US Passport for Children Under 16 | Applying for a Passport for Minors (2022 Must Dos!)

TL;DR

This video explains the process of applying for a passport for a child under 16, including filling out the application, gathering necessary documents, and scheduling an appointment.

Transcript

If you're trying to figure out how to apply for a passport for a child under the age of 16, this video is for you. I've had a lot of requests for this video, and it's finally here. Let's dive right in and be sure to subscribe to this channel for more information like this. Okay. So the first thing to know is that all children under the age of 16 ha... Read More

Key Insights

• 👶 Passports for children under 16 are valid for five years and require in-person application.
• 💁 The application process involves filling out form DS-11, scheduling an appointment, gathering necessary documents, and attending the appointment.
• 📜 Proof of US citizenship, evidence of parental relationship, parental ID, and parental consent are important documents to bring.
• 💨 Expedited processing and delivery options are available for faster passport acquisition.
• 🤱 It is important to review the State Department website for specific guidelines and fee calculations.
• 🏣 The post office keeps the original birth certificate or naturalization certificate but returns it later.
• 🤱 The total cost for a child's passport includes the passport book fee, execution fee, and any additional fees for expedited processing or delivery.

Questions & Answers

Q: How long is a passport for a child under 16 valid?

Passports for children under 16 are valid for five years and must be reapplied for when they expire, unlike adult passports which can be renewed.

Q: Can I fill out the passport application form online?

Yes, you can fill out the form DS-11 online, but you still need to print it out and bring it to the post office for your appointment.

Q: What documents do I need to prove parental relationship?

The birth certificate, adoption decrees, or divorce custody decrees are acceptable documents to prove parental relationship. Make sure the name on the documents matches the name you currently use.

Q: Can one parent apply for a passport for a child if the other parent is unavailable?

If one parent has sole custody, they must provide proof of custody, such as a court order. If one parent can't attend, Form DS-3053 can be filled out, signed in front of a notary public, and submitted with a photocopy of the absent parent's ID.

Q: How long does it take to get a passport for a child?

Standard processing time is 7 to 10 weeks, but expedited processing (for an additional fee) can speed up the process to 4 to 6 weeks. However, processing times may vary.

Q: Can I keep the original birth certificate or naturalization certificate?

No, the post office will keep the original birth certificate or naturalization certificate as part of the application process. It will be returned to you later.

Q: What is the cost of a passport for a child?

The cost of a passport book for a child is $100, and there is an execution fee of $35. Expedited processing is an additional $60, and there may be an additional fee for expedited delivery.

Q: What payment methods are accepted at the post office?

The execution fee can usually be paid with a credit card, but it's recommended to bring cash, checks, and debit cards as well. The remaining payment can be made with a personal or certified check made out to the US Department of State.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• All children under 16 must apply for a passport in person with their parents or legal guardians, and passports for children are only valid for five years.

• There are four steps to applying for a US passport for a child: filling out form DS-11, scheduling an appointment, gathering supporting documents and payment, and attending the appointment.

• Important documents to bring include proof of US citizenship, evidence of parental relationship, parental ID, and parental consent if both parents can't attend.