Today, we applied for Amélie's first passport (she is 4 weeks old). Yes folks, you DO need a passport for Canada and you DO need a passport no matter what age you are. We still don't have a move date or much information, but I was frantic as I know these things take time!
TIPS ON APPLYING FOR AN INFANT'S PASSPORT:
* Minors (under 16) may not apply for their first passport by mail, so moms & dads, take the day off because you both need to be there. BOTH parents/guardians need to be present when applying for an infant's passport. Supermoms, you cannot do this task alone! You will need baby's birth certificate/proof of citizenship, evidence of relationship to the minor, Photo IDs of parents/guardians and two (2) passport pictures.
* Original Birth Certificate - mandatory to apply...so if you think you're getting on a plane with your kid the week after he/she is born, you're mistaken. New York City Dept. of Health is particularly slow: 4-6 weeks for a birth certificate!
* You must send the original birth certificate with the application. Don't worry! They will send it back with the passport. It is nerve-wracking sending original documents, but it'll be fine.
* Social Security - you need the number for the application! Quicker than dept. of health, but not quick enough!
* Passport Photo - you need to get creative for this. Your hands (holding baby up) cannot be in photo, so either hold the baby under the onesie/shirt OR bring a white blanket so you can lay it out on a table and take a stress-free picture of your infant.
* Form DS-11: This is the form you need for minors under 16 of age. http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/minors/minors_834.html
* You can expedite a passport for $60 extra and it takes 2-3 weeks door to door. Without expediting, it takes 4-6 weeks.
* Apply at your local post office (call and inquire if you need an appt. and if they facilitate passport applications) or Regional Passport Agency. Bring personal checks!
Happy Travels!
