Mexican Passports for Minors: Requirements for Children Under 18
Passports for minors follow the same broad process as adult applications, but with additional safeguards designed to protect children. The two big differences are parental consent and the documents required.
Who must attend the appointment
As a rule, the child attends the appointment together with both parents or legal guardians, and both give consent in person. When one parent cannot attend, offices generally accept notarized consent or court documentation, depending on the circumstances — for example sole custody. Because the accepted variations differ between offices, confirm the exact requirement with your specific office before the appointment day.
Documents for a minor’s passport
- The child’s certified birth certificate.
- The child’s CURP.
- Official photo IDs for both parents or guardians.
- Proof of payment of the fee.
- Where applicable, custody rulings, notarized consent or a deceased parent’s death certificate.
Older children and teenagers may also present their own school or official identification where available.
Validity for minors
Passports for minors are issued with shorter validity periods than adult passports — typically three or six years depending on the child’s age — because a child’s appearance changes quickly. The ten-year option is reserved for adults. Our validity and fees guide explains how the options compare.
Tips for a smoother appointment
- Book early, especially around school holidays when family applications surge.
- Bring snacks and something to keep younger children occupied; even efficient offices involve waiting.
- Check that every name matches across the birth certificate, CURP and parents’ IDs — mismatches are the most common cause of delays in minor applications.
- The child’s photograph is taken at the office, so no printed photos are needed.
Traveling with a minor’s passport
Remember that a passport is only part of what a child needs to travel internationally. When a minor travels with only one parent or with neither parent, many countries and airlines expect a notarized consent letter from the absent parent(s). Check the rules of your destination well before departure.
Requirements for minors are applied strictly and vary by office. Confirm the current list through official channels before your appointment.