available,” your application and supporting documents are safely on their way to us. Check online for your passport status.
Use Self-Service Tools Online: The call center is experiencing extremely high call volumes with longer-than-usual wait times. You can get your questions answered immediately by using one of the self-service tools available on their site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. What you see online is the same information that call center representatives can share with you by phone.

Planning to Travel? Apply Early! Apply at least six months before planned travel. Due to limited availability for urgent travel appointments, they cannot guarantee you can receive in-person service at a passport agency or center. They are prioritizing customers with life-or-death emergencies. They do not charge a fee to make an appointment. Visit the Passport Agency and Center page to learn more.
Renew By Mail: Adults with 10-year passports can renew them by mail instead of appearing in person.

We hope this helps you in your future travel planning! When you are ready to get more stamps in your passport, let us know. We love the sound of clerks stamping passports, opening gateways to new destinations!