In today’s fast-paced world, many people find themselves in need of expedited passports. Whether it’s for a last-minute business trip, a spontaneous vacation, or a necessary family emergency, there are various reasons why someone might require a passport in a hurry. As a result, the demand for expedited passport services has been on the rise in recent years.
So, how much does it cost to expedite a passport? The price of expedited passport services can vary depending on several factors, such as the processing time and whether you choose to use a private passport expediting company or go through the government’s expedited processing option.
First, let’s take a look at the government’s expedited processing option. The U.S. Department of State offers expedited processing for passport applications, which can shorten the processing time from 4-6 weeks to 2-3 weeks. To expedite your passport through the government, you will need to pay an additional fee of $60 on top of the standard passport application fee. As of 2021, the standard passport application fee for adults (16 and older) is $130 for a passport book and $30 for a passport card. For minors (under 16), the passport application fee is $100 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card. Therefore, if you choose to expedite your passport through the government, you can expect to pay a total of $190 for an adult passport book, $160 for a minor passport book, $90 for an adult passport card, or $75 for a minor passport card.
While the government’s expedited processing option is a more affordable choice, it may not always be the fastest option, especially if you need your passport in less than two weeks. In such cases, many people turn to private passport expediting companies for their services. Private expediting companies can process passport applications in as little as 24 hours, making them an ideal choice for those in need of a passport on short notice.
The cost of using a private passport expediting company can vary depending on the processing time and the level of service you choose. Generally, expedited passport services from private expediting companies can cost anywhere from $99 to $449 or more, depending on the processing time and the additional services you require. Some companies offer same-day processing for an additional fee, while others may charge extra for services such as form-filling assistance, document review, shipping, and more.
Overall, the cost of expedited passports can range from $60 to $449 or more, depending on the processing time and the type of service you choose. While government expedited processing is a more affordable option, private expediting companies offer faster turnaround times and additional services for a higher price.
In conclusion, expedited passports are a valuable service for those in need of a passport in a hurry. Whether you choose to expedite your passport through the government or use a private passport expediting company, it’s essential to consider the processing time, cost, and level of service to ensure a smooth and efficient passport application process. Remember, having a passport ready to go at a moment’s notice can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
