(WWJ) - Michiganders looking to travel out of the country this year should submit passport applications as early as possible after the Department of State said citizens are waiting as long as three months to get their documents.
The Department of State updated the processing times for U.S. passport applications last week, stating that routine processing will now take 10 to 13 weeks long and expedited processing, which cost applicants an additional $60, will take 7 to 9 weeks.
The updated timeframes will only apply to new applications submitted on or after March 24.
"Processing time begins the day we receive an application and do not include mailing time," the department added.
According to officials, the update reflects the rise and fall of seasonal demand. Almost four months into 2023, the department said the amount of applications submitted to their office has skyrocketed as much as 30% over last year.
"By adjusting our processing times, we are giving U.S. citizens more precise information about how long it may take them to receive a new passport," the Department of State continued. "We continue to urge U.S. citizens to check their passport expiration date and renew now if they are planning international travel this year."
At the beginning of 2023 and in years past, travelers expected to wait six to nine weeks for routine service and three to five weeks for expedited service, according to the State Department.
According to forecasting by Economist Intelligence via Forbes, Michiganders join a rising number of people looking to head to destinations around the globe with international travel expected to rise by 30% in 2023.
But travelers should be aware. Not only is the Department of the State struggling to keep up with demand, but airlines and hotels, still struggling through labor shortages, are also feeling the pinch.
"We suggest being ready for delays, cancellations, lost luggage, overbooking, and other frustrating travel issues throughout 2023, especially if you’re traveling at peak times," Forbes advised.
The Department of the State encourages all U.S. citizens traveling overseas to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to stay in the loop about their destinations directly, including timely Alerts and updates to Travel Advisories, and to enable department assistance in an emergency.
To learn more about the latest passport guidance and processing tips, visit travel.state.gov/passport.