DS-11 Child Passport Application Form

Applying for a child passport in the Unites States is a fairly easy and straightforward process with not many complications as compared with renewing or recovering a passport. There are very little time limitations and restrictions comparatively.

This guide contains essential information that will help you get a passport for your child without having to waste time. Rather just read this guide and follow the instructions that have been mentioned below and the links as well.

What is DS-11?

The DS-11 is an official form used by the citizens to apply for a passport for a child under 16 years of age and below. You can download this form here.

With the advances in technology, the U.S. Department of State now issues an "E-Passport" book, which has an electronic chip embedded inside of it. Not only does it act as a proof of US citizenship, it has also become easier to keep track of them and retrieve rather than make a new one each time.

This, as well as the fact that the chip contains all the data from the original data page and just one scan is enough to access all of the information, make it easier for the airport officials to keep a better eye on underaged travellers who are with or without their guardians.

What do you need to apply with the DS-11 form?

When the person who applies is under 16, he or she is considered a minor, and a minor is considered to be the sole responsibility of his guardians/parents. Here is a list of the things you need to get in order for your minors to apply:

1. Evidence of U.S. Citizenship

The following certified documents should be submitted as evidence of citizenship:

If the minor is a US born citizen but can not provide the above mentioned paperwork due to various reasons, then he or she can submit proof of his time spent in USA, i.e.

If your child is not born in the USA but is a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process then the passport agency will make alterations according to the Child Citizenship Act of 2000. This way, no doubt will be left of the minor's identification and getting accepted for a passport will be easier.

2. Photo Identification

When you submit your application for your minor, the parent who has an ID card must present a valid photo for identification in the form of the following docs:

1. Legitimate driver's license
2. Certificate of Naturalization
3. Current, undamaged U.S. Passport (if issued less than 15 years ago)
4. Valid Government Employee ID (city, state, or federal)

3. Parental Consent

No child under the age of 16 can apply for a passport without the guidance and the presence of their legal guardians, either one or both. The guardians have to provide the agency with a proper and written consent of allowing their child to apply and submit an application for a passport. Without this, the minor can not apply under any circumstances. It is mandatory for both the guardians to be present. If one is not, there has to be substantial evidence as to why the person is missing. These reasons could include:

1. Death of the guardian
2. Mental incompetence
3. Court order which states single guardian to take full custody of the minor. Documents highlighting the reason for absence will also need to be submitted.

4. Passport Photos

For minors, only one photo is to be submitted sized 2"x2". The photo must be in colour, and not black and white. It should also be a recent picture, preferable three to four months old clearly showing the face of the person without any added accessories, unless required due to medical or religious purposes.

5. Passport and Processing fees

There is a lump sum amount for the passport booklet and the processing fee depending on certain conditions, such as where you live, how fast do you need etc. You can also expedite the process by paying more fee if you are in a hurry to get the passport.

FAQs

Q1. How long will it take to process and give me my passport?

It varies due to different circumstances, however the shortest time taken is 4-6 weeks for a normal passport to arrive.

Q2. What are the things I should not go without?

Here is a list of essentials without which you will not be eligible for a passport:

1. Evidence of U.S. Citizenship
2. Photo Identification.
3. Parental consent
4. Passport and Processing fees

Q3. Are there any other forms that I might have to fill and submit?

There are two different types of forms that are to be filled depending on the situation:

1. DS-3053 "Statement of Consent"

This form is to be filled under the situation that one parent can not be present at the time of the issuance of the passport. At that point, the non applying parent or the guardian has to fill and sign this form in front of a public notary.

2. DS-5525 "Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances"

This form is filled by the applying parent who can not take the consent of the non applying parent/ guardian in a timely manner because circumstances such as being out of the country. If suitable evidence is provided then the case is handled only when the applying parent fills in this form and submits it with the original one.

Q4. Can I get the passport outside of the US?

The passport will only be mailed inside the US on the provided address. If you want someone else other than you to pick the passport at the given address, you have to tick the 'In Care Of' box and provide details.

Q5. Can someone else submit the US passport application form on my behalf?

No, the passport Form DS 11 must be submitted in person at the agency or authorized facility. You must also not sign it till asked to do so by the agent.