Obtaining Childrens American Pasports

If you are planning on traveling abroad with your family you will need to fill out applications for children’s pass ports 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

Documentation showing proof of citizenship will need to accompany the application. The easiest document to use for this purpose is a birth certificate. An original certified certificate that includes the signature of the birth registrar is required. Photocopies will not be accepted as a legal document but the original will be returned to you along with the passport. Another acceptable document would be a “Report of Birth Abroad”.

Proof of Relationship

Your relationship to the minor also needs to be documented. When both of the parents are named on the birth certificate, this is satisfactory evidence. The same would be required if you are using a “Report of Birth Abroad”. If you are divorced and have sole custody, you will need to present court documents as proof. An adoption decree will be needed as evidence of relationship if your children have been adopted.

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.

Fees

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.

Signature Must Be Witnessed

Once you have chosen where you will go to submit your pass port renewal application, inquire concerning the hours when applications are accepted. Make an appointment if possible for a smoother process. Once you have completed the application and have all the accompanying documents and photocopies, you are ready to apply. Have the form completely filled out but do not sign it until you are in the presence of the acceptance agent.