Passports for Family Members
In the event of an emergency, it is possible that a parent would need to travel overseas. Obtaining a passport in advance of the student's departure would expedite this process and avoid the significant cost of obtaining a passport on short notice.
Applying for a passport
You will need two passport-size photos, between two and one-half inches and three inches square, and they must be identical.
Passport size photos are different from ID photos, and must be done according to certain government specifications. AAA offices, photo shops and some stores, such as Walgreens, Sears and JCPenney take passport photos. Also, Learning Abroad Resources at the University of Minnesota, located at 94 Blegen Hall/269 19th Ave. South, Minneapolis, can be the least expensive option. Call (612) 626-4782 for current prices.
Next, pick up a passport application at a major post office or a county clerk's office or download a form from the U.S. Department of State. Besides the completed application, you will need the following items when you apply for a passport:
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship — either a previously issued passport, a certified copy of your birth certificate or naturalization papers.
- Two identical passport photos.
- Proper photo identification — a driver's license, etc.
- Check or money order made payable to the Department of State for $75 (for a renewal by mail the total cost is $75, see Department of State website for details and eligibility requirements).
- $25 execution fee, payable in cash or by check made payable to the post office or county clerk's office. If you need to expedite the process in order to receive your passport as quickly as possible, the cost is an additional $60.