New Passport Fees for 2023 to Increase by 20%
The cost of obtaining a passport is set to rise next year as the Department of State has announced a 20% increase in passport fees for 2023. The new fees will apply to both new passport applications and renewals, affecting millions of Americans who rely on their passports for international travel.
The decision to raise passport fees comes as the department seeks to cover the rising costs associated with passport processing and security measures. In recent years, the department has faced budgetary constraints that have made it difficult to maintain current fees. The increase in fees is intended to help offset these costs and ensure the continued smooth operation of the passport issuance process.
Under the new fee structure, the cost of a standard adult passport book will increase from $110 to $132, while the cost of a standard adult passport card will increase from $30 to $36. The cost of a passport for minors under the age of 16 will also increase, with the fee for a minor passport book rising from $80 to $96 and the fee for a minor passport card rising from $15 to $18.
In addition to the increase in fees for standard passport services, the department has also announced new fees for expedited passport processing. The fee for expedited processing will increase from $60 to $72, while the fee for overnight delivery of passports will increase from $17.13 to $20.55.
The new fee structure will take effect on January 1, 2023, and will apply to all passport applications submitted on or after that date. The department has advised travelers who are planning to apply for a passport in the near future to do so before the fee increase takes effect in order to save money on their application.
While the increase in passport fees may come as a disappointment to travelers, it is important to remember that a valid passport is essential for international travel and is worth the investment. The department has emphasized that the new fees are necessary to ensure the security and integrity of the passport issuance process and to help cover the costs associated with passport processing.
In addition to the increase in fees, the department has also announced plans to expand its passport processing infrastructure in order to streamline the application process and reduce processing times. This includes the opening of new passport agency locations and the implementation of new technology to improve the efficiency of passport processing.
Overall, the increase in passport fees for 2023 reflects the department’s commitment to providing secure and efficient passport services to the American public. While the higher fees may be a burden for some travelers, the importance of having a valid passport for international travel cannot be overstated. Travelers are advised to plan ahead and apply for their passports early to avoid any delays or additional costs.
