Passports are an essential document for anyone looking to travel internationally, but the cost of obtaining one can vary depending on where you live. For residents of Georgia, the price of a passport can be a significant expense, especially for families looking to travel together.
In Georgia, the cost of obtaining a passport can vary depending on the type of passport you are applying for and whether you need expedited processing. As of 2021, the cost of a passport for adults (aged 16 and older) is $110 for a passport book and $30 for a passport card. For minors (under the age of 16), the cost is $80 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card.
If you need expedited processing for your passport, the cost is an additional $60 per application. This can be a significant expense for travelers who need their passport quickly, as the standard processing time for a passport is typically 4-6 weeks.
In addition to the cost of the passport itself, there are also additional fees that may apply. For example, if you need to have your passport photo taken, this can cost anywhere from $10 to $15 at a local pharmacy or post office. There are also fees for submitting your application, which can vary depending on where you submit it. If you choose to expedite your application, there will be an additional fee for this service as well.
For families looking to obtain passports for multiple members, the cost can quickly add up. A family of four (two adults and two minors) looking to obtain passport books and cards for each member would be looking at a total cost of $340 for the passports alone. If expedited processing is needed, this cost would increase to $460.
For many families, especially those on a tight budget, the cost of obtaining passports can be a barrier to international travel. However, there are ways to help offset some of these costs. For example, if you are a member of a travel rewards program or have a credit card that offers travel benefits, you may be able to use points or miles to cover the cost of your passport application.
Additionally, there are often discounts available for passport applications submitted at certain times of the year. For example, during National Passport Awareness Month in September, some passport acceptance facilities may offer discounts on passport applications or waive the execution fee.
Overall, the cost of obtaining a passport in Georgia can be a significant expense for individuals and families looking to travel internationally. However, with some careful planning and research, it is possible to find ways to help offset these costs and make travel more accessible for everyone. So, if you are planning to travel abroad, make sure to budget for the cost of obtaining a passport and explore all available options to help make the process more affordable.
