CNN
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Processing occasions for passport functions are again to pre-pandemic ranges, the US State Division introduced on Monday. The return to regular wait occasions comes after years tormented by delays because the division labored by a backlog precipitated largely by the coronavirus pandemic.
Processing time for routine service is now six to eight weeks and two to a few weeks for expedited service (which prices a further $60), the division stated. The up to date occasions apply for functions submitted on or after December 18.
“With this replace, we’ve fulfilled our dedication to return to benchmarks from March 2020. This displays the work of devoted staff working for the American folks,” the division stated in its announcement.
In 2021, processing occasions of as much as 18 weeks annoyed vacationers and precipitated some People to desert journey plans as a result of their paperwork wouldn’t be obtained in time. That summer season, the State Division stated it had a 1.5 to 2 million backlog of functions.
The return to pre-pandemic processing occasions comes on the heels of a record-setting federal fiscal 12 months: Between October 2022 and September 2023, the division issued greater than 24 million passport books and playing cards — the very best quantity in US historical past.
In line with the State Division, solely 5% of People had a passport in 1990, in contrast with 48% right now.
Presently there are greater than 160 million legitimate passports in circulation — virtually double the quantity from 2007.