Passport Renewal Fees Set to Increase in 2022
In a recent announcement by the Department of State, passport renewal fees are set to increase starting in 2022. The current cost of renewing a passport is $110 for a standard adult passport book and $30 for a passport card. These fees have remained unchanged for several years, but the rising costs of passport production and security measures have prompted the department to implement a fee increase next year.
The new fee structure for passport renewals will see the cost of an adult passport book increase to $130, and the passport card will increase to $50. The Department of State has cited the need to cover the rising costs of passport production, including materials, printing, and security features, as the reason for the fee increase. The new fees will go into effect on January 1, 2022.
Many travelers who frequently renew their passports are concerned about the increase in fees. With international travel becoming more popular and necessary for work and leisure, having a valid passport is essential. The increased cost of renewing a passport may deter some people from traveling abroad, especially those who need to renew their passports frequently.
Some travelers have expressed frustration with the timing of the fee increase, as it comes at a time when many are still recovering financially from the COVID-19 pandemic. The cost of travel has already increased in recent months due to higher fuel prices and supply chain disruptions, and the additional cost of renewing a passport could further strain travelers’ budgets.
However, the Department of State has defended the fee increase, stating that it is necessary to ensure the security and integrity of the passport issuance process. The department also pointed out that the fees charged for passport renewals are used to fund the passport issuance process and that the cost of a U.S. passport is still relatively low compared to other countries.
In addition to the fee increase for passport renewals, the Department of State also announced that they will be introducing a new expedited processing option for passport renewals. For an additional fee of $60, travelers will be able to expedite their passport renewal application and receive their new passport in 4-6 weeks, compared to the standard processing time of 6-8 weeks.
The new expedited processing option is expected to be popular among travelers who need to renew their passports quickly for international travel. The Department of State is encouraging travelers to take advantage of this new option if they have upcoming travel plans and need their passports renewed in a shorter timeframe.
Overall, while the increase in passport renewal fees may be unwelcome news for many travelers, it is a necessary step to ensure the security and integrity of the passport issuance process. Travelers should be aware of the upcoming fee increase and plan accordingly if they need to renew their passports in the coming year. Additionally, the new expedited processing option provides a convenient and timely solution for travelers who need their passports renewed quickly.
