How to Get a Passport for My Child in 2023: A Comprehensive Guide Traveling with your family is always an exciting experience, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare if you don’t have the right documents. One of the most important things you need to have when traveling abroad is a passport. If you’re planning to travel with your child in 2023, here’s everything you need to know about getting a passport for your little one. 1. Start Early One of the biggest mistakes parents make when it comes to getting a passport for their child is waiting until the last minute. Remember, getting a passport is not an instant process. The average processing time for a child’s passport is four to six weeks. However, it can take longer if there are delays or issues with your application. 2. Determine Eligibility Before you start the application process, make sure your child is eligible for a passport. To be eligible, your child must be a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen national. If your child is not a U.S. citizen, you’ll need to provide additional documentation to prove their status. 3. Gather Required Documents To apply for a passport for your child, you’ll need to gather the following documents: – Your child’s birth certificate – Your child’s Social Security Number – Your child’s previous passport (if applicable) – Your government-issued identification – Proof of parental relationship (if only one parent is present) – Passport photo of your child 4. Fill Out the Application You can fill out the passport application online or in person at an acceptance facility. Make sure to fill out all the required fields accurately and completely. If you’re unsure about any section, don’t hesitate to ask for help. 5. Pay the Fees The fees for a child’s passport are $80 for the application fee and $35 for the execution fee. These fees are non-refundable, so make sure you have all the necessary documents before submitting your application. 6. Submit the Application Once you’ve completed the application and paid the fees, you can submit it at an acceptance facility. You’ll need to bring all the required documents, including the passport photo of your child. 7. Track Your Application After submitting your application, you can track its progress online. You’ll receive an email notification when your child’s passport is ready for pickup. 8. Pick Up Your Child’s Passport When your child’s passport is ready, you’ll need to pick it up in person at an acceptance facility. Make sure to bring a government-issued identification and proof of parental relationship (if only one parent is present). FAQs: Q: How long does it take to get a passport for my child? A: The average processing time for a child’s passport is four to six weeks. However, it can take longer if there are delays or issues with your application. Q: Do I need to provide a Social Security Number for my child’s passport? A: Yes, you’ll need to provide your child’s Social Security Number as part of the application process. Q: Can I apply for my child’s passport online? A: Yes, you can fill out the passport application online or in person at an acceptance facility. In conclusion, getting a passport for your child may seem like a daunting task, but with the right information, it can be a straightforward process. By following these steps and being prepared, you’ll be able to get your child’s passport in no time and be ready for your next family adventure.
