There have been times in the past when it could take up to 12 weeks or more to get a passport. More recently, the processing time has been 4-6 weeks for routine service. When demand is low, this can drop down to only 3-4 weeks. Expedited services usually takes 2-3 weeks although it can take longer.
DEFINITION of 'Warrant'. A derivative security that gives the holder the right to purchase securities (usually equity) from the issuer at a specific price within a certain time frame. Warrants are often included in a new debt issue as a sweetener to entice investors.
Companies will often include warrants as part of a new-issue offering to entice investors into buying the new security. A warrant can also increase a shareholder's confidence in a stock, provided the underlying value of the security actually does increase over time. (Warrants are just one type of equity derivative. Find out about the others in 5 Equity Derivatives And How They Work.)