Tracking the Status of a Printed Passport: Tips and Advice
If you have received a notification stating that your passport has been printed but have not yet received the dispatched notification, you are not alone. The process of receiving a passport can be frustrating, especially when delays occur. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to track the status of your printed passport and what to do if you're experiencing delays.
Standard Processing Times for Passports
Once your passport has been printed, the processing time can vary depending on several factors, including the volume of applications and the efficiency of the postal service. Generally, it can take up to two weeks for a completed passport to be dispatched after it has been printed [1]. This time frame, however, only includes the time the application is at one of the passport agencies or centers. Mailing times are not included in these processing times [1].
Common Delays and Solutions
If it has been more than two weeks since your passport was printed and you have not received a dispatched message, there are a few steps you can take to address the situation:
Contact the National Passport Information Center: You can contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 for assistance [2]. They will be able to provide you with more specific information regarding the status of your passport and any potential delays. Submit an application for expedited service: If you want your passport to be dispatched faster, you can apply for expedited service. This can speed up the process significantly, though there may be additional costs involved. Check postal services: If you have applied for expedited service and still have not received a notification, you may want to check with your local post office or even make an appointment to get more information about the status of the dispatch.What to Do if Your Passport is Not Delivered
If your passport has not been delivered, you can take the following steps to resolve the issue:
Submit a new application: You should submit a new application along with proof of your current address to the relevant RPO (Regional Post Office) for your passport to be dispatched again. This ensures that your application is up to date. Provide additional proof: Depending on the reason for the non-delivery provided by India Post, you may need to submit additional proof to address any issues with your application.Further Assistance and Information
Here are some resources to help you further with your passport application and dispatch:
N1. Processing Times for U.S. Passports N2. Get your Passport Application Status N3. How to Check the Status of a Passport Application - NerdWalletConclusion
Tracking the status of your passport can be a challenging but necessary process. By understanding the standard processing times, knowing what to do if you experience delays, and leveraging the resources available, you can ensure that your passport application is processed smoothly and efficiently.