In a move to simplify travel preparations, the U.S. Department of State has officially launched its online passport renewal service nationwide. This means eligible U.S. citizens can now renew passports online, avoiding the need for printing and mailing forms. The online passport renewal service was previously available only during a limited beta testing phase.
“You can skip the printing and mailing. Renew from the comfort of your home (couch!) completely online, 24/7,” shared the State Department’s Consular Affairs on X (formerly Twitter). “It’s secure, convenient, and ready for you to use.”
However, before jumping into the process, it’s important to understand the passport renewal qualifications and eligibility criteria.
Who Qualifies for Online Passport Renewal?
The new system allows for a streamlined application process, but not everyone qualifies. Here are the passport renewal requirements:
- Be at least 25 years old.
- Reside in a U.S. state or territory.
- Hold a passport that was valid for 10 years and issued between 2009 and 2015. The passport must still be in the applicant’s possession, undamaged, and not reported lost or stolen.
- Apply for a standard tourist passport.
- Upload a digital passport photo.
- Pay the renewal fee online via credit or debit card.
- Plan not to travel internationally for at least eight weeks from the application date.
These online passport renewal eligibility guidelines ensure that only certain individuals can use the digital process. While your existing passport will be canceled during renewal, you won’t need to mail it in.
How to Renew Passport Online: Steps and Cost
If you meet the eligibility criteria, here’s how to renew passport online:
- Log onto the official State Department website.
- Confirm you meet the eligibility requirements.
- Upload a digital photo.
- Pay the renewal fee of $130 online.
- Submit your application.
Processing Times and Passport News
While passport updates through the online system add convenience, the State Department has cautioned that it may not be faster than the traditional mail-in process. The expected processing time for both online and mail-in renewals is six to eight weeks.
The mail-in option remains available for those not eligible for the online passport renewal.
This latest passport news is a significant step in making the renewal process easier, allowing many U.S. citizens to skip the paperwork and renew their passports from home.
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