The US State Department has introduced a new system that makes the passport renewal process easy. It aims to simplify the process, eliminating the need for mailing paper passport renewal applications. The updated system is likely to save travelers time
The State Department website now has a link to renew US passport online. Meanwhile, the Department tests the system’s beta version, and the amount of applications received each day will be limited in the upcoming months.
Step-by-Step Guide for US Passport Renewal Online
It’s simple to renew a US passport online, but it may take some time. The online system will close after the daily limit is reached, and it will open every day at 12:00 Eastern Time. The State Department will monitor the system’s performance during this beta phase to ensure smooth operation: Applicants can begin their application and complete it within 30 days of starting.
If you are wondering how to renew US passport online, here are some of the requirements you must meet:
- For renewing US passport online, it was valid for 10 years, and you are 25 or older.
- Your passport was issued between 2009 and 2015, or 9-15 years ago.
- You are not modifying your name, gender, birth date, or birthplace.
- After applying, you will not be traveling anywhere internationally for at least eight weeks. Only routine service is available during this limited release.
- It is a regular (tourist) passport that you are applying for, not a passport with a special issue.
- You live in the United States or its territories. Residents of foreign countries or those with an Army Post Office or Fleet Post Office address do not qualify.
- Your passport is not damaged, mutilated, or reported lost/stolen. Keep your most recent passport and do not mail it in.
- You can upload a digital passport photograph and make payments using a debit or credit card.
- You understand your current passport will be canceled upon application submission.
How to Start the Application Process?
First, create a MyTravelGov account through Login.gov. Many people already have an account for accessing other government websites. After making an account, click on “Renew Your Passport” which is shown on the homepage. Enter your personal information as it appears on your current passport. It must be expiring within 1 year or have expired within the last 5 years.
If the system confirms your application meets all requirements, you will need to upload a digital photo in JPEG format. Then, pay the standard fees $130 for a passport book, $30 for a passport card, or $160 for both. Currently, you can only renew the product they have and cannot apply for a card or book online if you don’t already have one.
The processing time for online renewals is 6 to 8 weeks, matching the routine times for mail applications. Expedited or urgent travel packages are not available online yet. For urgent renewals, schedule an appointment at a passport agency or center.
The process to renew US passport online introduced by the State Department provides a convenient and efficient way for travelers. While the system is still in its beta phase with limited daily applications, it represents a significant step forward in modernizing passport renewals. By meeting the outlined requirements and following the simple steps, eligible individuals can now renew their passports from the comfort of their homes, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
| Disclaimer: City Village News claims no credit for the images featured on its blog site. All the visual content is copyrighted to its respective owners only. We mention the source name of the picture whenever possible and found. However, please get in touch with us if we miss acknowledging the owner’s source. In case the owners don’t want us to use their images, we will remove them promptly. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist, and photographer. |
