The Cost of a U.S. Passport for Children: What You Need to Know

1. Basic Application Fee

The base cost for a U.S. passport for children under the age of 16 is $100. This fee is for the standard processing of the passport and is applicable for both first-time applications and renewals. The fee is set by the U.S. Department of State and is subject to change, so it’s important to check the latest rates on their official website.

2. Execution Fee

In addition to the basic application fee, there is an execution fee of $35. This fee is required when applying in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility, such as a post office or a courthouse. This fee covers the cost of processing and verifying the application documents.

3. Expedited Service Fee

If you need your child's passport more quickly, you can request expedited service. The fee for expedited service is $60. This option typically reduces the processing time to about 5-7 business days, compared to the standard processing time of 8-11 weeks. Expedited service can be crucial if you have urgent travel plans or need the passport quickly.

4. Overnight Delivery Fee

For even faster processing, you can choose overnight delivery for an additional fee. This fee is generally $19.53 and ensures that the passport is delivered overnight once it has been processed. This fee is in addition to the expedited service fee and is used to cover the cost of overnight shipping.

5. Passport Card Fee

If you’re also interested in a passport card, which is a more affordable option for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, the fee is $15. The passport card cannot be used for international air travel.

6. Additional Costs

There may be additional costs depending on specific circumstances, such as:

• Photograph Fees: Passport photos can cost around $15-$20 depending on where you get them taken.
• International Travel Costs: If you need to travel abroad to submit your application or obtain additional documentation, there could be additional costs associated with travel.

7. Fee Changes

It’s important to note that passport fees are subject to change. The U.S. Department of State periodically updates its fees, so it’s wise to check the most current information before applying.

Summary Table of Costs

8. Tips for Applying

• Plan Ahead: Start the application process well in advance of any planned travel.
• Check Documentation: Ensure you have all required documents, including proof of citizenship and parental consent.
• Visit the Official Website: Always refer to the U.S. Department of State's official website for the most current fee structure and application guidelines.

Conclusion

Understanding the costs associated with obtaining a U.S. passport for children can help you plan better and avoid unexpected expenses. By accounting for the basic fees, additional costs, and potential for expedited services, you can ensure that your child’s passport application process goes smoothly.