How to Get a Passport for an Adopted Child

Getting a passport for an adopted child involves a specific set of steps to ensure the child has the necessary documentation for international travel. If your child was adopted either domestically or internationally, the process can differ slightly since it is essential to provide proof of the child's citizenship and your parental relationship. Understanding these requirements and preparing the correct paperwork in advance will simplify the process and help you avoid any delays in getting a passport for an adopted child.

Before applying for your adopted child’s passport, familiarizing yourself with the procedures and necessary forms like the DS-11 Application Form for a U.S. Passport is crucial. Additionally, you’ll have to gather evidence of U.S. citizenship, show proof of your parental relationship and consent, provide a suitable photo, and arrange an in-person application submission. Knowing each requirement in detail will help you confidently navigate through each stage of the application process, from start to finish.

• A structured approach is needed to apply for a passport for your adopted child.
• Gather all the required documentation, including proof of citizenship and parental relationship, before applying.
• Understand the importance of in-person submission and be prepared for post-application tracking.

Understanding Adoption and Passport Requirements

When you adopt a child from another country, obtaining a U.S. passport and a Certificate of Citizenship is a crucial step to ensure your child's legal status and ability to travel internationally.

Documents Required to Get a Passport for Adopted Children

To obtain a U.S. passport for your internationally adopted child, your child must first be a U.S. citizen. If your child has been granted citizenship upon entry into the U.S., you'll need the following:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: This may include a Certificate of Citizenship or a valid U.S. passport.
• Proof of Relationship: You'll need to present documentation that confirms the legal adoption, such as the final adoption decree.
• Parental Identification: Provide a government-issued identification, like a driver's license or passport.
• Parental Consent: For a child under 16, both parents must provide consent, shown by appearing in person or providing a notarized statement of consent.

Ensure these documents are organized and ready to submit with the application to streamline the process.

Certificate of Citizenship for Adopted Child

Even if your child has a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Citizenship can serve as unequivocal proof of your child's legal status in the United States. To obtain this document, you must:

• File Form N-600 with USCIS to apply for the certificate.
• Provide Supporting Documents: This includes evidence of your U.S. citizenship, the legal relationship with your child, and your child's permanent residence status.

Starting the Passport Application Process

When getting a passport for an adopted child, the process requires careful attention to detail and assembling the correct documentation before selecting the appropriate application form.

Choosing the Right Passport Application Form

Selecting the correct form is crucial when applying for a passport for an adopted child. Use Form DS-11, which is the standard passport application form for getting a passport for adopted child.

• Fill the DS -11 form.
• Do not sign the form until instructed to do so by an acceptance agent.

Fill out the form with your child’s information accurately to ensure there are no delays in processing the passport application.

Get Passport

How to fill out passport application for adopted child

Applying for a passport for an adopted child involves a meticulous process to ensure all requirements are met. The key is to complete the application accurately and provide solid proof of your parental relationship.

Completing the Form Accurately

When filling out the Form DS-11 for your adopted child, it’s crucial to enter all your child's information as it appears on their legal documents. This includes full name, date, and place of birth. Double-check each section for accuracy to prevent any potential processing delays.If your child was adopted, you need to include their name as listed on the adoption decree or the amended birth certificate.

• Full Name: Enter the child's full name after adoption.
• Date of Birth: Provide the child's date of birth in MM/DD/YYYY format.
• Place of Birth: List the city, state, if applicable, and country of the child's birth.

Note: Any discrepancy between the documents submitted and the details on the application form can result in rejection or a request for additional evidence.

To make sure you have submitted all the documents and to avoid any delays in getting a passport for your adopted child you can Contact Us.

Providing Proof of Parental Relationship

Submit evidence that demonstrates your relationship to your adopted child. This could be an adoption decree or the child’s amended birth certificate listing you as a parent. When presenting these documents, bring originals or certified copies.

• Adoption Decree: Must be the final adoption decree issued by the court.
• Amended Birth Certificate: Should show your name as the adoptive parent.

Additionally, you’ll need to provide evidence of your own identity with a photocopy of the identification document you present, such as a driver's license or a passport.