Passport for Adopted Children (2026 Guide)

To get a U.S. passport for an adopted child, you must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, a final adoption decree, and parental identification, then apply in person using Form DS-11 with both parents present. The process is similar to a standard child passport but requires additional documents proving the legal adoption.

Can an Adopted Child Get a U.S. Passport?

Yes. An adopted child can receive a U.S. passport once they are legally recognized as a U.S. citizen. There is no minimum age requirement, and even infants can apply once documentation is complete.

Citizenship determines eligibility:

• If born in the U.S. → use a birth certificate
• If adopted internationally → a Certificate of Citizenship is required

Passport Requirements for Adopted Children

Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Provide one of the following:

• U.S. birth certificate
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad
• Previous U.S. passport

Proof of Adoption

You must submit:

• Final adoption decree (court order)
• Foreign adoption papers (if applicable)
• Certified translations if documents are not in English

Parental Consent

• Both adoptive parents must be present
• If one parent cannot attend, submit Form DS-3053
• Sole custody requires legal documentation

Documents Needed

Bring the following to your appointment:

• Completed Form DS-11
• Passport photo of the child
• Proof of citizenship
• Adoption decree
• Parent identification
• Copies of all documents

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Complete Form DS-11

Fill out the application but do not sign it until instructed at the acceptance facility.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Ensure all documents match the child’s legal name and adoption records.

Step 3: Apply in Person

Visit a passport acceptance facility such as a post office or passport agency. Both the child and parents must be present.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

Typical costs include:

• Child passport book: about $100
• Acceptance fee: about $35
• Expedited service: additional fee

Step 5: Wait for Processing

• Routine service: 4–6 weeks
• Expedited service: 2–3 weeks

Special Situations

International Adoption

If your child was adopted abroad:

• Obtain a Certificate of Citizenship first
• Provide foreign adoption records
• Apply through a U.S. embassy if overseas

Applying Before Final Adoption

You may be able to apply if you have legal guardianship and supporting court documents.

Living Outside the United States

You can apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Passport Validity

• Children under 16: valid for 5 years
• Cannot be renewed; a new application is required each time

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing adoption documentation
• Name differences across documents
• Only one parent attending without proper consent
• Applying before citizenship is finalized

Frequently Asked Questions

Do adopted children automatically become U.S. citizens?

Not always. Some children receive automatic citizenship, while others must complete the naturalization process.

Can I apply for a passport right after adoption?

Yes, once the adoption is finalized and citizenship is confirmed.

What if only one parent can attend?

You must submit a notarized Form DS-3053 along with a copy of the absent parent’s ID.

Do adopted children need a birth certificate?

Yes. Either a U.S. birth certificate or a foreign birth certificate with adoption records is required.

Can I expedite an adopted child’s passport?

Yes. Expedited service is available for faster processing.

Getting a passport for an adopted child follows the standard child passport process, but requires additional proof of adoption and citizenship. Once those documents are in place, the process is straightforward.