Important Due to Covid-19, processing times for passports are taking longer than normal for both standard and expedited services.

Can I use the online service to obtain a passport for my minor child?

by Regina
(Staten Island)

Question: My daughter needs a passport for next month. She is 13. Can I do it online?


Answer: You cannot apply for a passport online but only for professional expediting service. Since your daughter is a minor, she is required to appear in person with both parents before a passport agent at an application acceptance facility. There are several Staten Island passport offices that you can visit.

When only one parent can appear, the applying parent must submit either evidence of sole legal custody or a notarized parental consent form from the non-applying parent.

Once the application is signed in the presence of the agent, you have two options for expediting the process. One, you can write "Expedited" on the envelope and send it directly to the address on the application form. Processing takes 2-3 weeks or more.

Two, you can request the assistance of an experienced expediting service. In this case, you will complete the online form and then send the sealed envelope containing the application form, supporting documents and payment to the Department of State.

For a complete list of requirements and instructions, click the link below.

Get Passport for Minor

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UPDATE: Mailing delays and high demand are impacting passport processing. The Department of State's processing times begin when applications are received at a passport agency or center and not when you mail them or apply at a local acceptance facility.

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.

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