To obtain a U.S. passport for a minor, submit proof of U.S. citizenship such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, alongside evidence of parental relationship like a birth certificate listing parents' names. Present valid identification for both the child and the parent or guardian applying in person, and include a passport photo meeting government specifications. Complete the DS-11 application form and provide parental consent through both parents' signatures or a notarized statement from the absent parent.
What Documents Are Needed for a U.S. Passport for a Minor?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proof of Parental Relationship | Proof of parental relationship for a U.S. passport application for a minor requires documents such as a certified birth certificate listing both parents' names, a court order establishing custody, or an adoption decree. These documents must clearly establish the legal relationship between the child and the parent or guardian applying on their behalf. |
| 2 | DS-11 Application Form | The DS-11 Application Form is required for obtaining a U.S. passport for a minor and must be completed in full without signatures prior to the in-person appointment. Supporting documents include proof of U.S. citizenship, evidence of the parental relationship, and valid parental identification, all submitted alongside the DS-11 form. |
| 3 | Parental Consent Form (Form DS-3053) | The Parental Consent Form (Form DS-3053) is required when one parent or guardian cannot appear in person to authorize a U.S. passport application for a minor under age 16. This notarized form must be submitted alongside the minor's proof of citizenship, application form (DS-11), and evidence of parental relationship to ensure compliance with U.S. Department of State regulations. |
| 4 | Valid Parental Identification | Valid parental identification for a U.S. passport application for a minor includes government-issued photo IDs such as a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. These documents must be current, clearly show the parent's full name and photograph, and be presented alongside the minor's birth certificate or other proof of U.S. citizenship. |
| 5 | Minor’s Proof of Citizenship (Original Birth Certificate) | A minor's proof of citizenship for a U.S. passport requires an original or certified birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state vital records office, showing the applicant's full name, date of birth, and parent(s) names. Hospital birth certificates, photocopies, or birth announcements are not accepted as valid evidence of citizenship. |
| 6 | Custody Order Documentation | Custody order documentation is essential to prove legal guardianship when applying for a U.S. passport for a minor, ensuring that the adult submitting the application has the authority to act on behalf of the child. This legal paperwork must clearly specify custody rights and be submitted alongside the minor's birth certificate and parental identification. |
| 7 | Passport Photo Compliance | A U.S. passport for a minor requires a recent color passport photo measuring 2x2 inches with a white or off-white background, showing the full face and no shadows. Photos must comply with specific requirements such as no glasses, a neutral expression, and proper lighting to ensure acceptance. |
| 8 | Parental Presence Statement | A Parental Presence Statement is required when one parent or guardian is unable to be present at the time of the minor's U.S. passport application, documenting consent for the application process. This statement must be notarized and accompanied by a photocopy of the non-appearing parent's identification to verify authorization. |
| 9 | Special Circumstances Affidavit | A Special Circumstances Affidavit is required for a U.S. passport application for a minor when one parent or legal guardian cannot be present to provide consent, serving as a notarized statement explaining the absence and granting permission. This affidavit must be accompanied by supporting documents, such as custody papers or death certificates, to verify the special circumstance and ensure compliance with passport regulations. |
| 10 | Digital Document Submission (Pilot Programs) | Digital document submission pilot programs for U.S. passport applications allow minors to submit essential documents like birth certificates, proof of parental consent, and identification digitally, streamlining the application process. These initiatives aim to enhance security, reduce processing time, and improve accessibility for families applying for minors' passports. |
Overview of U.S. Minor Passport Requirements
Obtaining a U.S. passport for a minor requires specific documentation to verify identity, citizenship, and parental consent. These requirements ensure the minor's eligibility and protect against unauthorized passport issuance.
- Evidence of U.S. Citizenship - Submit a certified birth certificate, previous U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate as proof of citizenship.
- Parental Identification - Provide valid identification from both parents or guardians, such as a driver's license or passport, to establish custodial authority.
- Parental Consent - Both parents must authorize the passport application, usually demonstrated through in-person presence or notarized consent forms.
Essential Identity Documents for Minors
To obtain a U.S. passport for a minor, essential identity documents include the child's original birth certificate or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. Proof of parental relationship, such as an adoption decree or court order, is also required. You must provide valid identification for both parents or guardians when applying.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship for Child Applicants
Proof of U.S. citizenship is essential for a minor applying for a U.S. passport. Acceptable documents include a certified birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a previous U.S. passport.
These documents must show the child's full name, date of birth, and U.S. place of birth or citizenship status. Your application will be processed faster with original documents or certified copies from the issuing authority.
Parental Relationship Documentation
Parental relationship documentation is essential when applying for a U.S. passport for a minor. These documents establish the legal and biological connection between the child and the parent or guardian.
- Birth Certificate - A certified birth certificate listing the parent(s) name(s) confirms the parental relationship.
- Adoption Decree - Legal adoption papers prove parental rights if the child was adopted.
- Court Order - Any court documents granting legal guardianship or custody certify parental authority.
Providing accurate parental relationship documents ensures the passport application process is completed efficiently.
Parental Identification Requirements
For a U.S. passport application for a minor, parental identification is essential to verify the guardian's relationship and authority. Acceptable forms include valid government-issued photo IDs such as a driver's license or passport.
You must present original identification documents or certified copies when applying on behalf of your child. Both parents or guardians need to provide ID unless one has sole legal custody. These measures ensure proper consent and protect the minor's identity throughout the passport issuance process.
DS-11 Form: Completion and Guidelines
The DS-11 form is required for obtaining a U.S. passport for a minor and must be completed in person. This application includes providing the minor's personal information, proof of U.S. citizenship, and parental identification. Your signature and presence are mandatory for the form to be processed correctly.
Evidence of Parental Consent for Minors
Obtaining a U.S. passport for a minor requires specific documentation to prove parental consent. This ensures the minor's travel is authorized by the child's legal guardians as mandated by U.S. passport regulations.
- Both Parents' Consent - Both parents or legal guardians must provide written consent, typically through the DS-11 application form or a notarized Form DS-3053 if one parent is absent.
- Sole Custody Documentation - In cases of sole custody, submit a court order or custody agreement verifying the parent applying has sole legal custody and authority to consent.
- Parental Identification - Valid government-issued IDs from the consenting parents or guardians must accompany the application to confirm identity and relationship to the minor.
Passport Photo Specifications for Children
What are the passport photo specifications for children when applying for a U.S. passport for a minor? Children's passport photos must be in color, taken within the last six months, and sized at 2x2 inches. Your child's face should be fully visible, with a neutral expression and both eyes open.
Submission of Supporting Certificates and Originals
Submitting a U.S. passport application for a minor requires original supporting documents to verify identity and citizenship. These documents include the child's birth certificate, which establishes U.S. citizenship, and a government-issued photo ID of the parent or guardian.
The passport office mandates original certificates such as a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a naturalization certificate if the birth certificate is unavailable. Parents must also submit proof of parental relationship, like a custody order or adoption decree, alongside the original documents.
What Documents Are Needed for a U.S. Passport for a Minor? Infographic
