Purchasing Children’S Pass Ports
Prior to planning a family trip to Europe, you will have to get your children’s pass ports. When traveling abroad, every member of your family will need a separate passport. While it is not a difficult process, there are certain documents you will need for completing the applications.
Form DS-11
You will need to complete a Form DS-11 for each of your children. Applications need to be submitted to an authorized location such as a post office. Check with your local postal office to see if they process passport applications. If they do not, they can most likely direct you to a government office that can help you. Once completed, both parents and the children must submit the application in person.
Citizenship
You will need to provide proof of the child’s citizenship. This can be done with an original certified birth certificate that has the registrar’s signature and a raised impression or multi-colored seal. You will submit the original with the application and it will be returned when you receive your passport. For children born in another country, a “Report of Foreign Birth’ may be provided instead.
Evidence of Relationship
Your relationship to the minor also needs to be documented. When both of the parents are named on the birth certificate, this is satisfactory evidence. The same would be required if you are using a “Report of Birth Abroad”. If you are divorced and have sole custody, you will need to present court documents as proof. An adoption decree will be needed as evidence of relationship if your children have been adopted.
Acceptable Documents
As parents, you will need to provide a photocopy of your personal ID. Acceptable forms of identification include your driver’s license, a valid passport, military ID, or, in the case of City, State or Federal employee, an Employee ID will be sufficient. Each individual application must have the necessary document copies attached.
Payment
You will need to pay two separate fees for each passport. For a minor, there is a ninety-five dollar fee for the application plus an additional charge of twenty-five dollars for the execution fee. These need to be paid separately and can be paid by check, money order or credit card. Some facilities may accept the exact amount in cash depending on the acceptance facility you use.
Photos
A passport photo is the final step in completing your application package. Passport photos have strict guidelines but a professional photographer will be familiar with all requirements. Many post office facilities also offer passport photos as an additional service.
Stop! Don’t Sign It Yet
Once you have chosen where you will go to submit your childrens pasports application, inquire concerning the hours when applications are accepted. Make an appointment if possible for a smoother process. Once you have completed the application and have all the accompanying documents and photocopies, you are ready to apply. Have the form completely filled out but do not sign it until you are in the presence of the acceptance agent.
The time it takes to get your childrens US passport will be well rewarded with the wonderful memories made during your travels. Once you have your passport renewal in hand, you will be ready for the adventure and excitement of discovering the world.