Passport processing times have always been a concern for those looking to travel abroad, but with the COVID-19 pandemic causing disruptions in government services, the issue has been elevated to a new level. As a result, many individuals find themselves in need of expedited passport services in order to receive their passport in a timely manner.
One question that is on the minds of many people who are considering expedited passport services is, “How much does it cost to expedite your passport?” The answer to this question varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of passport you are applying for, your age, and how quickly you need your passport.
For those in need of expedited passport services, the cost can range from $60 to $300 or more. This cost is in addition to the standard passport application fees, which range from $130 to $205 for adults and $100 to $165 for minors. The expedited passport fee is paid in addition to these fees and is required in order to have your passport processed more quickly.
The expedited passport fee is typically paid directly to the U.S. Department of State when you submit your application. This fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or denied. However, paying the expedited fee does not guarantee that your application will be processed any faster than standard processing times. The expedited fee is simply an additional cost that is required in order to have your application considered for expedited processing.
In addition to the expedited fee, there are also third-party companies that offer expedited passport services for an additional fee. These companies typically charge a service fee on top of the expedited fee charged by the Department of State. While using a third-party company can help to streamline the application process and ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted correctly, it can also add to the overall cost of obtaining an expedited passport.
It is important to note that expedited passport services are not guaranteed to be successful. The processing times for expedited applications can still vary depending on a number of factors, including the volume of applications being processed and the time of year. While expedited processing can help to expedite the process, it is not a guarantee that your passport will be processed quickly.
For those who are in need of expedited passport services, it is important to weigh the costs and benefits of using this service. While the cost of expedited processing can be steep, it may be necessary for those who need their passport quickly in order to travel or for other reasons. However, it is also important to be aware that expedited processing is not always successful and that there are no guarantees of when your passport will be processed.
In conclusion, the cost of expedited passport services can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of passport you are applying for and how quickly you need it. While the cost can be significant, expedited processing may be necessary for those who need their passport quickly. It is important to be aware of the costs and benefits of expedited services before making a decision on whether or not to use this option.
