Travel Genius

If you are asking the question that whether or not your baby needs a passport, then the answer is yes. Every U.S. citizen including infants needs a passport and so you should not be late in getting it after the birth of your baby. The reason for the fast process is that your child will need a passport in case of the unexpected travel.

Let us discuss what all you need while applying for the passport of your baby.

1. The necessary and important documents are needed

• The first primary thing needed is the proof of your child’s birth. The proof is a birth certificate that you will be getting from the hospital where the mother gave birth to a child.
• The second thing needed is the Parents Proof of U.S. Citizenship. This can be done by submitting the original documents of official birth certificate or naturalization/citizenship certificate, a Consular Report of Birth and/or a valid or expired (issued no more than 15 years ago) passport.
• Another important thing required is the Proof of Parents’ Marriage. The parents will have to bring the original copy of the official marriage certificate. There may be some issues regarding your marriage such as divorce or death of your spouse then you will have to submit the original official divorce or death certificates. The original documents are copied there only and returned back to you.

2. Forms needed and process to be followed

• You will need the Application for a Consular Report of Birth called as (FS-579 or DS-2029) or simply download them from the Internet and fill it with all the details. Also bring an affidavit for your child’s name as it will be required to be written in the passport.
• There is another Passport Application which is to be filled and submitted. Make sure that you sign it in the passport application office only. All applicants under the age of 16 must meet the requirements listed in the Law on Passport Applications for Minors. Both parents must sign your child’s passport application, even if one parent is not an American. Other can give a written issuance in an affidavit.
• The personal appearance of your child is necessary. Bring two identical photos of your baby and make sure that your child’s eyes are wide open. Or better you go to the professional photographers.
• Another form needed is the Social Security Number Application if you are not the U.S. military parents.
• Do not forget to bring the self-address envelope to get the passport into it with a bar code.
• The fee for a US passport for children under the age of sixteen is $82 and you can pay by cash only.

It is really very crucial to get the passport for your little one to prevent the tensions occupying you in the unexpected travel or urgent outing.