The process of renewing a US passport for children is an important and sometimes confusing task for parents. With travel restrictions easing up and families looking to make vacation plans again, many are realizing that their children’s passports are expired or need to be renewed. In this article, we will discuss the steps parents need to take to renew their children’s passports and provide tips to make the process as smooth as possible.
First and foremost, it is essential to note that children’s passports expire every five years if they were issued when the child was under 16 years old. If your child’s passport is about to expire or has already expired, you will need to go through the renewal process before you can travel internationally again.
The first step in renewing your child’s passport is to gather all the necessary documents. You will need your child’s current passport, a completed DS-11 form (which can be found on the US Department of State website), proof of US citizenship (such as a birth certificate or certificate of naturalization), and a passport photo. It is crucial to ensure that the passport photo meets the State Department’s requirements, which include a white or off-white background, no smiling, and a straight face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you will need to make an appointment at a passport acceptance facility. These facilities can include post offices, libraries, and government offices. It is important to note that both parents or legal guardians must be present with the child when applying for a passport renewal. If one parent cannot be present, they must fill out a consent form (Form DS-3053) granting permission for the child to receive a passport.
During the appointment, the acceptance agent will review all the documents and have the parent or legal guardian sign the DS-11 form. They will also collect the passport renewal fee, which is $80 for a child’s passport book and $15 for a passport card (which allows for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean). In addition to the regular processing fee, there is also an expedited processing fee of $60 if you need the passport in a hurry.
After submitting the application, it can take up to six weeks for the new passport to arrive. However, if you need it sooner, you can request expedited processing, which typically takes about two to three weeks. It is crucial to plan ahead and factor in the processing times when making travel arrangements.
One important thing to note is that if your child’s passport has been expired for more than five years, they will need to apply for a new passport as if it were their first time. This means providing all the necessary documents, including proof of citizenship and identity, as well as having both parents or legal guardians present during the application process.
In addition to the renewal process, parents should also be aware of the passport validity rules for traveling to certain countries. Some countries require that a passport be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay, so it is essential to check the entry requirements for your destination before traveling.
Overall, renewing a child’s passport can be a straightforward process as long as you have all the necessary documents and follow the guidelines set by the US Department of State. By planning ahead and allowing enough time for processing, parents can ensure that their children’s passports are up to date and ready for their next international adventure. Remember to double-check all the requirements and follow the steps carefully to avoid any delays or complications in the renewal process.
