Getting first passport for a child
Overview
Overview
A child under 18 years of age must have their own passport to travel.
If your child has never had a passport before, or if their last passport was issued more than 15 years ago, you need to apply on their behalf as a first-time applicant.
You can apply for a child’s first passport online if they live in:
- Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain
- Europe
- United States
- Numerous other countries - read the full list here
If your country of residence is not included in the above lists, contact your local Irish Embassy or Consulate for details on how to apply.
Passports for children are valid for five years.
There is separate guidance if you are renewing a child’s passport.
How to apply online
To apply using Passport Online you will need:
- a digital photo that meets the photo guidelines
- credit or debit card
- an email address
- access to a printer
- further supporting documents
How to meet the photo guidelines
Documents you need
The online application will tell you the documents you need to submit after applying.
You can also read our guidance on the documents you need to submit if the child is a:
Guardianship and consent
As part of the online application, you will be asked to print an Identity and Consent form.
The consent of all the child’s guardians must be confirmed on this form and the child’s identity must be verified.
Witnesses
All guardians need to sign the consent part of the form in the presence of a suitable witness. The form will tell you what witness is required.
At least one of the guardians must accompany the child to an appropriate witness for completion of the Identity section of the form.
See our guide to guardianship and consent and our guide to getting your application witnessed for more information.
Video guide to guardianship and consent
First-time applicants born abroad
If your child was born abroad, read our guidance on the documents you need when applying for a first passport.
What it costs
The cost of your passport depends on the way you apply for it and the type you choose, for example standard or large.
When you apply using Passport Online:
- a standard 5-year passport for a child is €20
- a large 66-page 5-year passport for a child is €50
There is an additional €5 postal fee for each child application to cover the cost of returning documents to the applicant. The postal fee is €15 if you live outside Ireland.
How long it takes
Passport turnaround times
Check the current turnaround times for the latest information.
Passport tracking service
You can check the status of your online application using the passport tracking service.
When online application is not possible
Passport Online
Passport Online is the fastest way to apply for a passport.
If Passport Online is unavailable for first time applications in the country where you are living, contact your local Irish Embassy or Consulate for information on how to get a paper form and how to submit it.
Application forms cannot be downloaded.
Paper applications
If you are living in Ireland, Northern Ireland or Great Britain and do not wish to apply online, you can apply using a paper passport form.
Paper applications in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain are submitted through the Post Passport service.
Apply online now
Contact us
Read more on how to contact the Passport Service or see more guidance on making your application on our information hub.