A Step-by-Step Guide
Obtaining a Passport for Your Child: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting a passport for your child is an essential process for international travel. Here’s a concise guide outlining the steps involved:
1. Collect Necessary Documents:
– Start by gathering your child’s original birth certificate, proof of citizenship, or naturalization certificate.
– Both parents should provide government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
– If one parent cannot be present, a notarized consent form from the absent parent may be required.
2. Passport Photos: Capture two recent passport photos of your child. These must adhere to specific size and quality guidelines. Many post offices and photography studios offer services for passport photos.
– We did ours at Walgreens. It was not the greatest experience trying to get an 8 month old and a 22 month old to sit on the chair or be held (my thumbs were in the picture so we had to re-do several). And Everett kept smiling which I also found out was not allowed! After 45 minutes and multiple attempts, we got it. I definitely suggest bringing a 2nd parent to help things go more smoothly.
3. Complete Application Form:
– Obtain a passport application form (DS-11) from the official government website or your local passport office. Fill it out accurately; avoid any errors or corrections or it will get sent back.
4. Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility:
– Locate a nearby acceptance facility. These are often found in post offices, clerks of court offices, and public libraries.
– Both parents, or the applying parent and an authorized representative with necessary documentation, should appear in person with the child. We had to make an appointment at the post office to do it. But it only took about 20 minutes to get all 3 processed.
5. Pay Applicable Fees:
– Be prepared to pay the required fees. The cost may vary depending on the child’s age and whether it is a first-time application or a renewal.
6. Provide Parental Consent:
– If both parents are unable to be present, a notarized consent form must be submitted with the absent parent’s signature. This ensures compliance with parental consent requirements.
7. Submit Application:
– Present all required documents, including the completed application form, photos, and fees, to the acceptance facility. The personnel will review the materials and initiate the processing.
8. Wait for Processing:
– Passport processing times can vary. Typically, routine processing takes 4-6 weeks, while expedited services are available for an additional fee, reducing processing time to 2-3 weeks.
9. Receive Passport:
– Once processed, the passport will be mailed to the address provided on the application. Verify all details upon receipt to ensure accuracy.
10. Plan Ahead:
– It’s advisable to start the passport application process well in advance of any planned international travel. This allows for any unexpected delays in processing. My passport renewal arrived the day before we were supposed to leave for Italy in 2019 and it was the most stressful thing ever! I called every day for weeks inquiring about it. I honestly thought I might not be able to go, even though I sent it away 3 months before.
By following these steps diligently and ensuring all required documentation is in order, you can smoothly navigate the process of obtaining a passport for your child, opening up endless opportunities for amazing international adventures and experiences. You won’t regret it!
Happy Travels ✌🏻
Join Mailing List
Sign up and get all the latest, ad-free reviews, recipes and news sent to your inbox.