Why do passports take so long?

As of September 16, 2021, routine passport processing times can take up to 18 weeks if you try and obtain your passport through the government. This is due to the number of passports that are backlogged. Luckily, you can avoid long passport processing times if you choose Swift to obtain your passport.

Do passports ever take longer than 8 weeks?

How long does it take to get a passport? It used to take 4-6 weeks for routine passport processing. However, during a government shutdown or busy travel season, some were reporting passport processing times of up to 10 weeks. Now the U.S. Department of State has increased the processing times to 10-12 weeks.

How long are passports really taking?

The State Department says routine passport processing times are estimated to be eight to 11 weeks – still above the pre-pandemic average of six to eight weeks but much better than the 18-week wait travelers faced last summer.

What happens if my passport doesn't come in time?

The passport agency will work with you to find your application and issue you a passport as soon as possible (sometimes even on the same day). Another option is to call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778.

Does a passport really take 10 weeks?

The current processing time for U.S. passports is 8 to 11 weeks (for a $110 fee), down from the estimated 18 weeks it had been throughout summer and into early fall, according to the latest update from the U.S. State Department.

My Passport FINALLY ARRIVED! How Long did it Take to Arrive? - Personal Experience

How long are passports taking right now 2022?

The State Department warns that current processing times are between eight and 11 weeks. "Apply at least 4-6 months before planned travel," the State Department website states. However, that figure could be subject to change as summer travel kicks into high gear and more people send in applications.

How long did your passport take 2021?

Make sure you know how long it will take. Currently, normal processing times are running between 8-11 weeks. Paying for expedited service is $60 and will get you your passport in 5-7 weeks. If you want to travel this summer, you need to apply now for regular service or within the next month for expedited service.

How can I track my passport delivery?

You can call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 (TDD/TTY) to check on your status. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Eastern Time, excluding federal holidays.

Can you fast track a passport?

In the Philippines, DFA offers expedite processing with a processing period of six (6) working days for NCR applicants and seven (7) working days for applicants outside the NCR. The fee for expedited processing is Php 1,200.00.

Can I travel while waiting for my passport?

Answer: As an American citizen, you are now required to leave and return to the United States with a valid U.S. passport. You cannot travel while your U.S. passport application is still in pending or in process. The only way you can get a passport issued sooner is by applying in person at a regional agency.

Are passports delayed 2022?

The U.S. Passport office is currently experiencing delays in processing passports. It may take up to 16 weeks to receive a passport, and 12 weeks for expedited processing. Applicants to Winter 2022 and Spring 2022 programs who need a new passport or who need to renew their passport should start the process immediately.

How long does it take to get passport back?

The State Department estimates a passport takes four to six weeks to process from the time you turn in your application (including the time it takes to mail it back to you), so leave plenty of time, especially in spring, when many people are preparing for the busy summer travel season.

Do you need a passport to go to Mexico?

U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book or card, in addition to an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). Travelers should be sure to enter Mexico with valid proof of automobile registration, even if remaining in the border zone.

How many passports are processed in a day?

The backlog has built up in just 10 weeks since the agency severely curtailed passport services on March 19 to only "life-or-death emergencies." According to the report provided to Congress last week, the department has been receiving 9,000 passport applications each day, compounding the logjam.

How long does a 1 week fast track passport take?

1 week Fast Track

Your new passport is delivered to your home within 1 week of your appointment. Someone might need to be in to sign for it. You can use this service to: renew an adult or child passport.

How long does it take to get passport from US consulate?

While passports are often available within one week, the exact time may vary significantly depending on the office used and the workload that the consulate is facing at that particular time.

How long are passports taking to process UK?

Processing times in the UK

Allow up to 10 weeks to receive your passport. There are different turnaround times if you're applying from another country.

Do you need a passport to go to Bahamas?

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens are generally required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to The Bahamas, as well as proof of anticipated departure from The Bahamas. Those traveling to The Bahamas on a cruise may use another Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document.

How much is a US passport?

New Passport (for adults age 16 and older): For a new adult passport book: $130 application fee and a $35 execution fee. The new total fee is $165. Passport Cards (for adults age 16 and older): The application fee is $30 and the execution fee is $35. The new total fee is $65.

How long does expedited passport take?

You can receive a standard expedited passport in about three weeks. If you need your passport sooner, Sharp Link is a service that can expedite a passport for even quicker service, including three, five, or even same-day service.

Can felons get a passport?

According to USA Today, most felons can get a passport without a problem. This is assuming a person is not currently awaiting trial, on probation or parole or otherwise banned from leaving the country.

Can a US citizen be denied entry back into the USA?

The same is true for lawful permanent residents: you generally cannot be denied entry to the United States, but declining to answer questions may result in delay or further inspection. Refusal by non-citizen visa holders and visitors to answer questions may result in denial of entry.

Can I use my birth certificate to go to Mexico?

The approved documents include a passport, a passport card, a NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST trusted traveler program card, or a state- or province-issued enhanced driver's license. Travelers under age 16 need to present only a birth certificate or alternative proof of citizenship.

Why is it so difficult to get a passport?

Due to increased demand, a shortage of appointments and delays with the U.S. Post Service, the State Department now says that those applying for a new or renewed passport should expect to wait up to 18 weeks for their document. That wait time drops to 12 weeks if you pay $60 extra for expedited processing.