The U.S. Department of State has set a new record by issuing 24.5 million passport books and passport cards in FY2024, marking the third consecutive fiscal year of surpassing the annual passport processing record.
According to the State Department, nearly 500,000 more passport books and passport cards were issued in FY2024 compared to the previous fiscal year. The department is also working to streamline the passport application process, reducing the time to receive a regular passport to four to six weeks.
Starting in September, the U.S. government fully implemented its online passport renewal system, allowing over one million Americans to renew their passports through the Online Passport Renewal (OPR) platform over the course of the fiscal year. This modernization allows applicants to renew their passport books from home, eliminating the need to visit the post office.
“These efforts improve the efficiency, equity, and accessibility of our passport application process, directly supporting America’s economic growth by facilitating international travel, which strengthens vital business and investment ties,” stated Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken.
Additionally, the State Department plans to open six new passport offices in Utah, Florida, Kansas, Texas, Ohio, and North Carolina. These offices are aimed at making international travel more accessible for Americans and reducing wait times for passport appointments and related services.
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Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
