As summer travel season kicks into high gear, many Americans are finding themselves in a race against the clock to expedite their passports after applying. With international travel restrictions easing and many countries opening their borders to vaccinated tourists, the demand for expedited passport services has surged in recent months.
The U.S. State Department, which processes passport applications, has been inundated with requests for expedited processing. According to officials, the average processing time for standard passport applications is currently around 10-12 weeks, while expedited processing can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. However, with the backlog of applications continuing to grow, many travelers are wondering if there is any way to expedite the process even further.
The good news is that it is possible to expedite a passport after applying, but it will cost you. The State Department offers a service called “Expedited Passport Processing” for an additional fee of $60. This service can shave off a few weeks from the standard processing time, with most expedited applications being processed in 2-3 weeks. However, it’s worth noting that this service is only available for certain cases, such as travel within the next 30 days or for emergency situations.
For travelers who need their passports in a hurry, there is also the option of making an appointment at one of the 26 regional passport agencies located throughout the United States. These agencies offer same-day passport services for travelers who can provide proof of their immediate travel plans. However, appointments at these agencies can be hard to come by and are often booked out weeks in advance.
For those who can’t make it to a regional passport agency, there is another option: using a private passport expediting company. These companies specialize in getting passports processed quickly and can sometimes get a passport in hand in as little as 24 hours. While this service is more expensive than the State Department’s expedited processing fee, it can be a lifesaver for travelers facing last-minute travel plans.
One such company, RushMyPassport, has seen a boom in business in recent months as travelers scramble to get their passports in time for their trips. “We’ve been working around the clock to fulfill the demand for expedited passport services,” says CEO David Alwadish. “Our team has been working tirelessly to ensure that every client gets their passport on time, no matter how tight the deadline.”
With the summer travel season in full swing, the demand for expedited passport services shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway or finally reuniting with loved ones overseas, getting your passport in time is crucial. By knowing your options and being prepared to pay a little extra, you can expedite your passport after applying and hit the road with peace of mind.
