Americans now have the option to conveniently renew their passports online, avoiding the previously cumbersome process of mailing in paper applications that often caused delays.
The State Department recently announced the full operation of its online passport renewal system, following successful pilot programs. This service is now accessible to adult passport holders whose passports have expired within the last five years or will expire in the next year. However, it is not applicable for children’s passport renewals, first-time passport applicants, renewals for those residing outside the U.S., or expedited applications.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the shift towards digital transformation for passport renewal, stating, “By offering this online alternative to the traditional paper application process, the Department is embracing digital transformation to offer the most efficient and convenient passport renewal experience possible.”
It is estimated that around 5 million Americans could utilize this online service annually. In the prior year, the department processed 24 million passports, with about 40% being renewals.
Following passport processing delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and staffing shortages, the department recruited more staff and implemented technological enhancements, resulting in a reduction of processing times by approximately one-third compared to the previous year. Most applications are now completed within a shorter timeframe than the advertised six to eight weeks, and the online renewal system is expected to further expedite this process.
The new system enables renewal applicants to skip the traditional paper application method, requiring them to submit their documents, photo, and payment through a secure website, www.Travel.State.Gov/renewonline.
Screenshot State Department Website
There is no change in the existing passport processing fees, which currently stand at $130 for a regular renewal.
Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Rena Bitter mentioned the department’s intention to expand the program in the future. This expansion might include Americans residing abroad, those seeking to renew a second passport, and children’s passport renewals.
“This is not going to be the last thing that we do,” she stated. “We want to see how this goes and then we’ll start looking at ways to continue to make this service available to more American citizens in the coming months and years.”
