How Much is a Children’s Passport? The Cost of Traveling with Kids
Traveling with children can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges and expenses. One of the key considerations for parents planning to travel abroad with their kids is obtaining a passport for each child. But how much does a children’s passport actually cost? In this article, we will explore the cost of obtaining a children’s passport and provide some tips on how to save money during the application process.
In the United States, the cost of a children’s passport varies depending on the age of the child and whether it is a first-time application or a renewal. For children under the age of 16, the cost of a first-time passport book is $80, while the cost of a passport card is $15. If the child is renewing their passport, the cost is $80 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card. These fees are set by the U.S. Department of State and are subject to change.
In addition to the cost of the passport itself, there are other fees associated with the application process. For children under the age of 16, a $35 execution fee is required for first-time applications. This fee covers the cost of processing the application and is paid to the acceptance facility where the application is submitted. For passport renewals, the execution fee is not required.
Parents should also be aware of expedited processing fees if they need to obtain a children’s passport quickly. The expedited processing fee is $60 in addition to the regular passport fee, and it is recommended for parents who need to travel within a few weeks. Expedited processing usually takes 2-3 weeks, compared to the standard processing time of 4-6 weeks. Parents can also opt for overnight delivery of their child’s passport for an additional fee.
To save money on children’s passport applications, parents should plan ahead and apply for passports well in advance of their travel dates. This will allow plenty of time for processing and avoid the need for expedited processing fees. Parents can also save money by choosing to apply for a passport card instead of a passport book if their child will only be traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda by land or sea.
It is important for parents to gather all the necessary documentation before applying for their child’s passport to avoid delays and additional fees. Parents will need to provide proof of citizenship for their child, such as a birth certificate, as well as proof of parental relationship, such as a birth certificate or court order. Parents will also need to bring their child in person to the acceptance facility for the application process.
In conclusion, the cost of a children’s passport varies depending on the age of the child and whether it is a first-time application or a renewal. Parents should be aware of the various fees associated with the application process, including the passport fee, execution fee, and expedited processing fee. By planning ahead and gathering all the necessary documentation, parents can save money and have a smooth application process for their child’s passport. Traveling with kids can be expensive, but obtaining a passport for your child doesn’t have to break the bank.
