Key Highlights
- To get a child’s passport in 2025, parents must agree. Usually, both parents should be there when they apply.
- You will need important papers like proof of citizenship, proof of parental relationship, and the passport application form (DS-11).
- A child’s passport is valid for only five years. It cannot be renewed; you have to submit a new application each time.
- Parents can speed up the process by making passport appointments early at acceptance facilities or post offices.
- If one or both parents cannot go, they need to give a notarized statement of consent.
- The Department of State has a way to track the application status. You can check this through email updates or their online portal.
When you want to travel abroad with your family, getting a passport for your child is very important. For 2025, there are specific steps that parents or guardians need to follow for the child’s passport application. This guide makes every step easy to understand. Just gather the right documents and go to the appointment in person. Whether this is your first time or you are replacing an old passport, this blog has all the info you need for a smooth application process.
Understanding Child Passport Requirements in 2025
In 2025, getting a passport for a child under 16 is not the same as getting one for an adult. You cannot renew a child’s passport like you do with an adult passport. Each time you apply for a child’s passport, it is as if it is the first time, even if the passport has expired.
Both parents or legal guardians must give permission and prove their relationship to their child. By doing this, you can follow the right steps, like having the correct documents and applying in person. This will help avoid delays and make sure your child gets their passport fast. Next, let’s check the eligibility requirements and the documents you will need!
Eligibility Criteria for Child Passports
To get a child passport, you need to follow rules from the Department of State. First, your child must be under 16 years old. You also need to show proof of U.S. citizenship. You can use a U.S. birth certificate, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad as citizenship evidence. Each document must be official and cannot be damaged. They should also have a government seal.
Next, you need to show that you are the child’s parent or guardian. Documents such as an adoption decree, custody ruling, or the child’s birth certificate with both parents’ names can help. Make sure these legal records are original or certified copies.
Both parents usually need to help with the application process. If one parent is not present, you will need extra forms. This could include the “Statement of Consent” or other court documents. These steps can help your application go smoothly and avoid delays.
Documents Required for Application
To get a child’s passport, you need to send in several important documents to prove eligibility. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Document Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Citizenship Documents | Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate) |
| Passport Application Form (DS-11) | Completing the official passport request |
| Evidence of Parental Relationship | To establish custody/guardianship rights |
| Photo ID (Parents/Guardians) | Verifies identity of applicant(s) |
| Statement of Consent (DS-3053) | For cases where one parent is absent |
| Passport Photo | Meets child-specific size and quality requirements |
Having the right documents in original or certified form is very important for acceptance. If you do not have the proper proof, like notarized consent from absent parents or legal custody orders, your application might get delayed a lot. Finally, make sure to photocopy all documents according to the rules set by the acceptance agency.
Beginner’s Guide to Child Passport Application
Getting a passport may feel tough, but it can be simple if you take the right steps. First, collect all the important documents you need. Then, set up an appointment at a passport acceptance facility. Understanding the basics will help you do well. You must submit documents in person and follow special rules for kids. It’s very important to fill out the DS-11 form correctly.
Every step is important to prevent delays. This will help make sure your child gets their passport on time. Let’s review what you need and the steps to follow.
Essential Items Needed to Start the Process
Getting started on your child’s passport application requires a few important items. Here is what you need:
- A laptop computer or a desktop to fill out the DS-11 form online using the State Department’s Form Filler tool.
- A valid photo ID and its photocopy for parents or guardians.
- A printed copy of the passport application form, which needs to be filled out but not signed.
- A good-quality passport photo of your child that meets the State Department’s rules.
Make sure you have certified proof of citizenship. You should also have a document that shows the parental relationship. Don’t forget to include the application fees. Calculate these fees correctly using the official fee schedules. If you want to speed up the processing, be ready for extra costs. Having all these items prepared will help make the application process easier during your appointment.
Step-by-Step Guide/Process
Here is a simple guide for getting a child’s passport:
- Schedule your passport appointment: Use the online tool to find a passport acceptance facility or a place near you that can help.
- Prepare documentation: Collect original proof of citizenship, photo IDs, signed consent forms, and legal papers that show your parental relationship.
- Visit the acceptance facility: Go to your appointment with your child. Bring all the needed documents. Be prepared to pay the $35 execution fee and the $100 application fee (more if you need it done quickly).
After you send everything, the State Department will handle the application. You will receive updates at your email address. You can also check the application status online to stay informed during this time.
Step 1: Gather Documentation
The first step is to collect all the important documents. You need to have the child’s certified birth certificate or some other valid proof of U.S. citizenship. This is necessary for the application. The citizenship evidence should be official and include seals and signatures.
You need to show your parental relationship. You can do this with documents like custody orders, adoption papers, or the child’s birth certificate. If your last name is different, provide legal proof of the name change. This can be a court order or a marriage certificate.
Get a good passport photo and make copies of all original documents. Make sure everything meets the State Department guidelines. This will help avoid any delays. Are you ready? Now, let’s continue with the application form.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Filling out the passport application form is simple, but you need to be careful. Begin by using the Department of State’s Form Filler tool on a laptop or desktop. Choose Form DS-11 if you are applying for a child’s passport. Complete all the fields, but do not sign the form yet. Wait until the acceptance agent tells you to sign.
You can use the form to update your address and make name changes. If you are renewing a passport, you have to fill out a new DS-11 form. This is because renewals are not allowed for minors. After you complete the form, print it out and make sure that all the details match your child’s documents.
Make sure you check your entries and gather all your supporting documents before your appointment. Keep your papers organized. This will help you during the submission process.
Step 3: Submit the Application
To complete the process, you must submit your application in person. Go to a post office or a government office of your choice. Bring your child and all the necessary documents. You will need to pay the fees there, including the application and money order fees.
When you send in your application, you will receive updates about your application status by email or through an online portal. Usually, it takes around 4-6 weeks for regular services. If you choose faster options, it takes about 2-3 weeks. The child’s documents will come back to you separately. This often happens weeks after you receive the passport.
Make sure to send all payments to the U.S. Department of State. Also, remember to keep all receipts just in case you need them later. After that, check for status updates using the Department of State tracking system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the application process take?
It usually takes about 4-6 weeks for a child passport application to be processed with standard service. If you pick expedited service, it only takes 2-3 weeks. You can check your application status online or receive updates by email. If you want faster delivery, think about using Priority Mail.
Can both parents be absent during submission?
If both parents are not available, there are special rules to follow. You must send a Statement of Special Family Circumstances (DS-5525) or get permission from legal guardians. All documents should be notarized. Some applications may need support from an embassy or consulate to proceed.