Prior to planning a family trip to Europe, you will have to get your children’s passports. When traveling abroad, every member of your family will need a separate passport. While it is not a difficult process, there are certain documents you will need for completing the applications.

Form DS-11

You will need to complete a Form DS-11 for each of your children. Applications need to be submitted to an authorized location such as a post office. Check with your local postal office to see if they process passport applications. If they do not, they can most likely direct you to a government office that can help you. Once completed, both parents and the children must submit the application in person.

Citizenship

Documentation showing proof of citizenship will need to accompany the application. The easiest document to use for this purpose is a birth certificate. An original certified certificate that includes the signature of the birth registrar is required. Photocopies will not be accepted as a legal document but the original will be returned to you along with the passport. Another acceptable document would be a “Report of Birth Abroad”.

Evidence of Relationship

Evidence of your relationship to the child must also be provided. If both parents are listed on the birth certificate, this will be sufficient proof. However single parents will need to provide a Court Order that states they have custody of the minor they are applying for. For parents who have adopted, an adoption degree must be presented.

Parental Identification Documents

You will submit personal ID along with proof of relationship. You can use a photocopy of your driver’s license or a copy of your passport if it is still valid. Any State, City, or Federal worker can use their Employee ID as identification. Another acceptable form of ID is a Military ID. You will need photocopies to submit with each application.

Cost

The cost of a passport for a child is one hundred twenty dollars. This fee is broken into two categories and each must be paid separately. Ninety-five dollars covers the application process while the other twenty-five is for the execution fee. The fees may be paid with cash if the exact amount is tendered or you can pay by check, money order or credit card. Not every location accepts cash so you may want to check prior to your visit.

Photos

The final step is to provide two passport photos. The passport photo must be 2 x 2 inches in size and printed on quality paper. The background must be white or off white and the picture needs to be a full-face view with dimensions of the face no smaller than 1 inch from the chin to the top of the head. Most post offices will also offer passport photo services.

You Must Sign In Person

Once you have chosen where you will go to submit your application, inquire concerning the hours when applications are accepted. Make an appointment if possible for a smoother process. Once you have completed the application and have all the accompanying documents and photocopies, you are ready to apply. Have the form completely filled out but do not sign it until you are in the presence of the acceptance agent.

Travel to other countries is an exciting adventure your whole family will enjoy. Having your children’s passports will open up the world for your children to explore. Don’t forget that even if you have an infant, they need an infant U S passport renewal as well. You will be giving your kids a lasting impression and cherished memories of time spent traveling abroad.

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