How soon can a newborn get a passport in the USA? This is a common question among new parents who are eager to travel with their little ones. Obtaining a passport for a newborn is a straightforward process, but it’s important to understand the requirements and the timeline involved. In this article, we will explore the process, the necessary documents, and the time it takes for a newborn to receive a passport in the United States.
The first step in obtaining a passport for a newborn is to complete the application form. For children under the age of 16, parents or legal guardians must fill out Form DS-11. This form can be downloaded from the U.S. Department of State’s website or obtained from a passport acceptance facility. Once the form is completed, it must be submitted along with the required supporting documents.
The necessary documents for a newborn’s passport application include proof of citizenship, proof of identity for the parent or guardian, and proof of relationship between the child and the parent or guardian. Proof of citizenship can be in the form of a birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or naturalization certificate. Proof of identity for the parent or guardian can be a driver’s license, government-issued ID, or military ID. Proof of relationship can be a birth certificate or a legal document establishing guardianship.
After gathering all the required documents, the next step is to schedule an appointment at a passport acceptance facility. These facilities are located throughout the United States and can be found by visiting the U.S. Department of State’s website. During the appointment, the parent or guardian will need to submit the completed Form DS-11, the required documents, and pay the passport application fee. The fee for a newborn’s passport is currently $135, which includes the execution fee and the issuance fee.
Once the application is submitted, the processing time for a newborn’s passport can vary. According to the U.S. Department of State, the average processing time for a passport application is about 6-8 weeks. However, it’s important to note that this time frame can be longer during peak travel seasons or if there is a high volume of applications. To expedite the process, parents can choose to pay an additional fee for expedited service, which can reduce the processing time to as little as 2-3 weeks.
In some cases, parents may be eligible for expedited service due to an upcoming international trip. If this is the case, they should contact the nearest passport acceptance facility or the U.S. Department of State’s customer service center for assistance. It’s important to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for the passport application process, as obtaining a passport for a newborn can take several weeks.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “How soon can a newborn get a passport in the USA?” is that it typically takes about 6-8 weeks to process the application. By understanding the requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and scheduling an appointment at a passport acceptance facility, parents can ensure a smooth and efficient process for obtaining a passport for their newborn. Planning ahead and considering expedited service can help parents secure a passport for their little one in a timely manner.
