Passport Card or Passport Book

U.S. citizens have the option of obtaining either a passport book or passport card. The passport book may be utilized for travel throughout the world, while the passport card is limited to travel to Canada, Mexico or the Bahamas. Though the book is more expensive, costs vary according to whether the traveler is a first-time applicant, renewing and/or a minor.

Passport Book

The passport book is available to first-time applicants for $100. This includes a $75 application fee and a $25 execution fee (prices current as of November 2009). Renewals for applicants 16 years old and older cost $75 while fees for minors, renewal or otherwise, are $60 plus a $25 execution fee.

Passport Card

The passport card is available to first-time applicants for $45. This includes a $25 application fee and a $20 execution fee. Renewals for applicants 16 and over who hold either a passport card or book are $20 while fees for minors, renewal or otherwise, are $10 plus a $25 execution fee.

Expedited Services

The U.S. Department of State tacks on a $60 fee for expedited passport books and cards, regardless of whether the applicant is a minor or otherwise. If a traveler is acquiring the documents because of a life or death emergency, they are encouraged to contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) beforehand.

Visas

The cost of a visa and whether one is even required depends on the country one anticipates visiting. It also may depend upon the traveler's country of citizenship and the type of visa needed. For example, The People's Republic of China charges U.S. citizens $130 for a J-1 or tourist visa, and $30 for all others. A multiple-entry tourist visa for India costs U.S. citizens $73 and all others $53.

Source:

U.S. Department of State

Tourist Visa-Indian Consular Fees

Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America