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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 passport for a minor. 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.

When talking about special requirements for minors, there are different requirements for those under 16 than for those who are 16-17 years old. In this article, we’ll be dealing with the special 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.

Applicants must also establish their citizenship when applying for a children passport. There are several documents they can use for this requirement. When submitting their passport applications, they can submit any of the following US-issued documents: their birth certificate, certificate of citizenship, naturalization certificate, or if they were born abroad, the consular report about their birth.

The passport applicant also needs to submit two recent color photographs that will be attached to the DS-11. Take note, however, that the US Department of State has very specific guidelines when it comes to passport photos. Make sure you are familiar with these guidelines before having the applicant’s picture taken.

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.

First of these special requirements is the written parental consent. Make sure, however, you check out the specific requirements regarding this before proceeding. The parent or the guardian should also present an ID when submitting all these documents to the passport office. Plus, the ID should be photocopied and attached with the other requirements. Then finally, the parent or the guardian should also show proof of their relationship with the applicant. Once all of these basic and special requirements are accomplished, the fees for processing the passport can already be made.

All in all, the steps on passport for kids applications are very straightforward and easy enough to follow. What’s important is that the parent or guardian try to find out beforehand what the specific requirements are. This saves them a lot of time and ensures that they will have a hassle-free passport application.