As the summer travel season approaches, many families are starting to make plans for their next vacation. For families who are considering traveling abroad with their children, one important consideration is the cost of obtaining passports for kids.
Passports are essential documents for international travel, and every individual, regardless of age, must have their own passport. While the cost of passports for adults is well-known, many parents are left wondering how much it will cost to get passports for their children.
The cost of obtaining a passport for a child can vary depending on several factors, including the child’s age and whether it is a first-time application or a renewal. In the United States, the current cost of a child’s passport (under the age of 16) is $80 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card. Passport cards are more limited in use, as they can only be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. If a child needs both the passport book and card, the total cost would be $95.
For children aged 16 and 17, the cost of a passport book is $110, with an additional $30 for the passport card, bringing the total to $140 for both. It is important to note that these prices are for standard processing times, which typically take around 6-8 weeks. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee of $60 per application, which can reduce processing time to 2-3 weeks.
Parents should also be aware that there are additional fees associated with obtaining a passport for a child. One of the required fees is the execution fee, which is $35 and is paid to the acceptance facility where the application is submitted. This fee is in addition to the application fee for the passport itself.
Another important consideration for parents is the validity period of a child’s passport. For children under the age of 16, a passport is valid for 5 years. For children aged 16 and 17, a passport is valid for 10 years. It is crucial for parents to keep track of their child’s passport expiration date, as many countries require passports to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel.
In addition to the cost of obtaining a passport, parents should also consider any additional expenses associated with international travel with children. This can include visa fees, travel insurance, and any necessary vaccinations. Parents should also be aware of any specific requirements for traveling with children, such as parental consent forms or additional documentation.
Overall, the cost of passports for kids can add up for families planning international travel. However, the investment is necessary to ensure that children are able to travel safely and legally. By planning ahead and understanding the costs and requirements, parents can make the process of obtaining passports for their children as smooth as possible and focus on enjoying their travels together.
