Cost to Expedite Passport Increases as Demand Surges
As travel restrictions ease and more people are looking to book trips abroad, the demand for expedited passport services has surged. This increase in demand has led to longer processing times and higher costs for those looking to get their passport quickly.
The cost to expedite a passport has increased in recent months as the backlog of applications continues to grow. The rush to obtain passports has been fueled by a combination of pent-up demand from the pandemic and the upcoming holiday season.
The normal processing time for a passport application is typically six to eight weeks. However, with the current backlog, it is not uncommon for applications to take several months to process. To expedite the process and receive a passport in as little as two to three weeks, applicants can pay an additional fee on top of the standard application fee.
The cost to expedite a passport varies depending on the speed of service requested. The fastest option is the “expedited passport service” which can deliver a passport in as little as eight business days. This service comes with an additional fee of $60 on top of the regular application fee. The next level of expedited service is the “priority passport service” which can deliver a passport within 2-3 weeks for an additional fee of $30. The slowest expedited service is the “standard service,” which can deliver a passport within 4-6 weeks for an additional fee of $15.
While the expediting options can help to get a passport more quickly, the increased costs have left some travelers feeling frustrated. “I was shocked to see how much it cost to expedite my passport,” said Sarah, a frequent traveler. “I understand the need to pay extra for faster service, but the fees seem excessive, especially during a time when so many people are struggling financially.”
The surge in demand for expedited passport services has also put a strain on passport agencies and processing centers. Many have had to hire additional staff and extend their hours to keep up with the influx of applications. Despite these efforts, processing times continue to be longer than normal, causing delays for many travelers.
To help alleviate the backlog, the U.S. Department of State has urged travelers to apply for their passports well in advance of their planned departure date. They also recommend using the online passport application system, which can help to expedite the process.
While the cost to expedite a passport may be high, for many travelers, the convenience and peace of mind of having a passport in hand is worth the expense. As the demand for expedited passport services continues to increase, it remains to be seen whether the cost will continue to rise or if additional measures will be put in place to streamline the application process.
