One common concern among parents planning international travel with their children is understanding passport validity for minors. This article will provide you with essential information on the duration of a minor passport, renewal processes, and what to do when your child turns 18.
Minor passports differ when compared to adult passports in terms of the validity period. In the United States, a minor’s passport is valid for five years, while adult passports are valid for ten years. This difference in validity period is established to accommodate the significant changes children undergo as they grow, impacting their physical appearance and facial features.
Renewing a Minor Passport
Renewing a minor passport isn’t the same as renewing an adult passport. As children grow and change, so do their identification needs. When your child’s passport expires, you cannot renew it—you have to apply for a new one. The good news is that you can take help from a reliable passport agency in Atlanta to streamline the process.
When renewing your child’s passport, ensure that you present the expired or soon-to-expire passport, new passport-sized photos, appropriate fees, and additional necessary documents such as proof of parental relationship. Keep in mind that both parents and legal guardians must provide consent when applying for a new passport for children under 16.
Turning 18: Do You Need a New Passport?
If your child is approaching their 18th birthday, it’s essential to know what to do about their passport. In essence, once your child turns 18, their minor’s passport is no longer valid – even if it hasn’t reached its expiration date. In this case, they need to apply for a new adult passport. For more information on this topic, for instance, do you need a new passport when you turn 18, you may check out this blog.
The Importance of Valid Passports
A valid passport is crucial for trouble-free international travel with children. Remember that many countries mandate that a traveler’s passport should be valid for at least six months beyond their expected departure date. Therefore, it’s essential to verify your child’s passport’s expiration date and get it replaced promptly if needed.
To Conclude
Now that you know a minor passport’s validity in the United States lasts five years, it’s important to keep track of its expiration date. Also, when planning your travels, ensure you follow the necessary guidelines to renew or replace your child’s passport if needed. Being proactive in this regard will ensure smoother international travel experiences for both you and your child.
