Are Passports Backed Up? The Current State of Passport Processing in the US
In recent months, there has been growing concern and frustration among travelers in the United States about the state of passport processing. With the resumption of international travel and the backlog of applications due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many are wondering if passports are backed up and what is being done to address this issue.
The backlog in passport processing can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the significant reduction in staffing at passport agencies during the height of the pandemic, increased demand for passports as travel restrictions are lifted, and delays in mail services. This has led to delays in processing times, with some applicants reporting wait times of up to 18 weeks for routine service and 12 weeks for expedited service.
The State Department, which is responsible for processing passport applications, has acknowledged the backlog and has been taking steps to address it. In May 2021, the department announced plans to increase staffing at passport agencies and expedite the processing of applications for Americans with urgent travel needs. Additionally, the State Department has been working with the US Postal Service to address delays in mail services and has been encouraging applicants to consider using private courier services for faster delivery.
Despite these efforts, the backlog in passport processing is still a significant issue for many travelers. Some have had to cancel or postpone their travel plans due to delays in receiving their passports, while others have had to pay exorbitant fees for expedited processing. The situation has also raised concerns about the ability of Americans to exercise their right to travel freely, as delays in passport processing can restrict individuals’ ability to travel internationally.
To address these issues, some lawmakers have called on the State Department to take more aggressive action to clear the backlog in passport processing. They have urged the department to allocate additional resources to expedite the processing of applications and to explore options for increasing capacity at passport agencies. Some have also called for greater transparency in the processing of passport applications, including providing updates on processing times and steps being taken to address delays.
In the meantime, travelers are advised to plan ahead and submit their passport applications well in advance of their intended travel dates. The State Department recommends applying for a passport at least six months before planned travel, especially during peak travel seasons. Applicants are also encouraged to check the status of their applications online and to contact the National Passport Information Center if they have concerns about delays.
Overall, the current backlog in passport processing is a significant issue that is affecting many travelers in the United States. While efforts are being made to address the backlog, more needs to be done to ensure that Americans can receive their passports in a timely manner and exercise their right to travel freely. By planning ahead and staying informed, travelers can navigate the current challenges in passport processing and avoid disruptions to their travel plans.
