Whether you’re an international citizen or need to renew your passport, you might be wondering how long it takes to get a passport. Unfortunately, there’s no way to determine precisely how long it will take to process your application since this varies based on the current number of applications in the queue and other factors (more on that below). That said, there are some ways you can figure out how long it will take for your specific application. Here’s what you need to know about how long it takes to get a passport based on your situation.
How to Get an Emergency Passport
Getting an emergency passport may seem like a daunting process, but it’s not that difficult. You can apply for an emergency U.S. Passport if you’re traveling in two weeks or less and don’t have time to obtain your regular document before your trip. Here are three ways to speed up the process. Pre-apply by mail: If you know that your documents won’t be ready before your scheduled travel date, start filling out forms online as soon as possible.
What Is the Standard Processing Time for Passports
The State Department says that processing time for a U.S. passport depends on several factors, including whether you are applying through expedited or regular channels and whether you have previously applied for a U.S. passport and had one issued within the last 15 years (in which case, your application can be processed much more quickly). Standard processing times range from two to six weeks.
When Will I Receive My New Passport?
The U.S. Passport Service will mail your new passport to you in about ten business days once your application has been submitted and reviewed. Once you receive your new U.S. passport, it should be used immediately—it expires after five years, on your birthday when you were born, if that’s less than five years from when you applied for a new passport. If you’re applying for your first adult passport or replacing a lost or stolen one, please allow up to six weeks for processing.
Why Is There a Delay in Receiving My Passport?
There are many reasons why your application might be delayed or even denied. For instance, if you don’t have a birth certificate, you can’t apply for a U.S. passport until you secure one. Other valid documents that are required include proof of citizenship (i.e., previous passports and your Social Security card), evidence of name change (if applicable) and an acceptable photo ID with signature (such as a driver’s license).
Conclusion
It’s impossible to pinpoint an exact time frame for how long it takes to get a passport because that time frame is ultimately determined by what you put on your application. The decision will be made by whether or not you meet all of your state’s requirements; if you do, then when you apply, generally speaking, you should be able to get your new document within four weeks. But, of course, there are exceptions to every rule, and every case is unique.
Check also How to Write a Check
Source: Time.com / Travel.state.gov
