Tri-County News

Delays in processing passports


Anyone with travel plans that require a new passport should apply early. Passport processing times are taking longer than usual, currently running between 12-18 weeks.

The U.S. State Department says mail delays are impacting processing times, and it’s taking longer to receive a passport from the federal government. Routine service takes about 18 weeks to get a passport, expedited service is about 12 weeks.

Stearns County Auditor–Treasurer Randy Schreifels wants people to plan accordingly. “We don’t want people’s travel plans affected because of a delay in receiving their passport. So please plan ahead.”

Stearns County is taking appointments to process passports. To schedule an appointment, go to StearnsCountyMN.gov/631. Both the downtown Administration Center and the Waite Park Service Center can process passports.

Applicants should have the necessary documents and application completed when they come in for the appointment. Information and forms are on the website at StearnsCountyMN.gov/631.

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