A child applying for a U.S. passport needs proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, along with evidence of parental relationship like a birth certificate or adoption decree. Both parents or guardians must present valid identification, and a completed Form DS-11 must be submitted in person for applicants under 16. A passport photo that meets government specifications is also required to complete the application process.
What Documents Does a Child Need for a U.S. Passport?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Parental Consent Form DS-3053 | A child under 16 applying for a U.S. passport must submit a completed Parental Consent Form DS-3053 if one parent cannot be present during the application process; this form must be notarized to verify the absent parent's consent. The DS-3053 ensures compliance with federal regulations protecting children from unauthorized international travel. |
| 2 | Proof of Parental Relationship | Proof of parental relationship for a U.S. passport application requires documents such as a certified birth certificate listing both parents, a consular report of birth abroad, or an adoption decree. These documents establish the child's legal connection to the parent(s) and are essential for verifying parental consent in the passport process. |
| 3 | Parental Identification Documentation | A child applying for a U.S. passport requires parental identification documentation such as a valid government-issued photo ID, including a driver's license or passport, to establish parental relationship and consent. Original or certified copies of the child's birth certificate or adoption decree referencing the parents are also essential to verify custodial rights and identity. |
| 4 | Original Birth Certificate with Raised Seal | A child applying for a U.S. passport must provide an original birth certificate with a raised seal as a primary proof of citizenship and identity. This official document verifies the child's birth in the United States and includes vital information such as the full name, date of birth, and parentage, which is essential for passport issuance. |
| 5 | Certified Adoption Decree | A certified adoption decree is a crucial document for obtaining a U.S. passport for a child, serving as legal proof of parental relationship and name change if applicable. This official court document, issued by the adoption court, must be submitted along with the passport application to verify the child's citizenship status and eligibility. |
| 6 | Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) | A child applying for a U.S. passport must provide a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) as proof of U.S. citizenship for those born outside the United States. The CRBA serves as an official birth certificate issued by the U.S. Department of State, verifying the child's eligibility for a U.S. passport. |
| 7 | Current Custody Court Orders | Current custody court orders must be submitted as primary documentation to establish parental rights and legal custody when applying for a U.S. passport for a child. These documents verify the parent or guardian's authority to consent to the passport application, ensuring compliance with U.S. Department of State requirements. |
| 8 | Undocumented Child Affidavit | An undocumented child applying for a U.S. passport must provide an Affidavit of Birth accompanying other evidence like a birth certificate or proof of parental citizenship to establish identity and citizenship status. This affidavit serves as a sworn statement verifying the child's birth details when official records are unavailable or incomplete, facilitating the passport issuance process. |
| 9 | Digital Passport Photo Standard | A child applying for a U.S. passport must submit a digital passport photo that meets the U.S. Department of State's specific standards, including a 2x2 inch size, white background, and clear, full-face visibility without shadows or hats. The photo must be in color, taken within the last six months, and digitally formatted to 600x600 pixels with no alterations or filters to ensure acceptance by passport agencies. |
| 10 | Minor Passport Renewal (Form DS-11 for Children) | To renew a minor's U.S. passport using Form DS-11, the child must provide evidence of U.S. citizenship such as a previous passport or birth certificate, proof of parental relationship, and valid identification for both parents or guardians. Both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the child and submit a passport photo along with the completed Form DS-11. |
Overview: Importance of Proper Documentation for a Child’s U.S. Passport
Obtaining a U.S. passport for a child requires specific documentation to verify identity, citizenship, and parental relationship. Proper documentation ensures a smooth application process and prevents delays or denials.
The essential documents include the child's certified birth certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship such as a previous passport or Consular Report of Birth Abroad, and government-issued identification for the parents or guardians. Both parents must provide consent, usually through a signed Form DS-11 or presence during application submission. Accurate and complete documentation protects your child's ability to travel internationally without complications.
Valid Proof of U.S. Citizenship for Minors
Obtaining a U.S. passport for a child requires valid proof of U.S. citizenship. Your child must present original or certified documents to verify citizenship status.
- U.S. Birth Certificate - A certified birth certificate from a U.S. state or territory serves as primary proof of citizenship.
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad - Issued by the U.S. Department of State, this document proves citizenship for children born outside the U.S. to American parents.
- Certificate of Citizenship - Granted to minors who derived citizenship through parents, this document confirms their legal status.
These documents, alongside proof of identity and parental consent, are essential for passport application submission.
Acceptable Forms of Parental Identification
When applying for a U.S. passport for a child, providing acceptable forms of parental identification ensures the application is processed smoothly. These documents confirm parental relationship and guardianship to protect the child's identity and status.
- Valid Government-Issued Photo ID - A driver's license, state ID, or military ID with a clear photo is accepted as proof of parental identity.
- Passport of the Parent - A valid or expired U.S. passport confirms citizenship and parental relationship.
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship - This document authenticates the parent's U.S. citizenship when applying for the child's passport.
Evidence of Parental Relationship to the Child
What documents provide evidence of parental relationship for a child's U.S. passport application? A birth certificate listing both parents is the primary document used to establish this relationship. Adoption decrees or court orders naming the parents also serve as valid evidence.
Required Parental Consent Forms for Passport Issuance
To obtain a U.S. passport for a child under 16, specific parental consent forms are required to verify authorization from both parents or legal guardians. Form DS-3053, a notarized Statement of Consent, is necessary if one parent cannot be present during the application process. You must provide evidence of parental relationship and consent to ensure the child's passport is issued securely and in accordance with U.S. Department of State regulations.
Child’s Photographic Requirements and Passport Photos
Obtaining a U.S. passport for a child requires specific photographic documentation that meets strict government standards. Passport photos must clearly represent the child's current appearance and comply with size and quality criteria to ensure acceptance.
- Passport photo size - The photo must measure 2 x 2 inches with the child's head centered and sized between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches from chin to top of head.
- Photo background - The background must be plain white or off-white with no shadows or patterns to ensure clear contrast with the child's face.
- Photo quality and appearance - The photo should be in color, clear, and printed on high-quality photo paper with the child facing forward and eyes open.
Specialized Documentation for Children of Immigrants
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of U.S. Citizenship | Birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), or Certificate of Naturalization | Confirms the child's eligibility for a U.S. passport |
| Parental Identification | Valid U.S. passport or government-issued ID of the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) | Verifies identity and relationship to the child |
| Proof of Parental Relationship | Birth certificate listing parents' names, adoption decree, or court order establishing guardianship | Establishes legal guardianship or parentage required for passport issuance |
| Consent Documents | Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) notarized and signed by non-applying parent if only one parent appears | Ensures both parents consent to the passport application when applicable |
| Immigration Status Documentation | Green card (Permanent Resident Card), I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, or valid visa | Demonstrates lawful immigration status and supports identity verification |
| Social Security Number (SSN) | Social Security card or proof of SSN issuance | Required for passport application; if none issued, a statement explaining is needed |
| Special Circumstances Documentation | Adoption finalization documents, custody orders, or parental deportation records | Supports application in cases where immigration or family status complicates documentation |
Translating Foreign Documents for Passport Applications
When applying for a U.S. passport for a child, foreign documents such as birth certificates or adoption papers must be translated into English. Certified translations ensure the passport agency accurately understands the original records.
You must provide both the original foreign document and its corresponding certified English translation. Proper translation helps prevent delays and supports a smooth application process for your child's passport.
Supplemental Evidence: Lost, Stolen, or Amended Documents
If a child's passport or birth certificate is lost, stolen, or contains errors, supplemental evidence must be provided for a U.S. passport application. Acceptable documents include certified copies of a birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID of the parent or guardian, and a notarized statement explaining the situation. Proof of U.S. citizenship and parental relationship is essential to process the replacement or amended passport efficiently.
What Documents Does a Child Need for a U.S. Passport? Infographic
