To travel internationally, one requires a passport from the country of citizenship. Even children need a passport. Be it an airline or a cruise line, the same rule applies provided you are leaving the country. This same rule is applicable for those travelling on land. However, if you are caught unaware, there are expedited pasports for children as well as adults.
Timetable
Normally, it takes within six to four weeks for a passport application to be processed. However, there are expedited services for those who need it urgently. For a stipulated fee, the US Department of State can reduce the processing days to two weeks.
Expedited Service
The cost of an expedited passport differs from the standard cost. The variation in the price depends on the speed at which you want the passport. There are independent agencies that provide this service. They have the passport available within a day to 12 days. However, if the passport is not needed urgently, the cost of this service is low.
Government Licensing
Online and offline expediting services are available. Both providers need to get a license from the government in order to operate. This license should be the yardstick used to make a decision. For those that opt for an online agency, provide a valid email address along with other data that you present. This will be used to convey essential information to you. The offline service providers will require a contact phone number.
Payment
There are varieties of payment options. These are also subject to the agency you select. Online agencies provide the following options; PayPal, bank wire, e-check and credit card. The offline agencies accept credit/debit cards, money order, bank deposits and checks. You can then select the most appropriate option that suits you best.
Additional Charges
The agency helping you with the expedited passport will charge you for the standard government’s passport fee. They will also charge you for their service. If they are the traveling agency in charge of your traveling arrangements, the charges might be included with other services.
Parental Involvement
Notwithstanding the agency you use, the parental/guardian role cannot be bypassed. The present law stipulates that parents/guardians should be available for the application submission. This law applies to all minors who are age 15 and below. The parents/guardian is also responsible for all financial involvement that accompanies the process. They will be needed all through the application process.
Book or Card
There are two types of infant American passport available for children. These are the passport book and passport card. You will have to indicate which you are applying for. The passport card provides the minor with rights to travel by land or sea. This restricts the options to Mexico, Canada, Bermuda and Caribbean. The passport card offers the privilege of traveling via any means of transportation. The amount you will be required to pay will depend on your passport.