Can I use a regular photo of my child for his passport?
by Chris
(Washington)
Question: My child is currently in a different country but since he is a U.S. citizen I have to have his passport made on the mainland, therefore he is not available to take a passport photo. Would it be acceptable to use a regular photo of him or will i have to have him take a passport photo and then send it to me in the States?
Answer: Regular photos are not acceptable. There are very specific requirements for passport photos. Click the link below for more information.
Passport Photo Requirements
Note, minors must appear at the passport application acceptance facility with both parents in order to apply for a passport. Parents cannot apply without their child present. Click the link below for a complete list of requirements.
Requirements to Get Passport for Minor
Since your child is currently outside the United States, he can appear at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate general with both parents in order to apply for the passport. If he appears with one parent, the applying parent can submit notarized consent from the non-applying parent. Click the link below to find a place to apply.
List of U.S. Embassies and Consulates
Return to Passports for Minors FAQ.
Click for fast expedited courier service
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it? Read them in order or click the question you most want answered.
Standard service may take between 10 and 13 weeks. This timeframe does not include delivery time. Mailing times vary across the country.
Expedited service takes from 7 to 9 weeks excluding mailing times on the front and back end. Current mailing delays are significant. Requesting 1-2-day mailing service is recommended.
Regional passport agencies are offering two types of appointments: Life-of-Death Emergency Service and Urgent Travel Service.
Life-or-death emergencies are serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family (parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, sibling, and grandparent) that require you to travel outside the United States within 3 business days.
If you need to travel due to a qualified life-or-death emergency, please call the National Passport Information Center for an appointment.
For Urgent Travel Service, you need to call 14 days before your scheduled international travel or 28 days if you also need to secure a foreign visa.
If you need to travel urgently for reasons other than a life-or-death emergency, please call the NPIC.
A registered expedited passport courier can often assist in obtaining a passport as quickly as the same day. You can learn more about this service here.
Latest Passport & Travel Updates
Getting a Passport Expedited at a Post OfficeRequesting express service at post offices and other facilities that accept application forms from U.S. citizens. Applying at a Regional Passport Agency
Where processing centers are located. How to schedule an appointment. What documents to take with you. Using a Registered Courier Service
How to pick a legitimate courier service company to assist in getting your passport quickly. Routine vs. Expedited Passport Service: How to Choose
Guide to help you decide if standard or fast track processing is the best option for your situation. 10 Benefits of Expediters
What are the advantages of employing the services a qualified expediter? How to Renew a U.S. Passport Fast
Learn to expedite passport renewals as quickly as the same day. Where and how to renew passport in a hurry. Passport Renewal Videos
Watch step-by-step instructional passport videos of how to renew a passport in 3 steps. Make Your Own Passport Photos
Use the online Passport Photo Wizard tool to make your own passport photos in minutes. Save money and time. Travel Warnings
The latest alerts to help you prepare for a safe and secure trip abroad. Travel Documents
List of the most important travel documents and information about how and where to get them. Travel Safety
Discover practical advice on how to keep safe during international trips. 23 International Travel Tips to Save Money on Transportation, Lodging & More
Cool ways to make your money stretch farther on travel expenses so that you can go more often and stay longer.
| |
