In today’s globalized world, having a passport is a necessity for global travel. However, many people are often left wondering how much passports actually cost. The price of a passport can vary depending on several factors, including the type of passport, the age of the applicant, and whether the application is for a new passport or a renewal.
In the United States, the cost of a passport depends on the type of passport being applied for. As of 2021, the fees for passports are as follows:
– For a passport book for applicants age 16 and over: $165 ($110 application fee + $35 execution fee + $20 security surcharge)
– For a passport book for applicants under age 16: $135 ($80 application fee + $35 execution fee + $20 security surcharge)
– For a passport card for applicants age 16 and over: $150 ($30 application fee + $35 execution fee + $20 security surcharge + $65 additional fee)
– For a passport card for applicants under age 16: $115 ($15 application fee + $35 execution fee + $20 security surcharge + $45 additional fee)
These fees are for standard processing, which takes approximately 4-6 weeks. For expedited processing, which takes approximately 2-3 weeks, an additional fee of $60 is required.
In addition to the standard fees, there are also additional fees for certain services, such as adding extra visa pages to a passport or correcting a printing error. These fees range from $0 to $150, depending on the service requested.
For those who need a passport in a hurry, expedited processing is available for an additional fee. The expedited processing fee is $60 per application, and the passport will be processed in 2-3 weeks instead of the standard 4-6 weeks.
It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it is always a good idea to check the latest passport fee information on the Department of State’s website before applying for a passport.
In some cases, the cost of a passport may be covered by an employer or other organization. For example, some companies provide their employees with passports for business travel, while some universities may cover the cost of passports for students studying abroad. It is always a good idea to check with the organization sponsoring the travel to see if they will cover the cost of the passport.
Overall, the cost of passports can vary depending on several factors, including the type of passport, the age of the applicant, and whether expedited processing is required. It is always a good idea to plan ahead and budget for the cost of a passport when considering international travel. Be sure to check the latest fee information on the Department of State’s website before applying for a passport.
