There’s a multitude of factors that need to be taken into consideration when planning a trip – where you’re going, when you’re going, who you’re going with, and how you’re going to get there. Furthermore, if you’re planning on going out of the country, there’s the extra step of obtaining a passport. If you DO need to obtain a passport for your travels, it’s important to plan ahead and apply as early as possible so that you get it in time for your travels.
Depending on current passport processing times, you could be waiting weeks to get your passport. This means that if you aren’t aware of the current processing times, you could end up applying for your passport too late, potentially leading to you missing your trip altogether. With that said, here’s what you need to know about current passport processing times as of December 17, 2021:
How Fast Can You Get a Passport?
The coronavirus pandemic has changed how long it takes to obtain a passport. Current standard passport processing times can take anywhere from 8-11 weeks if you apply on the U.S. Department of State website, with expedited processing still taking anywhere from 5-7 weeks. This means that if you have an upcoming trip, you may end up not getting your passport in time for departure day.
Luckily, you can obtain your new passport or passport renewal in 7-10 business days when you choose to acquire your passport with Swift. This is perfect for anyone looking to obtain their passport without worry and within a short period of time. Please note that you must call ahead (312-929-2105) if you want to use our 7-10 business days option, as it’s being offered on a first-come-first-serve basis.
What Are the Best Times to Get a Passport?
Due to all of the uncertainties that come along with the coronavirus pandemic, the best time to get a passport is as soon as humanly possible. Processing times continue to change frequently, and if you have a trip planned, the last thing you want is fluctuating passport processing times to hinder your plans.
When you choose to obtain your passport through Swift and select our 7-10 business days option, you will feel comfortable knowing that you have a team of experts working hard to get your passport to you as soon as possible. With all of the uncertainties in the world right now, you should get your passport early. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
What Happens if My Passport Doesn’t Arrive in Time?
Your trip is coming up, and you still don’t have your passport… What gives?! Your first instinct may be to panic, but we’re here to tell you that you have some options.
What You SHOULDN’T Do:
- If your passport hasn’t arrived, the last thing you want to do is start a new passport application with Swift or any other third-party agency. If you submit a new passport application, you will have two passport applications being processed simultaneously, which could delay your passport even longer.
What You Can Do:
- You can make an appointment online to visit a local passport agency. Once you arrive, let them know that you already have a passport application in process and give them any documentation regarding that application. You should bring a new passport photo, a copy of your flight itinerary for your upcoming travel, and proof of United States citizenship. The passport agency will work with you to find your application and issue you a passport as soon as possible.
- Another option is to call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778. Explain your situation to them and ask if paying an expedite fee would guarantee that your passport can be issued and shipped to you as soon as possible.
How to Get a Passport Faster
The most promising and quickest way to obtain your passport is to use an expedited passport processing service. This will allow you to apply for your passport and have peace of mind knowing that your passport will arrive as soon as possible.
As of December 17, 2021, Swift is offering a 7-10 business day option to obtain your passport. Please note that this service is being offered on a first-come-first-serve basis, and you should call ahead (312-929-2105) if you would like to use our 7-10 business day service. Our knowledgeable team will closely monitor your passport throughout the entire process and make sure that everything goes smoothly. If you have other non-urgent questions about obtaining a passport, please don’t hesitate to contact us. A member of our team would be happy to help!
