As the world slowly begins to reopen amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many people are starting to think about their next travel adventure. And for those looking to visit different countries, one essential item they need is a passport. However, what many travelers may not realize is that the price of a passport book can vary depending on a variety of factors.
The cost of obtaining a passport book can differ based on several factors, including the applicant’s age, whether they are applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one, and how quickly they need the passport. In the United States, for example, the price of a passport book for adults over the age of 16 is $110 for a new passport and $30 for a passport renewal. For minors under the age of 16, the cost is $80 for a new passport and $80 for a passport renewal.
In addition to the base cost of the passport book, applicants may also have to pay an execution fee of $35, which covers the cost of processing the application, taking the applicant’s photo, and verifying their identity. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee of $60, which can be helpful for travelers who need their passport in a hurry.
It’s important to note that these prices are for standard passport books, which are the most common type of passport. However, there are also other types of passport books available, including the passport card and the official passport book. The passport card is a wallet-sized travel document that can be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, while the official passport book is issued to government officials traveling on official business.
In addition to the cost of the passport book itself, travelers may also incur other expenses related to obtaining a passport, such as the cost of passport photos, transportation to the passport acceptance facility, and any additional fees for expedited processing or delivery. These costs can quickly add up, so it’s important for travelers to budget accordingly when applying for a passport.
For those who are looking to save money on their passport book, there are a few tips that can help. One option is to apply for a passport during the off-peak season, as passport agencies tend to be less busy during certain times of the year. Additionally, some passport acceptance facilities offer discounts or specials for passport applicants, so it’s worth checking with the facility in advance to see if any promotions are available.
Another way to save money on a passport book is to apply for a passport renewal rather than a new passport, as the renewal fee is usually lower. Additionally, travelers can save on expedited processing fees by planning ahead and applying for their passport well in advance of their travel dates.
Overall, the cost of a passport book can vary depending on a variety of factors, so it’s important for travelers to do their research and budget accordingly before applying for a passport. By planning ahead and exploring ways to save money, travelers can ensure that they have the necessary travel documents to embark on their next international adventure.
