As travel restrictions begin to ease and more people look to book their long-awaited vacations, one question on everyone’s mind is: how long are passports taking right now? With the backlog of passport applications from the past year due to COVID-19, many are concerned about potential delays in getting their passports renewed or obtaining a new one.
The U.S. Department of State, which is responsible for processing passport applications, has been working diligently to address the backlog and streamline the passport application process. However, there are still delays in processing times due to the high volume of applications being received.
According to the Department of State website, the current processing times for routine passport applications are taking approximately 18 weeks from the time of application submission to the time of passport delivery. This is a significant increase from the pre-pandemic processing times, which were typically around 6-8 weeks. For expedited passport applications, which require an additional fee, the processing time is approximately 12 weeks.
The increase in processing times can be attributed to several factors. The surge in demand for passports as travel restrictions are lifted has led to a higher volume of applications being submitted. In addition, the Department of State has had to implement new safety protocols and social distancing measures in passport processing facilities, which has slowed down the processing times.
To help mitigate the delays, the Department of State has urged travelers to apply for their passports well in advance of their planned travel dates. They also recommend using the expedited passport application option for those who need their passports in a shorter amount of time, although it is still taking longer than usual.
For those who need their passports urgently, there are a few options available. The Department of State offers an expedited service that can process a passport application in as little as 2-3 weeks for an additional fee. There are also third-party passport expediting services that can assist with getting a passport quickly, although these services can be more expensive.
It’s important to note that the processing times mentioned above are estimates and can vary depending on the volume of applications being received and other factors. The Department of State recommends checking their website for the most up-to-date information on passport processing times.
In conclusion, if you are planning to travel internationally in the near future, it is crucial to apply for your passport as soon as possible to avoid any potential delays. While the current processing times are longer than usual, with proper planning and consideration, you can ensure that you have your passport in hand in time for your trip. Travel safely and enjoy your vacation!
