From Application Method to Fewer Pages and a New Look, U.S. Passports Are Changing

The U.S. passport is entering a new era.

Among the changes detailed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be an online application process for first-timers and a complete redesign of the passport itself, including a reduction in the maximum number of pages from 50 to 38.

The changes coming to the new look and application process were detailed at an event launching America.gov — the Trump administration’s AI-powered government services platform.

Let’s take a look at the details.

Some Passport Applications Are Going Online

The first noticeable update will be that first-time passport applicants can complete the whole process online. This will replace the need for tedious administrative tasks like printing forms, making appointments, and waiting in lines.

When the update rolls out in 2027, applicants will be able to upload passport photos taken from the comfort of their home directly to their login.gov accounts. All additional information required for the application will come from the applicant’s details that are already registered on login.gov. The website will also provide real-time delivery tracking.

Rubio expects the “majority of Americans” to be eligible to apply for a passport or passport card via the new online service by the end of 2027.

Pricing will remain the same: $165 for a first-time adult applicant and $130 for renewals.

The New-Look 2028 Passport

Branded as “uniquely American,” the new passport will feature more eagles and more gold. The new design, named “Flight of the Eagle,” will be available from 2028.

Putting aesthetics aside for a moment, the Trump administration is scrapping the option to choose between a 26-page or 50-page passport. The new one-size-fits-all document will have a maximum of 38 pages, regardless of whether you’re a frequent traveler or rare user.

Granted, they have increased the number of pages from the standard 26, but that’ll likely do nothing to appease those whose passports fill up faster now that they’ll have 12 fewer pages.

Visually, the 2028 passport does look pretty, and not just on the outside. The images on each page are sequenced to resemble a flying eagle when flicking through the passport. It also features illustrations depicting history, including the Wright brothers and the first powered flight, the flag raising at Iwo Jima, and even space exploration.

Final Thoughts

If your passport’s got a few pages left or is set to expire in the next year or so, it might be worthwhile ordering now to get extra pages before the reduction.

Whether you’re a fan of the new design or not, the ability to apply for your first passport online should hopefully make for a smoother process.