What To Know
- If the applicant meets all the requirements and has gathered the necessary documents, they can apply for a passport on behalf of someone else at a passport office.
- The passport office has the right to refuse a passport application if they determine that the applicant does not have the authority to apply or if the documents submitted are insufficient.
- While it is generally not possible to go to the passport office for someone else, there are certain exceptions that allow a person to apply for a passport on behalf of another individual.
When it comes to applying for a passport, it’s generally assumed that the applicant must be present at the passport office. However, there may be certain circumstances where an individual needs to apply for a passport on behalf of someone else. This raises the question: can I go to the passport office for someone else?
Legal Authority for Proxy Passport Applications
In the United States, the authority for proxy passport applications is granted by the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. According to their regulations, a person can apply for a passport on behalf of another individual if they meet the following criteria:
- The applicant is a parent, legal guardian, or authorized representative of the passport applicant.
- The passport applicant is a minor (under 16 years of age) or an incapacitated adult.
- The passport applicant is unable to appear in person at the passport office due to a physical or mental disability or other compelling circumstances.
Acceptable Forms of Authorization
To prove their authority to apply for a passport on behalf of someone else, the applicant must provide one of the following forms of authorization:
- Parental Consent: A written consent from both parents or legal guardians is required for minors under 16 years of age.
- Guardianship Order: A copy of a court order appointing the applicant as the legal guardian of the passport applicant.
- Durable Power of Attorney: A notarized power of attorney document that specifically authorizes the applicant to apply for a passport on behalf of the passport applicant.
- Physician’s Statement: A written statement from a licensed physician attesting to the passport applicant’s physical or mental incapacity and inability to appear in person.
Required Documents for Proxy Passport Applications
In addition to the authorization documents, the applicant must also submit the following for a proxy passport application:
- Completed passport application form (DS-11)
- Original birth certificate or naturalization certificate of the passport applicant
- Two recent passport-style photographs of the passport applicant
- Proof of identity and citizenship for the applicant (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
- Fee for passport and any expedited processing services
Applying at the Passport Office
If the applicant meets all the requirements and has gathered the necessary documents, they can apply for a passport on behalf of someone else at a passport office. The applicant should bring all the required documents to the appointment and be prepared to answer questions about the passport applicant.
Special Considerations
- Expedited Processing: Expedited processing services are available for proxy passport applications. However, additional fees may apply.
- Verification of Identity: The passport office may require the applicant to provide additional proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or marriage license.
- Refusal of Applications: The passport office has the right to refuse a passport application if they determine that the applicant does not have the authority to apply or if the documents submitted are insufficient.
Summary
While it is generally not possible to go to the passport office for someone else, there are certain exceptions that allow a person to apply for a passport on behalf of another individual. By understanding the legal requirements, acceptable forms of authorization, and required documents, individuals can navigate the proxy passport application process smoothly.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I apply for a passport for my adult child who is over 18 years of age?
A: No, you cannot apply for a passport on behalf of an adult child over 18 years of age unless they have been declared legally incapacitated by a court.
Q: Can I apply for a passport for my spouse?
A: Yes, you can apply for a passport for your spouse if they are incapacitated or unable to appear in person due to other compelling circumstances.
Q: What happens if I lose the original birth certificate of the passport applicant?
A: You can request a certified copy of the birth certificate from the vital records office in the state where the passport applicant was born.
