Minors aged 15 and under who need a U.S. passport must appear in person with their parents at the U.S. Embassy or Consular Agency in Santa Cruz to apply. If one parent cannot be present, an original notarized DS-3053 Statement of Consent is required, along with a copy of the absent parent's signed photo identification shown to the notary. The DS-3053 form is valid for 90 days.
Applicants can schedule appointments at either the U.S. Embassy in La Paz or the Consular Agency in Santa Cruz through the respective online portals.
The application process requires several documents: a completed but unsigned DS-11 passport application form, proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a previous U.S. passport and birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad), and proof of parental relationship via a birth certificate. Parents must provide valid identification and photocopies.
A recent 5 cm x 5 cm passport photograph of the applicant is necessary. Applicants must include their Social Security number on the DS-11 form if they have been issued one; otherwise, further instructions will be provided during the appointment.
Payment details are available on the embassy website under "Payment Method and Details." If there has been significant change in appearance since a previous passport was issued—especially if it contains only a baby photo—applicants are encouraged to bring age progression photos to help verify identity.
An appointment is required for this service. All non-applicants accompanying the minor—including parents or siblings—must be listed on the appointment form.