In today’s fast-paced world, international travel has become more common than ever before. With families jetting off to exotic destinations for vacations, work, or to visit relatives, it’s crucial to ensure that your child’s passport is up to date. In the United States, child passport renewal is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to be aware of the necessary steps and requirements to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
Renewing a child’s passport is necessary when the current one is close to expiring, or if the child has outgrown their previous passport. According to the U.S. Department of State, children under the age of 16 must renew their passports every five years, compared to 10 years for adults. This is because children’s appearances change rapidly as they grow, and it’s crucial to have an up-to-date photo on their passport.
The process of renewing a child’s passport is slightly different from renewing an adult’s passport. The child and both parents or legal guardians must appear in person at a passport acceptance facility to submit the renewal application. This is to ensure that both parents are aware of and consent to the child’s passport renewal. If one parent is unable to appear in person, they must fill out a Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053) and have it notarized.
When renewing a child’s passport, it’s essential to have all the necessary documentation and fees ready. The child’s current passport, a completed DS-11 form, a recent passport photo, proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship, and proof of the parent-child relationship are required. Additionally, the child’s Social Security number and the passport renewal fee must be submitted along with the application.
The passport renewal fee varies depending on the child’s age and whether they are applying for a passport book, a passport card, or both. As of 2022, the fee for a child’s passport book is $80, while the fee for a child’s passport card is $15. If the child is applying for both a passport book and a passport card, the total fee is $95. These fees are subject to change, so it’s essential to check the U.S. Department of State’s website for the most up-to-date information.
Once the renewal application and supporting documentation have been submitted, the processing time for a child’s passport renewal can vary. In general, routine processing takes approximately 4-6 weeks, while expedited processing takes 2-3 weeks. It’s crucial to plan ahead and submit the renewal application well in advance of any planned travel to avoid any delays.
In some cases, additional documentation or information may be required for a child’s passport renewal. For example, if one parent has sole legal custody of the child, they must provide documentation proving this, such as a court order granting sole custody. Similarly, if the child has undergone a legal name change, documentation such as a court order or marriage certificate must be provided.
Renewing a child’s passport is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s essential to be aware of the requirements and steps involved. By ensuring that all the necessary documentation and fees are submitted correctly and on time, parents can avoid any delays or issues with their child’s passport renewal. With careful planning and preparation, families can enjoy hassle-free international travel with their children and create lasting memories together.
