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Children and adults have the same basic requirements when it comes to applying for a US passport. However, there are also special requirements that need to be met by those applying for a child’s passport. These requirements are simply designed to show proof of a minor’s relationship with the parents or guardians, as well as to establish the identity of those representing the applicant.

There are also some minor differences when it comes to the special requirements of minors under 16 years old, and those who are 16-17. In this article, we’ll be talking about the requirements of those who are under 16. This category includes newborns and infants.

When minors apply for a US passport, they are required to complete Form DS-11. This is the most basic type of form that has been filled in by practically every passport holder today, as this is the form issued to first-time passport applicants. Parents or guardians of the applicants should assist the minors should they need help in filling in this form.

There’s also the need to establish the citizenship of a passport applicant. To do this, the applicant should submit any of the types of documents accepted by the passport office for the purpose. These documents include: the birth certificate, certificate of citizenship, naturalization certificate, or a consular report of the applicant’s birth if born abroad. The documents submitted will be returned along with the new passport. Sometimes, however, they may be mailed separately.

Then the applicant will also have to submit two recent color photographs along with the previously mentioned documents. The US Department of State has very specific requirements regarding passport photos so if you are a parent or guardian, and unsure what the exact requirements are, then inquire at your nearest passport office before applying. This will help you save a lot of time.

Those three - the DS-11, the proof of citizenship, as well as the color photographs - are the basic requirements when applying for passports. And, since we’re discussing passport application for minors, there are special requirements on top of these already mentioned. Once again, they are required to establish the identity of the parents or guardians, as well as prove the relationship between the parent/guardian and the applicant.

On top of the list of these special requirements is the written parental consent. There are also specific guidelines for this, so it’s best that you check with the passport office before proceeding with this step. The parent/guardian is also required to present an ID when submitting the passport application form. This ID should also be photocopied and attached to the other required documents. Then, finally, the parent/guardian must establish the relationship between them and the applicant. When submitting the passport, the applicable fees must then be paid.

There are very specific requirements when it comes to Kid’s Passport applications. Because of this, they are easy enough to follow, so long as you know what these requirements are. Otherwise, get more information from your nearest Pasport office. They will then provide you with the information you need about the passport application. Alternatively, you could also visit the US Department of State’s website.

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