The U.S. Congresswoman Grace Meng reminded that the U.S. State Department has initiated a pilot program for online passport renewal applications.
The online application platform opens at noon Eastern Time every day, and as long as applicants meet the requirements, they can submit information online to renew their U.S. passport. There is a daily quota limit, and once the system reaches the limit for the day, the application window will close.
Meng said that after experiencing the backlog and delays in passport processing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she is pleased to see the U.S. State Department taking steps to simplify procedures and update the process. This online platform will reduce delays and make it more convenient for people to apply.
The six steps to apply for passport renewal online are as follows:
1. Create a free MyTravelGov account at https://mytravel.state.gov/s/
2. Log in and click on “Renew Your Passport” to begin the application process.
3. Fill out the form using the information on your passport.
4. If your departure is within the next eight weeks, enter your international travel plans.
5. Upload a passport photo.
6. Pay the passport renewal fee and digitally sign the application form.
Over the past 30 years, the number of Americans holding valid passports has exponentially increased. In 1990, only 5% of Americans held passports, and now this number has grown to 48%.
In 2023, the U.S. State Department processed 500,000 passport applications per week and issued a record-breaking 24 million passports that year. The standard processing time for passport applications is 10-13 weeks, with expedited applications taking approximately 7-9 weeks.
Meng urged to address the passport backlog issue and advocated for the State Department to shorten the waiting time for passport processing. In May 2023, during a congressional hearing on the U.S. State Department’s 2025 fiscal year budget, Meng raised this issue to Secretary of State Blinken. According to the State Department, the standard processing time has been reduced to 6-8 weeks, and expedited processing time has been shortened to just 2-3 weeks.
Last year, Meng’s office’s constituent service team provided assistance with over 400 passport applications from people seeking help due to limited appointments for in-person processing.
Meng stated that voters needing assistance with passport applications or renewals can contact her office. For urgent requests, voters should call 718-358-MENG within 14 days before their travel date.
Website for the online passport renewal pilot program: https://tinyurl.com/46khjxp7