When the federal government shuts down, many Americans worry about how it affects essential services, especially those related to travel. For people planning international trips, the biggest concern is whether passport applications or renewals will continue. The good news is that passport services usually stay open, even when other government functions pause.
This is because the U.S. passport system is funded by the fees people pay when they apply, not by congressional budget appropriations. As a result, the Bureau of Consular Affairs, which operates under the State Department, can continue providing passport and visa services during funding lapses. However, travelers should still plan carefully, since some delays or access restrictions can occur depending on how long the shutdown lasts.
The following guide explains how passport processing works during a shutdown, where you can apply or renew, what fees and documents are required, and how to handle urgent or emergency travel situations.
Passport Services Remain Operational
Passport services continue during a government shutdown because they are financed through application fees. The Bureau of Consular Affairs confirmed that consular operations both in the United States and abroad will remain active throughout the 2025 shutdown. Applicants can apply for new passports or renew existing ones just as they would under normal circumstances.
Minor slowdowns can occur if offices located inside federal buildings temporarily close, but alternative processing locations remain available. Travelers are advised to check appointment availability online before visiting any regional passport agency.
Current Processing Times
The State Department reports that processing times have not changed.
- Routine service: 4 to 6 weeks
- Expedited service (add $60): 2 to 3 weeks
Mailing time can add up to four extra weeks. Submitting your application early remains the best way to ensure you receive your passport on time. Even during shutdowns, many travelers successfully renew their passports without significant delay, as confirmed by reports from October 2025 applicants.
Possible Delays and Access Issues
While core passport services stay open, shutdowns can still cause indirect complications. Some interagency processes, such as security checks or facility maintenance, may slow down if other departments are short-staffed.
Offices housed inside closed federal buildings might also limit public access temporarily. In these cases, the State Department handles requests individually to keep disruptions to a minimum.
Applying for a New Passport
First-time applicants must apply in person using Form DS-11. Bring proof of citizenship, valid identification, one passport photo, and separate payments for both the application and execution fees.
The U.S. Postal Service remains the most dependable option during a shutdown, as it operates independently and continues regular passport acceptance appointments. Fees are 130 dollars for a passport book, 30 dollars for a card, or 160 dollars for both, plus a 35-dollar execution fee.
Renewing Your Passport
If you already have a valid U.S. passport that meets renewal requirements, you can renew online or by mail. The State Department’s online renewal system, launched in 2024, allows digital submissions with uploaded photos and electronic payments through Pay.gov. This system is unaffected by shutdowns since it relies on collected fees rather than federal funding.
Renewals by mail using Form DS-82 are processed normally through the Postal Service. Include your most recent passport, a new photo, and payment of $130 to the U.S. Department of State.
Expedited and Emergency Services
Expedited service remains available for an extra 60 dollar fee, shortening processing time to about two or three weeks. You can also pay an additional $23.68 for one to two-day return shipping.
For urgent travel within 14 days, or within 28 days if you require a visa, contact one of 26 regional passport agencies by calling 1-877-487-2778 or booking online. Life-or-death emergencies are handled within three business days, with same-day emergency passports available for qualified cases.
Key Tips for Travelers
- Apply early to avoid potential delays.
- Confirm appointments if your agency is inside a federal building.
- Check your application status on the State Department website or by calling 1-877-487-2778.
- Prepare all documents, photos, and payments correctly.
- Do not travel internationally on a canceled passport. Once renewal is submitted, your old passport becomes invalid for travel abroad.
The Bottom Line
During a government shutdown, passport services continue to operate because they are funded by processing fees rather than taxpayer dollars. This means you can still apply, renew, or expedite your passport through post offices, the State Department’s online system, or regional passport agencies.
Travelers should plan, apply early, and verify office accessibility to avoid last-minute issues. The 2025 shutdown has proven that even during extended funding gaps, the U.S. passport system remains functional, allowing Americans to continue their international travel plans with minimal disruption.
References
- What to Know About Applying or Renewing a Passport During the Government Shutdown – travelandleisure.com
- Emergency Passports (including emergency travel) – usembassy.gov
- What the government shutdown means for your passport plans – usatoday.com
