Regardless of age, the international traveler is required to possess proof of residency and nationality. To obtain a baby US passport, the baby, parents or legal guardians need to be present when the application is submitted. There are a number of things that must be done when applying for an infant international travel document.
US Citizenship
The first task is to collect supporting documentation of the infants U. S. Citizenship. Documents used should be primary such as a certified birth certificate. Additionally, you will need documents that can establish a parental relationship between the parents and the child. It is important to select documentation that lists the names of both parents.
Parents ID
Both parents will also need to provide valid proof of identification. Government issued forms of ID such as a previously issued passport, valid driver license, naturalization papers and an ID provided by the military are accepted. Also provide proof of Social Security numbers. Be sure to make copies of all original documentation using standard sized paper.
Application
An international travel documentation application must be completed for the infant. It is easy to print a blank form and fill it in by hand with black ink or complete the form online and print it out. The form must not be signed until you go to file it at the Passport Acceptance Facility and sign it in front of one of their officers.
Pictures
You will need to provide two identical photos of the baby and the document fee when you submit the application. Make sure that the head and hands of the baby are showing and uncovered in the photo. Determine which Acceptance Facility is closest to you by using the Internet or contacting the local county offices, the post office, or your neighborhood library. Once identified, you will submit the completed forms for the travel document for the infant.
If Parents Absent
If only one parent will be able to be present when the application is filed, you will need to get a notarized statement from the other parent. The Statement of Consent form is to be filled in and signed before a Notary Public by the parent who cannot appear. The travel document application, notarized Statement of Consent and proof of the infant’s citizenship, and any other documentation required are all submitted to the Passport Acceptance Facility.
Time It Takes
Last, allow about six weeks for the processing and approval of the travel document. A passport expedite application can take just a few weeks to process if you need to have it quick. It is a good idea to check for any additional costs for an expedited application.
When all the information that is needed for a baby passport application is collected in preparation, the process will go smoother. Making sure to have all the documentation that is required before beginning the application will also save you time. There is no need to update photo on a passport for a minor,even though their looks will change. It is acceptable to update the photo at the time of renewal.
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