Passport fees to increase in 2022, travelers urged to renew before price hike
As the new year approaches, the U.S. Department of State has announced that passport fees will be increasing in 2022. The price hike is set to go into effect on January 1st, and travelers are being urged to renew their passports before the increase takes place.
The current cost of a standard adult passport book is $145, which includes a $110 application fee and a $35 acceptance fee. For those looking to renew their passport, the fee is $110. However, starting in 2022, the cost of a standard adult passport book will increase to $165, while the renewal fee will rise to $130. This represents a $20 increase for first-time applicants and a $20 increase for renewals.
In addition to the increase in passport fees, the Department of State is also making changes to the fees for passport cards, which are a cheaper alternative to traditional passport books. Currently, the cost of a passport card for adults is $65, which will increase to $70 in 2022. For minors, the cost of a passport card is $50, and this will also increase to $55 next year.
These fee increases come as the Department of State seeks to cover the costs of processing passport applications and providing consular services to U.S. citizens abroad. The agency has seen a surge in demand for passports in recent years, with more Americans traveling internationally for work, leisure, and other purposes.
The Department of State is advising travelers to renew their passports before the price hike takes effect in order to save money. The process of renewing a passport is relatively straightforward and can be done by mail, online, or in person at a passport acceptance facility. If your passport is set to expire within the next year, now is the perfect time to renew it before the fees go up.
In addition to the price increase, the Department of State is also warning travelers of potential delays in processing passport applications due to the high volume of requests. To avoid any last-minute complications, it is recommended that travelers apply for or renew their passports well in advance of any planned trips.
For those who are unable to renew their passports before the fee increase, there are still options available. The Department of State offers expedited processing for an additional fee, which can shorten the processing time from several weeks to just a few days. However, travelers should be aware that expedited processing is not guaranteed and may not be available in all circumstances.
In light of the upcoming fee increase for passports, many travelers are also considering applying for a passport card as an alternative. Passport cards are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, and are more affordable than traditional passport books. While they cannot be used for international air travel, they are a convenient option for those who frequently cross the border by land or sea.
Regardless of whether you choose to renew your passport book or apply for a passport card, the important thing is to plan ahead and take care of your travel documentation before the price hike goes into effect. By doing so, you can save money and avoid any potential delays in processing your application.
In conclusion, passport fees will be increasing in 2022, so travelers are advised to renew their passports before the price hike takes effect. The cost of a standard adult passport book will rise to $165, while the renewal fee will increase to $130. The Department of State is also raising the fees for passport cards, which are a cheaper alternative for land and sea travel. With potential delays in processing passport applications, it is crucial to plan ahead and take care of your travel documentation well in advance of any trips. Remember, the key to a hassle-free travel experience is a valid and up-to-date passport.
