FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
Wherever awards

Getting Your Child a Passport

by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers

May 6, 2022

© Kritchanut | Dreamstime.com

Kids

The first thing you need to do before planning family travel outside the United States is to make sure all your children have passports.

 

The only exception is if you travel by land or water to those countries included in the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, an agreement that includes the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the countries of the Caribbean Region. For those destinations, a child aged 15 or under only needs a certified birth certificate.

 

The key word here is “certified” — that means it must have a raised, impressed seal, the registrar’s signature and date of filing. But remember, this is only the case if traveling by land. Air travel outside the United States requires a passport for everyone, even infants. Youth passports are issued to those 15 or younger and are valid for five years. Passports issued to those 16 or older are valid for 10 years.

 

You must apply for any child’s passport in person and with the child. If both parents can’t be present, you must have a signed and notarized statement of permission from the absent parent. If you have sole custody, you must provide a death certificate or court order as proof.

 

You also need proof of the parent(s) identity and proof of your relationship to the child (in the case of adopted children, you will need the adoption papers). Passport photos are required, even for babies, and they must meet all the adult requirements: eyes open, full face, etc.

 

Once you have all the required documentation and the completed child passport application, you need to make an appointment to appear in person at a passport acceptance agency. This may be at a nearby post office, clerk of court office or other government office designated to accept passport applications.

 

Begin this process well before your planned travel, as current wait times are two to three months. For an extra $60 fee you can request expedited service, which shortens that to five to seven weeks.

#WhereverFamily

Insta Feed
Destinations / North America
Nov 1, 2024

Reservations Now Open at OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark

Oklahoma City’s newest tourist attraction, OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, recently announced it is now accepting reservations for family travel starting April 1, 2025. The attraction — with 404 guestrooms and suites, culinary concepts, retail shops, a family entertainment center, an indoor waterpark and a 4.5-acre outdoor adventure lagoon — is developed in collaboration with Chickasaw Nation.

Discover the Magic of East Crete: A Perfect Family Getaway

East Crete is a blend of stunning landscapes, history and charming towns, making it an ideal family destination. Far from the crowds of the west, the region offers pristine beaches, ancient sites and authentic Cretan villages.

Destinations / Caribbean
Nov 1, 2024

Reasons to Make St. Kitts Your Next Family Getaway

St. Kitts offers the ideal winter getaway for family travelers, combining adventure, relaxation and culture in one trip. The destination offers pleasant weather, scenic beaches and plenty of activities for travelers of all ages.

Destinations / Europe
Oct 31, 2024

Discover Why Syros Should Be on Your Greek Island Bucket List

Family travelers aren’t at a loss for islands to choose from when planning a Greek Island vacation, but some islands get more love than others. Those uber-popular islands are pretty awesome, but they also get overcrowded and expensive, and there are some other incredible islands that fly under the radar. Syros, one of the Cycladic islands in the Aegean Sea, is one such place where families can enjoy an incredible island experience.

Destinations / Europe
Oct 31, 2024

Your Food Guide to Disneyland Paris

Family travelers headed to Disneyland Paris in the near future should keep these dining options in mind when visiting. A recent study done by Disneyland Tickets took a look at Trip Advisor reviews to decide the top quick service, table service and buffet restaurants at Disneyland Paris.

Hotels
Oct 31, 2024

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Launches Meals That Matter

Family travelers can give back to local elementary school students through Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s Elementary School Program, Meals that Matter. The program provides local students facing food insecurity with healthy, hearty and nutritious take-home dinners throughout the school year.