I've already sent in my passport renewal application but should I change it to expedited service?

by Liza
(New York, NY, USA)

Question: I got confirmation that my application just arrived at the processing center today, Nov 14th. I know it says it could take up to 6 weeks, but I'm wondering if you have a better estimate of when I will be getting my new passport.

I am leaving for India on Dec 23rd and need to get my visa before then (which takes 1-2 days). If it's not possible to get an estimate for delivery of my new passport, should I change the processing to 'expedited'? And if so, how could I go about doing that?

Answer: Once your application is sent, you cannot change the processing method. The current estimated time for processing is 4 to 6 weeks. A definite time cannot be established since there are several factors that affect processing times.

You can accompany the status of your application by clicking the link below. Note, it takes 5-7 days for the process to be entered into the tracking system.

Check Passport Application Status

If your passport does not arrive by December 16, you may consider visiting the regional agency in New York in order to obtain a same day passport.

New York Passport Agency