The US Department of State has announced that they’re bringing back “Passport Day in the USA” for the third year in a row on Saturday, April 9th. Just like last year, acceptance facilities (post offices, etc) and regional passport agencies alike will be to open and waiting to accept your new passport application.
During last year’s event, at least 57,000 people used the opportunity to turn in their passport applications on a weekend (per Jaunted). Since many acceptance facilities and all of the regional passport agency offices are usually open weekdays only, events like this make it easier to apply for a new passport without having to take time off work.
However, if this year’s event is like last year’s, be aware that it’s not for people who waited until the last minute to apply. There’s some potential for confusion because typically, Regional Passport Agency offices issue emergency or same day passports to people with urgent travel needs and an itinerary to prove it. However, for this event only, these offices will be accepting applications from the general public. Even if you apply at a regional passport agency office on Passport Day in the USA, you won’t be able to get same day service. You will be able to get expedited service for an additional $60, but that only cuts the processing time down to 2 or 3 weeks instead of the usual 6 weeks.
If you’re leaving the country in 14 days or less and you need to submit an emergency passport application, you must make an appointment at the nearest regional passport agency office and go during normal business hours.
At the moment, there are only 22 regional passport agency offices serving the entire country, and they are open during limited hours on weekdays only. If you don’t live near one, can’t make it to the office while they’re open or just don’t feel like going through the hassle of making an appointment, RushMyPassport can help.
Our passport specialists will help you get your documents together and walk you through the paperwork. Then, we hand-deliver your passport application to the Department of State for processing in as little as 24 hours.
Let us help you get your new passport today!