Cost for US Passport to Increase in 2023
In a move that will impact millions of Americans who regularly travel abroad, the cost for a US passport is set to increase in 2023. The US Department of State has announced that the fees for both first-time applicants and renewal applicants will be raised to help cover the rising costs of passport processing and security measures.
Currently, the cost of a standard adult passport book is $145, which includes a $110 application fee and a $35 acceptance fee. For individuals under the age of 16, the cost is $115. These fees cover the processing and issuance of the passport, as well as the cost of maintaining passport facilities and providing consular services to American citizens overseas.
Starting in 2023, the new fees for a standard adult passport book will be $165, with a $145 application fee and a $20 acceptance fee. For individuals under 16, the cost will increase to $135. These fee increases are necessary, according to the Department of State, to ensure that the passport program remains self-funded and does not place an undue burden on taxpayers.
The cost of a passport card, which can be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, will also increase. Currently, the cost of a passport card is $65 for adults and $50 for minors. In 2023, these costs will rise to $85 for adults and $70 for minors.
In addition to the fee increases, the Department of State is also implementing new security measures to further protect the integrity of US passports. One such measure is the introduction of a Passport Card Security and Technology Fee, which will be applied to all new and renewal passport card applications. This fee will help cover the cost of enhanced security features, such as biometric data, that are being added to passport cards to combat fraud and identity theft.
While the fee increases may come as a disappointment to many Americans, it is important to remember the value of having a US passport. A passport is not only a vital form of identification and proof of citizenship, but it also provides access to a wide range of benefits and privileges, such as travel to foreign countries, assistance from US embassies and consulates abroad, and the ability to participate in international programs and initiatives.
The Department of State encourages Americans to apply for or renew their passports before the fee increases take effect in 2023. By doing so, individuals can save money and ensure that they have the necessary documentation to travel both domestically and internationally.
In conclusion, the cost for a US passport is set to increase in 2023, with fees rising for both first-time applicants and renewal applicants. These fee increases are necessary to cover the rising costs of passport processing and security measures, and to ensure that the passport program remains self-funded. Americans are encouraged to apply for or renew their passports before the fee increases take effect to save money and ensure they have the necessary documentation for travel.
