The U.S. State Department recently provided updated estimates on delays for routine and expedited passport services.

Key Points:

  • The U.S. State Department is advising applicants to apply at least six months before planned travel.
  • According to the State Department, routine services can take up to 18 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day the applicant receives the new passport. The 18-week period accounts for 12 weeks of processing and six weeks for mailing.
  • Expedited services can take up to 12 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day the applicant receives the new passport. The 12-week period accounts for six weeks of processing and six weeks for mailing.
  • Urgent travel appointments and in-person services at passport agencies or centers cannot be guaranteed at this time. More information on the services available at specific passport centers can be found on the Passport Agency and Center page.
  • No same-day passport processing services are available at this time, and 72-hour processing is reserved for life-or-death situations. Proof will be required to receive such expedited processing.

Additional Information: Processing times do not begin the day an application is mailed but when the State Department receives the application. It may take two to four weeks from the day the application is mailed for the status of the application to state “In Process.” Additionally, the postal service is taking up to six weeks to return passports, causing additional delays.

BAL Analysis: U.S. citizens intending to travel abroad should renew their passports as soon as possible to avoid delays and complications. More information on travel restrictions and considerations can be found here.

This alert has been provided by BAL U.S. Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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