Passport fees are set to rise at United States post offices starting this fall, leading many travelers to reconsider their plans. A passport is a crucial document for anyone looking to travel internationally, and the cost of obtaining one has long been a point of contention. With the upcoming changes, many are left wondering just how much it will cost to get a passport at their local post office.
As of October 1, 2021, the cost of a passport book for adults will increase from $110 to $130. For minors under the age of 16, the fee will go up from $80 to $100. Additionally, the execution fee, which is paid to the post office for processing the application, will increase from $35 to $40. These changes are part of a larger effort by the U.S. Department of State to bring passport fees in line with the actual cost of providing the service.
The increase in passport fees has caused concern among many travelers, especially those who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. For some, the added cost may be enough to put their travel plans on hold or force them to look for alternative destinations closer to home. Others have expressed frustration at what they see as yet another barrier to international travel.
“I understand that the cost of providing passports may have gone up, but it’s still tough to swallow,” said Sarah Hernandez, a frequent traveler from Los Angeles. “I was already saving up for my next trip, and now I’ll have to save even more just to cover the cost of getting a passport. It’s disappointing, to say the least.”
For those who cannot afford the new fees, there are options available. The U.S. Department of State offers a fee waiver program for eligible applicants who demonstrate financial need. Additionally, some post offices may offer payment plans or assistance programs for those who qualify. Travelers are encouraged to contact their local post office for more information.
Despite the increase in fees, obtaining a passport at a post office is still a relatively straightforward process. Applicants must fill out the appropriate forms, provide proof of citizenship, and submit a passport photo. The entire process can take several weeks, so it’s important to plan ahead if you have upcoming travel plans.
For those who need their passport in a hurry, expedited services are available for an additional fee. The fee for expedited processing will increase from $60 to $70 starting October 1, 2021. Expedited processing can reduce the wait time for a passport to as little as two to three weeks, making it a popular option for last-minute travelers.
In addition to the increase in passport fees, there are changes coming to the passport renewal process as well. Starting January 1, 2022, passports that are over 15 years old will no longer be eligible for renewal by mail. Instead, these applicants will need to apply for a new passport in person at a post office or passport acceptance facility.
The changes to passport fees and renewal processes have sparked a debate among travelers and government officials. Some argue that the increases are necessary to cover the rising costs of providing passport services, while others believe that the fees are becoming prohibitively expensive for many Americans. Regardless of where you stand on the issue, it’s clear that obtaining a passport is now more expensive than ever.
As the cost of international travel continues to rise, it’s important for travelers to be mindful of the expenses involved. Planning ahead, budgeting for additional fees, and exploring alternative destinations can all help make travel more affordable. With the new passport fees set to take effect this fall, now is the time to start thinking about how much you’re willing to spend to see the world.
