Are you ready to put your baby on the map? Well, technically we mean getting them their very own passport. A US passport is an essential document that not only grants your newborn legal entry into the United States but also opens up new avenues of travel beyond its borders.
While this might seem like an overwhelming task with formal technicalities and ominous paperwork piling up, fear not! This guide will steer you through every step necessary to obtain a shiny brand new US passport for your newest world traveler.
Step One: Gather Documentation
First thing's first: organize all the documentation required. You cannot apply for a passport without proof of citizenship or immigration status. So make sure you have at least these items: - Certified birth certificate - Social Security number - Parental Identification - 2-inch x 2-inch color photo (make sure those chubby cheeks are front and center)
But wait there’s more…(or less!)
Remember, information can vary based on circumstances - for instance if one parent isn’t available/willing due to adoption/solo parenting etc., you’ll need additional paperwork. Research thoroughly before proceeding.
Step Two: Collect application forms
In order to complete this crucial next step, visit government website that offers “Form DS-11”. Fill out as much necessary detail as possible accurately and legibly either online or print it out and fill by hand.
Pro tip: Consider practicing ‘the claw’ grip with your writing utensil beforehand because tiny hands are about as efficient at gripping pens as wet soap bars.
| Baby’s full name | Height/Weight |
|---|---|
| Mary Jane Watson Parker | Birth length & current stats here |
Once again be aware of special variations in form requirements necessitating multiple copies/printouts/clearance certificates/etc depending on unique situations such as surrogacy, dual citizenships requirements etc.
Step Three: Make an appointment
Once forms and required documents have been collected, it’s time to make an appointment with the National Passport Center. It can be done easily online or on call; timing can range from immediate service or months in advance based on demand so size up your schedule appropriately.
Pro tip: Don’t be intimidated when making the ‘baby passport’ request. No need to offer explanations such as “this is not for human trafficking activities I promise”. It's a routine procedure!
Bureaucratic business hour-by-hour:
Here are some things that you should know before heading toward one of Passport acceptance facilities:
| Activities | Timing | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival at office & security check-in | Time allotted -15 minutes approx. |
| 2 | Fill out questionnaire/mdocs review (DS-11 application form, primary identity documentation like birth certificates) (Assuming no personal issues arise) Time allotted -20 mins+ waiting time /depending facility rush | |
| 3 Refine Additional Services/Requirements if applicable : Some instances may require extra scrutiny/documentation further verified by staff Examples include execution fees/lost passports/archival legacy records retrieval/etc. | Time given ~10m per requirement depending upon how busy departments are | |
| 4 Present Primary Identification document together wiith photocopy This helps copious officials verify its authenticity and other pieces associated with applicant identity/timeframes etc. | "Babies don't usually need ID since they're too young..right?" Time spent varying – 10M (visibly accurate document) +/- more accordingly based unusual circumstances/challenging certification issues (tests etc) |
Congratulations! Once you reach Step Three, the wheels are officially in motion!
Step Four: Showtime!
As excited as you might be to dress your little one up like a world traveler, we promise it won’t make or break your chances of success. The most important thing is making sure everything from steps one through three has been taken care of before stepping foot at appointment time.
Pro tip: Dress with practicality in mind – Avoid cute but impractical bibs/hats just for photo purposes; opt instead for sturdy/comfortable clothing because who knows how long the process will take right?
Some do's and don't during Passport Day:
Here are a few useful tidbits regarding what works and does not work when its finally ‘Go Time’:
Do
- HAVE ALL documentation ready to go including copy parent identification proof
- Bring Extra Necessary equipment such as diapers/wipes/formula/bottle/etc.
Don't
- Place crucial documents where they cannot be seen/accessed easily by staff officers & inspectors
Note that Facilities can feel overwhelming so avoid unwanted stares/gazes/snarky remarks by fellow adults .
Once submitted correction reviewed carefully= $200 + fees+ additional charges (we suggest consulting beforehand). In case all requirements have been met..hooray! Estimated waiting time? Four-six weeks– sit back relax and await delivery confirmation.
And....Voila! Your tiny tot is now an official passport-holding member of America!
Needless to say that this guide should provide useful information into obtaining a US passport for your newborn baby. This could also apply if you’re acquiring passports necessitated by unusual circumstances like adoption, parents with different nationalities etc.
Bon voyage!