In order to meet the passport requirements set forth by the governing bodies, an individual needs to know what is required. Armed with the proper paperwork, the process will go much easier than if a person does not have it. Due to the state of world affairs in modern times, the necessity of having proper documentation when traveling abroad is more important than it has ever been before.

Birth Certificate

When applying for this type of travel documentation, a birth certificate is worth its weight in gold. Should a person be unable to obtain their certificate,they can use old passports in lieu of a certificate. In the event that the individual applying was not born in the US, they will need to obtain one of two documents, a certificate of Naturalization or a certificate of citizenship.

Letter Of Record

Should a person not have access to any previously used passports or their birth certificate, they can obtain a letter of record. The letter is issued by the state where the individual resides in and needs to be filled out completely. Along with the letter, information such as baptismal records, school records and any additional public recordings will be required.

DS-10 Form

Also, the documents must display the date and place of birth for the child in order to be accepted. The earlier, the better so a time line can be established for informational purposes. If the above documents are unavailable, a DS-10 form can be submitted by an older relative who has knowledge of the birth. Additionally, the form must be notarized prior to submitting the form.

If Born Outside US

Another scenario involves the individual being born outside of the US to one parent who has US citizenship. In this situation, a document supplied by a hospital in the state where the individual resides will need to be obtained. Within the form, the individual will add their name and date of birth along with recorded information pertaining the years that were searched for the birth certificate by the hospital.

When both parents are US citizens, the foreign birth certificate along with a marriage certificate for the parents is required. Also, an affidavit stating where the parents lived in the US and abroad prior to the birth of the individual applying is required as well. Proof of US citizenship is also a requirement for each parent vouching for the individual.

Adopted Children

Children who are adopted and are below the age of 18 years will need to have one parent present, whether the birth parent or the adopted parent. Either one will be fine. The child must be a current US resident and the adult must also be a legal citizen and have legal and physical custody. Additionally, the adoption must be final and proof of this will be required as well when applying for a child.

The U S passport requirements are somewhat strict; however, it is for the good of the person who is applying. When traveling abroad, it is important to have the proper documentation so the person can return home safely. Taking the time to collect the proper paperwork will make the pass port application process go much smoother.