Whether you’re planning a family vacation or need to travel with your little one for any other reason, getting an infant passport is a necessary step. However, many parents are often left wondering how much an infant passport actually costs. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the process of obtaining an infant passport and how much you can expect to pay.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that the process of obtaining a passport for an infant is very similar to that of obtaining a passport for an adult. The main difference is that infants under the age of 16 are not eligible for a standard 10-year passport. Instead, they will receive a passport that is only valid for five years. This is due to the fact that children’s appearances can change significantly over a shorter period of time.
The cost of an infant passport can vary depending on a few factors, such as whether you are applying for a first-time passport or renewing an expired one. Currently, the fee for a first-time child passport application is $80. In addition to the standard application fee, there are also other fees that may apply, such as the execution fee and expedited processing fee.
For infants applying for their first passport, the execution fee is $35. This fee is paid to the acceptance facility where you submit your application. The expedited processing fee, if you choose to have your application processed more quickly, is an additional $60.
In total, the cost of obtaining an infant passport can range from $80 to $175, depending on whether you opt for expedited processing and other additional fees. It’s worth noting that these fees are subject to change, so it’s important to check the most up-to-date information on the U.S. Department of State’s website.
When it comes to the process of applying for an infant passport, there are a few key steps that you’ll need to follow. First, you’ll need to gather all of the necessary documents, including the child’s birth certificate, a passport photo, and proof of parental relationship. You’ll also need to fill out Form DS-11, the application for a U.S. passport.
Once you have all of your documents in order, you’ll need to visit an acceptance facility in person to submit your application. This can be a post office, courthouse, or other designated facility. If both parents are unable to be present, you’ll need to provide a notarized Form DS-3053, the statement of consent from the absent parent.
After you’ve submitted your application, you can expect to receive your child’s passport in the mail within 4-6 weeks. If you opt for expedited processing, the processing time can be shortened to 2-3 weeks. However, it’s important to note that expedited processing is not available for all applicants, so be sure to check with the acceptance facility before submitting your application.
In conclusion, while the cost of obtaining an infant passport may seem daunting at first, it’s a necessary investment for parents who plan on traveling with their little ones. By familiarizing yourself with the process and ensuring that you have all of the necessary documents in order, you can make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. And remember, the memories you’ll create on your travels with your baby will surely be worth the price of a passport.
