If you’re looking to get a passport for an upcoming trip, you’re going to want to apply for a new passport or passport renewal as soon as possible. A vast number of passport applications are currently backlogged, with passport processing times taking up to 18 weeks (as of August 2, 2021). On top of old passport applications in the queue, many people are looking to obtain passports right now. This could potentially lead to even longer processing times in the near future, which may hinder your travel plans.
Are Passport Delays Still an Issue?
As of August 2, 2021, passport delays are still an issue as there is still a huge backlog of passports waiting to be processed. Many people applied for passports months back, and there are also a vast number of travelers applying for new passports and renewals right now. Because of this, current standard passport processing times are taking longer than usual, with the current wait time being up to 18 weeks.
Why is My Passport Taking so Long?
With the return of travel, everyone is looking to obtain either a new passport or passport renewal right now. Approximately 2 million passports are currently backlogged, with more people applying for passports each day, according to a Briefing with Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services, Rachel Arndt. Passports submitted early on need to be processed before moving on to passports that were recently submitted. Even if you apply for a passport today, it could take up to 18 weeks for your passport to be processed.
How Fast Are Passports Being Processed?
According to the U.S. Department of State Website, current standard passport processing times can take between 10-18 weeks. This time includes when the application is first submitted, to the day an applicant receives their passport. You can typically expect 12 weeks for processing as well as 6 weeks for total mailing times.
Please note that there is also an expedited option that you can select, which is expected to take between 4-12 weeks total processing time.
Are Passport Renewals Delayed?
Both passport renewals and new passport processing times are delayed as of August 2, 2021. You can currently expect standard passport processing times to take up to 18 weeks, which includes 12 weeks for processing and 6 weeks for total mailing times. We hope that as more passports are processed that these processing times will decrease.
How Can I Avoid Passport Processing Delays?
Starting the passport application process right away can help you avoid passport processing delays. Luckily, Swift can now process a limited number of passports in about 5-7 business days. Please note that we can only process a few number of these passports each day, so you’ll want to contact us to set up an appointment as soon as possible if you’re interested in this service.
If you have a trip coming up soon, you should apply for a passport as soon as possible. You don’t want to wait too long to apply and risk missing your trip! If you have any questions about applying for a new passport or passport renewal, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts would be happy to help answer any questions you may have. If you’re ready to get the passport process started, you can do so on our website. We look forward to getting you to your destination!
