In today’s globalized world, having a passport is essential for traveling abroad. Whether you’re going on a vacation, studying abroad, or working in a different country, a passport is your ticket to crossing international borders. However, many people are often surprised by the cost of obtaining a passport. So, what’s the cost for a passport?
The cost of a passport can vary depending on several factors, including the type of passport you need, your age, and how quickly you need it. In the United States, for example, the most common types of passports are the standard adult passport book, the standard adult passport card, the child passport book, and the child passport card.
As of 2021, the cost for a standard adult passport book in the United States is $110 for the passport application fee and $35 for the acceptance fee, bringing the total cost to $145. The passport book is required for all international air travel. If you need a passport card for land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, the cost is $65 for the application fee and $35 for the acceptance fee, making the total cost $100.
For children under the age of 16, the cost for a child passport book is $80 for the application fee and $35 for the acceptance fee, totaling $115. The cost for a child passport card is $50 for the application fee and $35 for the acceptance fee, making the total cost $85. It’s important to note that both parents or legal guardians must be present when applying for a child’s passport.
If you need your passport quickly, you can expedite the process by paying an additional fee. Expedited service can get you a passport in as little as 4-6 weeks, compared to the standard processing time of 10-12 weeks. The expedited service fee is $60 per application in the United States.
In addition to the passport fees, there are also other costs to consider when obtaining a passport. For example, you may need to provide photos, which can cost around $15-$20. You may also need to pay for shipping if you’re unable to apply for your passport in person at a passport acceptance facility.
It’s important to budget for these costs when planning your international travel. Many people overlook the cost of obtaining a passport and are caught off guard by the fees. However, having a valid passport is a necessary investment for anyone who wants to travel internationally.
For those who need to renew their passport, the cost is the same as getting a new passport. You can renew your passport by mail if your most recent passport is undamaged, was issued when you were 16 or older, was issued within the last 15 years, and is in your current name. The cost for a passport renewal in the United States is $110 for the application fee.
Overall, the cost of a passport can vary depending on your individual circumstances. It’s important to plan ahead and budget for these costs when preparing for international travel. A passport is a valuable document that allows you to explore the world and experience new cultures, so it’s worth the investment.
