The United States has changed its procedures to require minors under 14 to appear in person when applying for a passport.

The personal appearance requirement also applies to renewal applications for persons who were under 18 when the passport was last issued.

A press release from the US Consulate in Hamilton said under emergency conditions the requirements could be waived.

?Emergency circumstances include situations where a minor has to leave the country immediately to avoid a risk to the minor?s health, safety or welfare,? the statement said.

?Compelling hardship cases occur when a minor or the minor?s family would be seriously affected by a minor?s personal appearance.

?This must be a serious hardship, not an inconvenience.

?Following a brief phase-in period, the parent or guardian will be required to appear personally in the minor?s place when the waiver is granted.

?Waivers are not available for minors 14 years old or above or for minors under 14 who are applying for the first time.?

The rule changes took effect on March 26. Waiver requests can be done through the mail, by fax or in person by the minor?s parent or guardian.

Personal appearances cost an additional $30.

The changes have been put into effect to ?enhance accurate identification of applicants and aid in the prevention of international child abduction and trafficking.?