(KNSI) – Stearns County is warning residents about delays in processing passports as many people start to take their first trips abroad in more than a year.
According to the Auditor Treasurers Office, anyone with travel plans that requires a new passport should apply early.
Officials say Passport processing is taking longer than usual, with current wait times between 12 and 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 approximately 18 weeks to get a passport; expedited services is about 12 weeks.
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 applications completed when they come in for the appointment.
For more information, click here.
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