What to Know About Applying or Renewing a Passport During the Government Shutdown

Applying for or renewing a passport can be stressful, especially when preparing for an international trip. The government shutdown, which began on Oct. 1, 2025, has impacted many federal services, but for those traveling abroad, there shouldn’t be a need for concern since passport processing hasn’t been affected. Passport processing is part of Consular Affairs, which is considered an essential service. “During the lapse in government funding, consular operations domestically and abroad will remain operational. This includes: passports, visas, [and] assisting American citizens abroad,” according to the Department of State website. 

Congressional appropriations don’t fund passport processing; rather, processing is primarily funded by passport applications, so this service isn’t directly impacted by the government shutdown. “Passports are funded through the U.S. Department of State and are primarily fee-funded, meaning passport issuance isn’t dependent on government funding,” says Sarah Silbert, managing editor for Points Path.

Processing times haven’t changed since the government shutdown. Routine processing time is four to six weeks, and expedited service is two to three weeks, according to the Department of State website. Mailing times are not included in these estimates; it can take up to an additional month for them to receive the application and then mail out the completed passport.

Traveling internationally in two weeks or less? Request an appointment through a passport agency or center. “Those needing urgent travel documents should book an in-person appointment at a regional passport agency and bring proof of imminent travel within 14 days,” says  Reza Motalebpour, founder and CEO of INGWE Immigration.

Dr. John Rose, chief risk advisor for Altour, renewed his passport and book this October, with the whole process taking 13 days. “That shows the system is working efficiently right now, but travelers should not assume that will remain the case if the shutdown drags on.”

It’s advised to plan ahead and allow for possible slower processing times if you’re currently applying for or renewing a passport. “There could be delays if passport-processing staff are impacted by furloughs or shutdown of other government agencies,” says Silbert. Reduced agency staff and staffing disruptions within the government could cause processing to take longer than normal. Motalebpour adds, “In the 2018-2019 shutdown, for example, passport operations continued at most locations, although delays of one to two weeks were common due to reduced staffing and slower security clearances.”