How to Apply for an Infant Passport

You’re about to embark on an exciting journey through the world of infant passports. But don’t worry, it’s not as daunting as it sounds. This article is your comprehensive guide to passport applications, renewals, and expedited passport services for infants and newborns. We’re going into the nitty-gritty, from the general infant passport procedure to the very specific newborn passport requirements. Getting your infant’s passport is all about attention to detail and following instructions. 

Why Your Newborn or Infant Need Their Own Passport

To begin with, let’s clear up a common misconception. No, your baby can’t travel under your passport. Those days have been over since, well, before you were busy changing diapers and mastering the art of surviving on minimal sleep. Every U.S. citizen — yes, including those cute drooling, gurgling, pint-sized ones — needs their own passport to travel internationally.

Think about the possibilities a passport offers your child! We’re talking about summer vacations, Christmas visits to the family abroad, or maybe just a spontaneous hop over the border for some authentic tacos (because teaching them the value of global cuisine is important, right?). A newborn or infant passport is their golden ticket to a world of cross-cultural adventures.

And, a valid passport for your infant isn’t only about taking that first family vacation. It can also serve as a valid form of identification for your child. From opening a bank account to enrolling in school, this mighty booklet is more than just a travel document. So, when we’re talking about the importance of an infant passport or the ‘why’ of the newborn passport requirements, it’s not just for globetrotting. It’s the first step in a journey that ensures they’re covered, well, from infancy!

When to Apply for Your Baby’s Passport

You’ve probably heard the phrase “timing is everything,” and boy does it ring true when applying for an infant passport! While it might seem silly to consider getting a passport for a child who’s still mastering tummy time, you’d be surprised how crucial this step can be.

There’s no “too early” when it comes to applying for a passport for your baby. In fact, once you have the necessary documents handy (we’ll get to those soon, promise), you can start the process. It’s worth noting that the usual processing time for an infant passport application can be around 6 to 8 weeks, so early birds really do get the worms (or in this case, passports).

But wait, there’s more! If you’ve already booked your next family getaway or the grandparents are begging for a visit, it’s essential to factor in your travel plans.

Do you need a passport in a hurry? Expedited services are available, though they come with an extra fee. In case of an emergency, there are even options to get an emergency passport for your infant in as little as 72 hours.

The Passport Application Process for Infants

Congratulations on making it this far! You’ve wrapped your head around the ‘why’ and the ‘when’, and now it’s time to tackle the ‘how’. The infant passport application process might seem a bit like doing the Hokey Pokey while juggling, but once you break it down, it’s as simple as ABC. So, let’s dive right in!

Infant Passport Pre-Application Steps

Before you get your hands on that application form, there are a few things you’ll need to do. First and foremost, ensure your baby has a social security number. In the United States, getting a Social Security number for your newborn is typically part of the birth registration process at the hospital. 

Applying for a Newborn Social Security Number At the Hospital

When you give birth at a hospital, during the birth certificate registration process, you will be asked if you want to apply for a Social Security number for your baby. You need to say “yes” to this.

• Provide the Necessary Information: You’ll need to provide both parents’ Social Security numbers. If you don’t have a Social Security number, you can say so. You can still apply for a Social Security number for your baby.
• Paperwork: The hospital will handle the paperwork for you. They will send your request to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
• Waiting: It usually takes about a month for the new card to arrive. If you haven’t received the card in a month, call your local Social Security office.

Applying for a Newborn Social Security Number Later 

If you had your baby at home or did not apply for a Social Security number for your baby while at the hospital, you can apply for it later directly with the SSA.  

• Go to the Social Security Administration’s website: From there, download Form SS-5, the application for a Social Security card.
• Fill out the Form: The form needs to be filled out accurately to prevent any delays.
• Provide Proof of your Child’s Age, Identity, and Citizenship: You will need to provide at least two separate documents, with one proving age, citizenship, and identity, such as a birth certificate, and another proving identity, such as a hospital birth record.
• Provide Proof of Your Identity: You will also need to prove your own identity. This can be done with documents such as a U.S. driver’s license, a state-issued non-driver identification card, or a U.S. passport.
• Submit the Application: Once everything is filled out and the necessary documents are gathered, mail or take the application to your local Social Security office.

Remember, all documents provided must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. The SSA will not accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.

Completing Your Infant’s Passport Application

Alright, time to fill out the form, namely Form DS-11. Don’t worry; it’s not as scary as it sounds. This form can be found online, but you can’t submit the completed form online. And, make sure you dn’t sign the form! It needs to be signed under oath in the presence of an Acceptance Agent.  

Gathering Necessary Documentation

Ah, the part where you feel like a private detective gathering evidence. The documents required for an infant passport include proof of your baby’s U.S. citizenship (like a birth certificate), parental identification (that’s you!), and proof of relationship to your child. And remember, originals or certified copies only! They want to make sure that you’re not just some random person applying for a passport for the world’s most adorable baby.

Infant Passport Application Submission Methods

Once you’ve got your documents, passport application, and a recent color photo of your baby (remember, no smiling, as adorable as their gummy grin may be), you’re ready to submit. This isn’t an online process, so it’s time to physically venture out. You can submit your application at a passport agency or authorized passport application acceptance facility. This could be a post office, public library, or other government offices.

With the right timing, an accurately completed application, and all necessary documents, your infant passport or newborn passport is well on its way to your mailbox.

The Newborn and Infant Passport Appointment Process

After navigating the tricky waters of passport application, it’s now time for the next level: the passport appointment. Just like going for the first pediatrician visit or attending your baby’s first swim class, the passport appointment is a milestone in its own right. So, let’s deep dive into the process.

Scheduling a Passport Appointment for Your Infant

You can schedule a passport appointment for infants online or over the phone. Many passport application facilities require appointments, so it’s best to check beforehand. Keep your baby’s nap and feeding schedules in mind when choosing a time. And remember, both parents typically need to be present for the appointment, so make sure it fits into your calendar as well.

What to Expect During the Appointment

At the appointment, an Acceptance Agent will review your baby’s passport application and documents. They’re there to ensure everything is in order, administer an oath, and witness the signatures on the application form. This is why we didn’t sign the form earlier, remember?

All in all, the appointment shouldn’t take more than a few minutes, barring any long lines or unexpected delays.

Special Passport Services for Infants

Life is full of surprises, especially when you’re a parent. Maybe you’ve got an unexpected trip coming up, or you found out about a family event overseas that you simply can’t miss. Or maybe, like me, you’ve had too many diaper-related emergencies and lost track of time. Whatever the case, if you need a passport for your little one pronto, there are a few different options.

Expedited Infant Passport Service

For those who’ve found themselves in a pinch, the expedited infant passport service is here to save the day. It’s essentially the superhero of passport services. With this, you can expect to receive your infant’s passport in about 4-6 weeks, compared to the standard 8-11 weeks. The catch? You’ll have to pay an additional fee.  

Emergency Passport for Infants

What’s that in the sky? A bird? A plane? No, it’s the emergency passport service swooping in to rescue those in dire need. If your travel plans are in two weeks or less, or you need a visa within four weeks, you can make an appointment at a passport agency or center for this service. You’ll need to provide proof of the urgent travel, so make sure to have your airline tickets or travel itinerary on hand.

Urgent Passport Applications for Infants

Then there’s the super-superhero of passport services: the urgent passport application for infants. This is for those times when you’re in a serious time crunch. Depending on the circumstances, (here’s the State Department’s list of life or death emergencies) you could receive the passport within 72 hours! To access this service, you’d need to go through a private expediting company, which means an additional cost. It might be pricey, but in return, you get peace of mind (and really, can you put a price on that?).

How to Renew Your Infant’s Passport

When it’s time for renewal, you might be tempted to look for an online renewal option. However, just like the first time you applied for your child’s passport, renewing an infant passport is an in-person process. This is because the State Department needs to verify your child’s identity and age again.

Here are the steps to follow:

• Complete Form DS-11: This is the same form used for the initial passport application. You can find it on the State Department’s website. Fill it out but do not sign it yet.
• Gather the Necessary Documents: This includes your child’s old passport, proof of parentage or guardianship, parental consent (if only one parent is applying), and a new passport photo. Remember that your child’s appearance has likely changed quite a bit, so a recent photo is crucial.
• Prepare the Fee: There will be an application fee for the renewal. The exact amount can vary, so check the State Department’s website for the most accurate information.
• Schedule an Appointment: Just like with the first application, renewals must be done in person at a passport agency or authorized acceptance facility.
• Attend the Appointment: Bring all your documents, unsigned DS-11 form, and your child to the appointment. Sign the DS-11 form in the presence of the passport agent.

Other Essential Travel Documents for Infants

Alrighty, now that you’ve mastered the art of acquiring an infant passport, it’s time to talk about the other essential travel documents for infants.  

Birth Certificate

First up is the birth certificate. While a passport is primary proof of your baby’s identity, having a birth certificate on hand never hurts. It’s especially useful in proving parental rights or settling any unfortunate disputes that may arise. Think of it as your baby’s very first biography.

Consent to Travel Form

If only one parent is traveling with the baby, or if the baby is traveling with another relative or a guardian, you might need a Consent to Travel form. This document shows that the parent(s) not traveling has given permission for the baby to travel.

Health Insurance Card

In addition to your baby’s fashion-forward onesie and that beloved stuffed animal, your travel bag should always include a health insurance card. Medical emergencies don’t care if you’re on vacation, and it’s always better to be prepared.

Vaccination Records

Depending on your destination, you may need to show your baby’s vaccination records. Some countries require proof of certain vaccinations, especially for young travelers. It’s always a good idea to check the requirements of the countries you’re planning to visit.

Tickets or Booking Confirmations

Don’t forget your travel tickets or booking confirmations, whether they’re for flights, trains, or hotels. While they aren’t specifically for your infant, having these documents in order will make your overall travel experience smoother.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Application

Just like with baby-proofing your home or trying to put a diaper on in the dark, there are potential pitfalls to watch out for when applying for an infant passport. Let’s go through some common mistakes parents often make during the infant passport application process. 

Not Using Black Ink on the Application

You might be tempted to fill out the application in that fancy blue ink, but resist the urge. All forms need to be completed in black ink. It’s just like how your baby needs to stick to milk – no experimenting with a mocha latte just yet!

Signing the Application Before the Appointment

We all get eager sometimes, especially when it feels like we’re making progress. But remember not to sign the passport application until you are told to do so by an Acceptance Agent at your appointment. It’s like giving your baby their first taste of cake – it has to happen at the right moment!

Forgetting Required Documentation

In the chaos of parenthood, it’s easy to forget things. However, forgetting a necessary document can cause a delay in the passport application process. Make sure you have everything: proof of citizenship, proof of parental relationship, and photo ID. It’s like packing the diaper bag – forgetting wipes or an extra onesie can lead to an, ahem, messy situation.

Not Providing a Proper Passport Photo

No, you can’t just use that adorable selfie you took with your baby last week. Passport photos have specific requirements: a white background, a neutral face, no hats or head coverings (unless for religious reasons), and the size has to be just right. It’s like choosing the perfect baby outfit – it has to be the right fit!

Not Using the Right Form of Payment

You can’t pay the passport fees with personal checks or cash. They require a check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State.

Your Little Globetrotter is Ready for Takeoff!

We’ve covered everything from why your baby needs a passport and when to apply for it, to understanding the infant passport application process and making that all-important passport appointment. We’ve talked about additional travel documents for your baby, common mistakes to avoid during the application, infant passport renewal, and even how to access special passport services for those last-minute adventures.

Throughout this guide, one theme has persisted: early planning is key. Just as you wouldn’t wait until the last minute to buy diapers or baby food, don’t delay in getting your infant’s passport. The sooner you start the process, the sooner you can begin planning your family adventures.

Remember, securing a passport for your infant is more than just a bureaucratic process. It’s the first step towards a lifetime of adventures, of instilling a love for travel and exploration in your little one. So, gather those documents, fill out that application, and step into this exciting new chapter of parenthood.

Infant and Newborn Passports FAQ