Can a New-born Baby Get US Visa?

This article was last updated and fact checked on October 10, 2024 by Mani Karthik.

So, you’ve got a little one in tow and you’re wondering, can a newborn baby get a US visa? The short answer is yes.

Even the tiniest travelers need proper documentation to cross international borders legally, and that includes getting a visa if they’re heading to the USA.

Here’s how the process works and what you need to keep in mind.

Does a Newborn Need a US Visa?

Absolutely! Every person entering the United States needs a visa (unless they’re from a visa-exempt country), and this applies even to newborn babies.

Whether you’re planning a short visit or moving to the US, the visa process for your baby is similar to that of an adult.

Babies don’t get a free pass. They need their own visa, their own passport, and, yes, even their own visa interview in some cases.

Which Visa Does a Newborn Need?

The type of visa your baby needs depends on the purpose of travel. Here are the most common scenarios:

1. Tourist/Visitor Visa (B-2): If you’re visiting the US with your newborn for vacation or family visits, they’ll need a B-2 visa.
2. Dependent Visa (H-4, L-2, etc.): If you’re moving to the US on an H-1B or L-1 visa, your baby will need an H-4 or L-2 dependent visa.
3. Immigrant Visa (Green Card): If you’re moving permanently, your newborn may need an immigrant visa, depending on the situation.

Tip: Apply for the visa that matches your own. If you’re on a work visa, your baby will get the dependent visa type.

Steps to Get a US Visa for Your Newborn

Here’s a breakdown of the process to get a US visa for your newborn:

1. Get a Passport for Your Baby

Before applying for a visa, you’ll need to get a passport for your newborn from your home country. This is essential because the visa will be affixed to the passport.

2. Fill Out the DS-160 Form

The DS-160 form is the first step in applying for a US visa. It’s an online application that requires basic details about your baby and the travel purpose. Fill it out carefully, as mistakes can lead to delays.

3. Pay the Visa Application Fee

The next step is to pay the visa application fee. This fee varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for, but typically ranges from $160 for a tourist visa to higher amounts for other visa categories.

4. Book the Visa Interview Appointment

Yes, even your newborn will need a visa interview appointment! You’ll schedule this through the US Embassy or Consulate website. In many cases, however, babies under 14 years of age may be exempt from attending the actual interview.

Tip: Don’t panic if you have to attend the interview with your baby. They won’t ask the baby tough questions — it’s mostly to verify the documents.

Required Documents for a Newborn’s US Visa

The document checklist is important. You don’t want to miss out on any paperwork when applying for your baby’s US visa. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Your Baby’s Passport: The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of entry into the US.
• Completed DS-160 Form: Print the confirmation page to take with you to the visa appointment.
• Visa Fee Receipt: Proof that the application fee has been paid.
• Parents’ Passports: Your own passport and visa details, especially if you’re applying for a dependent visa.
• Birth Certificate: This proves your baby’s identity and parentage.
• Photograph: A recent photo that meets the US visa photo requirements for infants.

Tip: Ensure the photograph of your baby meets all the strict US visa photo guidelines (e.g., no hats or pacifiers, white background, etc.).

What If Your Baby Was Born in the US?

If your baby was born in the US while you were there on a valid visa, congratulations! Your baby is automatically a US citizen.

In this case, they don’t need a visa to re-enter the country. You’ll need to get a US passport for your baby instead.

Final Thoughts

Getting a US visa for your newborn may seem overwhelming, but as long as you follow the right steps and have all the documents, it’s straightforward.

Start early to avoid any delays in your travel plans, and ensure that your baby’s passport and visa match the timeline of your own.

Remember: The process is basically the same as for adults, but with a few more cute baby photos!