If you are considering getting a passport for your child, you may be wondering how the process works. Can you simply do everything by yourself, or does the child need to be present for the passport application?
In this article, we’ll discuss how the process for passport applications work, and you’ll learn whether or not your child needs to be present to get their passport.
Read More: DO BABIES NEED PASSPORTS? A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
Does a minor need to be present for a passport?
The answer to “do children need to be present for a passport” is yes. If a minor is going to receive a passport, they need to be at the passport agency when the application is being filed.
The passport facility must verify that the child matches up with their photo. Therefore they cannot complete a passport application by themselves. This applies to anyone under the age of 16.
Presence of guardian for passport
In addition to needing the child’s presence to process their passport application, the minor must be accompanied as well.
The U.S. Department of State clarifies that legal guardians or parents must be with their child as they are applying for the passport. Children 16 or under use the Form DS-11 to apply for a passport.
This form must always be completed physically at a passport office. If you are abroad, you will need to go to a U.S. embassy in order to apply for a child’s passport. They provide numerous passport services to help you process the application.
Exception to the rule
A scenario where the answer to “do minors need to be present for passport applications” is no is this:
If the minor is 17 years old, they may be able to file another type of passport application. This is called the Form DS-82. This allows the 17 year old to complete their application via mail.
The minor may be able to receive a passport without attending a physical meeting if they use DS-82. They do not have to schedule an appointment at a passport office.
Summary
A child must physically be present for the passport meeting if they are under 17 years old. A legal guardian must be with them as well. Once you complete this process, you can expect to receive your child’s passport within a few months.
For more help, contact Passport Express, a passport office in Roswell GA.
