Howdy! It’s #TravelTuesday and today we are bringing you some very important news regarding passport renewal times. Due to the COVID 19 pandemic routine renewal service can now take up to three and a half months. Here is the most up to date information according to the U.S. Department of State:
What to Expect:
Mail delays are impacting when we receive passport applications for processing. Our processing times begin the day we 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.
Our 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.
Planning to Travel? Apply Early! Apply at least six months before planned travel. Due to limited availability for urgent travel appointments, we cannot guarantee you can receive in-person service at a passport agency or center. We are prioritizing customers with life-or-death emergencies. We do not charge a fee to make an appointment. Visit our Passport Agency and Center page to learn more.
Our advice? Go grab your passport right now and see if it is expiring anytime soon. Even if the expiration date isn’t imminent – consider starting the renewal process sooner rather than later to avoid any future travel delays – or disappointments! Remember – there is a whole world re-opening to us and we would hate for you to miss out on seeing new destinations because your passport wasn’t received back in time!
Namaste!
