Ask the Consul: Mailing in Children’s Visa Applications

Tue Jan 08, 2013

Is it possible to mail in an application for a minor?

Yes, for children under the age of 14. Please check our website for a definitive list of criteria and necessary documents: http://barbados.usembassy.gov/mail_in.html . If the minor qualifies for the mail-in program, at least one parent or court-appointed legal guardian must include their passport with a valid U.S. visa in addition to the child’s passport and relevant supporting documents.{{more}} You do not need an appointment or a personal appearance at the Embassy. However, you must complete the online application, and the non-refundable visa application fee of US$160 or BBD$323 still applies.

What is not required?

The birth certificate, evidence of parents’ or guardians’ visa eligibility and proof of current financial circumstances are the most important factors. The Embassy does not need to see affidavits and letters from parents, school letters, and ID for parents without U.S. visas.

What if the child is not travelling with a parent? Can I apply using a relative’s visa?

The child must qualify through a parent who is named on the birth certificate, a court-appointed legal guardian, or adopting parent. If guardianship has been passed to someone other than the biological parent, you must include a copy of the relevant legal documents and the guardian’s passport with a valid U.S. visa.

If neither a parent nor legal guardian has a valid visa, you may still apply on behalf of the child, but you must make an appointment and appear in person to explain the extenuating circumstances. The U.S. Embassy will rarely issue a visa for a minor unless a parent or guardian has a valid visa.

If you have additional questions, please visit our website, http://barbados.usembassy.gov/mail_in.html , or email us at BridgetownNIV@state.gov .

You can also “like” our U.S. Embassy Bridgetown page on Facebook (www.facebook.com/USEmbassyBarbados ) to learn about upcoming visa chats!

More information is available as “Frequently Asked Questions” on the U.S. State Department’s web page: http://travel.state.gov/visa/forms/forms_4401.html Additional information on the visa application process is available on U.S. Embassy Bridgetown’s website at http://barbados.usembassy.gov/ .