How to Apply Passport for Newborn in USA
Welcoming a new member to the family is an exciting time, and ensuring that the newborn has all the necessary documents is an important step. One of the most crucial documents for international travel is the passport. If you are a parent in the USA and want to apply for a passport for your newborn, here is a comprehensive guide on how to do it.
1. Determine Eligibility
Before applying for a passport for your newborn, it is essential to ensure that they are eligible. According to the U.S. Department of State, a child under 16 years of age is eligible for a passport. If your child is born in the USA, they automatically become a U.S. citizen and are eligible for a passport.
2. Gather Required Documents
When applying for a passport for a newborn, you will need to gather the following documents:
- Proof of Parental Relationship: This can be a birth certificate, a court order, or an adoption decree.
- Proof of Parental Identity: This can be a valid driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
- Passport Application: You can download the form DS-11 from the U.S. Department of State website and fill it out.
- Photograph: A recent color photograph of the newborn, taken within the last 6 months, measuring 2 inches by 2 inches, with a plain background.
3. Visit a Passport Acceptance Facility
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you will need to visit a passport acceptance facility. These facilities are located in post offices, courthouses, and some public libraries. You can find the nearest facility by using the U.S. Department of State’s passport acceptance facility locator tool.
4. Submit the Application
At the passport acceptance facility, you will need to submit the completed application, proof of parental relationship, proof of parental identity, photograph, and any applicable fees. The fees for a passport for a child under 16 years of age are as follows:
- Application Fee: $80
- Execution Fee: $15
5. Wait for Processing
After submitting the application, the U.S. Department of State will process it. The processing time for a passport for a child under 16 years of age is typically 6-8 weeks. However, it may take longer if there is a high volume of applications or if additional information is required.
6. Receive the Passport
Once the passport is processed, you will receive it by mail. Make sure to keep the passport in a safe place and carry it with you whenever you travel internationally with your newborn.
Applying for a passport for a newborn in the USA is a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can ensure that your little one is ready for their first international adventure.
