The U.S Passport is currently backlogged and getting your passport could take as long as 17 weeks, compared to the 6 to 8 weeks that was the norm prior to the pandemic. Even using an expedited service, the process still could take 7 to 9 weeks, according to the U.S. Department of State.
The delay could be longer if you make mistakes in the passport application. A simple error on your photo, documentation, or a typo could mean the difference between enjoying that new country or sitting at home due to a missed vacation.
Below are common mistakes made when applying for or renewing a passport.
Your passport photo doesn’t meet the requirements
A passport photo mistake is the No. 1 reason for processing delays. Make sure your color passport photo (taken within the last 6 months) meets these requirements:
- The photo should be 2 x 2 inches square.
- The background should be plain white or off-white–no patterns or designs.
- The lighting should be even and should not create shadows on the face.
- Don’t grin for the camera. A smile with your mouth closed and eyes open is acceptable. You should have a neutral expression, with both eyes open and looking straight at the camera.
- The photos should be in focus, with high resolution and good contrast.
- Don’t use filters or retouching tools or take a selfie.
You wear the wrong clothes and accessories in your photo
Wear appropriate attire for your passport photo. Forget those glamour shots. Don’t wear a white shirt, glasses or sunglasses, or other attire or accessories that might violate the photo requirements. Hats and head coverings aren’t allowed (unless worn for religious or medical reasons). Passport photos are plain and basic. Your face must be visible with no obstructions. Wear normal street clothes.
You submit incorrect or incomplete information
Check for typos or missing information on your passport application. When you’re in a rush and filling in an online application, it’s easy to transpose numbers in your birth date or make a typo. Double check your application for typos or mistakes before submitting.
The paperwork required for a passport application can be confusing and overwhelming. You’ll need to submit “primary” proof of your U.S. citizenship. If you were born in the U.S., that could be a birth certificate that meets these requirements:
- Issued by the city, county, or state of birth.
- Lists applicant’s full name, date of birth, and place of birth.
- Lists parents’ full names.
- Has the signature of the city, county, or state registrar.
- Has the date filed with registrar’s office (must be within one year of birth).
- Has the seal of issuing authority, and digital documentation is not acceptable.
Submit appropriate documents with your passport application.
The State Department requires other citizenship documentation if you are a naturalized American citizen:
- Full validity, undamaged U.S. passport (expired passports are accepted). Full validity means the document is/was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16.
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth.
- Certificate of Naturalization.
- Certificate of Citizenship.
You didn’t calculate the correct government fees
Account for all necessary fees when applying for a passport. Government passport fees vary based on the passport type you want, the speed with which it must be processed, and add-ons like a passport card, faster shipping, and more. The fees can add up, sometimes into the hundreds of dollars. There’s an application fee and an execution fee, an expedite fee, and a fee for 1- to 2-day delivery. Miscalculate the amount, and the result is a delayed passport.
You don’t provide proof of travel plans
Proof of travel plans may be required for expedited passport applications. Many expedited passport options need proof of your travel plans. Accepted documentation includes:
- An electronic ticket with an airline or e-mail confirmation of your airline ticket.
- A reservation with an airline.
- A reservation with a travel agency.
For business travel, you’ll need a letter on company letterhead that must include:
- Anticipated dates of business travel.
- Destination of your business travel.
- Brief statement describing the nature of your business.
- Original signature of someone in your organization other than yourself.
Your passport expires within 6 months
Apply early to save time and money if your passport is expired or expiring. Many countries require that a passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended date of departure.
Time your passport renewal or application in advance to ensure you meet the requirements. By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that your passport meets the necessary validity criteria and avoid any travel disruptions.
Even without set vacation plans, make sure your passport is valid. If it’s expired or expiring, apply early to save time and money.
You don’t use an expedited passport service
For an effortless way to avoid mistakes and speed up a new or renewal passport application, use a passport service. They can streamline the U.S. passport process to ensure you get your renewal passport a lot faster than applying on your own.
There are several expediting services out there. If you are a AAA member you can start the process by going to AAA.RushMyPassport.com and follow the instructions to get travel documents and exclusive AAA discounts on RushMyPassport services.
In most cases, you’ll be required to physically visit a passport acceptance facility. At the facility, a government agent will review your documents, watch you sign them, and secure them with a special seal. You’ll then send the sealed package for expedited processing.
