This article was prepared with the assistance of ABIL, the Alliance of Business Immigration Lawyers, of which Loan Huynh, Fredrikson Immigration Department Chair, is a member.
The Department of State (DOS) announced that U.S. passport processing times have fluctuated several times in 2023. As of October 2, 2023, routine applications were being processed in eight to 11 weeks, and expedited applications in five to seven weeks. Processing times do not include mailing time.
DOS said that between October 2022 and September 2023, DOS issued more than 24 million passport books and cards, the most in U.S. history. DOS encourages applicants to check the status of their passport application and sign up for updates via email.
DOS also released the following tips for U.S. passport applicants:
- If you're renewing your application, submit your most recent passport with your application. Sign and date Form DS-82.
- Complete all sections of your form including entering your correct Social Security number. Do not leave anything blank. If you're applying for the first time or with your child under age 16, wait to sign the form until you are instructed to do so. If you're renewing by mail, sign and date the form on your own.
- Closely follow the passport photo requirements.
- Provide evidence of U.S. citizenship.
- If your current name is not the same as the name on your most recent passport, include your name change document (such as marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order).
