Did you hear the news that passport fees went up recently? It’s not great news for travelers, but that certainly shouldn’t stop you from getting a passport.
According to the Department of State, the cost of a new passport application for an adult went from $100 to $135. If you’re renewing, that price jumped from $75 to $110.
To add insult to injury, the government has added a new fee: if you need additional passport pages for visas and stamps that will cost you $82.
The reason: newer passports have additional security features, including an electronic chip that’s embedded in the cover.
Translation: It’s more expensive to produce, so they’re passing that cost on to us.
There is something called a passport card, which is a more affordable option for travelers who only want to re-enter the country from Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean. A new one of those will cost you $55.
But if you want some advice, the passport card is far too limiting. And think about it: if you have to travel out of the country unexpectedly–and believe me, it happens–getting a rush delivery on a passport is going to cost you hundreds of dollars.
You’re much better off getting a traditional passport, and do it now, before the government decides to hike the fees again.
Learn why this is happening with: Passport Fees Rising for Americans.
Or check out our Passports & Customs section for more articles and tips.
