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In order to make it more difficult for a parent to abduct a child and take him or her overseas, new requirements have been added to the application process for a childrens pasport in the U. S. This has also been done in an attempt to slow down child trafficking. Because of the newer requirements, there are more restrictions and procedures to follow now when a minor needs a passport. Consequently, it is advisable to begin the process of applying early enough to make sure all the requirements are met and your child is ready to travel outside the U.S.

Application Process

The most important part of the rules is the one requiring that all minors be present when applying for a passport. This includes infants, preschoolers and all who are under sixteen. You can no longer renew minors’ passports through the mail either. The renewals for children under sixteen are subject to newer rules and procedures with a special form to fill out.

Form DS-11

The form should be completed but it is signed only after the request of the agent. Form DS-11 is required to apply for a passport if you are U. S. A citizen. The complete but unsigned form must be presented to an agent at a passport accepting facility. Parental consent is also necessary for children under the age of 16. There is a different form for expedited American child pasports.

Documentation

If you are applying for a minor, a proof of citizenship needs to be presented along with evidence of the relationship between the parents or guardians and the child. You should also present the child’s birth certificate as primary evidence.

Proof of Relationship

To present a proof of your relationship with the child, you have to provide a birth certificate that clearly states the parent’s name or an adoption decree that has the adopting parents’ names on it. In other situations a court order authorizing you to have the custody or guardianship of the child can also be presented.

Foreign Birth

If your child was born in a foreign country, you have to present a valid birth certificate that also demonstrates the parents’ names. Additionally, copies of the parents’ identification have to be provided as evidence of their relationship with the child.

Parental Consent

Parental consent must also be provided. Providing consent means the parents must appear with the child in front of the passport agent. If only one parent can appear, there must be a notarized statement from the other. If one parent has sole legal custody this, too, must be proved either with court order documents, or a death certificate of the other parent.