The New Passport Requirement
Not only does this new passport requirement affect U.S. citizens traveling, but foreign nationals such as Canadians and Mexicans who are not currently required to present a passport for entry into the United States.
Expect a backlog of passport applicants flooding the State Department and apply long before the need arises. The State Department recommends at least 6 weeks for processing an application. The new passport requirement requires that everyone entering the U.S. must have their own passport, including infants.
Applying for a passport must be done in person if this is a first time passport application. The State Department’s website has a locater for finding a passport acceptance facility nearby based on zipcode. You must also apply in person if a previous passport was lost, damaged or stolen, if your previous passport is expired and was issued over 15 years ago, if you passport is expired and was issued when you where under 16 years old or if your name has changed since your original passport was issued and you lack legal documents of the name change.
When minors apply for a passport, they too must appear in person. The passport requirements vary depending on the age of the minor. For those under 14, proof of citizenship as well as proof of the relationship must be established. A list of supporting documents can be found on the State Department’s webpage. Both parents must be present during the application or one parent may come alone but must bring along notarized statements of consent from the other parent.
For minors age 14-17, parental consent may be requested. The minor must appear in person. Along with the application, the child must present proof of citizenship and proof of identity. If the child does not have proper ID, a parent must come and present theirs.
Along with an application and proper documentation, all passport applicants must provide photos meeting the following criteria: Two identical color photos 2″x 2″, taken within the past 6 months, full face view with a plain white background, normal street clothes (no uniforms), the bottom of the chin to the top of the head should measure between 1″ and 1 3/8″, no hat or headgear unless worn daily for religious purposes, prescription glasses, hearing aids and wigs are acceptable if normally worn, no dark or tinted nonprescription glasses unless medically necessary (a medical certificate may be required).
As of March 2005, fees for U.S. passports total $97 for those over age 16 and $82 for those under 16. Renewals cost $67. Expedited service will add another $60 to all applicants. Save your family both money and time by applying long before you anticipate needing a U.S. passport.
