If you are planning on traveling abroad with your family you will need to fill out applications for children’s passports as well as your own. Children must have their own passport. There are several things to keep in mind when applying for passports for your children. These are the nine basic steps you must follow.
Form DS-11
You will need to complete a Form DS-11 for each of your children. Applications need to be submitted to an authorized location such as a post office. Check with your local postal office to see if they process passport applications. If they do not, they can most likely direct you to a government office that can help you. Once completed, both parents and the children must submit the application in person.
Proof of Citizenship
You will need to provide proof of the child's citizenship. This can be done with an original certified birth certificate that has the registrar’s signature and a raised impression or multi-colored seal. You will submit the original with the application and it will be returned when you receive your passport. For children born in another country, a “Report of Foreign Birth’ may be provided instead.
Proof Of Parental Identification
Parents must submit evidence of their relationship to the children. Having each parent named on the birth certificate or the “Report of Birth Abroad” will satisfy this requirement. For single parents, you will need to submit a court order that proves you have custody of the child. Adoptive parents will have to provide a copy of the Adoption Decree that shows both of the adopting parents’ names.
Parental Identification
As the parents, you will also need to provide a photocopy of your identification. Acceptable forms of identification include a previously issued passport, a naturalization certificate or a valid drivers license. City, state or federal employees may use their employee ID or military ID, which are also acceptable. If you are applying for multiple children, a copy of your ID must be submitted with each application.
Cost
You will need to pay two separate fees for each passport. For a minor, there is a ninety-five dollar fee for the application plus an additional charge of twenty-five dollars for the execution fee. These need to be paid separately and can be paid by check, money order or credit card. Some facilities may accept the exact amount in cash depending on the acceptance facility you use.
Photos
The last thing you will need to complete your application packet is a passport photo. There are strict rules on what is acceptable so you may want to have a professional familiar with the requirements take the photos for you. Many post office facilities also offer a passport photo service.
You Must Sign In Person
Post Office facilities that accept passport applications and offer passport photos have limited hours in which these services are offered. Be sure to check their passport processing hours and make an appointment if possible. Gather all your documents and photocopies together and submit your application. Your application should not be signed until you are with the acceptance agent, as your signature must be witnessed.
Travel to other countries is an exciting adventure your whole family will enjoy. Having your childrens US passport will open up the world for your children to explore. Don’t forget that even if you have an infant, they need an infant U.S. passport renewal as well. You will be giving your kids a lasting impression and cherished memories of time spent traveling abroad.
