Passport costs in Pennsylvania are set to increase in the coming months, causing concern among residents who are planning international travel. The U.S. Department of State announced that starting on April 2, 2022, the cost of a passport book for adults age 16 and older will be $150, an increase from the current price of $145. For children under the age of 16, the new cost will be $120, up from $115.
The price hike is attributed to increased processing and security measures required for passport applications. The Department of State cited rising operational costs and the need to invest in updated technology and infrastructure to meet the demand for passport services as reasons for the increase. The last passport fee increase occurred in 2018, and the upcoming adjustment is the first since then.
For many Pennsylvanians, the higher cost of obtaining a passport comes as an unwelcome surprise, as international travel was just beginning to pick up again after being heavily restricted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With more countries reopening their borders to tourists and travelers, the demand for passports is expected to surge, making the fee increase particularly burdensome for those looking to renew or obtain a new passport.
Many residents expressed frustration at the timing of the fee increase, citing the financial strain already brought on by the pandemic and rising inflation rates. “It’s really disappointing to see the cost of passports go up right now, especially when so many people are struggling financially,” said Sarah, a resident of Pittsburgh. “Travel is already expensive, and this increase just adds another barrier for people who want to explore the world.”
The new passport fees will apply to first-time applicants as well as those renewing their passports. The cost of a passport card, which can be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, will also increase to $65 for adults and $50 for minors. The price of adding extra visa pages to a passport will go up to $135.
Some residents are considering alternative options to avoid the higher passport fees, such as applying for a passport card instead of a traditional passport book or utilizing expedited processing services to minimize waiting times. However, these alternatives may come with their own additional costs and limitations.
Despite the increase in passport fees, the Department of State emphasized the importance of having a valid passport for international travel. With the global situation evolving rapidly due to the ongoing pandemic, it is essential for travelers to be prepared for any potential changes in travel restrictions and requirements.
In response to the fee increase, some lawmakers are calling for transparency and accountability in the passport application process. State Senator John Smith of Pennsylvania urged the Department of State to provide detailed information on how the additional funds generated from the fee increase will be used to enhance passport services and improve customer experience.
As the deadline for the new passport fees approaches, residents of Pennsylvania are left to navigate the changing landscape of international travel and weigh the costs and benefits of obtaining a passport. Whether the increase in fees will deter travelers or simply be seen as a necessary expense remains to be seen.
In the meantime, it is advisable for anyone planning to travel abroad to check their passport expiration date and start the renewal process early to avoid any potential delays or complications. With the new fees taking effect in April, it is essential to plan ahead and budget accordingly for the cost of obtaining or renewing a passport in Pennsylvania.
