The U.S. Department of State has announced a new mailing address for passport applications, effective immediately. The change comes as part of the agency’s efforts to streamline the passport application process and improve efficiency for American citizens applying for or renewing their passports.
The new mailing address for passport applications is as follows:
U.S. Department of State
Passport Services
P.O. Box 9023
Cunningham, TX 75434
The Department of State advises all applicants to use this new address when submitting their passport applications by mail. Any applications sent to the old address may experience delays in processing.
In addition to the new mailing address, the Department of State is also introducing a new online portal for passport applications. This portal will allow applicants to track the status of their applications, upload necessary documents, and make online payments.
“We are constantly looking for ways to improve the passport application process for American citizens,” said Secretary of State, Antony Blinken. “By introducing this new mailing address and online portal, we hope to make the process more convenient and efficient for all applicants.”
The Department of State has also announced that they will be increasing the cost of passport applications starting next year. The new fee structure will be as follows:
– Adult passport book (age 16 and older): $150
– Adult passport card (age 16 and older): $65
– Minor passport book (under age 16): $80
– Minor passport card (under age 16): $50
The Department of State cited rising costs of processing and issuing passports as the reason for the fee increase. The agency assures applicants that the fees will still be competitive compared to other countries.
In addition to the new mailing address and fee increase, the Department of State is also introducing new security measures to protect against fraud and identity theft. These measures include the use of advanced biometric technology and enhanced background checks for all applicants.
“We take the security of passport applications very seriously,” said Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, Michele T. Bond. “These new measures will help us ensure that only eligible individuals are issued passports and that they are protected against identity theft and fraud.”
American citizens are reminded to apply for or renew their passports well in advance of any upcoming travel plans. The Department of State recommends applying for a passport at least six months before any planned international travel to avoid any delays or complications.
For more information on passport applications, the new mailing address, fee structure, and security measures, visit the Department of State’s official website at travel.state.gov or contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.
Overall, the U.S. Department of State’s new mailing address for passport applications, along with the introduction of a new online portal, fee increase, and enhanced security measures, aims to make the passport application process more convenient, secure, and efficient for American citizens. By following these new guidelines and utilizing the online portal, applicants can ensure a smooth and timely passport application process.
