Passports are essential documents that allow individuals to travel internationally. They are not only necessary for adults but also for minors who intend to travel with their parents or guardians. Many parents often wonder how much it costs to obtain a passport for their child. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with obtaining a passport for a minor and provide some helpful tips for parents who are thinking about applying for one.
The cost of a passport for a minor can vary depending on a few factors, such as the age of the child and whether the passport is being renewed or applied for the first time. In the United States, the standard passport book for minors under the age of 16 costs $80, while the passport card costs $15. If the child is 16 or 17 years old, the passport book costs $110, and the passport card costs $15. These prices do not include additional fees, such as the execution fee, which is $35 for minors.
It is important to note that these prices are subject to change, so parents should check the most up-to-date information on the official website of the passport issuing authority. Additionally, there may be expedited processing fees for parents who need to obtain a passport for their child quickly.
When applying for a passport for a minor, parents must provide proof of their relationship to the child, such as a birth certificate or adoption decree. They must also submit the child’s birth certificate, a completed application form, and a passport photo. It is essential that parents carefully follow the instructions provided by the passport issuing authority to avoid any delays in the processing of the passport.
In some cases, parents may be required to appear in person with the child at a passport acceptance facility to submit the application. This is necessary to verify the identity of the child and ensure that the application is completed correctly. Parents should contact their local passport acceptance facility to schedule an appointment and inquire about any additional requirements.
Some parents may be concerned about the cost of obtaining a passport for their child, especially if they have multiple children who need passports. However, there are ways to save money on passport fees. For example, parents can opt for a passport card instead of a passport book if their child only needs to travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda. The passport card is less expensive and can be used for land and sea travel to these destinations.
Additionally, parents can avoid expedited processing fees by planning ahead and applying for a passport well in advance of their travel date. Standard processing times for passports are typically 4-6 weeks, but this may vary depending on the time of year and the volume of applications being processed. Parents should check the current processing times on the passport issuing authority’s website and plan accordingly.
In summary, the cost of a passport for a minor can vary depending on the child’s age and whether the passport is being renewed or applied for the first time. Parents should carefully follow the instructions provided by the passport issuing authority to avoid any delays in the processing of the passport. By planning ahead and exploring all options, parents can save money on passport fees and ensure that their child’s passport is processed in a timely manner.
