In light of increased processing times, State Department announces local passport fairs
With an increased demand in international travel comes an increase in demand for passports. This inevitably results in an increase in passport processing times, an issue that the U.S. State Department has been navigating throughout 2023.
The current processing times – not including the time it takes for an application to be mailed – range from 10 to 13 weeks for routine processing and seven to nine weeks for expedited processing. In a recent update from the State Department, travelers are recommended to submit their passport applications at least six months in advance of their departure dates.
The State Department is trying to make this process easier, however, by hosting a series of Passport Acceptance Fairs, which will allow first-time passport applicants and their children the opportunity to apply for a new passport.
“Passport acceptance facilities such as post offices, libraries, and local government offices are hosting special passport acceptance fairs across the United States to help you and your family apply for your passport,” the State Department announced last week.
The fairs aim to service individuals who are seeking out a passport for the first time. Processing will be based on a standard or expedited processing timeline. Travelers who need a passport for urgent travel – which is defined as travel scheduled within nine weeks – should set up an appointment at a passport agency. Travelers who need to renew their passport can do so via mail.
“We are on track to set the record for the highest demand year ever, far surpassing volumes seen during previous surges in demand in 2007 and 2017,” the State Department said in a March press release about the passport processing delays, according to AFAR.
Passport Acceptances Fairs are taking place throughout July and August in New Jersey, California, Connecticut and Georgia. For a full list of dates and locations, visit the State Department website.
Roshae Hemmings is an arts and culture magazine journalist from St. Louis, MO. A graduate from the Missouri School of Journalism, Roshae has bylines in the Columbia Missourian, Vox Magazine and 5280 Magazine discussing topics ranging from pop culture, social justice and eat and drink. She is a foodie at heart and enjoys eating food as much as learning about the story behind it. You can reach Roshae via email at roshaehemmings@detourxp.com.
This story was originally published July 14, 2023 at 11:50 AM with the headline "In light of increased processing times, State Department announces local passport fairs."