It’s no secret that traveling with children can sometimes be a bit more complicated and costly than traveling alone or with just adults. One of the many things parents need to consider when planning a family vacation abroad is getting a passport for each child. But how much does a children’s passport actually cost?
The cost of a children’s passport can vary depending on a few factors, such as the child’s age, the type of passport being applied for, and whether it’s a first-time application or a renewal. In the United States, for example, 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. The passport book is necessary for all international travel by air, while the passport card can only be used for land or sea travel between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
For children under the age of 16, a passport is valid for five years. After that, they will need to apply for a new passport, and the cost will be the same as for a first-time application. However, it’s important to note that the cost of a child’s passport may change from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest fees on the official government website.
Parents should also be aware that there are additional fees for expedited services if they need the passport in a hurry. The expedited service can cost an extra $60 per application, plus the cost of overnight delivery if needed. It’s also worth noting that the passport application fee is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, children’s passports may be more expensive. In the UK, the cost of a child’s passport is £58.50 for standard service (which takes around three weeks) and £177 for the one-week fast-track service. It’s important to research the specific requirements and costs for children’s passports in the country you are applying from.
One common misconception is that children under a certain age do not need a passport to travel internationally. However, this is not true. All children, regardless of age, need their own passport to travel outside of their home country. Even newborn babies need their own passport, so it’s essential for parents to plan ahead and apply for their child’s passport well in advance of their travel dates.
The process of applying for a child’s passport can be a bit more complex than applying for an adult passport. In addition to the standard passport application form and documentation (such as proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and a passport photo), parents also need to provide additional documentation to prove the child’s relationship to the parent or guardian applying for the passport. This may include the child’s birth certificate, a court order of custody, or other legal documents.
Overall, the cost of a children’s passport can vary depending on the child’s age, the type of passport being applied for, and the country of application. Parents should be prepared to pay anywhere from $80 to $200 for a child’s passport, depending on the services needed and the country’s specific requirements. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and apply for the child’s passport well in advance of any travel dates to avoid any last-minute stress or delays.
