If you haven’t traveled abroad since the pandemic, you might be in for a surprise when it comes time to apply for or renew your passport. Passport processing times are longer than they were even a few months ago.
The U.S. Department of State warns travelers that the processing time for routine passport service is between eight and 11 weeks, while expedited service will take five to seven weeks. According to ThePointsGuy.com, that’s up from February when routine service took six to nine weeks and expedited service took three to five weeks. State Department officials have cited “unprecedented demand for passport services.”
ThePointsGuy.com also noted that almost 22 million passport products were processed in 2022 — a record attributed to pent-up demand for post-pandemic travel. What’s more, the agency is on track to process even more this year, with up to half a million passports per week.
If you’re planning a trip — whether for competition, business or pleasure — federal officials suggest applying for a new passport several months in advance, and they advise renewing one to be valid for at least six months upon returning to the States.
BusinessInsider.com reports that the State Department has increased staffing levels and plans to hire even more personnel, adding that the majority of customers receive their passports within the published timeframes.
Although the agency rolled out a limited online passport renewal option last August, it was “paused” March 8, according to agency officials, “so that we can introduce improvements based on customer feedback.” More than 500,000 customers submitted their applications online to test the system, which is expected to be fully operational this year. Passport renewal by mail is also possible for eligible travelers.
Additionally, travelers who have not received their passport within five days of planned international travel should call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778, according to BusinessInsider.com
In short, and regardless of your travel plans, don’t put off beginning the passport processing process. Wait times likely will increase as summer gets closer.
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