If you need a passport for your newborn baby but haven’t received their birth certificate yet, you might be wondering what steps to take, or if it is even possible. This is because a birth certificate is typically required to prove U.S. citizenship, but the good news is, there are alternative documents you can use to apply for your baby’s passport. In this guide, we’ll walk you through official procedures to obtain a passport for your newborn where no birth certificate has yet been issued.

Do Babies Need a Passport to Travel?

Yes, all U.S. citizens, regardless of age, must have a passport to travel internationally. Even newborns require a valid passport before leaving the country.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Passport Without a Birth Certificate

Step 1: Gather Alternative Proof of Citizenship

If your baby’s birth certificate hasn’t been issued, you can provide the following instead:

  1. Hospital Birth Record – A document issued by the hospital that includes your baby’s name, date of birth, and parents’ names.
  2. Letter of No Record – If a birth certificate is delayed, some state vital records offices issue a letter stating that no birth certificate has been recorded yet.
  3. Parents’ Evidence of U.S. Citizenship – At least one parent must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as:
    • A valid U.S. passport
    • A U.S. birth certificate
    • A naturalization certificate
  4. Affidavit of Birth (Form DS-10) – This form allows a close relative (such as a parent or grandparent) to provide a sworn statement verifying the child’s birth details.

Step 2: Complete Form DS-11

All first-time passport applicants, including newborns, must submit Form DS-11.

  • You can download it from the U.S. State Department website or get a copy at a passport acceptance facility.
  • Leave the birth certificate section blank and instead attach the alternative documents listed above.

Step 3: Provide Parental Identification

Both parents or legal guardians must present a valid government-issued ID, such as:

  • A U.S. passport
  • A driver’s license
  • A military ID

If one parent cannot be present, they must submit a notarized Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent).

Step 4: Submit Your Application in Person

Since newborn passports require additional verification, parents must apply in person at an official passport acceptance facility, such as:

  • U.S. post offices
  • Clerk of court offices
  • Local government offices that handle passport applications

How We Can Help Expedite Your Baby’s Passport

Waiting for a birth certificate can delay your baby’s passport application, but wan help expedite the process.

Why Choose USPassport.com?

  • Expert Document Assistance – Our specialists review your documents to ensure compliance with official requirements.
  • Fast-Track Processing – We can help secure your baby’s passport in as little as 24 hours.
  • Secure Handling – We manage your application, ensuring accuracy and fast submission.
  • Dedicated Support – Our team provides step-by-step guidance, making the process stress-free for parents.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a passport for a newborn without a birth certificate is possible by providing alternative documents and following official procedures. If you need to expedite the process, please click here to begin!