What To Know
- It requires you to provide proof of an urgent travel need, such as a flight itinerary or visa appointment.
- You may be asked to mail your application and proof of travel to a designated passport acceptance facility or visit the facility in person.
- If you need a passport for a life-or-death emergency, such as the death of a family member or a medical emergency.
Applying for a passport can be a time-consuming process, especially if you need it urgently. While the standard processing time for passport renewal is 4-6 weeks, there are instances when you may need to expedite the process. This blog post will explore whether you can expedite passport renewal after applying and provide guidance on how to do so.
Can You Expedite Passport Renewal After Applying?
Yes, it is possible to expedite passport renewal after applying. However, the ability to do so depends on the circumstances and availability of expedited services. The U.S. Department of State offers two types of expedited services:
- Routine Expedite: This service reduces the processing time to 2-3 weeks. It requires you to provide proof of an urgent travel need, such as a flight itinerary or visa appointment.
- Urgent Expedite: This service reduces the processing time to 1-2 days. It is only available for life-or-death emergencies or when a U.S. citizen is stranded abroad and needs an emergency passport.
How to Expedite Passport Renewal After Applying
To expedite passport renewal after applying, you will need to:
1. Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC): Call the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 and request to expedite your passport renewal.
2. Provide Proof of Urgent Travel: Submit documentation that demonstrates the urgent need for your passport, such as a flight itinerary, visa appointment, or proof of an emergency situation.
3. Pay the Expedite Fee: The expedite fee for routine expedite is $60, while the fee for urgent expedite is $160.
4. Mail or Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility: You may be asked to mail your application and proof of travel to a designated passport acceptance facility or visit the facility in person.
Circumstances That Qualify for Expedited Passport Renewal
The following circumstances typically qualify for expedited passport renewal:
- Upcoming International Travel: If you have a confirmed flight or visa appointment within the next 2-3 weeks (for routine expedite) or within the next 1-2 days (for urgent expedite).
- Life-or-Death Emergency: If you need a passport for a life-or-death emergency, such as the death of a family member or a medical emergency.
- U.S. Citizen Stranded Abroad: If you are a U.S. citizen stranded abroad and need an emergency passport.
Consequences of Expediting Passport Renewal
Expediting passport renewal can have the following consequences:
- Higher Cost: Expedited services require an additional fee.
- Limited Availability: Expedited appointments may not be available at all passport acceptance facilities.
- Potential Delays: Even with expedited service, there is still a risk of delays due to unforeseen circumstances.
Tips for Expediting Passport Renewal
Here are some tips to help you expedite passport renewal:
- Apply Early: Apply for your passport renewal as soon as possible to avoid any potential delays.
- Gather Proof of Travel: Have all necessary documentation ready to prove your urgent travel need.
- Be Prepared to Pay the Fee: Expedited services require an additional fee.
- Consider a Passport Agency: If you need your passport urgently, consider visiting a passport agency in person.
- Track Your Application: Regularly check the status of your passport application online or by calling the NPIC.
Wrapping Up
Expediting passport renewal after applying is possible, but it depends on the circumstances and availability of expedited services. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can increase your chances of obtaining your passport quickly. Remember to consider the consequences and tips discussed to ensure a smooth and efficient passport renewal process.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I expedite my passport renewal online?
A: No, expedited passport renewal cannot be done online. You must contact the NPIC or visit a passport acceptance facility.
Q: How much does it cost to expedite passport renewal?
A: The routine expedite fee is $60, while the urgent expedite fee is $160.
Q: How long does it take to get a passport with expedited service?
A: Routine expedite takes 2-3 weeks, while urgent expedite takes 1-2 days.
Q: What documents are required for expedited passport renewal?
A: You will need proof of urgent travel, such as a flight itinerary or visa appointment.
Q: Can I expedite my passport renewal if I already have an appointment?
A: Yes, you can request to expedite your passport renewal even if you have already scheduled an appointment. However, you may not be guaranteed expedited service.
