The United States is renowned as the land of opportunity, where individuals, regardless of their background, can accomplish anything they set their minds to. The country offers its citizens abundant prospects, including a reasonable cost of living, well-developed infrastructure, commitment to environmental sustainability, and personal as well as political freedoms. 

A multitude of individuals aspire to relocate to the US because they believe it provides them with the means to achieve their goals and capitalise on the numerous career opportunities available. With a US passport, one possesses all the necessary tools to fully experience the concept of the "American Dream."

When applying for a 2023 passport, many individuals frequently inquire about the cost of a US passport and whether passport fees will undergo any changes. We recommend staying informed by regularly checking this page, as we will provide updates on the cost of the US passport and any relevant changes.

How much does the US passport cost?

The cost of a US passport is determined by the type of passport service you are applying for and the processing speed you choose. It's important to note that passport fees are subject to change, and the following prices are accurate as of 2023. Additionally, the fees may vary depending on the urgency of your passport application and the type of passport required. Expedited passport services provided by third-party couriers can range from 1-2 weeks to 9 weeks or longer for delivery.

The prices and fees of the US passport 

The fees for US passports vary depending on the type of passport and whether you are applying for a new passport, renewing an existing passport, or replacing a lost or stolen passport.

The table below shows the current fees for US passports:

The acceptance agent fee is only charged if you choose to apply for your passport at a participating acceptance agent location. The standard processing time for a US passport is 10-12 weeks. If you need your passport sooner, you can expedite your application for an additional fee of $60.

Fees for adults older than 16 years

Adults who are applying for a US passport for the first time will need to pay two fees: a $30 application fee and a $35 acceptance fee. The type of passport you apply for will determine the application fee you pay.

The table below shows the application and acceptance fees for different types of US passports for adults who are applying for a passport for the first time:

Adults who want to renew their Passport

Adults who are 16 years of age or older and want to renew their passport can do so by mail using Form DS-82. The application fee for renewing a passport is $30 for a passport card, $130 for a passport book, and $160 for both a passport card and book.

The table below shows the application fees for renewing a US passport by mail:

Type of Passport Application Fee

Passport Card $30

Passport Book $130

Passport Book & Card $160 

The application fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State. You can pay the application fee online using a credit card or debit card, or you can mail a check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State.

Fees for children under 16 years old

Children under the age of 16 must apply for a passport in person. The application fee for a child's passport is $15 for a passport card, $100 for a passport book, and $115 for both a passport card and book. The acceptance fee is $35 for all types of child passports.

The table below shows the application and acceptance fees for different types of US passports for children under the age of 16:

How to correct or change passport information

For individuals seeking to correct or change their passport information, there is a special passport fee calculator available on the official website of the US government for secure travel. This calculator will help determine the appropriate fee that needs to be paid for a name change. It's important to note that the specific form required for submission may vary depending on individual circumstances. You may need to complete either Form DS-504, DS-82, or DS-11. To determine the correct form to fulfil, it is advised to visit the official secure travel government website of the US.

In the case of correcting a data error, there is no fee required, and the corresponding form to submit is DS-5504.

A quick way to get your passport

When there is a need for expedited passport services or special service for quick processing, certain fees and options come into play. The expedited service is available for US applicants and eligible US citizens residing in Canada who are renewing their passports by mail using the DS-82 Form. This service incurs an additional cost of $60.

It's important to note that appointments for passport services do not have a fee associated with them. If someone asks you to pay for an appointment, it should be considered as a false request.

For 1-2 day delivery of your passport, an extra fee of $19.53 is required. This fee should be included with your passport fee in the form of a check or money order payable to the United States Department of State. This quick delivery service is not available for customers applying for a passport card only, as passport cards are sent via First Class Mail.

Forms of payments accepted for applying the US passport

The accepted forms of payment vary depending on the location where you are applying for a passport. Passport acceptance facilities can include government offices, post offices, or libraries. It is important to contact the specific facility to confirm their operating status. For those applying at a post office, the application must be done directly on the US Postal Service website.

To cover the application cost and any additional services, such as expediting your application, the following payment methods are accepted:

1. Money Order: Submit a money order payable to the US Department of State, following the directions provided by the facility.

2. Check: Certified, personal, cashier's, or travellers checks are accepted. Ensure the check is made payable to the US Department of State.

Please note:

- Credit or debit cards are not accepted as forms of payment.

- Once you have submitted your application, do not cancel the money order or check.

- There is a separate $35 fee charged by the acceptance facility.

Payment options may vary by location:

- Money orders are accepted at all locations, payable as instructed by the facility.

- Some US postal facilities and other locations accept credit cards, but be aware that a surcharge may apply for card payments.

- Personal checks and cash (exact change) may be accepted at certain locations.

Prior to applying, it is crucial to determine the accepted payment methods at your chosen acceptance facility.

Things to consider before renewing your passport

To determine if you are eligible to renew your passport by mail, consider the following statements:

1. You have your passport in your possession and can submit it with the application.
2. The passport appears new or undamaged.
3. The passport was issued to you when you were 16 years old or older, within the last 15 years.
4. The passport is issued in your current name, or you have a document showing your name change.

If any of these statements do not apply to your situation, you cannot renew your passport by mail and will need to apply in person.

Steps to follow when renewing your passport by mail

1. Use Form DS-82, which can be filled out using the Form Filler tool that selects the appropriate form based on your input. Provide your Social Security number if you have one. If you don't have a Social Security number, submit a signed and dated statement declaring that you have never been issued one.

2. You can request a 52-page passport book without any extra fee by checking the "large book" box on the top of the DS-82 form. You can also choose to renew both your passport card and book, or either one.

3. Complete all pages of the DS-82 form, sign it, and include the date. Print the form single-sided, as double-sided forms will not be accepted.

Tips for renewing from Canada

You can skip including the Canadian Social Insurance Number on the form if you don't have a US Social Security number.

4. Submit your most recent passport. It is mandatory to include your current passport with the application. Ensure that your passport card or book meets all the requirements mentioned above.

5. You will receive your old passport card or book back separately, as it may arrive in a separate mailing.

6. If applicable, include certified copies of name change documents. If your name has changed since your last passport was issued, provide a certified copy of the legal name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court-ordered proof of name change. The name change document will be returned to you with the new passport.

7. Submit a photo that meets all the required specifications. Attach the photo to the application with four staples placed vertically in the corners, close to the outer edges. Do not bend the photo. Avoid wearing eyeglasses in the passport photo, unless you have a note from your doctor permitting it.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully renew your passport by mail.

The application fees for a passport card, passport book, or both respectively.

The application fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State and is recommended to be included in the money order or a personal check. The form to use for each type of passport is DS-82.

Here is a table that summarises the information:

How to mail your passport

After completing your passport application, you need to mail it along with your recent passport, photo, and fees. If applicable, include any name change documents. The address to which you should send your application depends on your city of residence and desired processing time.

If you live in Florida, New York, California, Illinois, Texas, or Minnesota, use the following address for routine service:

National Passport Processing Center

Post Office Box 640155

Irving, TX 75064-0155

For residents of any other state or Canada, use the following address for routine service:

National Passport Processing Center

Post Office Box 90155

Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155

For expedited service, which incurs an additional fee, use the following address:

National Passport Processing Center

Post Office Box 90955

Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955

Remember to write "EXPEDITE" on the outside of the envelope.

When mailing your application, make sure to use the United States Postal Service (USPS) if you are in the US or the Post of Canada if you are in Canada. FedEx, UPS, and DHL services are not recommended as they may return your application. Only USPS and Post of Canada can deliver to the PO Box addresses listed on the DS-82 Form.

To track the status of your application, you can do so online. It may take up to two weeks for the status to show as "in process" since during this time, the application is delivered to the mail office, processed, scanned, and sent to the final destination. If the status shows as "not available," it means your application and additional identity documents are safe and on their way to the final processing point.

Regarding payment for the renewal application and other services, you can send a money order or check (certified, personal, travellers, or cashier's) payable to the US Department of State. Do not cancel the money order or check after completing the application, as you may need to pay additional fees.

Please note that online payments are not currently available. Some companies may charge you to assist in filling out your passport application form, but it's important to read their disclaimers as they are not affiliated with the Department of State.

If you are applying or renewing your passport at a passport agency, you need to make an appointment by calling the agency. The online appointment booking mechanism has been deactivated due to third-party issues with automated programs or bots. Cancelling or altering appointments should be done through the National Passport Information Center's appointment confirmation email.

Different payment methods are accepted, including credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, Discover, American Express), debit cards (Mastercard, Visa), money orders (international, US Postal, currency exchanges), checks (personal, cashier's, certified, travellers), cash (exact amount only), and prepaid credit cards or gift cards (Mastercard, Visa).

If you are applying for a passport outside the United States, the process may differ. You will need to visit the nearest US embassy or consulate, as each location has its own rules for document submission and processing. Some countries may allow applications by mail, but it's best to visit the website of the specific US embassy or consulate for more information.

Ensure you follow the appropriate steps, fill out the required forms accurately, and submit all necessary supporting documents when applying for or renewing your passport outside the United States.

The application fees for US passports in 2023

1. Acceptance Agent Fee

 The acceptance agent fee is $35 and is payable to the acceptance agents who authenticate the applicant's identification, review submitted documents, and witness signatures. This fee is required for new adult and minor passports, as well as passport replacements. Payment can be made in cash, check, money order, or credit card.

2. Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Passport Replacement

 The total fee for a lost, stolen, or damaged passport replacement is $165, which includes a $130 application fee and a $35 execution fee.

3. New Passport for Adults (16 years and older)

 The total cost for a new adult passport is $165, comprising a $130 application fee and a $35 processing fee.

4. Passport Cards for Adults (16 years and older)

The application fee for a passport card is $30, and there is an additional $35 execution fee. The total cost amounts to $65. This fee applies if you require a passport card and do not already possess a passport. If you already have a passport, you can apply for a passport card by mail using Form DS-82 and avoid paying the execution fee.

5. Passport Cards for Children (under 16 years old)

The application fee for a passport card for children is $15, and the execution fee is $35. The total cost is $50.

6. Passports for Children (under 16 years old) 

The application fee for children's passports is $100, and the execution fee is $35. The total fee is $135.

7. Passport Renewal by Mail

 The passport renewal fee for adult passports, which are less than five years old and in good condition, remains $130 for a 10-year renewal period. This renewal can be done by mail.

8. Passport Card by Mail 

The cost for a passport card by mail remains the same at $30 since no execution fee is required.

9. Expedited Passport Service

 If you require expedited processing due to travel within 8-11 weeks, the standard processing period at the post office may take 5-7 weeks. Additional options are available for even faster processing, but they require an extra fee. Expedited service also includes overnight transportation to and from the passport office.

The cost to expedite a US passport application

To obtain a US passport faster, there are additional charges that you can opt for, depending on your specific needs and preferences. Here are the prices associated with expediting passport processing:

1. Expedited Service Fee 

By paying an extra $60, you can expedite your passport application, which will reduce the processing time by several weeks. This option is available for both in-person applications at a local authority and renewals by mail or at a regional passport office.

2. Document Search Fee

 This service is specifically for new passport applicants who lack evidence of their US citizenship but have previously received a passport. For a fee of $150, Passport Services will conduct a thorough search of their records to find relevant information regarding their citizenship.

3. 1-2 Day Delivery

 If you wish to receive your passport within 1-2 days, you can choose this service at a cost of $19.53. It should be noted that this service applies only to passport books, while passport cards are sent via First Class Mail. If you require expedited delivery for your travel documents, you may need to pay for this service.

It's important to consider whether you need these additional services when calculating the total cost. Here's an example for an adult applying for a new passport with expedited processing:

- Application Fee: $110

- Expedited Service Fee: $60

- Execution Fee: $35

- 1-2 Day Delivery: $17.13

Total: $222.13

All processing fees are paid to the agency accepting the application, while other payments are made to the United States Department of State. Keep in mind that these are not the only expenses you may encounter during the passport application process.

 Visa information in the US

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the United States has several visa categories for individuals wishing to travel to the country for different purposes. Here is some general information about the U.S. visa system:

1. Nonimmigrant Visas

 Nonimmigrant visas are for temporary stays in the United States. There are various categories, including tourist visas (B-2), business visas (B-1), student visas (F-1), exchange visitor visas (J-1), and work visas (such as H-1B for specialised workers and L-1 for intracompany transfers).

2. Immigrant Visas

 Immigrant visas are for individuals seeking to live permanently in the United States. These visas are based on specific categories such as family-sponsored visas, employment-based visas, and diversity visas (lottery-based).

3. Visa Application Process

 The application process typically involves completing the online nonimmigrant visa application (Form DS-160), scheduling an appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate, and attending an in-person interview. Immigrant visa applicants usually go through a different process, including submitting a petition by a sponsor and attending an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

4. Visa Fees

 Each visa category has its own fee, which is payable at the time of application. These fees are non-refundable and cover the processing costs.

5. Processing Times

 The processing times for visa applications can vary depending on the visa category, the volume of applications, and individual circumstances. It's recommended to apply well in advance of planned travel to allow for sufficient processing time.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization in USA

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online application system that allows eligible travellers from countries under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to visit the United States without a visa.

Here are some key points about the ESTA application process:

1. Eligibility

 Citizens or nationals of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program, such as those listed above, are eligible to apply for ESTA. However, it's important to note that possession of an e-passport is required for VWP eligibility.

2. Application Process

 The ESTA application is submitted online and does not require a visit to a U.S. embassy or consulate. Applicants are required to provide personal information, passport details, and answer questions related to their travel history, health, and criminal record (if applicable).

3. Authorization Confirmation

 Once the application is submitted, applicants typically receive a response within minutes. Approved ESTA authorization is electronically linked to the passport and remains valid for up to two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

4. Travel Authorization Requirement

 Travellers from VWP countries must have a valid ESTA approval before boarding a flight, ferry, or cruise ship to the United States. Customs and Border Protection officers verify ESTA status upon arrival.

5. Visa Waiver vs. Visa

 It's important to note that an ESTA is not a visa. It is an electronic travel authorization that grants eligibility for visa-free travel under the Visa Waiver Program. If an individual already holds a valid U.S. visa, they do not need to apply for ESTA.

6. I-94W Form

 With the implementation of the ESTA program, travellers with approved ESTA authorization are not required to complete the I-94W form upon admission to the United States. However, land border crossings still require the completion of the I-94W form.

It's crucial to keep in mind that immigration policies and procedures can change over time. It is recommended to visit the official U.S. government website or consult with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the ESTA application process and eligibility requirements.

Frequently asked questions

How much is a US passport for a first time applicant?

The fees for a first-time US passport application for adults (age 16 and older) are as follows: The application fee is $110, and the execution fee (paid to the acceptance facility) is $35. Therefore, the total cost is $145. However, it's important to note that fees can change, so it's advisable to check the official website of the U.S. Department of State or consult with relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information.