Passport for an Infant: Navigating the Process of International Travel with Your Little One
Traveling with an infant can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation, it can also be a rewarding experience for both you and your little one. One of the key items you’ll need to have in order before embarking on an international journey with your baby is a passport for your infant. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of obtaining a passport for an infant, from start to finish.
The first step in obtaining a passport for your infant is gathering the necessary documents. You’ll need to have the following items on hand:
– The baby’s birth certificate
– A recent passport-sized photo of the baby
– Proof of parental consent (both parents will need to be present when applying for the passport, or one parent can provide a notarized consent form)
– Proof of the baby’s citizenship (e.g. a naturalization certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or a birth certificate issued by a U.S. state or territory)
– Form DS-11, which is the application for a U.S. passport
Once you have all of the required documents, you’ll need to visit a passport acceptance facility in person to apply for your infant’s passport. Passport acceptance facilities can be found at many post offices, public libraries, and courthouses. When you arrive at the facility, be sure to bring all of the necessary documents with you, as well as a form of identification for yourself.
When applying for a passport for your infant, you’ll need to fill out Form DS-11 completely and accurately. The form will ask for basic information about the baby, such as their name, date of birth, and place of birth. You’ll also need to provide information about both parents, including their names, dates of birth, and places of birth.
After filling out the application, you’ll need to pay the passport fees. As of 2021, the fee for a child’s passport (under the age of 16) is $80 for the application fee and $35 for the execution fee, for a total of $115. These fees can be paid by cash, check, or money order made payable to the U.S. Department of State.
Once you’ve submitted all of the required documents and paid the necessary fees, your infant’s passport application will be processed. The processing time for a child’s passport is typically 4-6 weeks, so be sure to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates. If you need the passport more quickly, expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
When your infant’s passport is ready, you’ll need to pick it up in person at the passport acceptance facility where you applied. Both parents will need to be present to pick up the passport, or one parent can provide a notarized consent form.
With your infant’s passport in hand, you’re ready to embark on your international journey. Be sure to check the expiration date of the passport before you travel, as many countries require that a passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
Traveling with an infant can be a challenging experience, but having a passport for your little one will make the process much smoother. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the process of obtaining a passport for your infant and enjoy a stress-free journey with your baby. Safe travels!
