Passport Fees in North Carolina to Increase Starting Next Year
North Carolina residents looking to obtain or renew their passports will soon have to shell out more money, as the U.S. Department of State has announced an increase in passport fees beginning in the new year. The price hike, which will affect all passport application types, is expected to take effect on January 1, 2022.
The decision to raise passport fees comes as the Department of State aims to recover the costs associated with processing passport applications and providing consular services to U.S. citizens abroad. The last time passport fees were increased was in 2018, and the upcoming adjustment is part of a regular review process to ensure that the fees remain in line with the actual costs of providing passport services.
Under the new fee schedule, the cost of a passport book for adults (age 16 and older) will increase from $110 to $130. Meanwhile, the fee for a passport book for minors (under the age of 16) will go up from $80 to $100. Additionally, the cost of renewing a passport book will see a slight increase from $110 to $130.
In addition to the passport book fees, the cost of obtaining a passport card will also see a bump in price. The fee for a passport card for adults will increase from $30 to $50, while the fee for minors will go up from $15 to $40. The fee for renewing a passport card will also increase from $30 to $50.
It’s important to note that the fee increase will only apply to passport applications submitted at U.S. passport agencies and centers, as well as by mail and through passport acceptance facilities. The fee for expedited processing of a passport application will remain the same at $60.
The U.S. Department of State has pointed out that the fee adjustment is necessary to ensure that the cost of passport services is fully covered by the fees collected from applicants. The funds generated from passport fees are used to support various consular services provided by U.S. embassies and consulates around the world, including assisting U.S. citizens in emergency situations, issuing visas to foreign nationals, and promoting U.S. economic interests abroad.
The fee increase has sparked some concerns among North Carolina residents, many of whom rely on their passports for international travel or as a form of identification. Some residents have expressed frustration over the timing of the fee hike, coming at a time when many are still grappling with the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I understand that the Department of State needs to cover their costs, but it’s disappointing to see passport fees go up, especially during these challenging times,” said Sarah Thompson, a resident of Raleigh. “Having a passport is essential for me to visit family overseas, so I guess I’ll have to budget accordingly.”
Despite the increase in passport fees, the Department of State has emphasized the importance of having a valid passport for international travel. With travel restrictions gradually easing and more countries reopening their borders to tourists, having a passport has become essential for those looking to explore the world once again.
For North Carolina residents who are planning to apply for or renew their passports, it’s important to be aware of the upcoming fee increase and budget accordingly. Those who are eligible for a passport renewal are encouraged to take advantage of the current fee schedule before the new fees take effect on January 1, 2022.
The U.S. Department of State has also urged travelers to apply for their passports well in advance of their planned travel dates to avoid any delays. Processing times for passport applications can vary depending on the volume of applications received, so it’s advisable to submit an application several weeks or even months ahead of time.
As the new year approaches, North Carolina residents are urged to plan ahead and budget for the increased passport fees. Whether it’s for a long-awaited vacation, a business trip, or visiting loved ones overseas, having a valid passport is key to making those travel plans a reality.
