Applying for a US passport for an infant can seem like a daunting task for new parents, but with the right information and guidance, the process can be smooth and straightforward. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to apply for a US passport for your infant, including the necessary documents, fees, and timelines.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that all US citizens, regardless of age, are required to have a valid US passport when traveling internationally. This includes infants and children. So, if you’re planning to take your little one on a trip outside of the country, you will need to apply for a US passport for them.
The first step in applying for a US passport for your infant is gathering the necessary documents. You will need to provide the following documents when applying for a passport for your infant:
1. Completed Form DS-11: This form is the application for a US passport and can be found on the US Department of State’s website. You can either fill out the form online and print it, or you can print it out and fill it out by hand.
2. Evidence of US citizenship: You will need to provide proof of your infant’s US citizenship. This can be done with a certified birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, or a certificate of citizenship.
3. Parental identification: Both parents will need to be present when applying for a passport for their infant. Each parent will need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
4. Parental consent: If one parent cannot be present when applying for the passport, they will need to provide a notarized consent form allowing the other parent to apply for the passport on their behalf.
5. Passport photo: You will need to provide a passport-sized photo of your infant. This can be taken at a passport acceptance facility or drugstore that offers passport photo services.
Once you have gathered all of the necessary documents, you will need to submit your application in person at a passport acceptance facility. This can be done at select post offices, public libraries, and other government facilities. You can use the State Department’s online tool to find the nearest passport acceptance facility.
When submitting your application, you will need to pay the required fees. The fees for a US passport for an infant vary depending on the type of passport and processing time. As of 2021, the fees for a passport for an infant are as follows:
– $80 for the passport book
– $15 for the passport card (optional)
– $35 execution fee
In addition to the fees, there may be additional fees for expedited processing or overnight delivery. It’s important to check the State Department’s website for the most up-to-date fee information.
Once you have submitted your application and paid the fees, you can expect to receive your infant’s passport within 4-6 weeks. If you need the passport sooner, you can expedite the process for an additional fee and receive the passport in 2-3 weeks.
In conclusion, applying for a US passport for an infant may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right information and preparation, the process can be straightforward and hassle-free. By following the steps outlined in this article and ensuring you have all of the necessary documents, you can successfully apply for a US passport for your infant and start planning your next international adventure with your little one.
