Passport Requirements for Minors: Everything You Need to Know
Traveling with children can be a complex process, especially when it comes to obtaining passports for minors. In recent years, there have been changes to passport requirements for minors that have left many parents confused about what is needed to ensure their children have the proper documentation for international travel. In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about passport requirements for minors, including who needs a passport, what documents are needed, and how to apply for one.
Who Needs a Passport?
According to the U.S. Department of State, all U.S. citizens, regardless of age, must have a valid passport to travel internationally. This means that even infants and newborns must have their own passport if they are going to be traveling outside of the United States. It is important to note that children under the age of 16 are issued a child passport, while those over the age of 16 are issued an adult passport.
What Documents are Needed?
When applying for a passport for a minor, there are specific documents that are required to prove the child’s identity and citizenship. These documents include:
1. Proof of citizenship: This can be a birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or a consular report of birth abroad.
2. Proof of parentage: This can be a birth certificate that lists the child’s parents’ names or a court order establishing legal guardianship.
3. Parental consent: Both parents or legal guardians must consent to the child getting a passport. If one parent cannot be present, they can fill out Form DS-3053, the Statement of Consent, and have it notarized.
4. Parental identification: Both parents or legal guardians must present their own valid government-issued photo identification.
5. Passport photo: The child must have a recent passport-sized color photo taken against a white or off-white background.
6. Application form: The child’s passport application must be filled out completely and accurately.
How to Apply for a Passport
Applying for a passport for a minor is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some planning and preparation. Here are the steps to applying for a child’s passport:
1. Fill out the application form: The first step is to fill out Form DS-11, the application for a U.S. passport. This form can be found on the Department of State’s website or at a passport acceptance facility.
2. Gather the necessary documents: Make sure you have all of the required documents listed above, including proof of citizenship, proof of parentage, parental consent, parental identification, passport photo, and the completed application form.
3. Submit the application in person: Children under the age of 16 must apply for a passport in person at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or county clerk’s office. You will need to bring all of the required documents with you.
4. Pay the application fee: The fee for a child’s passport is $80 for the application fee and $35 for the execution fee, for a total of $115. This fee must be paid at the time of application.
5. Wait for processing: Passport processing times can vary, but you can check the status of your child’s passport application online using the Department of State’s website.
Overall, obtaining a passport for a minor is a necessary step for international travel and can be easily done with some planning and organization. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring you have all of the required documents, you can ensure that your child is ready to travel abroad with their own passport.
