The cost to renew a US passport is set to increase starting in 2022, causing concern among frequent travelers and expats. The increase in fees is part of a broader effort by the US Department of State to cover the cost of providing consular services to American citizens overseas.
Currently, the cost to renew a US passport is $110 for an adult passport book, and $30 for a passport card. However, starting in 2022, the cost of renewing a passport book will increase to $130, while the cost of renewing a passport card will rise to $55. The cost of a first-time adult passport book will also increase to $165.
The US Department of State cites rising costs and increased demand for passport services as the main reasons for the fee increase. In recent years, the number of Americans traveling overseas has been steadily increasing, leading to longer processing times for passport applications and renewals. The fee increase is expected to help cover the cost of hiring additional staff and improving the efficiency of the passport application process.
Many Americans who travel frequently for work or leisure are concerned about the impact of the fee increase on their travel plans. Some worry that the higher cost of renewing a passport could deter them from traveling internationally as often as they would like. Expats living abroad are also worried about the financial burden of renewing their passports, as they are required to do so every 10 years.
One expat, Sarah Jacobs, who lives in London, says she is already feeling the pinch of the higher passport renewal fees. “As an American living overseas, I rely on my passport to travel back to the US to visit family and friends. The increased cost of renewing my passport will definitely make me think twice about how often I can afford to make the trip,” she said.
In response to concerns about the fee increase, the US Department of State has emphasized the importance of maintaining the security and integrity of the US passport system. “The US passport is a vital document that provides proof of citizenship and identity for Americans traveling overseas. We are committed to ensuring that the passport application process is efficient and secure, and that the fees charged for passport services are fair and reasonable,” a spokesperson for the Department of State said.
Despite the fee increase, there are still ways for Americans to save money on renewing their passports. One option is to apply for a passport card instead of a passport book, as the card is cheaper and can be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. Another option is to renew your passport through the mail using Form DS-82, which is cheaper than applying in person at a passport agency or acceptance facility.
For Americans who are on a tight budget, the fee increase for passport renewals may pose a challenge. However, many travelers are willing to bear the extra cost in order to continue exploring the world and connecting with family and friends overseas. As one traveler put it, “Traveling is a privilege, and having a valid passport is essential for experiencing new cultures and building relationships with people from around the world. The fee increase is a small price to pay for the freedom and opportunities that come with having a US passport.”
