Anyone can generally sign their own passport, but children and some adults need a parent or legal guardian to sign, and some countries also require a separate “countersignatory” with specific professional status for the application or photos.

Key idea

Who can sign or countersign a passport depends on:

  • The country issuing the passport
  • The age and capacity of the applicant
  • Whether the signature is on the passport itself or on the application/photographs.

Signing the passport itself

  • Adults who can legally sign documents usually sign their own passport in the signature box.
  • For young children (often under 14–16, depending on country), a parent or legal guardian may sign the child’s name and then their own name plus relationship, such as “Jane Smith (mother)”.
  • For adults who cannot legally sign because of a disability or guardianship order, a court‑appointed guardian may be required to sign and consent in line with that country’s rules.

Who can countersign passport applications/photos

In countries like the UK, some passport applications and photos must be countersigned by someone who:

  • Knows the applicant personally for a minimum period (for example, 2+ years).
  • Is not related to the applicant and does not live at the same address.
  • Is a person of good standing or in a recognised profession (for example: teacher, police officer, lawyer, accountant, civil servant, company director, minister of religion, some medical or legal roles, etc.).

This person confirms the photo is a true likeness and the details are correct.

Age‑based rules (common patterns)

While the exact cut‑offs vary by country, a common pattern is:

  • Children under a certain age (often under 14):
    • Parent or legal guardian signs the passport and all consent sections.
  • Children 14–15 (or similar mid‑teen range):
    • May sign their own passport but still need parental/guardian consent on the application.
  • Ages 16–17:
    • Usually sign their own passport but must show a parent/guardian is aware (for example, by co‑signing or submitting a consent form).

Practical tips

  • Check your specific country’s official passport office website for the current list of who can sign, as accepted professions and age rules change over time.
  • If you do not know anyone in an accepted profession to countersign, some people look to:
    • Teachers or former teachers
    • Driving instructors
    • Employers, managers, or professionals they know socially (but not family).

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.