How to Get a Passport for Kids in 2023: A Comprehensive Guide If you’re planning on traveling overseas with your kids in 2023, you’ll need to ensure that they have a passport. Getting a passport for a child can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually a relatively straightforward process. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to get a passport for kids in 2023. 1. Start Early The first thing you should do when planning to get a passport for your child is to start early. Passport processing times can vary depending on the time of year and the demand for passports, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute stress. 2. Gather Required Documents To apply for a passport for your child, you’ll need to gather several documents, including: – A completed passport application form – Proof of your child’s citizenship (birth certificate or naturalization certificate) – Proof of your relationship to the child (birth certificate or adoption decree) – Government-issued identification for both parents or guardians 3. Take a Passport Photo Your child will also need a passport photo, which you can take yourself or have taken at a local passport photo center. The photo must meet specific requirements, such as being in color, taken against a plain white or off-white background, and showing a full-face view of the child. 4. Submit the Application Once you have all the required documents and photo, it’s time to submit the application. You can do this in person at a regional passport agency or a nearby acceptance facility. Some acceptance facilities require an appointment, so be sure to check beforehand. 5. Pay the Fees The fees for a child’s passport vary depending on the type of passport and processing time. You can find the latest fee information on the U.S. Department of State’s website. Payments can be made by check or credit card. 6. Wait for Processing After submitting the application, you’ll need to wait for processing. Routine processing times can take up to six weeks, while expedited processing can take up to three weeks. If you need the passport sooner, you can make an appointment at a regional passport agency for same-day processing. 7. Check the Status You can check the status of your child’s passport application online or by calling the National Passport Information Center. Be sure to check the status regularly to ensure that there are no issues with the application. 8. Receive the Passport Once the passport is processed, it will be mailed to you. Be sure to check the passport carefully to ensure that all the information is correct before traveling. 9. Renew the Passport Passports for children under 16 are only valid for five years, so you’ll need to renew it before traveling again. You can renew the passport by mail or in person at a passport agency or acceptance facility. 10. Keep the Passport Safe Finally, it’s essential to keep your child’s passport safe. Make copies of the passport and store them in a safe place, and be sure to keep the passport with you at all times while traveling. Q: Can I apply for my child’s passport online? A: No, you cannot apply for a child’s passport online. You must submit the application in person at a regional passport agency or acceptance facility. Q: How long does it take to get a child’s passport? A: Routine processing times can take up to six weeks, while expedited processing can take up to three weeks. Same-day processing is available at regional passport agencies. In summary, getting a passport for your child in 2023 requires gathering the necessary documents, submitting the application, paying the fees, and waiting for processing. By starting early and following these steps, you can ensure that your child has a valid passport for your upcoming travels.
