If you’re an adult aged 16 or over and applying for a passport for the first time, it’s important to understand the costs involved. Here, we have compiled all the information which will help you understand the expenses and requirements associated with getting a passport.
Understanding the cost of getting a passport
The cost of getting a passport varies with the type of passport you want to apply for. If you are applying for the first time, you will have to pay an application fee and an execution fee. Here’s a table that will give you a better understanding of the fees involved:
| Passport Type | Application Fee | Execution Fee | Total Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport Book DS-11 | $130 | $35 | $165 |
| Passport Card DS-11 | $30 | $35 | $65 |
| Passport Book & Card DS-11 | $160 | $35 | $195 |
It’s essential to know that the execution fee is non-refundable, even if the application is not successful. Moreover, if you need expedited service, you will have to pay an additional fee of $60.
Why passport is important
A passport is a legal document that confirms your citizenship and identity. It’s an essential document that allows you to travel freely across borders. It also enables you to access consular services and protection provided by the U.S. government while you are abroad.
It’s always a good idea to have a valid passport, even if you don’t have any immediate travel plans. If an emergency arises, you’ll need a passport to travel abroad. Additionally, some countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, so it’s crucial to have an updated passport even if you’re not planning to travel soon.
In conclusion, getting a passport is necessary if you want to travel. However, it’s also essential to understand the costs and requirements involved to be adequately prepared. Whether you’re applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one, it’s crucial to provide accurate information and follow the guidelines provided to ensure a smooth application process.
New Adult Passport Application Fee
If you are an adult (16 or older) and you are applying for a passport for the first time, you should be aware that the new fee for a first-time adult passport book is $165. This comprises of a $130 application fee and a $35 acceptance fee. The fee increase applies to all passports, including renewals, as mentioned in a follow-up tweet from the State Department.
New Adult Passport Application
The new fee for a first-time adult passport book is comparatively high and you may be wondering how to reduce the impact on your wallet. The good news is that you can apply for a passport card instead of a passport book. A passport card is a wallet-sized card that can be used for land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The fee for a first-time adult passport card is only $30, which can save you $100. It is also worth noting that passport cards cannot be used for international air travel.
Passport Book and Passport Card Fees
If you are in need of both a passport book and a passport card, you can apply for both simultaneously and save money as opposed to applying for them separately. The fee for both a passport book and a passport card is $160, which is $35 less than if you were to apply for them separately. However, it is important to note that this fee excludes the execution fee, which is $35 per application. So, the actual cost of both a passport book and a passport card would be $195 ($160 + $35 execution fee).
It is crucial to remember that the fee increase applies to all types of passports, including minor passports for those under the age of 16. The new price for a minor passport book is now $135, which comprises of a $100 application fee and a $35 acceptance fee. It is recommended that you check the fees and requirements before applying for a passport to avoid any surprises.
Adult Passport Renewal Fee
Renewing an adult passport
If you already have a passport and it has not yet expired, you may be able to renew it by mail. The cost of renewing an adult passport by mail is $110, and this fee includes both the renewal application fee and the execution fee, so you do not need to pay an additional fee to have your passport application executed. However, if you need to expedite the process and request expedited service, there is an additional $60 fee.
To renew your passport by mail, make sure that your previous passport is undamaged and can be submitted with your application. You should also ensure that your previous passport was issued when you were 16 years of age or older, and that it was issued within the last 15 years. If your previous passport does not meet these requirements, you will need to apply for a new passport and pay the new passport fee.
Passport book and passport card fees
If you need to apply for a new passport or if you are renewing your passport and want to apply for both a passport book and a passport card simultaneously, there are several fees that you need to be aware of.
The fee for a first-time adult passport book is $130, and the execution fee is $35, so the total cost for a first-time adult passport book is $165.
If you do not need a passport book but simply want a passport card, you can apply for a first-time adult passport card, which costs $30. However, it is worth noting that a passport card cannot be used for international air travel.
If you need both a passport book and a passport card, you can apply for both simultaneously and save money. The fee for both a passport book and a passport card is $160, which is $35 less than if you were to apply for them separately. However, you still need to pay the execution fee of $35 per application, so the total cost of both a passport book and a passport card would be $195.
It is important to note that these fees are subject to change and that you should always check the official State Department website for the most up-to-date information before applying for a passport.
Passport Cost for Children
New passport application fee for children
If you’re applying for a passport for a child who is 15 years old or younger, the new fee for a first-time passport book is $115, which comprises of a $80 application fee and a $35 acceptance fee. It is important to note that all children must apply in person and both the application and acceptance fees are non-refundable. Moreover, the child’s passport is only valid for 5 years and cannot be renewed by mail.
Passport book and passport card fees
If you’re in need of both a passport book and a passport card for your child, you can apply for both simultaneously and save money as opposed to applying for them separately. The fee for both a passport book and a passport card is $150, which is $35 less than if you were to apply for them separately. However, it is important to note that this fee excludes the execution fee, which is $35 per application. So, the actual cost of both a passport book and a passport card would be $185 ($150 + $35 execution fee).
It is important to note that the fees and requirements for minor passports are different than those of adult passports. Hence, it is essential to check the fees and requirements on the Travel State website before initiating the passport application process for your child.
Expedited Passport Fee
If you’re in a hurry to get your passport, you can choose to expedite the processing time for an additional fee. The travel.state.gov website recommends that you consider the total time it will take to receive your passport before making any travel plans. Here are some important things to know about expedited passport processing:
Faster processing time for passport application
With expedited processing, your application will be processed faster than the routine processing time. Normally, it takes 4 to 6 weeks to receive your passport by mail, but with expedited processing, you can receive your passport within 2 to 3 weeks. However, you need to pay an additional fee of $60 for expedited service, which is in addition to the regular passport application fees.
Additional cost for expedited service
If you want to expedite your passport, you need to pay an additional fee of $60 for expedited service. Additionally, if you want your passport to be delivered to you in 1-2 days after it has been processed, you need to pay an additional fee of $19.53 for 1-2 day delivery service. It is essential to note that the expedite fee is non-refundable, even if your passport is not delivered within the expedited time frame.
If you have already applied for your passport and want to expedite the processing, you need to make an appointment at a regional passport agency. The passport agencies offer same-day service for passport applications that need to be expedited. However, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria to be able to use this service. One of the eligibility criteria is that your travel must be within 14 calendar days of your international travel if you have not yet applied for your passport, or within 5 calendar days of your international travel if you have already applied for your passport.
It is important to note that the expedited service commitment only applies to the processing time of your passport application. If you miss your trip due to any other reason, the U.S. Department of State cannot refund any other passport fees or your travel expenses. Also, you may receive your passport and the supporting documents submitted with your application in separate mailings, so it is essential to keep an eye on your mailbox.
To summarize, you can expedite your passport processing time by paying an additional fee of $60, in addition to the regular passport application fees. However, expedited service is not available for all passport applications and certain eligibility criteria must be met to use this service. Furthermore, the expedite fee is non-refundable, and additional fees are required for 1-2 day delivery service. Hence, it is essential to plan your travel and passport processing time accordingly.
Fees for Passport Services Outside the U.S.
If you’re applying for or renewing your U.S. passport outside of the United States, the fees differ depending on the type of service you require. Here are some details:
Different fees for passport book and card outside U.S.
If you need a passport book or a passport card outside the United States, the fee for first-time applicants is $145 for the passport book and $65 for the passport card. The passport card is only valid for land and sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
For both a passport book and a passport card, the fees are $175. Keep in mind that this fee does not include the execution fee, which is $35 per application.
Emergency passport fees
If you require an emergency passport while outside the United States, you can usually obtain one at a U.S. embassy or consulate. However, the fee for an emergency passport is $60 for regular processing, in addition to the standard passport fee. If you require expedited service, the fee is $152.00.
It is important to know that the fees and requirements for U.S. passport services outside the United States can be subject to change. Therefore, it is essential to check the fees and requirements on the Travel State website before initiating the passport application process or contacting the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for further information.
Passport Photo Fee
As you plan on traveling outside the United States, applying for a US passport is a vital step in the process. A necessary requirement for a passport application is a passport photo that meets the government’s parameters. In this article, we will discuss the fees associated with obtaining U.S. passport services outside of the United States, specifically the cost of getting a passport photo.
Cost of getting passport photo
The cost of getting a passport photo varies depending on the location and vendor. If you live in New York-New York, CVS Pharmacy® offers passport photos for $16.99, and they guarantee that the photos meet all mandatory government parameters. Additionally, you can purchase two additional photos for $2.99. Other locations and vendors’ fees for taking passport photos vary, hence it’s essential to check the specific vendor’s fees before booking an appointment.
Requirements for passport photo
When taking your passport photo, it is crucial to meet the government’s parameters to avoid delays in the application process. The photo must be:
– Taken in the last six months and reflect your current appearance.
– Taken in front of a white background.
– Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper.
– Sized such that your head is between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm and 35 mm) or about 50% and 69% of the image’s total height from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head.
– Taken in full-face view directly facing the camera.
– With a neutral facial expression and both eyes open.
– Wearing normal street attire. Uniforms or extravagant dresses are not allowed.
It is vital to ensure that you adhere to these requirements as a non-compliant photo can delay the application process. You can use the U.S. Department of State’s photo tool to verify that your photo meets the government’s parameters.
In conclusion, obtaining a passport photo that meets the government’s parameters is crucial when applying for a U.S. passport. It is also essential to note the fees associated with getting passport photos vary among vendors. It is crucial to check the specific vendor’s fees and requirements before taking your passport photo.
Payment Methods
If you’re planning to apply for a U.S. passport, it is essential to know the various payment methods that you can use to pay for your application fee. Here is what you need to know about the accepted payment methods for your passport application.
Accepted payment methods for passport application
The acceptable payment methods for U.S. passport application fees may depend on where you apply. If you are applying at a passport acceptance facility like a post office, you can pay using the following methods:
– Personal check
– Cashier’s check
– Money order
– Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover)
– Debit/ATM card (not accepted at all locations)
However, some passport acceptance facilities may only accept a specific form of payment or have limitations regarding the use of particular payment methods. It is essential to confirm the accepted payment methods at the facility where you intend to submit your application.
Applying for passport at a post office
If you’re applying for a U.S. passport at a post office, the payment options may vary depending on the location. Nevertheless, you can generally pay using any of the accepted payment methods we listed earlier. A post office passport agent will inform you of the preferred payment method when you submit your application in-person.
Moreover, if you’re renewing your passport by mail, you can only pay using a check, cashier’s check, or money order. It is crucial to note that personal checks, temporary checks, and starter checks are not acceptable forms of payment.
In conclusion, the payment methods that you can use to pay for your U.S. passport application fee may vary depending on where you apply. Therefore, it is vital to check the accepted payment methods at your chosen location before submitting your application. Additionally, it is recommended to have additional payment forms, such as cash and credit card, in case of any limitations or technical difficulties in processing your preferred payment method.
Payment Methods
When it comes to applying for a U.S. passport, it is crucial to understand the different payment methods accepted for the application fee. As you prepare to submit your application, here’s what you need to know about paying for your passport.
Accepted Payment Methods for Passport Application
The acceptable payment methods for your U.S. passport fees may depend on the location where you plan to apply. If you’re applying at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, you can pay using personal checks, cashier’s checks, money orders, credit cards, or debit/ATM cards. However, some facilities may have limitations on specific payment methods or only accept a particular form of payment. Therefore, it’s crucial to check with the facility before submitting your application.
Applying for Passport at a Post Office
At a post office, the payment options for passport applications may vary depending on the location. Generally, you can pay using any of the accepted methods mentioned earlier. However, it’s essential to note that if you’re renewing your passport by mail, you can only pay using a check, cashier’s check, or money order. Personal checks, temporary checks, and starter checks are not acceptable forms of payment.
Total Cost of Getting a Passport
The cost of obtaining a U.S. passport depends on various factors, such as your age and whether it’s a new or renewal application. For individuals aged 16 or older applying for the first time, a passport card costs $65 and a passport book costs $165. However, if you apply for both, it’ll cost you $195. Additionally, renewal fees for adults are $130 for passport books, $30 for passport cards, and $160 for both.
Tips for Saving on the Cost of Obtaining a Passport
Obtaining a U.S. passport can be a costly process, but there are several ways you can save money. Here are some tips to consider:
– Apply early to avoid expedited service fees.
– Opt for a passport card if you don’t travel internationally by air since it’s cheaper than a passport book.
– Use a rewards credit card for payment to earn cashback or bonus points.
– Check for discounts for groups such as seniors, students, or military personnel.
– Take advantage of promotions offered by third-party providers.
In conclusion, the payment methods accepted for your U.S. passport application fee may differ based on the location where you apply. However, with the right approach, you can save money and make the process more manageable.
