Traveling abroad has become much easier for Americans.
The State Department is rolling out a new online passport renewal system to the public, and Paul Glenn, CEO of Lincoln-based Executive Travel, says it will have a significant impact on the travel industry. There is.
Instead of printing a paper application and mailing it along with a check, travelers can now renew their passports through a secure process that saves them time and effort.
“That’s 10 percent of the effort,” Glenn said. “You can do everything from the comfort of your computer. You don’t have to make an appointment, you don’t have to wait in line, you don’t have to go take photos. You can do most things yourself.” is. It’s just fast and painless. ”
This process is subject to the same passport processing fee as for regular renewals (currently $130 for regular renewals). The timeline for passport renewal processing is also the same, approximately 6 to 8 weeks.
Glenn noted that the new seamless renewal process is a big difference from the long 12- to 18-week wait times experienced during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“There have been a lot of things over the past 18 months that have taken forever and become a pain,” Glenn said. “I think this definitely stems from some of the challenges and frustrations that have arisen since COVID-19. I think we’re recognizing the efficiencies that technology can bring.”
Glenn acknowledges that online renewal has been a long time coming, but he also understands that passports play an important role in international security.
“That’s the reality of the intent of the passport, and that’s why you can see why the State Department wanted to make sure that everything was in place to do it properly,” he said.
In 2023, the State Department will process 24 million passports, about 40% of which were renewals, NPR reports.
“As we look at the next generation of travelers, many of them see the world as part of their education. This helps with efficiency, but it also makes the world flatter and more accessible to the masses. From my perspective, traveling is the greatest experience and one of the greatest opportunities to learn, grow, and see the world from a different perspective than when I’m sitting here in Lincoln, Nebraska.” Glenn he added.
This new process is available to adult passport holders whose passports have expired within the past five years or are due to expire next year. Not available for child passport renewals, first-time passport applicants, renewal applicants residing outside the United States, or expedited applications.
To get started, visit www.Travel.State.Gov/renewonline.
