When planning an international trip with your family, it’s important to get your child’s passport on time. However, obtaining a passport for children can be a daunting process, especially when it comes to gathering all the necessary documents. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential documents required for a child’s passport and how to navigate the process.
Proof of Citizenship
First and foremost, you’ll need to provide proof of your child’s U.S. citizenship. This can be in the form of a certified U.S. birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or Certificate of Citizenship. A photocopy of the document won’t suffice; you must submit the original document, which will be returned to you after the application process.
Parental Consent
Both parents and legal guardians must give their consent for their child to obtain a passport. To do this, the U.S. Department of State recommends that both parents appear in person at a passport office to sign the application. If only one parent or legal guardian can appear, certain forms and documents must be submitted to establish sole legal authority. For more information about these requirements, check this blog post on do both parents have to be present for a child’s passport.
Parental Identification
At the time of the application, both the parents and legal guardians must provide proper identification. This can include a valid U.S. passport, driver’s license, military ID, or government employee ID. You’ll also need to submit a photocopy of the ID document (front and back) that’s being used.
Passport Photo
You’ll need to provide a clear and recent photo of your child, adhering to the passport photo requirements. Snapshots or selfies are not acceptable. It’s best to have the photo taken by a professional service that understands the requirements.
Application Form
You must fill out the DS-11 Application for a U.S. Passport form. Make sure to complete this form using black ink, and do not sign it until a passport agent instructs you to do so.
Processing Fee
Don’t forget to submit the required processing fee with your application. The fees differ depending on the type of passport being applied for, such as a regular-sized passport book or passport card. You can find the current fee schedule on the U.S. Department of State website.
In Conclusion
Obtaining a passport for your child may seem overwhelming, but knowing which documents to prepare will ease the process. Always double-check the required documents and follow the guidelines to avoid any delays. If you need more assistance, consider visiting a reliable passport office in Atlanta to help guide you through the process. Happy travels!