US Passport Application Update | Phase 1 Reopening

TL;DR

The US passport reopening is happening in phases, with some passport agencies and centers already open for emergency situations. The backlog of passport applications is slowly being cleared, with more staff returning to work.

Transcript

I know many of you are really frustrated with the current US passport situation and the lack of information. So today I want to talk about what phase one reopening means and what we know so far. This is information that is on the State Department website, but I want to break it down for you because many of you have left comments asking me to do so.... Read More

Key Insights

• 🛂 The US passport reopening is occurring in phases to manage the backlog of passport applications.
• 🚨 Phase one involves limited openings for emergency situations and a small number of staff processing applications.
• 💨 Phase two will see more staff returning and a faster clearance of the backlog.
• 🐕‍🦺 Phase three will resume normal operations and expedited services for travelers.
• 🙈 The backlog is slowly being cleared, with progress seen in the number of new passports issued.
• 🍗 Travelers with no passports for upcoming travel in July can try for emergency appointments once phase two is in effect.
• 🛂 Not found or in process status for passport applications is normal and indicates transit or processing within the State Department.

Questions & Answers

Q: How many passport agencies and centers are currently open in phase one?

As of the filming of the video, 15 passport agencies and centers are open as part of phase one.

Q: Can anyone walk into a passport agency or center during phase one?

No, these centers are only open for individuals with a life or death emergency situation and an appointment is still required.

Q: How many passports have been issued recently and how does it compare to previous weeks?

Last week, 38,000 new passports were issued, but this week saw an increase to 154,000 new passports, indicating progress in processing applications.

Q: What should travelers do if they have no passport for travel in July?

If your city enters phase two in July, you can try calling one of the agencies or centers for an emergency appointment within a short window of your travel date.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Phase one of the US passport reopening involves 15 passport agencies and centers being open for life or death emergency situations, with limited staff processing a small number of passport applications.

• Phase two will see most staff returning to agencies and centers, allowing for a faster clearance of the backlog and the offering of appointments to other individuals.

• Phase three will resume normal operations and expedited services, benefiting those with travel plans in August or September.