TAKING your child on holiday for the first time is a very exciting step.
But there can be a lot of paperwork involved, including the important task of getting their first passport.
Who can apply for a child's passport?
Someone with parental responsibility for the child must apply for the passport.
You need to give both parents' details when you apply. If you cannot provide the other parent's details, you need to say why.
What is the application process?
A child's passport costs £49 and can be ordered via the government website.
To apply online, you'll need:
- A digital photo of your child
- Supporting documents, including birth certificate
- A credit or debit card
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Alternatively, you can apply by post by either:
- Getting a paper form from a Post Office that offers the passport check and send service
- Contacting the Passport Adviceline to get a form posted to you
Applying by post costs an extra £9.50 and it may take longer to receive the passport.
After you've submitted the application, you'll need to ask someone to confirm your child's identity.
You can only confirm someone's identity if you:
- Are 18 or over
- Live in the UK
- Have a current UK passport
- Have known the parent of the child whose passport is being processed for at least two years
You must work in a 'recognised profession', for example an accountant, nurse or social worker.
Signing the application
Someone with parental responsibility must sign the application form.
If your child is aged 12 to 15, they need to sign the form too.
How long will it take to arrive?
A first passport will typically take around three weeks to arrive, but people are warned they should allow up to 10 weeks to receive it.
How long will the passport last?
A child's passport is valid for five years from the date it is issued – not 10 years as it is for adults.
When a child reaches 16 they should apply for a full adult passport.
These are the airport rooms you need to know about when travelling with kids.
One airline has launched a website where passengers can see where babies will be sat on a flight before they book their seats.
A flight attendant has shared tips on how to stop your child's ears from popping during a flight.
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