Newborn Passport Processing: How Long Does It Take?

Getting a passport for your newborn baby is a tedious process. It is not possible to apply for a newborn's passport online, and the baby must be present when you apply. The process of applying for a US passport for a newborn baby is the same as applying for a US passport for minor children under 16. Once granted, US passports for newborn babies and children under 16 are valid for 5 years. The entire processing time for applying for a passport for a newborn or child takes 4 to 6 weeks. However, expedited processing is available for an additional fee of $60.

Processing times: 4-6 to 8 weeks, expedited options available

The processing time for a newborn passport in the US is typically between 4 and 13 weeks. The exact duration depends on factors such as the demand for passports and whether you opt for expedited processing.

The standard processing time for a newborn passport can range from 4 to 6 weeks, 6 to 8 weeks, or even up to 10 to 13 weeks. This variation in timing is due to fluctuations in demand throughout the year. Generally, the demand for passports is higher from late winter to summer, so you may experience longer processing times during this period. Conversely, the slower season from October through December offers faster processing times.

To avoid delays, it is advisable to start the passport application process for your newborn as early as possible after their birth. This is because obtaining the necessary documents, such as a birth certificate and Social Security number, can take several weeks. Additionally, scheduling an appointment at a passport acceptance facility or the US embassy (if living abroad) may require some lead time.

If you require the passport more urgently, expedited processing options are available for an additional fee. With expedited service, the processing time can be reduced to 2 to 3 weeks. Furthermore, if you have international travel planned within 14 calendar days, you can opt for expedited processing at a passport agency, which can expedite the process even further.

It is important to note that mailing times are not included in the processing times provided. Therefore, you should consider the total time required to receive the passport when booking travel. Additionally, keep in mind that passports for children under 16 are only valid for five years, and renewal must be done in person until the child turns 16.

Application forms: DS-11, unsigned until instructed

To apply for a first-time passport for a newborn in the US, you will need to fill out and submit Form DS-11. This form can be completed online and then printed out, or filled out by hand. It is important to note that you should not sign the form until you are instructed to do so by a passport acceptance agent or employee.

• Fill Out Form DS-11: Use the Form Filler tool to complete the form on a desktop or laptop computer, then print it out. Alternatively, you can download the form and fill it out by hand. Make sure to follow the tips provided on the official website to complete the form accurately.
• Do Not Sign the Form: It is important to leave the form unsigned until you are asked to do so by a passport acceptance agent or employee. This is a crucial step in the process.
• Gather Supporting Documents: You will need to provide evidence of U.S. citizenship for your child, such as a U.S. birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certification of Birth, or Certificate of Citizenship. These documents must meet certain requirements, such as being issued by the city, county, or state of birth, listing the child's full name, date and place of birth, parent's full names, and having the official seal or stamp of the issuing office. You will also need to provide a document that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child, such as a birth certificate or custody decree.
• Photo Identification: Both parents or guardians must bring physical photo identification, such as a valid passport, driver's license, or government-issued ID, along with a photocopy of the ID.
• Previous Passport (if any): If your child has previously held a passport, you will need to provide this document.
• Social Security Number: Providing a Social Security Number is not mandatory for a child to obtain a passport, but it is recommended. If you do not provide one, you will need to submit a statement declaring that a Social Security Number has not been issued to your child.
• Parental Consent: If both parents or guardians cannot be present during the application process, you will need to provide a Statement of Consent (Form DS-3053) signed and notarized by the absent parent.
• Photographs: You must provide one 51 x 51 mm (2 x 2 inches) photograph of your child with the passport application. Eyes open and a clear picture of the entire face are ideal, but eyes are not required to be open for infants.
• Fees: There are two separate fees associated with the application: the application fee and the execution (acceptance) fee. The application fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution fee is paid to the facility where you submit your application.
• Submit the Application: You can submit your application at a passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, library, or local government office. If you are travelling in less than three weeks, you may need to schedule an appointment at a passport agency or centre.

By following these steps and submitting Form DS-11, unsigned until instructed, you can apply for a first-time passport for your newborn child in the United States.

Evidence of citizenship: birth certificate, naturalisation certificate, etc

To obtain a passport for a newborn, you must provide evidence of U.S. citizenship. This can be done by presenting a birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, a previously issued U.S. passport, a naturalisation certificate, or a certificate of citizenship.

The birth certificate must be issued by the city, county, or state, and include the applicant's full name, date of birth, place of birth, parent's full names, the date filed with the registrar's office (within one year of birth), the registrar's signature, and the seal or stamp of the issuing city, county, or state.

If the child was born abroad, you must submit a foreign birth certificate or a report of birth abroad, both including the names of both parents. An English translation must accompany all foreign documents.

If the child is adopted, you must submit an adoption decree with the parent's name. If you are the guardian of the newborn, you must submit a court order establishing custody or guardianship, as well as evidence of name change if applicable.

It is important to note that the evidence of citizenship must be an original or replacement copy with the official seal or stamp of the issuing office. Digital copies of the birth certificate are not accepted.

Evidence of relationship: birth certificate, adoption decree, etc

To prove your relationship with your newborn, you will need to submit a document that lists their parent(s) or legal guardian(s). This could be:

• A U.S. birth certificate (which also serves as evidence of U.S. citizenship)
• A foreign birth certificate
• An adoption decree
• A divorce or custody decree

If the child was born abroad, you should submit the following:

• The child's certified foreign birth certificate with the names of both parents
• The child's report of birth abroad with the names of both parents
• A formal or informal English translation must be submitted with all foreign documents

If the child is adopted, submit an adoption decree with the parent's name.

If you are the guardian of a newborn baby, you should submit the following:

• A court order establishing custody
• A court order establishing guardianship
• Evidence of a name change, such as a copy of the marriage certificate, must be submitted if the name of a parent or guardian has changed since the original documents were issued

If only one parent can go in person with the child, then attach Form DS-3053 "Statement of Consent" to the application.

Parent/guardian ID: passport, driver's license, etc

The time it takes to get a newborn passport varies and is dependent on several factors. Processing times change throughout the year, with higher demand from late winter to summer. Routine processing times can take 6 to 8 weeks, while expedited services can take 2 to 3 weeks. There are also expedited services for those travelling within 14 days.

Now, let's focus on the parent/guardian ID requirements:

When applying for a newborn passport, it is essential to have the proper identification documents for the parent(s) or guardian(s). Here are the requirements and options for parent/guardian ID:

• Passport: A valid or expired, undamaged US passport book or passport card can be used as identification for the parent(s) or guardian(s). This is one of the most commonly accepted forms of ID and can expedite the application process.
• Driver's License: A valid, in-state driver's license with a photo is acceptable. If the driver's license is from a different state than the application location, it is advisable to bring a second form of ID.
• Certificate of Naturalization: This document can serve as proof of identity for the parent(s) or guardian(s) and is accepted as a form of photo ID.
• Certificate of Citizenship: Similar to the Certificate of Naturalization, this document can be presented as a form of photo ID.
• Government-issued ID: A government employee ID, such as a city, county, or state ID, can be used to establish the identity of the parent(s) or guardian(s).
• U.S. Military ID: Active or retired members of the U.S. military can use their military ID as a form of identification when applying for their newborn's passport.
• Permanent Resident Card: If either parent is a permanent resident of the U.S., they can use their Permanent Resident Card (also known as a "Green Card") as identification.
• Trusted Traveler IDs: These include valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards. These IDs are accepted as proof of identity for the parent(s) or guardian(s).
• Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American Tribal Photo IDs: These specialized forms of ID are also accepted when applying for a newborn passport.

It is important to note that some forms of ID may require additional supporting documentation. For example, if presenting an in-state learner's permit or a non-driver ID, it must include a photo, and an additional form of ID may be requested. Additionally, some states may have specific requirements or accept other forms of ID not mentioned here. Therefore, it is always advisable to check with the local passport office or relevant government website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Frequently asked questions