Passport fees for US citizens are set to increase starting on December 27, 2021. The new fee structure will impact both first-time applicants and those seeking passport renewals. The changes come as a result of increased costs associated with processing applications and maintaining security measures.
Under the new fee schedule, a first-time adult passport book will cost $165, a significant increase from the previous fee of $145. The renewal fee for an adult passport book will also see an increase, jumping from $110 to $130. The fee for a passport card, which can be used for land and sea travel to certain countries, will rise from $30 to $50 for adults and from $15 to $28 for minors.
In addition to the base fees, applicants may also be required to pay an execution fee of $35, which covers the cost of verifying identity and citizenship. This fee applies to first-time applicants and those renewing their passports in person at a designated acceptance facility.
The fee increases are intended to offset the rising costs of processing passport applications and maintaining security features to prevent fraud and counterfeiting. The US Department of State, which oversees the passport issuance process, has cited increased costs for materials, personnel, and technology as reasons for the fee hike.
Despite the fee increases, the State Department is encouraging US citizens to apply for or renew their passports as soon as possible, as processing times can vary depending on demand and other factors. Standard processing times for passport applications are currently estimated at 10 to 12 weeks, while expedited processing can take 4 to 6 weeks for an additional fee.
Applicants who require a passport for urgent travel may be eligible for an appointment at a passport agency or center for expedited service. However, availability at these facilities may be limited due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions and safety protocols.
It is important to note that the fee increases are not limited to passport books and cards. Additional services, such as adding extra visa pages or changing the name on a passport, will also see price hikes under the new fee schedule. These services range in cost from $0 to $140, depending on the nature of the request.
While the fee increases may come as a disappointment to some travelers, the State Department is committed to providing excellent customer service and ensuring the security and integrity of the passport issuance process. Passport fees are used to cover the costs of processing applications, conducting background checks, and maintaining a secure database of passport information.
US citizens who are planning to travel internationally in the near future are advised to check their passport expiration date and renew their passport if necessary to avoid any potential delays or complications. The State Department recommends renewing a passport at least six months before it expires to ensure smooth travel and compliance with entry requirements in other countries.
Overall, the fee increases for US passport applications are a necessary step to cover rising costs and maintain the integrity of the passport issuance process. While the higher fees may be burdensome for some travelers, they are essential to ensure the security and efficiency of the passport system. To learn more about the new fee schedule and to apply for or renew a US passport, visit the State Department’s official website or contact a designated acceptance facility for assistance.
