Passports are essential travel documents that allow individuals to travel internationally. They serve as a form of identification and are required for entry into most countries. If you’re planning to travel abroad, one of the first things you’ll need to do is apply for a passport. However, many people are unsure about the cost of obtaining a passport. In this article, I’ll delve into the various costs associated with getting a passport, including application fees, expedited processing, and additional services.
Application Fees
When applying for a passport, you’ll need to pay an application fee. The cost of the application fee depends on the type of passport you’re applying for and your age. As of 2021, the passport application fees are as follows:
Adult Passport Book
The application fee for an adult passport book is $110. This fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State and is non-refundable. In addition to the application fee, you’ll also need to pay an execution fee of $35 if you’re applying in person. The execution fee covers the cost of processing your application and verifying your identity.
Child Passport Book
If you’re applying for a passport for a child under the age of 16, the application fee is $80. Like adult passport applications, there’s also an execution fee of $35 for child passport applications. Both the application fee and execution fee are non-refundable.
Passport Card
In addition to passport books, you also have the option of applying for a passport card. The application fee for a passport card is $30 for adults and $15 for children under 16. However, if you want both a passport book and a passport card, the application fee is $140 for adults and $95 for children.
Expedited Processing
If you need your passport urgently, you can request expedited processing for an additional fee. Expedited processing shortens the processing time from 4-6 weeks to 2-3 weeks. As of 2021, the fee for expedited processing is $60 per application. This fee is in addition to the regular application and execution fees.
Additional Services
There are various additional services that you may need when applying for a passport, and each comes with its own cost:
Passport Photos
Passport photos are a requirement for all passport applications. Many post offices and other passport acceptance facilities offer passport photo services for a fee. The cost of passport photos can range from $10 to $30, depending on where you get them taken.
Name Change/Corrections
If you need to change the name on your passport or correct an error, there is a fee of $60 for this service. This fee applies to both passport books and passport cards.
File Search
If you’re unable to present evidence of U.S. citizenship or you have other special circumstances, you may need to request a file search. The fee for a file search is $150 and is non-refundable.
Conclusion
Obtaining a passport incurs various costs, including application fees, expedited processing fees, and additional service fees such as passport photos and name change/corrections. If you’re planning to travel internationally, it’s important to budget for these expenses and factor them into your travel plans. Passport fees can vary over time, so be sure to check the most up-to-date fees on the U.S. Department of State’s website before applying for a passport.
FAQs
1. Can I pay the passport fee with a credit card?
Yes, the U.S. Department of State accepts credit cards, checks, money orders, and bank drafts for passport fees. However, cash is not accepted.
2. Do I have to pay the execution fee if I’m renewing my passport?
No, the execution fee is only required for first-time applicants. If you’re renewing your passport by mail, you won’t need to pay the execution fee.
3. Can I get a refund if my passport application is denied?
No, all passport application fees, including the application fee and execution fee, are non-refundable. This is why it’s essential to ensure that your application is complete and accurate before submitting it.
4. Are there any additional fees for expedited processing?
Yes, if you request expedited processing, you’ll need to pay an additional fee of $60. This fee is in addition to the regular application and execution fees.
5. Can I apply for a passport online?
No, you cannot apply for a passport online. You must submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility or agency. However, you can fill out the application form online and then print it to bring with you to the facility.