Getting A Passport

While international travel has been curtailed over the past year, it’s likely to rebound in the coming months as more people become vaccinated against COVID-19 and more countries relax border restrictions. 

If you’re starting to think about taking a trip abroad, whether it’s for business or pleasure, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to apply for a passport or get your old one renewed.  

The State Department says it can take 10 to 12 weeks from the time you submit your application until your passport arrives in the mail. You can also pay an additional fee for expedited service that will cut the waiting time to 4 to 6 weeks.  

Even if your passport hasn’t expired, the State Department advises that you may need a new one. 

For example, some countries require that your passport be valid for six months beyond the date of your trip, and some airlines won’t allow you to board if that requirement isn’t met.  

It’s also important to make sure that your passport is in good condition.  

Damage can sometimes be a signal to security personnel that a passport has been tampered with or copied, and it may hold you up at a border. While some wear and tear is expected, if your passport has been significantly damaged, especially the cover or the page with your personal information and photo, you’ll have to apply for a new one. Water damage, a significant tear, unofficial markings on the data page and torn-out pages are examples the State Department gives as reasons to apply for a replacement before you travel.  

You can find more information on applying for a passport or renewing one, including fees and the location of the nearest passport acceptance facility, at travel.state.gov.  

For help navigating any travel plans, contact your travel advisor or connect with one here!