In 2023, the world is finally opening its doors again after the prolonged pandemic. Travel enthusiasts are eagerly packing their bags to explore the globe once more. Amidst all this excitement, the question that’s creating anxiety among many is, “How long does it take to get a passport expedited in the current year?”

This question is particularly relevant if you have an international trip looming close, and you discover your passport is expired, or you need a new one altogether. Here, we aim to guide you through this seemingly complicated process and provide a roadmap to quick passport acquisition.

Understanding Expedited Services

When we speak of expediting a passport, we are referring to the process of applying for a passport with a request for faster processing than the standard service. This facility is typically available for both new passport applications and renewals.

The standard processing time for a passport application, under regular conditions, is generally 10-13 weeks. However, choosing to expedite your application can shrink this timeframe down to 7-9 weeks. That said, the actual timeline can vary based on various factors, including the time of the year, the volume of applications, and any ongoing global events affecting passport operations. You can use expedited service with a mail-in application or an in-person passport appointment.

Expedited Passport Timeline in 2023

With the surge of travel plans in 2023, passport services have noted a significant increase in applications. Despite this, the U.S. Department of State has managed to maintain an expedited processing timeline of 7-9 weeks from the day of application submission. This expedited service comes with an additional fee on top of the standard application charge.

Urgent Passport Services

If you need your passport even sooner, there are options available for those urgent cases. Life-or-death emergencies and immediate travel plans (within 2-3 weeks) are generally valid reasons to use these urgent expedited services.

Under these circumstances, the Department of State offers an urgent passport service that can process an application within 72 hours. However, proof of the emergency or immediate travel (like an airline ticket) is required. 

Moreover, you can also use private passport courier services such as Travel Visa Pro, which work as intermediaries between you and the Department of State. These companies can sometimes further reduce processing times. While these services can be considerably more expensive, they can be worth it for those in a real-time crunch.

Tips to Expedite Your Passport Application

To ensure your expedited passport application process runs smoothly and swiftly, follow these tips:

●        Apply Early: Even if you are applying for expedited service, it’s always better to apply as early as possible. Avoid waiting until the last minute.

●        Prepare for Your Appointment: If you qualify for an appointment at a passport agency due to urgent travel needs, come prepared. Bring your completed application, supporting documents, proof of immediate travel, and the required fees. This will help to avoid any delays.

●        Accurate and Complete Application: Any mistake or omission in your application can lead to delays. A simple typo or mistake can cause delays in processing. Double and triple-check your application before sending it off. Make sure your application is accurate and complete before submission.

●        Required Documents: Having the necessary documents, including proof of citizenship, identification, and passport photos, is crucial. Ensure all your documents are in order.

●        Expedited Service Payment: Don’t forget to pay the additional fee for the expedited service while applying.

●        Use Express Mail Services: When sending your application, using an overnight delivery service can speed up the process. Similarly, include a prepaid express mail envelope for the return of your new passport.

●        Track Your Application: Use the online tracking system provided by the Department of State to keep a tab on your application status.

●        Follow Up: If there are no updates and you have not received your passport within the expected time frame, don’t hesitate to check what’s going on. Contact the National Passport Information Center or the expediting service you used to check on the status.

●        Consider Using a Passport Expeditor or Courier Service: If you’re dealing with a real-time crunch or you find the process overwhelming, a professional passport courier service such as Travel Visa Pro can help. They know the process inside out and can sometimes help get your passport in as little as 24 hours.

Getting a passport expedited can seem like a daunting task, particularly if you’re short on time. However, by understanding the process, the timeline, and ensuring all your paperwork is in order, it can be a much smoother experience. In 2023, even with the surge in demand, expedited services have proven to be a reliable way to get your passport swiftly, so you can embark on your travel adventures without unnecessary stress.