Minors applying for a passport must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and evidence of parental relationship like a birth certificate listing both parents. Both parents or guardians need to consent to the passport issuance, typically through signed application forms and government-issued identification. A recent passport photo meeting specific requirements and the minor's Social Security number are also essential for a successful application.
What Documents Does a Minor Need for a Passport Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Birth Certificate | A minor's passport application requires an original or certified copy of the birth certificate to verify identity and citizenship, listing both parents' names. This document must be accompanied by parental consent, proof of parental relationship, and government-issued identification for each parent or guardian. |
| 2 | Completed Passport Application Form (DS-11) | Minors must submit a completed Passport Application Form (DS-11), which requires full details such as the child's personal information and parental consent signatures. This form is essential for processing the minor's passport and must be submitted in person along with other supporting documents. |
| 3 | Parental/Guardian Identification | Minors applying for a passport must provide valid identification from both parents or legal guardians, such as government-issued IDs or passports, to verify parental consent. If one parent is absent or unavailable, a notarized consent form or legal custody documents are required to accompany the application. |
| 4 | Proof of Parental Relationship | Proof of parental relationship for a minor's passport application typically requires a certified birth certificate listing both parents' names or a court order establishing legal guardianship. Supporting documents such as adoption decrees or notarized parental consent forms may also be necessary to verify custody and authorize travel. |
| 5 | Parental Consent Form (DS-3053, if one parent is absent) | Minors applying for a U.S. passport must submit a Parental Consent Form (DS-3053) when one parent is absent, which verifies that the non-applying parent authorizes the passport issuance. This form must be notarized and submitted alongside the minor's application to avoid processing delays. |
| 6 | Passport Photo | A minor's passport application requires a recent passport photo meeting government standards, typically 2x2 inches with a plain white or off-white background, showing the child's full face without shadows or accessories. The photo must be taken within the last six months, clearly capturing the minor's eyes open and mouth closed, and it should comply with specific biometric guidelines to avoid application delays. |
| 7 | Social Security Number | A minor applying for a passport must provide their Social Security Number as part of the identification requirements to verify their citizenship and identity. The Social Security Number is essential for processing the application and preventing identity fraud in accordance with U.S. Department of State regulations. |
| 8 | Previous Passport (if applicable) | When applying for a minor's passport, submitting the previous passport is essential if available, as it serves as proof of citizenship and identity. This document helps verify the minor's travel history and expedites the processing of the new passport application. |
| 9 | Evidence of U.S. Citizenship | Minors applying for a U.S. passport must provide evidence of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a previous U.S. passport. These documents verify the child's citizenship status and are essential for processing the passport application. |
| 10 | Copy of Parental Identification | A copy of parental identification is required for a minor's passport application to verify the identity and legal relationship between the child and the parent or guardian. Acceptable forms include valid passports, driver's licenses, or government-issued ID cards, ensuring compliance with government travel regulations. |
| 11 | Adoption Decree (if applicable) | A minor applying for a passport must provide an original or certified copy of the Adoption Decree if applicable, which serves as legal proof of parental rights and identity. This document is essential to establish the minor's legal guardianship and citizenship during the passport application process. |
| 12 | Court Order (if applicable) | A court order is required for a minor's passport application if custody or parental rights are contested or if one parent is applying without the other's consent. This legal document must clearly grant permission for the minor to obtain a passport and travel internationally, ensuring compliance with custody arrangements and preventing unauthorized travel. |
| 13 | Payment for Application Fees | Minors applying for a passport must pay the application fee, which varies depending on the type of passport and processing speed requested; payment is typically accepted via check, money order, or credit card. It is essential to include the exact fee amount and proper payment method to avoid delays in processing the minor's passport application. |
Overview of Passport Application for Minors
Applying for a passport for a minor requires specific documents to verify identity and parental consent. Essential items include the minor's proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, and identification documents from parents or guardians. You must also provide a completed application form and evidence of parental relationship to ensure the process meets government regulations.
Eligibility Criteria for Minor Applicants
Minors applying for a passport must meet specific eligibility criteria to ensure proper identification and consent. These requirements focus on age, parental or guardian authorization, and proof of citizenship.
- Age Verification - Applicants under 16 years of age require a passport application submitted with parental presence and consent.
- Parental or Guardian Consent - Both parents or legal guardians must authorize the passport application unless one has sole custody or a notarized consent form is provided.
- Proof of Citizenship - A certified birth certificate or previous U.S. passport must be presented to verify the minor's citizenship status.
Essential Documents Needed for Minor Passport
Applying for a minor's passport requires specific documentation to ensure identity and parental consent. These documents verify the minor's citizenship and establish lawful guardianship.
- Proof of Citizenship - Submit the minor's original birth certificate or a previous U.S. passport to establish citizenship.
- Parental Identification - Provide valid photo IDs from both parents or legal guardians to confirm identity and authority.
- Parental Consent Form - Complete Form DS-3053 if one parent cannot appear in person to give consent for the application.
Proof of Citizenship Requirements
Minors must provide proof of citizenship when applying for a passport. Acceptable documents verify that the child is a U.S. citizen or national.
You need an original or certified copy of the minor's birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state. Other acceptable documents include a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Citizenship. These papers confirm the child's citizenship status and are essential for passport approval.
Parental Identification Documents
What parental identification documents are required for a minor's passport application? Parents or guardians must provide valid government-issued IDs such as a driver's license or passport. These documents verify the adult's identity and relationship to the child.
Parental Consent: Process and Forms
Minors applying for a passport must provide proof of parental consent to ensure legal guardians authorize the travel document issuance. Both parents or guardians typically need to appear in person or submit notarized consent forms.
The main form used for parental consent is DS-3053, the Statement of Consent, required if one parent is unable to be present. This form must be notarized and submitted along with evidence of the applying parent's identity and custody documentation, if applicable.
Special Cases: Single Parent or Guardian Consent
Minors applying for a passport require specific documentation to prove identity and parental consent. Special cases, such as a single parent or guardian applying on behalf of the child, demand additional proof of legal guardianship or custody.
In single parent situations, submitting a court order or birth certificate indicating sole custody is essential. Guardians must provide legal documents confirming their status along with a notarized consent form for the passport application.
Additional Requirements for International Adoption
Minors applying for a passport require specific documents, with additional steps for those involved in international adoption. These requirements ensure legal custody and identity verification for the adopted child.
- Adoption Decree - A certified copy of the final adoption decree must be submitted to prove legal guardianship.
- Form DS-5507 - This form, known as the Statement of Consent or Special Circumstances, is needed if one parent cannot appear in person during the application process.
- Evidence of Citizenship - Documentation such as the child's foreign birth certificate and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency is required.
Meeting these additional requirements helps streamline the passport application for internationally adopted minors and ensures compliance with U.S. passport regulations.
Common Mistakes in Minor Passport Applications
Minors applying for a passport must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, parental identification, and parental consent. Common mistakes include submitting expired identification, missing one parent's consent form, or providing inconsistent information on the application. Ensuring all documents are current, complete, and accurate helps prevent delays and application rejections.
What Documents Does a Minor Need for a Passport Application? Infographic
