New Jersey Passport Fees Set to Increase in 2021
Travelling abroad is a dream for many people, but it can also come with a hefty price tag. In New Jersey, residents are about to face an increase in passport fees starting in 2021. The U.S. Department of State announced that they will be raising the cost of passport books and cards to offset the rising costs of processing and issuing them. This increase has sparked mixed reactions among New Jerseyans who are already feeling the financial strain of the ongoing pandemic.
The new passport fees set to take effect from January 1, 2021, will see an increase of $10 for adults applying for a passport book which will now cost $130. For children under the age of 16, the passport book fee will increase to $100, up $5 from the current price. Additionally, the the execution fee will also increase from $35 to $40. The price for a passport card will also see a slight increase from $30 to $35 for adults and $15 to $20 for children.
This increase in passport fees has been met with mixed reactions from New Jersey residents. Some feel that it is unfair to burden the public with higher fees, especially during a time when many are struggling financially due to the ongoing pandemic. Others understand the need for the increase, recognizing that the costs of processing and issuing passports have likely risen over the years.
One New Jersey resident, Sarah, expressed her frustration with the fee increase, stating, “I have been saving up for a trip abroad next year, and this increase in passport fees is just making it even more difficult for me to afford it. It feels like they are making it harder for us to travel, especially during these tough times.”
On the other hand, John, a frequent traveler, is more understanding of the fee increase, saying, “I know that processing passports can be a costly and time-consuming process. If the increase is necessary to ensure that we have a secure and efficient passport system, then I am willing to pay the extra fees.”
The U.S. Department of State has defended the fee increase, noting that passport fees have not been adjusted since 2010. They argue that the increase is necessary to cover the rising costs of technology upgrades, security enhancements, and inflation. Additionally, the Department of State points out that the fee increase is relatively small compared to the overall cost of traveling abroad.
Some experts believe that the increase in passport fees may discourage some people from traveling internationally, which could have a negative impact on the travel industry. With the ongoing pandemic already causing a significant decrease in international travel, the fee increase may further deter potential travelers.
Despite the fee increase, the demand for passports remains high. Many people are eager to resume traveling once it is safe to do so, and having a valid passport is essential for international travel. The U.S. Department of State has advised individuals to apply for or renew their passports well in advance of their planned travel dates to avoid any delays.
In response to the fee increase, some travel agencies and organizations are offering assistance to those who may struggle to afford the higher fees. Some travel agencies are offering payment plans for passport fees, while others are providing information on alternative forms of identification that may be accepted in lieu of a passport.
Overall, the increase in New Jersey passport fees is a reflection of the changing costs associated with processing and issuing passports. While it may pose a financial burden for some residents, many understand the necessity of the increase. As international travel slowly resumes in the future, having a valid passport will remain essential for those looking to explore beyond their borders.
