Passport Costs for Minors: What Parents Need to Know
Traveling with children can be a wonderful experience, but it can also come with its fair share of expenses. One of the often-overlooked costs of traveling with minors is obtaining a passport for each child. Many parents are surprised to learn just how much it can cost to get a passport for their child, especially if they are traveling internationally. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with obtaining a passport for minors and provide some tips for parents looking to save money on this essential travel document.
Passport fees for minors can vary depending on the age of the child and whether the passport is being issued for the first time or being renewed. In the United States, the current fees for minors under the age of 16 are $80 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card. For minors aged 16-17, the fees are slightly higher at $110 for a passport book and $15 for a passport card.
These fees can add up quickly, especially for families with multiple children. Fortunately, there are some ways that parents can save money on passport costs for their minors. One of the best ways to save money is to plan ahead and apply for your child’s passport well in advance of your travel dates. Expedited processing can cost an additional $60, so applying early can help you avoid these additional fees.
Another way to save money on passport costs for minors is to opt for a passport card instead of a passport book. While a passport card can only be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, it is a more affordable option for families who do not plan on traveling internationally by air.
Some parents may also be eligible for fee waivers for their child’s passport. Families who receive certain government benefits, such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income, may qualify for a fee waiver for their child’s passport. Additionally, children in foster care may also be eligible for a fee waiver. It is important to check with the passport agency or consulate for more information on fee waivers and eligibility requirements.
For families who travel frequently with their children, it may be worth considering enrolling in the Department of State’s Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program. This program allows parents to receive notifications if a passport application is submitted for their child, which can help prevent cases of parental abduction. While there is a $40 fee to enroll in this program, it can provide peace of mind for parents who travel frequently with their children.
In addition to the cost of the passport itself, parents should also consider the cost of photos and travel expenses associated with obtaining a passport for their child. Most passport agencies and acceptance facilities require a recent passport photo of the child, which can cost an additional $15-$20. Additionally, parents will need to factor in the cost of travel to the passport agency or acceptance facility, as well as any parking fees or transportation costs.
Overall, obtaining a passport for a minor can be a significant expense for parents, but with some planning and research, it is possible to save money on passport costs for your children. By applying early, considering a passport card, exploring fee waivers, and enrolling in the Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program, parents can reduce the financial burden of obtaining a passport for their child. Traveling with children can be a rewarding experience, and by taking the time to plan ahead and save money on passport costs, parents can ensure that their family travels safely and affordably.
