Getting a US Child Passport might seem hard, but it’s not if you have the right help. Just follow the right advice and guidance. A US passport is an essential travel document for both adults and children. A US child passport is important not just for traveling abroad but also as a key document for proving identity. In this blog, we have given you an easy-to-follow guide with important links. These steps will help you smoothly navigate the process.
Steps to Follow
Here are the steps you need to follow to make your child passport application process go smoothly: First, gather all your documents together. Then, carefully fill out the form and get your child passport.
Determine Eligibility for Child Passport Application
Firstly, find out if your child qualifies for US Child passport application process or not . Children under 16 who are citizens of the United States because they were born here or became citizens are usually able to get a passport. A detailed list of prerequisites can be found on the official US Department of State website.
Gather Necessary Documents for Child Passport Application
Once eligibility is confirmed, start by gathering the necessary documents. Among these are
- To prove US citizenship, you can use a US birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or naturalization certificate. Â Here’s what you need to know about applying for a first-time US passport.
- For proof of parental relation, provide your child’s birth certificate with both parents’ names, adoption decree, or court order establishing custody.
- Additionally, bring valid photo identification for parents or guardians such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID. Remember to make photocopies showing the front and back of each ID. These documents are essential for a smooth passport application process.
Complete DS-11 Form
Fill out DS-11 form, the application for a US Child passport. Do not sign it until passport acceptance agent instructed to do so . You can find the form and detailed instructions here. If you need to renew a passport, check our guide on US Passport Renewal.
Passport Photos
You will be required to submit one passport photo, which must meet stringent requirements. It is advisable to have the photo taken by a professional photographer. Please refer to the photo requirements for detailed guidelines.
Calculate Passport Application Fees
The cost of a child’s passport includes an application fee and an acceptance fee. The application fee for Passport Book is $ 100 and its Execution fee is $35. In case of Passport Card application fee is $ 15 and its Execution fee is $35 The most current fee information is available on the State Department’s fee chart. Prepare to pay these fees via check or money order. If you need your passport urgently, read about how to get a US passport in one day.
Book an Appointment at a Passport Acceptance Facility
Children under the age of sixteen must apply in person at a location that accepts passports. Therefore, Utilizing the Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page, locate the closest facility and make an appointment.
Attend the Appointment and Submit the Application
During the appointment, the child and their parents/guardians required to be present. Make sure you have all the required documents, an unsigned completed DS-11 form, fee, and pictures with you. The passport acceptance agent will supervise the form’s signature at this point. If you’ve lost or had your passport stolen, learn what to do.
Receive your Child Passport
Follow the progress of your passport application online after submitting it. Your passport will be shipped to you as soon as it is ready. Watch for the delivery and make sure all the information is accurate when you receive it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting a US child passport needs careful attention, but if you follow these steps, you will do it right and quickly. Make sure you apply early before your trip because it takes time for the passport to be ready. For getting more info and updates on processing times, check travel.state.gov.
If you follow these steps and tips, and use the links we gave you, applying for your child’s US passport will be easy and stress free.
And don’t forget to keep your child’s passport safe once you get it. It’s not just for traveling; rather it’s their identity too. Have a safe trip.
