USAGov's Tips About Passports and International Travel in 2021

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Aug 10, 2021, 13:09 ET

WASHINGTON, Aug. 10, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Many people are planning destination getaways, visits with families, and business trips in the next year. If you need to renew or get a new passport, you may need more time than you think. Many people are experiencing delays in passport service due to the high volume of applications and changing COVID-19 restrictions. Know what to expect with these travel tips.

3 Tips From the Government To Plan for International Travel

Apply early. Submit your application for a new passport or renewal at least six months before your trip. Due to limited availability for urgent travel appointments, the State Department can't guarantee you can receive in-person service at a passport center.

Know how long routine vs. expedited service will take.

Routine service can take up to 18 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day a new passport is received. This includes up to 12 weeks for processing and up to 6 weeks for mailing time.
Expedited service costs an additional $60 and can take up to 12 weeks from the day an application is submitted to the day a new passport is received. This includes up to 6 weeks for processing and up to 6 weeks for mailing time.

Use online tools where you can. Look online at the self-service tools available on the Travel.State.gov website 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For example, you can check what your passport status is online.

Once you receive your passport, understand what health guidance is in place when traveling internationally. Some COVID-19 restrictions still apply depending on your destination.

Check out travel recommendations by your destination country to know what to expect before you go.
Remember: the U.S. requires a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before boarding a flight. This includes U.S. citizens and fully vaccinated people.

For more COVID-19-related travel information, visit USA.gov. USAGov is the front door to government information and services. For quick alerts and updates, follow @USAGov on social media at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also subscribe to email updates and alerts straight to your inbox.

SOURCE USAGov