If your child is a U.S. citizen but you (the parent or legal guardian) are not, your child can still get a U.S. passport. This guide explains where to apply, which forms to use, how parental consent works (including tricky situations), and what to expect if you're applying outside the United States.
Who this is for: Non-U.S. citizen parents or legal guardians of U.S. citizen children under 18.
Table of Contents
- Where Non-Citizen Parents Can Apply
- How to Apply: Documents & Forms
- Parental Consent Rules (Under 16) & Ages 16-17
- Processing Times & Expedite Options
- Quick Links (Forms, Fees, Finders)
- Final Checklist
- FAQs for Non-U.S. Citizen Parents
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Where Non-Citizen Parents Can Apply
Inside the United States: Apply in person with Form DS-11 at a passport acceptance facility (many post offices, clerk of court offices, and libraries). For urgent travel with proof, you may qualify for an appointment at a regional passport agency.
Outside the United States: Apply in person at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Appointment availability and processing timelines vary by post, so schedule as early as possible.
How to Apply: Documents & Forms
Children under 16-and most first-time applicants of any age-must apply with DS-11 in person. Bring the items below. (Photocopies should be single-sided.)
1) Proof of the Child's U.S. Citizenship
- U.S. birth certificate (long form showing parent names), or
- Previously issued full-validity U.S. passport (even if expired), or
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), if applicable
2) Proof of Parent-Child / Guardian-Child Relationship
Often the child's U.S. birth certificate establishes the relationship. If not, bring an adoption decree or court order naming guardians. See our overview of relationship evidence for acceptable documents.
3) Parent/Guardian Photo ID
Foreign government-issued ID is acceptable. Bring your foreign passport, national ID, or foreign driver's license and a front-back photocopy of the ID you present. If your ID is not in English, some facilities may request a simple translation.
4) One Passport Photo of the Child
Follow the official passport photo rules (size 2?×2?, white background, neutral expression, no filters). Many pharmacies and photo shops can take infant and toddler photos.
5) Application Form
Complete Form DS-11 but do not sign until instructed by the acceptance agent or consular officer.
6) Passport Fees
You'll pay the application fee and the execution/acceptance fee (inside the U.S.), with optional expedited service if eligible. See the latest passport fee chart for current amounts.
Note: Even if your child currently has or previously had a U.S. passport, applicants under age 16 must apply in person with DS-11. There is no mail-in renewal for minors.
Parental Consent Rules (Under 16) & Ages 16-17
Federal law requires parental consent for applicants under 16. Choose the path that matches your situation:
- Both parents/guardians appear together (easiest): Bring IDs and sign DS-11 in front of the agent/officer.
- One parent/guardian cannot appear: Provide Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent) signed by the non-appearing parent and notarized, plus a front-back copy of that parent's ID.
- Sole legal custody or court authority: Bring a court order or other evidence (e.g., sole legal custody order, full birth certificate listing one parent only, or a death certificate for the other parent).
- Cannot locate or contact the other parent: Use Form DS-5525 (Exigent/Special Family Circumstances) explaining why consent can't be obtained, plus any supporting evidence.
- Grandparents/Guardians: Bring the court order that explicitly authorizes you to apply for the child's passport. If custody is temporary, the order should clearly state your authority.
Ages 16-17
Applicants aged 16-17 also apply with DS-11. One parent/guardian's awareness/consent may be requested. It's best for at least one parent/guardian to accompany the teen with ID, or to provide a signed statement plus a copy of their photo ID.
Processing Times & Expedite Options
Inside the U.S.: Routine and expedited processing times change throughout the year. If you need the passport quickly, consider expedited service at an acceptance facility, or-if travel is imminent and you have proof-an appointment at a regional agency.
Outside the U.S.: Timing varies by embassy/consulate. Some posts issue emergency, limited-validity passports for urgent travel; others have set turnaround windows. Always check your post's current guidance and bring proof of travel if seeking urgent service.
Quick Links
- Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport
- Form DS-3053: Statement of Consent
- Form DS-5525: Exigent/Special Family Circumstances
- Passports for Minors - Get the FAQ
- How to Get an Urgent Passport for a Minor
- Passport Photo Guide
- Passport Fees
- Acceptance Facility Finder
- Regional Passport Agencies
- U.S. Embassy & Consulate List
Final Checklist
- DS-11 completed but unsigned
- Child's citizenship proof + photocopy
- Parent-child/guardian relationship proof
- Parent/guardian ID(s) + photocopies (foreign IDs are fine)
- Parental consent path ready (both present, DS-3053, sole custody docs, or DS-5525)
- One compliant photo of the child
- Fees (plus expedited options if eligible)
- Appointment confirmed (acceptance facility, regional agency, or embassy/consulate)
FAQs for Non-U.S. Citizen Parents
Yes. Your citizenship does not limit your child's right to a U.S. passport. Bring acceptable parent/guardian ID (foreign passport, national ID, or driver's license) and the required documents for the child.
Yes. Apply at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Book an appointment and follow that post's instructions for documents, photos, and fee payment.
There's no general federal program covering routine passport fees. In true emergencies, limited-validity emergency services may be available, but routine fees typically still apply. For local aid, check community organizations or social services where you live.
No. If the child has never been issued an SSN, follow the exact wording in the DS-11 instructions for declaring that fact in writing, and bring any supporting evidence you have.
Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers
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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.
