Age Needed for Passport to Increase to 18 Years Old
In a recent announcement from the Department of State, the age requirement for obtaining a US passport is set to increase from 16 years old to 18 years old. This decision comes after careful consideration and review of current security measures and international regulations.
The change is expected to take effect starting January 1, 2023, and will apply to all first-time passport applicants. This means that anyone under the age of 18 will no longer be eligible to apply for a passport, and will need to wait until they reach the age of 18 to do so.
The decision to raise the age requirement for passport applications was made in response to the growing concerns about identity theft and fraud in the travel industry. By raising the age limit to 18 years old, the Department of State hopes to reduce the number of fraudulent passports being issued to minors.
In addition to the new age requirement, the Department of State is also implementing additional security measures to ensure the integrity of the passport application process. These measures include stricter document verification procedures, enhanced background checks, and increased scrutiny of passport photos.
While the change may inconvenience some parents and guardians who were planning to apply for passports for their children, the Department of State believes that the new age requirement is necessary to protect the security and integrity of the US passport system.
Parents and guardians who have already submitted passport applications for their children under the age of 18 will be contacted by the Department of State with instructions on how to proceed. It is important to note that any applications submitted before the new age requirement takes effect will still be processed and honored.
For families who are planning to travel internationally with their children, it is recommended to start the passport application process as soon as possible to avoid any delays or complications. The Department of State has provided a list of approved passport acceptance facilities where applicants can submit their documents and photos.
Overall, the increase in the age requirement for passport applications is a necessary step to strengthen the security of the US passport system and protect against identity theft and fraud. While the change may pose some challenges for families with young children, it is ultimately in the best interest of national security.
