04/17/2026
New passport✔️✈️
Just got my passport back after renewing by mail - took about 5 weeks, which honestly isn’t bad compared to the chaos of the last few years. I still had a year left, but with Europe coming up during my 6-month renewal window, this was the only way to make it work.
Heads up if you’re renewing in 2026:
• Fees went up (but barely $3.50 increase for a 10 year and $2.50 for a 5 year)
• New “30 days or free” processing guarantee! This one is exciting! (Business days and excluding mailing time)
Meanwhile, my husband renewed online in the fall and had his in 2 weeks… jealous. That option would’ve been way easier, but timing didn’t line up for me.
Anyway—passport secured, less than 4 weeks till our next adventure! 🇲🇽🚢✨