Buzz
Due to the lingering coronavirus situation and ongoing travel restrictions, your next international vacation might be delayed. But, don’t wait to apply for or renew your passport because long processing times could be a reality.
As reported by USA Today, the State Department reduced passport operations from mid-March to early June in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19. According to the agency's website, expedited applications were put on hold, and only life-or-death emergencies were processed, resulting in a backlog of 1.8 million applications by June.
While passport agencies have gradually resumed their operations, the State Department still isn't running at full capacity. If you're applying for a non-emergency passport, expect delays. You can check the operational status of your local passport agency here. Depending on your location, you may be able to apply in person at an acceptance facility or renew your passport by mail.
Even if your passport isn’t set to expire for months, it’s wise to begin the renewal process now. This could spare you from the stress of waiting for your passport to arrive after you've booked a trip—and potentially save you from having to pay extra for expedited services later. Once you've applied, you can track the status of your application online or by calling the agency at (877) 487-2778.
Another benefit of applying now: it gives you something to look forward to once the pandemic is over. While it may feel hard to envision traveling to far-flung destinations right now, getting that fresh new passport in the mail will still be exciting. You might even begin crafting a travel rewards plan or saving up for a future getaway. Once it's safe to travel, having your new passport in hand will make it much easier to resume your adventures.
