Becoming a new parent is a whirlwind of excitement and new responsibilities. If you’re planning an international trip with your newborn, you’re likely juggling a million things, including travel arrangements. One question that often arises is: Do Newborns Need Passports To Travel? The simple answer is yes. Regardless of age, every individual needs a passport to enter another country.
While obtaining a passport for your baby might seem daunting, especially amidst the chaos of new parenthood, it’s a manageable process with the right guidance. Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to get a U.S. passport for your baby.
How to Get a U.S. Passport for a Baby
Step 1: Download the DS-11 Form
It’s wise to start the passport application process as soon as possible, especially if you have a trip planned or anticipate international travel in the future.
Begin by:
- Visiting the U.S. Passports section on Travel.State.gov.
- Downloading Form DS-11 and reviewing the required paperwork.
- Clicking “Apply for or Renew My Passport” and then selecting “Children Under 16”. This two-page form requires general personal information, including your baby’s Social Security number.
If your baby hasn’t been issued a Social Security number yet, the parents or legal guardians must submit a signed and dated statement with the following wording: “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: (Child’s full name) has never been issued a Social Security number by the Social Security Administration.”
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Paperwork
To obtain a passport for your baby, you must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of parental relationship, and proof of identification. Refer to Travel.State.gov for a comprehensive list and possible exceptions.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship
Acceptable evidence of your child’s U.S. citizenship includes an original or certified physical copy of one of the following:
- An expired, but fully valid and undamaged U.S. passport
- A U.S. birth certificate
- A certificate of citizenship
In addition to the original document, you must also submit a legible photocopy (front and back, if applicable) on white 8.5” x 11” standard paper, printed in black and white ink, and single-sided.
Proof of Parental Relationship
Acceptable evidence that lists the child’s parents or legal guardians includes one of the following:
- A U.S. birth certificate
- A foreign birth certificate
- An adoption decree
- A divorce/custody decree
- A consular report of birth abroad or certification of birth
Proof of Identification
Parents or legal guardians must provide one of the following:
- A fully valid, in-state driver’s license or enhanced driver’s license with photo
- A certificate of naturalization
- A certificate of citizenship
- A government employee ID
- A U.S. military or military dependent ID
- A current foreign passport
- A Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID)
- A U.S. permanent resident card (Green Card)
- Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
- Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
- A fully-valid, in-state learner’s permit with photo; a fully-valid, in-state non-driver ID with photo; or a temporary driver’s license with photo (you might need to show an additional ID if you choose one of these options).
Like the citizenship proof, you’ll also need to submit a legible photocopy (front and back, if applicable) of the identification document on white 8.5” x 11” standard paper, printed single-sided.
Step 3: Get Baby’s Passport Photo Taken
Your baby needs a passport photo that meets U.S. passport requirements. Many drug stores and pharmacies, like CVS or Walgreens, offer this service. Alternatively, you can take the photo at home using a camera or a passport photo app.
When taking your baby’s photo, ensure no one else is in the picture. Your child should be looking at the camera with their eyes open, although it’s acceptable if an infant’s eyes are not fully open. Travel.State.gov provides additional tips for taking your child’s passport photo.
Step 4: Show Parental Consent
To get a passport for a baby, you must demonstrate parental consent. The easiest way is for both parents to be present at the local passport acceptance facility when submitting the application.
If only one parent or guardian can attend, the other parent must fill out and sign a form (which needs to be notarized). Other parental exceptions exist, so ensure you know what documents are required for your specific situation if only one parent will be present. More information is available on Travel.State.gov.
Step 5: Submit the Application
Submit the application at your local passport acceptance facility. Use the locator at iafdb.Travel.State.gov to find locations in your area.
If you live in a major U.S. city, you might be able to apply at a regional passport agency, which could expedite the process compared to applying at a post office.
Regardless of the location, allocate ample time (at least an hour) for the appointment. You never know how long the lines will be or how fussy your baby might become. Scheduling an appointment ahead of time is highly recommended. Consider the time of day when your child is typically most calm – usually mornings or early afternoons for young babies.
Be aware that some passport application acceptance facilities may still have closures or limited service due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Step 6: Wait
Be prepared for a waiting period, even if you choose to expedite the process. Routine service can take up to 14 weeks from the application submission date to passport receipt.
If you pay to expedite your baby’s passport, expect it to arrive within approximately 10 weeks. You can track your application status online at Travel.State.gov.
The cost for a minor’s passport is currently $115 — $80 for the application fee and $35 for the acceptance fee. This applies specifically to the passport book, which is required for international air travel. Expedited service costs an additional $60.
Conclusion
Traveling internationally with a newborn requires careful planning, and obtaining a passport is a crucial step. While the process might seem overwhelming, following these steps will help you navigate it smoothly. Remember to start early, gather all necessary documents, and be patient. With a little preparation, you and your little one will be ready for your international adventure!
