How to Get a Child’s Passport?

Are you looking to apply for a child’s passport? Getting a child passport is much more complicated than applying for an adult passport due to the number of abductions worldwide. These procedures are in place to help guarantee the safety of one’s children. Obtaining a child’s passport is simple if the applicant follows all the requirements and provides all the needed documents.

Child’s Passport Requirements (16 Years and Younger)

• Complete the DS-11 Application Form for New Passport
  • (fill out the form, but do not sign it until you present it to a passport agent.)
• Provide (1) Passport Photos.
  • These should be color photos and conform to the regulations for passport photos.
• Child Proof of Citizenship (Birth Certificate issued by City, County, or State of birth)
• Evidence of Parental Relationship.
• Parental Consent (If one parent is applying)
  • Both parents must appear with the child and provide parental consent.
• Passport Fee

Proof of Citizenship

You need to submit an original or certified physical copy of your child’s document. A certified copy has the seal or stamp of the official issuing authority.

• Valid, undamaged U.S. passport (not expired). The validity for children under 16 is five years.
• U.S. Birth Certificate
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Citizenship

Birth Certificate

To use a U.S. birth certificate, it must meet certain requirements.

Firstly, it must be issued by the city, county, or state where the birth occurred.

Secondly, it must include the applicant’s full name, date of birth, and place of birth.

Thirdly, it should list the full names of the parent(s). Fourthly, the date filed with the registrar’s office must be within one year of the birth date.

Fifthly, it must have the registrar’s signature and the seal or stamp of the city, county, or state that issued it.

Children Under 16 Years

To apply for a passport for a child under 16, both parents/guardians must apply. The child’s passport is valid for five years and cannot be renewed. If the passport has expired or is lost, a new passport application form must be completed and signed by a passport acceptance agent.

What is the Processing Time for a Child Passport?

The time it takes to get your child’s passport depends on the location and method of application. It could take up to six weeks or more to receive the passport via mail.

Baby Passport Photo

A professional photo is recommended for a baby’s passport. Remember to dress your baby in plain clothing, avoid a busy background, and have your child look directly at the camera without any obstructions in the way.

Children Passport Prices

Payment Instructions: The passport application fee is paid directly to the Department of State. The Acceptance fee is paid directly to the acceptance facility.

Two separate payments are required.

Optional Fees

These are optional fees that are paid directly to the Department of State for additional services and shipping.

Expedited Child Passport

Need your child’s passport fast for travel in the next two weeks? Visit your regional passport agency with all the necessary documents. Or use a registered passport expediting service for 24-hour access.

Signing Your Baby Passport Application

You should not put your signature on the DS-11 application form until a passport agent instructs you.

Why Are Children’s Passports Valid for Only 5 Years?

Child U.S. passports are generally valid for five years. This is because infant facial features would change as the child grows older.

Question & Answers

Conclusion:

To apply for a minor’s passport, use form DS-5525 if you cannot provide consent of parent or custodial guardian. Provide original proof of sole authority in case of one parent and avoid submitting photocopies or notarized copies.