Since the federal government shutdown began on October 1, 2025, a number of services have been suspended, including SNAP and some national parks. Airports have seen an increase in flight delays due to an air traffic controller shortage. One U.S. government service that hasn’t yet been impacted is passport issuance and renewals. Read on to find out how you can renew your passport online during the government shutdown.
Are passports affected by government shutdown?
No, passports are not currently affected by the U.S. government shutdown. The State Department confirms that “during the lapse in government funding, consular operations domestically and abroad will remain operational,” including passports and visas.
Online passport service is only for passport renewals. You cannot apply for a new U.S. passport online. To apply for a new passport, start the forms, then print and mail them in, or go to a passport acceptance facility. These include post offices, which are not closed during the government shutdown. Passport acceptance facilities remain open during a government shutdown, but if that facility is inside a federal government building, it will be closed.
How do I renew my passport online?
Renewing your U.S. passport online is easy. First, make sure you qualify:
- You are 25 or older
- You don’t need to change any information, such as your name
- The passport you want to renew expired less than five years ago, or will be expiring within one year
- You have your passport, it hasn’t been damaged, and you’ve never reported it as lost or stolen
- You have a U.S. mailing address
If you meet these requirements, fill out the simple application—you’ll need your current passport, a digital passport photo, and a credit or debit card. Then pay the $130 passport renewal fee, and you’ll have your new passport in four to six weeks.
How long does it take to get a new passport?
A standard passport renewal takes four to six weeks. Expedited service is not available when you renew your passport online. You can have it sent back to you by express mail (one to two days) for an additional $22.50.
If you need a passport in less than six weeks, you can spring for the expedited two- to three-week service ($190 total). If it’s an emergency, make an in-person appointment at one of 29 passport agencies across the country.
Note: As of press time, all information in this article was up to date.
