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Let's remember that, in addition to the birth certificate for babies born in the United States, it's necessary for them to have their American passport, which allows them to travel outside the country. The birth certificate is one of the requirements to apply for and obtain an American passport for your baby.

In many cities, there are Post Offices where you can go in person to apply for your child's passport. Find the office closest to your address, schedule an appointment, review and gather the requirements and documents you'll need for your appointment.

If your child is under 16 years of age, it's important to know that they must go to the office in person with both parents or guardians to authorize the issuance of the passport.

Here's a list of requirements for applying for an American passport (first time or renewal). Remember that passports for children under 16 are only valid for 5 years.

You can apply for the Passport Book, which is proof of U.S. citizenship and can be used for international travel by air, sea, or land. You can also apply for the Passport Card, but this one cannot be used for international air travel. It can only be used to enter the United States by land or sea from Mexico, Canada, or Bermuda. To be sure, request both.

As proof of citizenship, it's important to have the birth certificate on hand; this essential document also verifies the parental relationship with the applicant. Check the following requirements and details in Spanish:

• Completion of the application (form DS-11).

• Proof of U.S. citizenship.

• Documents establishing parenthood.

• Identification document.

• Parental consent.

• One photograph.

• Payment of the passport fee.

IMPORTANT: Be careful! Fill out the DS-11 form, but do not sign it! The form must be signed in the presence of the postal officer. Currently, you can pay in cash for the application, so you don't need to have a bank card. In postal offices, there may not always be staff who speak Spanish, so if necessary, bring someone who speaks English with you on the day of the appointment.

Request your baby's passport as soon as possible if you plan to travel because processing times may vary. Although you can request an expedited passport, it may not always coincide with your travel dates. Once the application is submitted, you can monitor its status online through the website.

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· Imágen: Flickr/ Junta de Beneficencia de Guayaquil 2009/Vía Flickr.com