The cost of obtaining or renewing a United States passport is set to increase beginning on December 27, 2022. The fee hike will impact various passport services, including the standard passport book for adults, minor passports, and expedited processing fees. For many Americans planning international travel, this news may come as an unwelcome surprise.
As of the new year, the standard passport book fee for adults (16 years and older) will increase from $110 to $140. This represents a 27% jump in costs for those seeking to obtain or renew their travel document. The price for minor passports (those under the age of 16) will also see an increase, going up from $80 to $115, marking a 43% increase in fees.
Individuals who require expedited processing for their passports will also face higher costs, with the fee rising from $60 to $90. This service is often utilized by travelers who have urgent international travel plans and need to expedite the processing of their passport applications.
The U.S. Department of State, which oversees the passport issuance process, cites rising costs and increasing demand as reasons for the fee hike. The last increase in passport fees occurred in 2018, and the department says that the additional revenue generated from the fee increase will help support the processing of passport applications and maintain the security of the passport issuance system.
The announcement of the fee increase has sparked mixed reactions among travelers. Some individuals are understanding of the need for higher fees to cover rising costs, while others are frustrated by the additional financial burden, especially considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on travel and tourism.
Travel agencies and organizations that assist individuals with passport applications are also bracing for the impact of the fee increase. Many are advising their clients to renew or apply for passports before the December 27 deadline to take advantage of the current lower fees.
In light of the fee increase, some travelers are exploring alternative options for travel documentation. The U.S. Department of State offers a passport card, which is valid for land and sea travel to Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The cost of a passport card for adults is $30, significantly lower than the standard passport book fee. However, the passport card cannot be used for international air travel, so it may not be a suitable option for all travelers.
For individuals who frequently travel internationally, the cost of obtaining or renewing a U.S. passport is an essential consideration. With the upcoming fee increase, many travelers are taking proactive steps to ensure their travel documents are up to date and that they are prepared for any international travel plans in the coming months.
Ultimately, the fee increase for U.S. passports is a reminder of the financial considerations that come with international travel. While the higher fees may be a source of frustration for some travelers, maintaining the security and integrity of the passport issuance system is crucial for the protection of all travelers. As the deadline for the fee increase approaches, individuals are encouraged to take the necessary steps to renew or apply for their passports to avoid the higher costs that will take effect in the new year.
