Traveling abroad has just gotten easier for Americans! The Department of State has announced the launch of their brand new online passport renewal system, which allows Americans to renew their passports entirely online, simply and securely.
This new online passport renewal process eliminates the need for most Americans to mail in paper applications and checks or visit a passport office in person in order to renew their passports.
This new online passport renewal system will make it significantly easier for Americans to apply for their passport renewal, making the overall process more convenient and accessible.
Where Can I Renew My US Passport Online?
Online passport renewal can be completed through the MyTravelGov website. On the MyTravelGov website, you can either log in or create an account to renew your passport. You can also log back into your account through this website to manage your requests and check your passport renewal application status.
You can also join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program or submit a Consular Report of Birth Abroad application through this website.
Who Can Apply for Passport Renewal Online?
In order to apply for passport renewal online, you must meet certain requirements:
- Your passport must have been valid for 10 years and you must be 25 years of age or older
- The passport you are renewing was issued over 9 years ago but less than 15 years ago from the date you submit your application
- You are not changing the personal information on your passport such as your name, gender, date of birth, or where you were born
- You are not planning to travel at least 8 weeks from the date of your application submission
- You are applying only for a regular tourist passport, not a special passport
- You live in the United States
- You physically have your passport with you, meaning it is not damaged, lost or stolen
If you don’t meet the criteria above to renew your passport online, you can do so by mail or in person at a passport center.
Can First Time Passport Applicants Use the Online Portal?
Unfortunately, first time passport applicants can not apply for their passport using this new online passport renewal system.
The online portal can only be used to renew the adult passport of an individual who currently resides in the United States and meets the requirements listed above.
Children’s passports and adult passports for those who are living outside of the United States cannot be renewed through this online system.
Is It More Expensive to Renew Your Passport Online?
The online passport renewal system follows the same passport renewal fee as mailing in your application or visiting a passport center.
The standard cost for a regular passport renewal is $130 for adults.
How Long Does Online Passport Renewal Take?
The routine time it takes to process a passport renewal from an online application is 6 to 8 weeks. This does not include mailing time, so be sure to factor this in as well.
When applying online, you will not be able to request expedited processing – this can only be done via mail-in application. Urgent travel renewals are also not available through the online portal, and applicants should make an appointment at a passport agency or center for urgent travel services.
Traveling Abroad? Stay Protected
If you are renewing your passport for a trip abroad, don’t forget travel insurance!
Travel insurance can offer vital protection for individuals venturing internationally, including for travel-related hiccups such as flight cancellation or delay and coverage for emergency medical expenses for accidents and illnesses abroad, among many other benefits.
Learn more about travel insurance and how it can help give you peace of mind on your international adventure.
