Americans have very few options when it comes to getting an expedited passport. But how long does it take to get an expedited passport? This depends on the particular situation as well as the dates of your departure. So, when applying for an expedited passport, you need to have your travel plans ready, like the plane tickets and official itinerary. This can help speed up the process. Let’s get into the details of obtaining a rushed passport in the US and see how expedited passport services can help.
How Long Does it Take to Get an Expedited Passport in the US?
The processing times for US passports vary depending on the current passport application demands. For routine processing, it takes around 6-8 weeks. However, a passport rush service can provide you with an expedited passport in about 2-3 weeks. But remember that these are just the processing times after your passport application is received. It can take up to two weeks for the State Department to receive your application and two more weeks for you to receive your completed passport.
However, you can shorten this mailing time by sending your application by express mail. Also, the current expediting of your passport application will slash the processing time to just 2-3 weeks or only eight days through a passport agency.
How to Expedite a US Passport Application?
The best option for getting a rushed passport will depend on how quickly you need it. The US Department of State offers three types of expedited passport applications: urgent travel, expedited, and emergency.
- Expedited passport applications: You can submit this request if you are traveling in a few months. The process is identical to the routine application but requires an additional fee of 60$ along with the standard passport fees. If you are a new passport applicant, you can submit an expedited application at a passport acceptance facility. Remember that the State Department has a money-back guarantee for expedited requests. So, if the agency does not process your application within 35-45 business days of receiving an application, you can apply for a refund of your $60 expedited fee.
- Urgent travel passport: If you want your passport faster than expedited, you can apply for an in-person appointment at a rushed passport agency. However, this is only when you have not applied for a passport but have international travel booked within 14 days or if you have applied for a passport but have not received it and your travel date is fast approaching. To determine your eligibility for this, you need to provide your travel dates and destination and bring printed proof of your international travel.
To Sum Up
Though the State Department operates many passport agencies, a reliable expedited passport agency can help get you a passport for your urgent travels. You can get your passport quicker by paying extra for expedited shipping from the agency. Even if you don’t receive your passport as your travel dates are near, you can consult your passport agency to make sure you have your passport on time.
