When Should I Apply for a Passport Renewal?

by William
(Dallas, Tx, USA)

Question: My passport does not expire for a few more years but I want to plan ahead. I have heard different information given concerning the time to apply for a renewal. What is best?

Answer: Application for a passport renewal should be done approximately nine months prior to the passport's expiration date. There are three reasons for renewing your passport so early.

One, the earlier you apply, the less likely you are to need expedited services. Expediting a passport can be quite expensive. You can avoid these additional costs by starting the process early.

Two, it can take up to three months to process the passport renewal application. Usually, the process is completed in 4-6 weeks but it can take longer, especially during peak travel periods or when new passport requirements are being instituted.

Three, many countries require visa applicants to submit valid passports that have at least six months validity remaining from the time of entry into the country. Applying early for the renewal would insure that your passport met this requirement.

For full details on how to complete this process, click the link below.

Apply for U.S. Passport Renewal