The United States Postal Service recently announced a significant increase in passport prices, leaving many travelers shocked and frustrated. The price hike comes at a time when many Americans are eager to resume traveling after months of lockdowns and restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Effective immediately, the cost of a first-time adult passport book will now be $165, up from $145, a 14% increase. Renewing an adult passport book will now cost $130, up from $110, a 18% increase. The cost of a minor passport book will also see an increase, from $115 to $140, a 22% jump.
The price increase is said to be necessary to cover the rising costs of processing and issuing passports. The USPS has stated that the price hike is also due to the loss of revenue from a significant decline in passport applications during the pandemic. With travel restrictions in place and many Americans unable to travel abroad, the demand for passports decreased, leading to a drop in revenue for the USPS.
Many travelers are unhappy with the price increase, as obtaining a passport is already a costly process. In addition to the application fees, travelers must also pay for passport photos, travel expenses to a passport acceptance facility, and expedited processing fees if needed. For families with multiple members needing passports, the cost can quickly add up.
Some travelers have taken to social media to express their frustration with the price hike. One Twitter user wrote, “Why is the USPS raising passport prices when many people are already struggling financially due to the pandemic? This is ridiculous!” Another user tweeted, “I was already hesitant to travel internationally due to the high costs, and now with this price increase, it’s even more out of reach for me. Thanks, USPS.”
Despite the backlash, the USPS maintains that the price increase is necessary to ensure the sustainability of the passport program. The agency has also stated that they are working to improve efficiency and reduce processing times to provide better service to travelers.
For travelers who are planning to apply for a passport in the near future, the price increase will undoubtedly impact their budget. However, with travel restrictions easing and more destinations opening up to tourists, the demand for passports is expected to increase in the coming months.
It is important for travelers to plan ahead and budget accordingly for the higher passport prices. Additionally, travelers should be aware of the processing times for passport applications, as delays may occur due to increased demand.
Overall, while the price increase may come as an unwelcome surprise to many travelers, it is a necessary step for the USPS to continue providing passport services to Americans. As the world slowly reopens to travel, having a valid passport will become even more essential, making the investment in a passport worth the cost.
