With demand for U.S. passports at record levels, the Bureau of Consular Affairs on February 23 announced a series of “Special Passport Acceptance Fairs” to be held at post offices, libraries and clerk-of-court offices across the country throughout March and April. The fairs target first-time adult applicants and all minors, offering weekend and evening hours without the need for an advance appointment. (travel.state.gov)
The initiative follows processing delays that stretched routine issuance to 8–11 weeks last summer, sparking bipartisan criticism. Officials say current timelines have improved to 4–6 weeks for routine service, but they want travelers to “apply early and avoid the peak May–July surge.”
![State Department Launches Nationwide ‘Passport Acceptance Fairs’ Ahead of Summer Rush]()
Travelers who need personalized guidance or can’t make it to one of the special fairs can also rely on VisaHQ, which provides step-by-step online assistance for both passport and visa applications. Its U.S. portal (https://www.visahq.com/united-states/) details current processing times, required paperwork and optional courier services, making it a convenient alternative or supplement to in-person acceptance events.
For mobility programs, the fairs provide an opportunity to clear dependents’ passport renewals and first-time applications before the heavy transfer season. HR departments can circulate the event schedule and reimburse associated fees as part of relocation packages—especially useful for employees who will need to file for visas at foreign consulates this spring.
Applicants must bring proof of citizenship, government-issued photo ID and two passport photos; acceptance agents will collect the $130 passport-book fee plus a $35 acceptance fee. Expedited service remains available for an additional $60, though processing times are still listed at 2–3 weeks.
The initiative follows processing delays that stretched routine issuance to 8–11 weeks last summer, sparking bipartisan criticism. Officials say current timelines have improved to 4–6 weeks for routine service, but they want travelers to “apply early and avoid the peak May–July surge.”
Travelers who need personalized guidance or can’t make it to one of the special fairs can also rely on VisaHQ, which provides step-by-step online assistance for both passport and visa applications. Its U.S. portal (https://www.visahq.com/united-states/) details current processing times, required paperwork and optional courier services, making it a convenient alternative or supplement to in-person acceptance events.
For mobility programs, the fairs provide an opportunity to clear dependents’ passport renewals and first-time applications before the heavy transfer season. HR departments can circulate the event schedule and reimburse associated fees as part of relocation packages—especially useful for employees who will need to file for visas at foreign consulates this spring.
Applicants must bring proof of citizenship, government-issued photo ID and two passport photos; acceptance agents will collect the $130 passport-book fee plus a $35 acceptance fee. Expedited service remains available for an additional $60, though processing times are still listed at 2–3 weeks.
