Updated 12/29/2021
As the delta variant continues to spread, countries around the world are starting to restrict travel. Still, many countries are accepting travelers, eager to recoup some of the loss travel revenue from the last year. Many places have become very busy with tourism. In fact, Hawaii was witnessing such a surge in travelers the Maui Mayor was requesting airlines to pause flights.
European countries and the Caribbean Islands are bracing for an increase in travelers as well. Before heading overseas, you may want to check the expiration date on your passport. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport expires within six months of your return to the States.
Related Article: Canada Opening Its Border Next Month
Since so many have the travel itch, passport renewals at the State Department are overflowing. They have an estimated backlog of 1.5 to 2 million passport applications to wade through. This is causing the wait time to increase up to 18 weeks. Rachel Arndt, the State Department's assistant secretary for passport services, warned travelers that the wait time is not decreasing anytime soon. If you are planning on leaving the country and need to renew your passport, here is what you need to know.
How Long Will Your Passport Renewal Take?
Typically, renewing your passport can take 8 to 12 weeks to process, which is why the State Department suggests that you renew it long before you need to travel, ideally six months or more. In the off-season, you may have your passport in a few short weeks.
That is not the case right now. Due to the dramatic increase in renewal applications, you will likely be waiting over four months for your passport.
The State Department updated their passport service page in December 2021 to notify travelers that it may take 18 weeks to receive their passport. They mention that mail service delays the process as well. The time frame does not start until your application is received. Because of this delay, they are urging people to submit their applications far in advance of their travel date.
2021-2022 Passport Fee Schedule
Adult Applicants (Over 16)
- First-time Passport Book: $165
- First-time Passport Card: $65
- First-time Book & Card: $195
- Card only: $30
Adult Renewals (Over 16)
- Passport Book: $130
- Passport Card: $30
- Book & Card: $160
Minor Applicants (Under 16)
- Passport Book: $135
- Passport Card: $50
- Book & Card: $150
What If You Can't Wait?
If you have plans that fall within the 18-week window, you can still expedite your passport, but it's going to cost you.
Expedite Fees
- Adult Passport Book: $225
- Minor Passport Book: $195
- 1-2 day delivery: $17.65
- File search fee*: $150
*When an applicant cannot provide proof of US citizenship
If you would like to expedite the processing time and pay for 1-2 day shipping, it will bring the total up to $242.56 for an adult passport book and $212.65 for minor.
If you are leaving the country within 72 hours (and have proof), or you have a life-or-death situation and need to renew your passport, you must make an appointment at a Passport Acceptance Facility.
These facilities charge additional fees, which may also increase the total costs. If you need to pursue this option, understand that there are only a couple dozen facilities in the entire U.S.
What Other Options Do You Have?
Sometimes the most grueling part about renewing your passport is making your way to the post office and wait in the 3-day long line (slight exaggeration). Skip is here to help! With our door-to-door passport renewal service, you choose the date that works best for you. We will come to your door, take your picture, help you fill everything out, and renew it for you.
To be clear, we cannot jump the line nor ensure that your passport will arrive before the 18 weeks or 12 weeks for expedited renewal. What we can do is save you time and the hassle of going to the post office. Schedule your appointment today.
📌Pro-tips: Check every country's vaccination and testing requirements before your trip. Download the Skip app and let us assist you with your TSA PreCheck enrollment.
Related article:
Travel Update: State Department Says Americans Should Avoid the UK