Planning an international trip with your little one? Whether you’re introducing your baby to grandma overseas or taking your first family vacation abroad, one question pops up for every parent:
Do babies need a passport?
Yes, they absolutely do. If you're a U.S. citizen traveling outside the United States, even if your baby is only a few weeks old, your child must have a valid U.S. passport to enter and exit foreign countries. There are very few exceptions based on age. A birth certificate alone won't work.
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Why Babies Need a Passport
All U.S. citizens, regardless of age, are required to present a valid passport when entering or leaving most countries. This includes infants, newborns, and toddlers. Airlines, border officials, and immigration officers abroad will all expect to see your baby’s passport at check-in and upon arrival.
If you're traveling by air internationally, a passport is mandatory, even for babies sitting in your lap.
Does a Baby Need a Passport to Enter Mexico or Canada by Land?
No, a baby (or any U.S. citizen child under age 16) does not need a passport to enter Mexico or Canada by land or sea.
However, they do need to present proof of U.S. citizenship, such as:
- A certified birth certificate issued by a U.S. city, county, or state
- A Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- A Certificate of Citizenship
What About Air Travel?
If you're entering Mexico or Canada by air, even babies and toddlers must have a valid U.S. passport book. Airlines and immigration authorities will not accept just a birth certificate for international air travel.
Pro Tip:
Even though a passport isn't required for land or sea crossings with young children, many families choose to get one anyway. It can make border crossings smoother, especially when re-entering the U.S., and avoids problems if plans change and you end up flying home instead of driving.
Is It the Same Process as an Adult Passport?
Not exactly. While the passport application process is similar, there are a few extra steps for children under 16:
- Both parents (or legal guardians) must appear in person with the baby when applying.
- You’ll need to provide proof of parental relationship (usually a birth certificate).
- Parental consent is required, and both parents must sign the application in front of an acceptance agent.
- Babies must have a passport photo that meets U.S. Department of State requirements—even if they can’t sit up or smile yet.
What Documents Are Required?
Here’s what you’ll need to bring when applying for your baby's passport:
- Completed Form DS-11 (but don’t sign it until instructed).
- Your baby’s original birth certificate (or Consular Report of Birth Abroad), plus a photocopy.
- Proof of parental identity (passport, driver’s license, etc.).
- One passport photo of your baby that meets official requirements.
- Parental consent (both parents must be present or provide notarized consent if one is absent).
- Payment for passport application and execution fees.
How Long Does It Take?
Standard processing typically takes 4 to 6 weeks. If you're traveling soon, consider paying for expedited service, which usually takes 2 to 3 weeks, or even faster through a registered passport courier or regional passport agency if your trip is within 14 calendar days.
Pro Tip: Apply Early!
Babies grow fast, and so do travel plans. Don't wait until the last minute, especially if you’re traveling during busy seasons or need a visa as well. Applying early helps avoid the stress of delays or unexpected issues.
Bonus Tip: Baby Passports Only Last 5 Years
Unlike adult passports (which last 10 years), a child's passport is only valid for 5 years. This means you’ll need to renew it more frequently as your child grows.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with a baby takes planning, patience, and paperwork—and yes, that includes a passport. Getting one might take a few extra steps, but once it's done, you’ll be one step closer to creating unforgettable memories together overseas.
If your trip is coming up quickly, check out our guide to expedited passport services for a minor to learn how to get your baby’s passport fast.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for my baby's passport online?
No, you cannot complete the full application process for a baby's passport online. While you can fill out Form DS-11 online and print it, the application must be submitted in person at a passport acceptance facility.
Do both parents have to be present to apply for a baby's passport?
Yes, both parents or legal guardians must appear in person with the baby. If one parent cannot attend, they must provide a notarized Form DS-3053 along with a copy of their ID.
Can a grandparent or legal guardian apply for a baby's passport instead of the parents?
Only if they have legal authority to do so. This could include legal guardianship documents, a notarized authorization from the parents, or a court order.
What counts as proof of U.S. citizenship for a baby?
A certified U.S. birth certificate is the most common form of proof. Other acceptable documents include a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Citizenship.
Does my baby need a Social Security number to apply for a passport?
Yes. If the child has a Social Security number, it must be included on the application. If not, you must provide a signed statement declaring that the child has never been issued a number.
What if my baby won't keep their eyes open or head straight for the photo?
The State Department is flexible with infant passport photos. It's okay if your baby’s eyes aren’t fully open. Just be sure the photo has a plain white background and shows the baby's face clearly.
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?
Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.
You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.
