MINNEAPOLIS (Nov. 8, 2016) — If you’re traveling internationally for the winter holidays, now is the time to apply for your U.S. passport, according to the Minneapolis Passport Agency of the Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State.
As an incentive to apply early, the Department is offering faster processing times through November. During November, passport processing times for routine service is 4-5 weeks and expedite service is 2-3 weeks. Expedite service at a passport agency is 5 business days. Expedite service costs an additional $60.
If you are traveling in more than 2 weeks and have already had a U.S. passport, you may be eligible to renew your passport by mail. If you are applying for the first time, you should visit an acceptance facility such as a clerk of court, library, or post office.
If you’re traveling in less than 2 weeks, or you need a new U.S. passport for a foreign visa within 4 weeks, you should apply at a Department of State passport agency. You can make an appointment by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778 or TDD/TDY at 1-888-874-7793. Customers must pay the $60 expedite fee and must provide a travel itinerary when applying at a passport agency.
Knowing your passport expiration date may help you avoid costly travel delays. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport expires in less than six months. Learn more by reviewing the Country Specific Information for the country you intend to visit.
As of Nov. 1, 2016 eye glasses are no longer permitted in passport photos. For information on applying for a U.S. passport, forms, fees, and processing times, please visit Travel.State.Gov.
