The US Department of State has provided updates on the current status of US Passport operations. Effective October 29, routine processing service is 8 to 11 weeks and expedited processing is 5 to 7 weeks. Time frames are measured from when the application is received at the passport agency or center.
The State Department recommends applicants apply at least 4-6 months before planned travel. Due to limited availability for urgent travel appointments, there is no guarantee to receive in-person service at a passport agency or center. The agency is prioritizing customers with life-or-death emergencies.
Erickson Insights
Due to COVID-19, government agencies, including passport agencies and centers, significantly reduced operations resulting in lengthy backlogs. All agencies and centers are processing applications, but not all offer the same level of in-person service. As the State Department works to reduce processing times for routine and expedited service, the timeline will continue to shorten.