Because of incidents where children were abducted by a parent and taken overseas, the laws regarding obtaining a babies passport are quite strict. The law reads that “an adult acting on a child’s behalf, comply with all applicable requirements”. While an adult’s passport is good for ten years, a minor’s passport is only valid for five years. A child (minor) is defined as an unmarried person under the age of eighteen.

No passport will be issued for a child unless they appear in person when the application is made. Their parents or an authorized representative must accompany them. The application can only be made to an acceptance agent who is located in a post office, county or municipal clerk’s office. All children must have a passport, regardless of age.

There have been many cases of children being born to United States citizens when they were abroad. The newborn must have a American passport to stay in that country with the parents and to get back into this country when they return. As soon as possible after the child’s birth, the parent(s) and child must go to the nearest US Embassy or Consulate and apply for a passport. The parents must have proof that they are citizens of the United States and the Embassy or Consulate will process the paperwork.

In 2001 a law was passed called the two-parent consent law. This was due to the rash of parents taking children out of the country when they had no authority to do so. It is now required that both parents be present and sign the application papers for the child. Proof must be presented that they are the real parents or guardians.

If one parent applies for the child’s passport, they must have proof of authorization to do so or have a notarized statement from the other parent that they agree with the application. Other exceptions are court orders, proof of termination of parental rights and others. The parent applying for the child’s passport must prove their identity and show the child’s birth certificate with the parents names.

Minors under the age of 16 and 17 must also appear in person, accompanied by their parent or parents. If only one parent presents the application and it does not have the signatures of both parents, then written consent of the other parent must be provided. Grandparents may not sign unless they have guardianship papers.

The law is quite specific when there is a custody problem with children. A state court has the authority to take and hold a child’s passport if there is a threat that they might be removed from the country. In addition, a parent may request an Alert Program to inform them if any application is made for a passport for the child.

Documents required by the acceptance agent are: original or certified copy of child’s birth certificate or naturalization papers; parent’s identification such as a driver’s license; two of the child’s pictures, taken by a passport photographer; and proof of parents or legal guardian’s relationship. Getting a baby passport is a little more complicated than for an adult, but with the right documentation things should go smoothly.

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