What Happens if My Passport Doesn’t Arrive in Time for a Trip? [Tracking & Refund]

Traveling is exciting.

But—

As your departure date approaches, you might wonder, “What if my passport doesn’t arrive in time?”

This article will ease your worries and help you stay calm. 

Explore other passport-related articles:

• Can You Fly with an Expired Passport? [2024 Guide]
• Can You Book an International Flight Without a Passport?
• Do You Need a Passport to Go to Canada?
• Passport Renewal Status
• Passport Photo Rejected—Now What?

Passport Processing: What to Expect from Application to Arrival

The processing time for a passport varies by season, country, and application type.

On average, routine applications take 6–8 weeks, but this isn’t the total wait time. You’ll need to add up to four weeks for the passport agency to receive and ship your documents. 

Thus, you should expect to wait between 10 and 12 weeks for your passport.

What Can Delay a Passport?

Delays in receiving passports may happen due to:

• High demand (during peak travel seasons or global events.)
• Shipping and postal disruptions
• Incomplete applications
• Errors on the application form

💡 Did you know? In 2023 alone, the US Department of State processed 24,021,257 passport applications—the highest number in the last 27 years.

Unacceptable passport photos are another common cause of delays.

That’s why it’s best to take your passport photo with the PhotoAiD® app for iOS or PhotoAiD® for Android.

Here’s how it works:

1. Take a self-portrait.
2. Submit it via our mobile app or web platform.
3. Let our tool automatically crop, resize, and adjust the background for you.
4. Get an expert evaluation.
5. Download your compliant passport photo.

Need prints? 

We offer home delivery for your convenience.

My Passport Still Hasn’t Arrived: What to Do?

If your passport hasn’t arrived on time, you have two options:

1. Check your application status online: Visit the official US Passport Application Status page for an update on your passport. You can also sign up for email notifications there.
2. Contact the National Passport Information Center: Call 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793. Have your application number and personal details ready.

Delayed Expedited Passport: Refund

If you opted for expedited service, your passport application should be processed within 15 business days. 

If it takes longer, you’re eligible for a refund of the $60 expedited fee but not the $130 application fee for adults or $100 for minors under 16.

5 Ways You Can Get Your Passport Faster

Can’t wait 10 or more weeks for your new passport? Here are five ways to speed up the process:

1. Apply for expedited service: Your passport application should be processed within 15 business days.
2. Opt for a 1–2 day delivery: It costs $19.53, and your passport arrives 1–2 days after mailing.
3. Use priority mail: Reduces shipping times for your application package.
4. Visit a passport agency in person: If your travel date is soon, schedule an appointment at your nearest passport agency or office. You can find more information on the US Department of State’s website.
5. Emergency passport: Available for life-or-death situations involving an immediate family member.

Pro tip: You can pay extra for expedited service or 1–2 day delivery even after submitting your application. Just call (877) 487-2778 to upgrade your service.

FAQ

Sources:

• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/processing-times.html
• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/about-us/reports-and-statistics.html
• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew/check-status.html
• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/fees.html

Sylwia Green

Sylwia is a skilled writer with a BA in English Studies and an active SPJ member. For nearly three years now, she’s been writing captivating articles for international companies, turning her lifelong passion into a career.