Comments for How can I obtain passports for my children when their father cannot be located? Click here to add your own comments

Applying for passport for my son but father lives in another country by: Anonymous Question: My husband and I are legally married. I’m a US citizen and he is a citizen of the Dominican Republic, where we were married. Our son was born in the US and I listed my husband as the father on the birth certificate. How to I apply for a passport for our son if my husband is still living in DR? Answer: Your husband may go to the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo to complete Form DS-3053 and have it notarized there. Once done, he needs to mail the notarized document with a photocopy of his ID to you. You will then submit there with the rest of the requirements for your child's passport. Please note that this application has to be submitted in person at an acceptance facility and the child needs to be present during the appointment.

Can I obtain a passport without the father? by: Anonymous Question: My daughter's father is on the birth certificate, but he’s absent, he barley sees her and this year alone, he hasn’t seen her at all. He also doesn’t help me with anything but we have talked about this 2 years prior and he said he would refuse to sign the passport out of spite. What can I do? Answer: You need to either speak to the father about the passport consent again or petition the courts for sole legal custody of the child.

Father in jail by: Anonymous Question: My son is 5 months old & his father is incarcerated. He has signed & notarized the consent form. The passport agency keeps saying the form is incomplete because I'm not providing a phone number or email. Am I supposed to put the jail's phone number and email? Answer: Yes, you may use the information since that's where he currently is.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: My child's father is on the birth certificate but has since been deported. We were not in contact since he was in the States let alone out of them. He has not been present in the child’s life for years. I am trying to get a passport for my child to travel with me, I know that because he is on the birth certificate his signature is needed in order to obtain a passport. My question is how do I obtain a passport without his signature? Answer: You may submit the application with Form DS-5525 plus proof of your failed attempts to contact the father for his consent for the passport application. All these must be submitted with the rest of the requirements and there is still a possibility that the application will be rejected. Submit as much proof of your attempts at contact as you can to increase your chances of getting the application approved.

Need passport for a trip and can't contact anyone by: Anonymous Question: I am being told to contact the passport agency but they are too busy to answer. What do I do? Answer: You need to keep calling. Lines are very busy so you have to keep trying until you get someone on the phone. If you have not submitted your application yet, you may hire a professional passport expediter to take care of things for you.

Help with passport by: Anonymous Question: I'm trying to get my daughter a passport for a cruise. I have a child support case on her biological father but my ex-husband (not her biological father) is on the birth certificate. Which should I contact to fill out a form and/or send a letter allowing me to obtain one for her? Will I need to get ahold of them both? Answer: You need to get a notarized consent form signed by the person listed on the child's birth certificate.

How to get passport for child if father is incarcerated and child is a citizen of another country by: Anonymous Question: Hello. I’m trying to apply for my daughter's US passport. The problem is her father is incarcerated, she was born in another country but I have sole custody issued by the court where we reside. I guess my question(s) are: what application form do I have to fill out? What do I have to bring to the embassy? And does he need to sign it? Answer: 1. You should use Form DS-11. 2. Since the child was born in a foreign country, you need her Consular Report of Birth Abroad as proof of U.S. citizenship. The child's birth certificate is also required as proof of parental relationship. If it is in a foreign language, have it translated into English by a certified translator. 3. If the court order clearly states that you have sole legal custody of the child, you do not need to have the father sign a consent form. Please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you are submitting your application for more information.

One parent incarcerated by: Anonymous Question: Hello, my child’s father is incarcerated and has to send back the DS3053 form but can not because he needs a notary witness and a notary to sign. What can we do? Answer: Individuals who are incarcerated have access to notarial services. Your child's father should ask their warden about this.

Nephew by: Anonymous Question: My sister is in jail & hasn’t had a state ID in years. I have her son and I want to get his passport but I’m not sure what would be acceptable seeing as she does not have a state ID & she’s in jail. Answer: Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 for advice on the matter.

Incarcerated parent by: Anonymous Question: I bought my flight as well as my daughter's flight. Her father has been incarcerated and is unwilling to sign DS-3053 and even if he does sign, I feel it will be too late in time for our flight. How can I go about this? Answer: The father's incarceration does not strip him of his parental/legal rights to the child unless you have orders from the court giving your sole legal custody. You need the father's consent to apply for the child's passport and there is no way around it.

Immigrant parent by: Anonymous Question: How do I get my children's passports if their father is an immigrant with no real ID? We’re separated and I’ve had full custody for 4 years now (no courts) with no help from him. He can’t get the forms notarized because he has no ID. Answer: The father will need to secure an ID so he can present it to the notary public. You may contact passport services at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

Incarcerated Parent by: Anonymous Question: My child’s father is in prison. He is willing to sign with a notary but his driver's license is expired. He’s not getting out any time soon. Is just the signature with the notary enough? Also, I called the prison to obtain an incarceration order and his classification officer who has worked in the field for over 25 years states she never heard of such a thing. She stated she can provide a letter from the prison stating he is incarcerated. Will this suffice? If not where do I obtain an incarceration order? I searched all over the web and didn’t see anything. Please help, my daughter needs her passport! Answer: The notarized consent and expired ID MAY be acceptable given the situation but we cannot provide any guarantees. We recommend contacting the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 for advice on the matter.

Father incarcerated for aggregated child endangerment by: Anonymous Question: My children’s father is incarcerated for aggravated child endangerment against our children. How would I be able to obtain a passport for my children? Answer: You may submit Form DS-5525 and a copy of the court decision with the rest of the requirements for your children's passports.

Updating Passport for American child born abroad but never lived in US by: Coop Question: My son was born in Italy and I have his consular report of birth abroad (his birth certificate), I also have his old passport from when he was just a baby (obviously expired) and I have his social security card. He wants to come to the US and live there now that he is turning 18. How do I go about getting him a new passport so that he can come to the US? Answer: Since your son is now an adult, he can go to the U.S. Embassy or any U.S. Consulate in Italyt to apply for his first adult passport. His CRBA (original) will serve as evidence of U.S. citizenship. He will also need a government-issued ID as proof of identity. New Passport Requirements Please have him contact the closest consulate or the embassy for an appointment.

Father is not in the picture but want to get my daughter her passport by: Anonymous Question: Hello. I want to get my daughter her passport but not sure if I can due to her father being on the birth certificate. We are NOT married and he hasn't been around for over 2 years now and we haven't heard from him either. My daughter is only 2. What can I do? Answer: Since the father is on the birth certificate, you share legal custody of the child. You need his consent to apply for your child's passport. You need to reach out to the father for consent. If you have not heard from him, social media is usually a good place to start your search and possibly reach out.

Passport by: Anonymousj Question: How can I get my son back from Mexico if the dad doesn’t want to renew his passport? Answer: A U.S. citizen child may enter the United States by land or sea with just his/her U.S. birth certificate.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: Hello, I want to apply to get my son his passport ID card, but his father has yet to update his license and it is his only legal ID what do I do since he refuses to update it? Answer: You need to convince the father to update his ID so he can present valid identification for your child's passport application.

Father of daughter is dead by: Anonymous Question: Hello, what can I do if my daughter's father has died and he had married someone else before his death? His widow won't give permission for his death certificate. How do I get my daughter's passport? Answer: You need the father's death certificate to prove that you now have sole legal custody of the child. There is no other way. If the widow refuses, you may have to resort to legal measures.

Father deported to Mexico by: Anonymous Question: Hi. I am trying to obtain a passport for my daughters to travel and unfortunately, their father has been deported and is not present to sign anything. What would I be able to do? Answer: You can ask the father to go to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City or any of the U.S. consulates located all over Mexico to complete Form DS-3053 and have it notarized there. He should execute one for each child. Once done, he may mail the consent forms to you with photocopies of the ID he used at the embassy/consulate.

Child’s father deported by: Anonymous Question: I want to get a passport for my daughter. She is 10 and her father got deported in 2015. Haven’t heard from him since. Answer: Social media is usually a good place to start looking. If the father's name is on the birth certificate, his consent is required for the child's passport application. Once you establish contact, the father may have the consent form notarized at the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate and then mail it to you with a photocopy the ID he presented to the notary.

DS-3053 by: Dawlah allahabi Question: I applied for a passport for my two children and sent them a notarized Form DS-3053 online. My husband is in Yemen and there is no US embassy or consulate in Yemen because of the security situation there. I was surprised to say that I did not sign the husband with the notary at the same time, but it turned out that they They signed the same date, and it turns out that they were both documented on the Internet. Answer:. A virtual notary is not acceptable. The document needs to be physically notarized and the actual notarized document must be submitted with the application. There is currently no official platform for submitting U.S. passport application requirements online.

Missing parent by: Anonymous Question: Hi, I want to get my daughter a passport but her donor is MIA, his name is on the birth certificate but he never signed it. He’s only seen her once in 12 yrs and I have no idea where he is nor do I have any contact information for him. How can I get her a passport? Answer: You can submit Form DS-5525 with the rest of the application requirements. Explain the child's situation in as much detail as you can. It will also help if you can provide evidence of your failed attempts at contacting the father. Please note that applications of this nature are approved on a case-by-case basis. There is a chance that the application will be denied.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: My son is 6 months and his father is back home in Pakistan. What document do I need to apply for my son’s passport? He is on the birth certificate. But I don’t know how to get ds3053 notarized? Can he get the paper notarized from Pakistan? Answer: The father may go to the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad or any of the U.S. Consulates in Karachi, Lahore or Peshawar to secure a copy of Form DS-3053 and have it notarized there as well. Once this is done, he may mail the notarized form and a photocopy of the ID he presented at the embassy/consulate to you. You can then present these when you apply for your child's passport.

Obtaining a Passport by: Anonymously Question: My daughter is 6 years old and I want her to travel with me. Her father is not on the birth certificate but my daughter has his last name, would I be able to obtain a passport for my daughter without his consent? Answer: Yes. The birth certificate listing you as the only parent is sufficient proof of sole legal custody even if your daughter has a different last name than yours.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: Hi! My child’s father is on house arrest and cannot go with me to get my child’s passport. What do I do? Answer: The father may complete Form DS-3053 and have it notarized by his lawyer or notary public who can legally enter the house where he is being held. He also needs to provide you with a copy of his ID presented to the notary.

Father in Cuba by: Anonymous Question: The US Embassy in Cuba is not offering practically any service, could the father of my daughter sign the consent letter for the issuance of a passport for her before a Public Notary in Cuba and not before the US Embassy? Answer: Yes, he may go to a reputable notary public if the service is unavailable at the U.S. Embassy.

Passport for my daughter by: Anonymous Question: Hello, my child's father has passed away and he was never on the birth certificate. How can I proceed to get her a passport if he has passed and not on the birth certificate? Answer: The process is quite straightforward since the father's name was not listed on the birth certificate. You may use the birth certificate as proof of sole legal custody for the child's passport application.

Father incarcerated by: Anonymous Question: Hello. My 18-year-old daughter is naturalized through her father. She was petitioned for and has lived in the US since she was 14 yrs old. How can I obtain a passport for her since her dad is incarnated? Answer: At 18, your daughter needs to apply for her own passport. She may use her father's naturalization certificate as proof of U.S. citizenship or she may also obtain her own citizenship certificate from the USCIS.

Passport for child by: Anonymous Question: I want to go on vacation with my kids but my oldest son's father doesn't want me to get him a passport and won't sign the papers. We have never been married and he is on my child's birth certificate. What can I do? Answer: If the father cannot be talked into providing consent, you can take him to court. You can either have the court compel him to provide consent or petition the court for sole legal custody of the child.

Death certificate by: Anonymous Question: I need to renew my child’s passport but his father passed away. I don’t know how to obtain that death certificate. Is there a different way to renew my child’s passport? Answer: No, there isn't. If the father's name is on the child's birth certificate, you need to establish that you are now the sole legal custodian. In your situation, the only way to prove this is by presenting the death certificate. You may request for a copy of the said document from the vital records office.

Passport by: Adrienne Question: What can I do if my son's father has been in jail for 15 yrs and we don't have any way to contact him? My 15-year-old son needs a passport. Answer: Hello, Adrienne. Incarcerated individuals have access to notary services. If you know which jail he is in, you may request visitation and ask him to sign the consent for the child's passport application. Alternatively, you can just wait until the child turns 16 so he will only need your implied consent for the passport application.

My son needs a passport by: Erin Question: I have been divorced from my son's "father" for 10 yrs. He’s never met him and I have no way to get ahold of him. We’re going on a trip to Jamaica and my son needs a passport. How can we obtain one? My ex is on the birth certificate and there is a court order, but he’s never seen my son. Answer: You may submit Form DS-5525 with proof of your efforts to contact the father. Any and all paperwork that can support your case must be submitted to increase the chances of the application getting approved.

Difficult parent by: Anonymous Question: I would like to take my son on an international cruise. I currently have joint custody with his mother. Additionally, I was able to have my name added to his birth certificate. She refuses to accompany me along with our son to fill out the forms. What should I do? Answer: You may go to court so a judge can compel the other parent to provide consent for the passport application.

Illegal dad by: Anonymous Question: Can I bring my illegal husband to do my baby passport? Will he get in trouble? Answer: A parent's immigration status should not affect a child's passport application. Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

How else can father notarize in Ethiopia other than U.S embassy? by: Anonymous Question: Hi. I am trying to apply for my daughter's passport. Her dad is in Ethiopia, we got married in Ethiopia and he is on her birth certificate. He is not able to notarize documents at the US embassy in Ethiopia due to no appointments available and they said they will not be taking any appointments soon. How else can he notarize the document? Answer: He may have the document notarized by a reputable notary public, preferably someone who can be checked out online.

Hi I want to renew my daughter's passport by: Anonymous Question: Hi I want to renew my daughter's passport. She is 6 and was born in the U.S. I married and divorced her dad in Iran and he has never been to the U.S. We didn’t marry in America but I put his name on the birth certificate. I have full custody from Iranian courts. I sent everything and translation of the full custody but today they email me and want more documents. I don’t have any contact with him since my daughter was 6 months old and I don’t know where he is. I live with my daughter in the U.S. What should I do? Answer: Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 to find out what document will satisfy the requirement to establish sole legal custody.

Dad in Ethiopia by: Anonymous Question: I want to apply for a US Passport for my 5-month-old baby. Dad lives in Ethiopia. We are married to her dad and he is on her birth certificate. I send him to fill out a form that will show his consent but we don't know where to go to authorize it in Ethiopia. Help, please. Answer: The father may go to the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa to have the consent form notarized. He then needs to mail the form and a photocopy of his ID to you so you can submit it with the rest of the requirements for your child's passport.

Dad only calls at Tax time to try and claim by: Anonymous Question: My daughter wants to take my granddaughter on a family trip. We need passports for my grandchild. The father refuses. He has not seen the child in over 4 years. He calls at tax time to try and claim on her on his taxes and because he is refused, he refuses to sign the passport paperwork denying the child the trip. Is there any other way to go about this so we can vacation with our family? Answer: Unless your daughter files for SOLE LEGAL custody of the child, there is no way around it. The father is well within his legal rights to refuse to sign for the child's passport application because he shares legal custody with the mother.

Illegal father by: Anonymous Question: My son's father is on the birth certificate but is illegal in the US. I'm not sure of his whereabouts. All I know is the state he lived in when we were together. How do I get my son a passport when his father is absent and illegal? Answer: Since the father's name is on the child's birth certificate, you need to seek him out for consent for the child's passport application. His immigration status should not affect the child's eligibility to obtain a passport. Social media is usually a good start to look for a person.

Father can’t be located by: Anonymous Question: I have a one-year-old daughter who I’m trying to travel out of the country with. Her father's name is on the birth certificate but after that, I don’t know his whereabouts nor does he have family here. I haven’t had contact since. How can I get her passport? Answer: You need to try and contact the father for his consent for the passport application. Technically, you still share custody with him because of the birth certificate. Once you have done everything to contact the father and whereabouts are still unknown, you can submit Form DS-5525. Include proof of your failed attempts to contact and the rest of the requirements. There is a chance that the application will be denied so make sure to submit as much proof as you can to support your case.

Need help by: Anonymous Question: My daughter's father lives in another state. Have not been in contact since she was 2 years old and she is now 5. He just disappeared from her life and I have no way to contact him nor know anything about him or any family members of his. How do I go about getting my daughter a passport since I don’t have any contact with the father? Answer: Social media is always a good place to start tracing the whereabouts of a person. Once you have exhausted all ways to establish contact with the father to no avail, you can apply for the child's passport with Form DS-5525. Attach proof of your failed attempts to contact the father. These must be submitted with the rest of the requirements. Please note that applications of this nature are approved on a case-by-case basis. Passport services may require more documents or deny the application altogether.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: I applied for a passport for my son with the original death certificate of his father. But I am being told to bring another death certificate. Confused and frustrated. Answer: Please call the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 to find out why the document you submitted was insufficient.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: I have a 12-year-old boy and his father isn't involved in his life. I just know he lives in another state and is going to be in prison for life. Can I still get my son's passport? Answer: If the father's name is on the birth certificate, you need his consent to apply for your child's passport. Since you have an idea of his whereabouts, you need to contact him for a notarized consent. Even if he is already in prison, he will still have access to notary services. All he needs to do is make a formal request.

How can I get my 4yr old passport if his dad is in Guatemala by: Jhasodin Question: My son's dad was deported 2 years ago and I want to get my son's passport for the first time. What are the requirements to get my son's passport? What does the absent parent need to do? Answer: You will need the following to apply for your child's passport: 1. Form DS-11 2. Original or certified copy of birth certificate 3. Photocopy of both parents' IDs 4. Form DS-3053 5. One passport photo 6. Payment for fees The father needs to go to to the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala to sign Form DS-3053 and have it notarized. He will then need to mail the form and a photocopy of his ID to you.

Mother can’t get an ID by: Anonymous Question: I’m a U.S. citizen so is my 6-year-old son. His mom is an illegal immigrant and has no way to get an ID. She lost her birth certificate and can’t get an ID from her country’s counsel. She said it was ok for me to take my son on a vacation but since she doesn’t have an ID I can’t get the passport. What can I do, I’m on the birth certificate my son lives with her. We share custody, what can I do? Answer: The mother needs to present a valid photo ID or provide one with notarized consent for the passport application. She needs to resolve her immigration status issue first and get an ID before your child can get a passport and travel overseas.

Father lives in another country and using a different last name. by: Anonymous Question: Need to get a passport for my 15 yr old daughter. Her father has never helped raise her and lives in another country. He has a different last name now than the one he used on her birth certificate. What can I do? Answer: You need to contact the father and have him sign a notarized consent at the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. He must include a statement regarding his name change and send this form plus a photocopy of his ID to you by mail. You can then submit these with the rest of the application requirements. Alternatively, you can wait until your child turns 16. By then, she will only need your consent to apply and she will be issued a 10-year passport. Passports for Minors age 16 and 17

Passport by: Giovanna Question: I have had temporary custody of my nephew for the past 5 years. I want to issue a passport due to my father being ill and need to visit him. The mom of the child is currently in prison and the father has no contact whatsoever, neither do I know anything about him. How can I issue his passport if both parents are not able to sign and I only have temporary custody that gets renewed every year? Help please. Answer: The situation can be quite tricky because of temporary custody. You may be able to get proper guidance from child services since they know of these situations. You may also contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 for information.

Father passed away by: Anonymous Question: My husband and father of our two minor children ages 12 and 10 passed away. Will I need his death certificate to apply for their passports? Answer: We're sorry for your loss. Yes, you need the father's death certificate to prove that you now have sole legal custody of the children. Passports for Minors

Abusive father by: Anonymous Question: My child was physically abused by the dad. Social services got involved and I have documents to prove that my son was abused by his dad. I need to get my children their passports. My father just died and I need to travel. Answer: Please accept our condolences. You may submit Form DS-5525 plus your proof of the father's wrongdoing. Since you are traveling due to life-or-death emergency, you may contact 1-877-487-2778 or 202-647-4000 for an appointment at the closest regional agency. These agencies can issue your children's passports within 72 hours before your scheduled departure.

Father with full custody by: Anonymous Question: I have full legal and physical of my 8-year-old. Do I need the mother's permission to obtain a passport? Answer: You do not need the mother's presence or notarized consent to apply for the child's passport if you can submit proof that you have sole legal custody of the child.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: My son hasn’t seen his father since he was 2 yrs old. The man never tried to be a father and hasn’t tried to contact me when I was trying to contact him. I just found out he is locked up so can I get my kid a passport without him? Answer: Incarceration does not remove the other parent's legal rights over the child. If his name is on the child's birth certificate and you do not have a court order awarding you sole legal custody, the father's consent is still required for the passport application. You can possibly get this consent through his attorney. Alternatively, you can submit Form DS-5525 and evidence of your failed attempts to contact the father. A copy of the father's incarceration order will also greatly help your case. Please keep in mind, however, that applications like this are approved on a case-by-case basis. Make your case as strong as possible to avoid denial.

Father in Venezuela by: Anonymous Question: Since the US Embassy in Venezuela is closed and has been relocated to Colombia, could the father of my baby sign the consent letter for the issuance of a passport for her before a Public Notary in Venezuela and not before the US Embassy? Answer: Yes, he can.

The father lives in another county and doesn't have an ID by: Anonymous Question: I want to get my 3 and 7-year-old children passports. Their father agreed on me getting a notarized letter where it says that he gives consent to my taking out the kids' passports and mailing them to him so he can sign and then send them back to me. Would this be allowed, he's an immigrant and his ID expired 4 years ago and I think he's never going to renew it. What can I do? Answer: The father can download Form DS-3053, complete it and have it notarized at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate or any reputable notary public. You cannot have the consent notarized and just have him sign it. The embassy should be able to advise him on what he can present in lieu of a valid ID.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: I am trying to obtain a passport for my 15 y/o. Her biological mother was deported 15 years ago and I have had custody of my daughter since. Am I still required to obtain the mother's signature even though I no longer have contact with her? Is the AOP not enough to submit with the application? Answer: You can submit Form DS-5525 with any proof that the other parent was deported. However, there is no guarantee that a passport will be issued. Your other option is to wait until the child turns 16. By then she will only need your signed consent to apply for her own passport as long as she can present her own government-issued ID. Passports for Minors age 16 and 17

Passport by: Anonymous Question: My daughter is 15 and her father is an immigrant. I do not have sole custody, his ID is expired and I submitted an application. I haven't heard anything or received any documents from the passport agency. He offered to write me a notarized letter giving me permission to obtain the passport. What is the best way? Answer: If passport services has not reached out to you asking for consent or more documents, there is no need to submit the notarized letter yet. Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

Can a US citizen father apply his sons US passports while he's in the Philippines? by: Anonymous Question: The US citizen father is a senior and prefers to let his sons come over to the Philippines instead of him going back to the states. Sons ages 17 & 18, can the US citizen father who is staying in the Philippines now apply for his sons' passports online for his sons to be able to travel here in the Philippines? Answer: At 17 and 18, the sons can now apply for their passports without a parent present. The father only needs to provide a signed statement of his awareness of the application plus a photocopy of his ID. He needs to provide these for each of his sons. The boys will then take their application requirements to a local facility in the United States.

Passport when father is missing (not in US) by: Anonymous Question: How can I get a passport for my US citizen 5-year-old? He has an expired passport applied by both of us but we are separated (no legal papers for custody/divorce yet) and his location is unknown (not in the US). I'm an Indian citizen (and his father is also an Indian citizen). I am here only on a temporary F1 visa and will be going back as soon as it expires so I need his passport so he can accompany me back to India. Answer: You may try to submit Form DS-5525 and explain the situation in as much detail as possible. Explain and provide evidence as to why the father cannot provide notarized consent for the application. These must be submitted with the rest of the requirements for your child's passport.

Unmarried Moms Automatically Have "Sole Legal Custody" of children by: CA Attorney Law Question: In California, a single woman who never marries the father has sole legal custody of the minor child the moment it is born. The biological father has no legal rights unless he files papers asking to 1) establish paternity and grant him legal rights once paternity is proven. So, how can mom file for a passport for a minor if there has NEVER been any court action and never a need for court action? Biological dad has zero interest in ever being dad. Mom also has no desire for the biological dad to be in the picture. So, she has "sole legal custody" (due to law), but no legal proof. How does she procure a passport with these facts? Answer: Federal law is different from state law. In the case of passport issuance, federal law is followed. Please consult a lawyer to find out if there is a way around your situation.

Need passport for my kids to come to USA by: Anonymous Question: How do I or can I get a passport for my kids to come to the USA if my citizenship has expired? I am working on renewal. My kids are struggling in Jamaica and I need them here. Answer: U.S. citizenship does not expire; it can be revoked but it's not something that expires and you can renew. If you mean your green card has expired and you are in the process of renewing it, you may contact the USCIS about petitioning your children to come to the United States. Still, they will need passports to travel. Since they are not U.S. citizens, they need to apply for Jamaican passports.

Order of protection by: Anonymous Question: My son and I have an order of protection against his father and he also has a no-contact order against me. Would I be able to get a passport without his consent or what would I be expected to do? Answer: You may submit Form DS-5525 and a copy of the protection order with the rest of the application requirements for a child's passport. Please note that applications like this are approved on a case-by-case basis. It is possible that the application will be denied and the fees are non-refundable.

Father passed away by: Anonymous Question: My daughter is 11 years old and her dad passed away in Peru. Her passport expired on April 2021. Do I need to get the death certificate translated to English since he passed away in Peru and it is in Spanish? Answer: Yes, you need to have the death certificate translated to English by a certified translator.

Father in Venezuela by: Anonymous Question: My child’s father is in Venezuela. She will be born in the US in December and he will not be able to come. Can I put him on the birth certificate and then what do I need to do to ask for her passport to go back to Venezuela? Answer: If you enter the father's name in the child's birth certificate, his presence or consent will be required when you apply for the child's passport. If acquiring the father's notarized consent may be an issue in the future, it is best to omit his name on the birth certificate.

Father is under arrest by: Anonymous Question: How can I have a passport issued for my niece? Her mother had passed away and her father was arrested but the legal proceedings could take years. Is there a way to issue her passport without having any concern with her father? She is just 5 years old. Answer: Cases like this must be referred to Child Protective Services in order to determine who the child's legal guardian is. The legal guardian may apply for the child's passport.

Deceased father by: 8 year old twins. Mom never married to father Question: My children are 8 and their father passed away. We were never married. I want to renew my children's passports but I'm not able to without a death certificate. I cannot obtain one online because my children have to submit the request and they must be 13. The courts are closed so I cannot request one in person. The clerk said I can obtain a court order but I'm not sure what documents I need to submit to obtain that court order to be able to request the death certificate and get my children passports. Is there another way to bypass their father's consent since he is no longer available and we were never married? Answer: You need to establish that you have sole legal custody of the child. In your case, the father's death certificate serves that purpose. Please contact a lawyer to find out what you need to submit for the court order.

Child consent letter by: Anonymous Question: My daughter is 15 years old and I have obtained her passport. Her father agreed to get her passport. I want to take her out of the country but he doesn't want to give me a notarized consent letter. Is there anything I can do? Answer: You need to speak to a lawyer if you want to contradict the father's decision. Also, you may check with the country you are visiting to find out if they require consent from the non-traveling parent.

Abandoned child passport by: Anonymous Question: If my child's father abandoned her since birth but is on the birth certificate, how can I apply for her passport? Answer: Since the father's name is on the birth certificate, you technically still share legal custody of the child. Because of this, his presence or consent is still required for the child's passport application. If you cannot get consent from the father, you may submit Form DS-5525 with the application. Applications submitted with this form may or may not be approved. It may depend on how well you explain the situation and even on documents/evidence you provide to support your statement. You may contact passport services at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

How can I renew my kids passport with father absent by: Sonia Question: I want to renew my boys' passport that will expire soon. The first time, the father helped me and we got all paperwork translated and notarized in Mexico. He lives in MEXICO but I no longer know his whereabouts. I am not able to locate him, he's been absent for 3 years. Answer: The father's consent is still required unless you not have SOLE LEGAL custody of your children. You need to contact the father for this and because of social media, getting in contact is now much easier. If you still cannot contact the father, you may try to submit Form DS-5525 with each child's application. Please note, though, that applications sent with this form are processed on a case by case basis. In case the applications get denied, the fees you paid are non-refundable.

Incarcerated & no real ID by: Anonymous Question: I need a passport for my daughter. I know my child’s father can get the paper notarized in the prison but they want a copy of his ID as well, which he does not have. So is his prison ID acceptable??? Answer: The ID he presents when the consent is notarized should suffice. Please contact passport services at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

Father lives abroad by: Anonymous Question: Hi! I have a 10yo kid. I naturalized recently and want to get passports for my kid. Her father lives somewhere in Russia, I haven't heard from him since 2016, even no child support from him. I have no contacts to find him. We left the country under a K1 visa and because Russian laws do not require consent from another parent, the US embassy issued a K3 visa for kid without it. We legally left the country. I don't have solo custody because Russian law provides it only in case if father caused serious injuries to the kid. How can I get a passport for the kid in such a case? Answer: You may submit Form DS-5525 Statement of Special Family Circumstances and explain the situation in as much detail as possible. The statement must be submitted with the rest of the requirements for your child's passport application.

Father is in prison in a different country by: Ana Question: The father of my children is currently in prison in a different country and will not be out for a very long time. Hasn't been in the picture ever since my son was 2 and my daughter 1 they are now 12 and 11. I can't get him to fill the form because I don't even know what prison he is in. I just know he is in prison because he was on the news. Answer: You may file Form DS-5525 and explain the situation in as much detail as possible. If you can find proof that the father is incarcerated, it will greatly help your case. You must submit the form (one for each kid) with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport.

(DS-3053) Form by: Anonymous Question: Can I send an inmate the (DS-3053) form through the mail? And can he send it back the same way? Answer: It depends on the regulations of the prison where the other parent is incarcerated. You need to contact the prison warden or the inmate's lawyer regarding this.

childs father out of the picture by: Anonymous Question: My child's father is out of the picture and he is not on the birth certificate. Can I get a passport for my child? Answer: Yes, you can apply for your child's passport without the father. The birth certificate listing you as the only parent is sufficient proof of sole legal custody.

Not married by: Anonymous Question: I have 12 and 4 years old girls, their father has their passport and SS card. I need their passports but he refuses to give them back, he signed the birth certificate but currently, he is out of the picture, he is not providing for the girls at all. He doesn't even call to check on them but still refuses to provide the passports and cards. Can I apply for new passports? Answer: You can, but since the father is listed on the birth certificates, you still need his presence or consent to apply. You may need to consult a lawyer to find out what legal measures you can do in your situation.

Child's father is in jail by: Anonymous Question: My child's father is in prison and I need my daughter's passport renewed. I sent him the form DS-3053 and he notarized it and mailed it back but he didn't send me a copy of his photo ID, what do I do now? Her appointment is in 4 days. Answer: You have to ask the father to mail a photocopy of his ID. Once you have all the requirements, reschedule the appointment.

Birth certificate by: Anonymous Question: Biological father is not on my son’s birth certificate but has his last name. Can I still apply for my son’s passport even though he is out of his life? Answer: You may apply for the child's passport without the other parent. The birth certificate listing you as the only parent is sufficient proof of sole legal custody of the child.

Passport for my child by: Anonymous Question: If I have the notarized form, do I still need a copy of his license to renew my son's passport? He is refusing to give me any more documents and has not been in his life for 5+ years. Answer: The ID the father presented to the notary public when he had the form notarized must be submitted with the application. Otherwise, the application will be incomplete and most likely be denied.

Do I need the death certificate by: Anonymous Question: My ex-husband passed away and I have full custody of my 8-year-old. Do I still need to get the death certificate to get my child a passport? Answer: If by full custody you mean sole legal and physical custody, you do not need the father's death certificate. If your court order does not specify that you have sole legal custody, you need the death certificate to prove that you're now the only legal custodian.

Child's dad is deported and is 15 years by: Anonymous Question: My son's father was deported a year and a half ago. I don't know where he is, no communication since he's not in my son's life. I need to obtain his passport. How can I get it under the circumstances? Answer: You may submit Form DS-5525 with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport. Please explain the situation in as much detail as possible to avoid rejection of the application. Note that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis. If you are not in a hurry, you can wait until the child turns 16. By then, he will be able to apply for his passport with just one parent if he has his own government-issued ID. You may visit the following webpage for more information regarding this option: Passport for Minors age 16 and 17 Get Passport Fast

Child 's dad is abusive by: Cheyenne Question: I'm trying to get my son a passport. His biological father disappeared when he was 6 weeks old but he signed the birth certificate so he is on that. I've spoken to a lawyer and he said he has no legal rights because where we live, signing the birth certificate doesn't mean you get legal rights. What do I need to do to get a passport for him? Answer: Federal regulation requires that both parents be present at the time a passport application is submitted for a child. If a parent is listed on a birth certificate and there is no legal document stating otherwise, they consider the parent/s listed to have/share legal custody of the child. This is why you need to present proof of sole LEGAL (not just physical) custody regardless of your state law. What you can do is submit Form DS-5525 and thoroughly explain the situation in your statement. These must be submitted with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport. Note, however, that applications like this may or may not be approved. This is why we recommend filing for sole legal custody in court so you won't have to deal with the situation as long as the child remains a minor.

Applying for US passport by: Anonymous Question: I am trying to apply for my sons' US passports. Their ages are 17, 19 and 20 years old. Their father happens to be in jail. Can I still apply for them even though he is in jail? Answer: Your sons should be able to apply for their passports without their father's consent since they are already of age. Your 17-year-old will still need one parent's implied consent (by letter or personal appearance) which you can provide. Passports for 16 and 17-year-old The older boys are now adults so they can apply without any parent. They need to submit their applications in person and sign the form in the presence of a passport agent.

Need passport for my kids but dad's in jail by: Anonymous Question: Hello. I was wondering what I need to do to get my 3 kids' passports. Their dad is in jail. Only 2 of them have their dad on the birth certificate the last one does not. What do I need to do or get in order for me to get their passports while their dad is in jail? Answer: If you can get the father to sign a notarized consent for the two children. If his attorney is also a notary public, you may request him/her to execute the document during visitation. Alternatively, you may submit Form DS-5525 with a detailed explanation of the situation and the rest of the requirements. A copy of the incarceration order will greatly help as well. Note that applications of this nature may or may not be approved. As for the youngest one, you may apply for the child's passport without additional documents. The birth certificate listing you as the only parent is enough proof of sole legal custody.

My son's passport by: Anonymous Question: My son is 6 years old. His dad is in jail right now. How can I get my son's passport? I downloaded the form. Can he sign it in front of his lawyer? Or how would it work? Also, he doesn't have his ID. And I don't have a copy. Do I still need his ID? Or what else can I show to prove his identity? Answer: Please contact the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 for answers to your questions.

Help! by: Anonymous Question: I'm trying to apply for a passport for my children & my husband left without saying anything. I don't know his whereabouts & his name is on the birth certificate. Can I still apply on my own? Answer: Unless you can present proof that you have SOLE LEGAL custody of the children, you need the father's consent to apply for passports. You need to establish contact with the father. Social media is usually a great place to start your search. If you have exhausted everything and still could not contact the father, you can then apply using Form DS-5525. Note, though, that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis. You will need to explain the situation in detail and provide proof of your efforts to contact the father to increase the chances of approval.

Can’t reach the dad by: Anonymous Question: My kids' father and I are married but about 7 months ago, he just decided to up and go. I have no contact with him. I've reached his mom I’ve called everyone to try and get in contact with him because my daughters need a passport. What do I do? Answer: Since you have made efforts to contact the father to no avail, you may submit Form DS-5525 with the test of the requirements for your children's applications. Explain the situation and your efforts to establish contact in as much details as possible. Keep in mind that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis. It is possible that the applications will be denied.

Applying for U.S. passport by: Anony-gee Question: My husband and I are now living together here in the US with our child. My husband is a US citizen, he is not listed on our child's birth certificate (Philippines). How can we apply for our child's US passport? Answer: You need to establish parentage first so the child can claim U.S. citizenship. Please contact the USCIS on how you can go about this. Once citizenship is established, you can then apply for your child's passport.

Passport application by: Anonymous Question: Father is afraid to sign for his kid's passport due to deportation and living in the U.S. Will they check his status? Answer: Passport services and ICE are different agencies. The father's status should not be an issue.

HELP by: Anonymous Question: I am trying to get my daughter (8 years old) her passport, but her father hasn't been in her life since she as born and I don't know his whereabouts. What can I do? Answer: If the father's name is on the birth certificate, you technically still share legal custody unless a court order says otherwise. His consent is required for the child's passport application. You can begin to search for his whereabouts on social media. Once you have exhausted all efforts to contact the father and still could not connect with him, your next step is to submit the application with Form DS-5525 and a thorough explanation of the situation. It is possible that a passport will be issued to your child but there is also a possibility of denial. Applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis.

DECEASED PARENTS by: Anonymous Question: Both our parents passed. I live in American Samoa. I am now stuck in Salt Lake City, UT after I came down for our mother's funeral then the pandemic hit. I want to take my younger siblings with me back home to the Islands. How can I get their passports when both parents are dead?? Answer: Due to missing details (your age, siblings' age, who your legal guardians are (if any), I cannot provide a concrete answer. Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 regarding your concern.

How to locate father by: Anonymous Question: I'm needing a passport card for my 10-year-old son. Last I heard of the father is that he’s prison but have no clue where. How can I get my son a passport card without his signature? Answer: You may submit Form DS-5525 and a thorough explanation of the situation with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport. Please note that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis. There is a chance that the application will be denied. Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

Application by mother by: Anonymous Question: My daughter's father got life imprisonment and is not available to sign any form of letters or application. I want to apply for a passport for her, not any means of relocating to another destination. What must I do to apply for my daughters passport with immediate effect? Answer: If the father is not allowed to provide the consent from prison, you may apply under exigent family circumstances. To support the application, you need to provide a copy of the father's incarceration orders and submit it with Form DS-5525 and the rest of the requirements for a child's passport. I am not sure what you mean by 'immediate effect' but if and when the passport is issued to your child, she may use it for travel immediately.

Father In Jail by: Anonymous Question: I have an 8-year-old daughter. I want to take her to Jamaica for a family vacation. His father is in jail and we do not have any contact with him. His name is on her birth certificate. What do I need to do to get her a passport? Answer: Since the father's name is on the birth certificate, you technically still share legal custody unless you have a court order stating otherwise. You may either secure a notarized consent from the father through an attorney or get a copy of his incarceration orders to submit with Form DS-5525. Either document must be submitted with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport.

16 yrs old father passed away by: Anonymous Question: I tried getting my passport at age 16. They sent back a letter asking for my dad's death certificate. My mom has tried so many times and cannot get it. What step can I take from here. Answer: At 16, you can already apply for your passport with only one parent's consent or statement of awareness IF you can present your own government-issued ID.

How can I get my child’s passport? by: Anonymous Question: My husband got deported and now I can not get my child’s passport. What do I have to do? We are married an he is the on the birth certificate. My child is only 19 months old. Answer: Your husband may complete Form DS-3053 and have it notarized. Notary services are available at U.S. Embassies and Consulates or any attorney's office. He can then mail the notarized form plus a photocopy of his ID to you. Once you have those, you can submit them with the rest of the application requirements for your baby's passport.

Dad is missing. How can mom obtain sister's passport? by: Anonymous Question: My mom would like to try and take out my sisters passport but my dad's not available. He's been missing for 6 years. What can she do in this case? Answer: Your mother can submit Form DS-5525 with a detailed explanation of the situation and her efforts to locate the father. This needs to be submitted with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport application. Note, however, that applications of this nature are processed on case by case basis. It is possible that the application will be denied. The best way to avoid this situation is to petition the courts for SOLE LEGAL custody of the child so the other parent's consent is no longer needed for important matters such as passport applications.

16 years Old by: Anonymous Question: So reading these comments, does my 16-year-old daughter need permission to get a passport with out her fathers permission? She has never seen nor spoken to her father but he does pay child support, never went to court for custody. Answer: If your daughter already has her own government-issued ID, she will only need the presence of or a written consent from one parent. Consent may also be implied by writing a check for the passport fees.

Absent father by: Anonymous Question: Hi. I was wondering if my mom could get a passport for my 6-year-old sister. Her dad hasn’t been there since she was 8 months. His name is on her birth certificate. My mom has talked to lawyer but they said the only way to get it is to get rid of the last name. My mom doesn’t want to do that . Is there another way? My sister really needs the passport. We have already tried the form but still go denied. Answer: If you already tried Form DS-5525 and was denied, the best thing to do is petition the courts for SOLE LEGAL custody of the child. The last name does not have to be changed for this. The other option is to exhaust all efforts to find the father and secure his consent. Social media is usually a good place to start.

Child's father is in jail by: Anonymous Question: I recently took my 15-year-old to apply for a passport I had all the forms filled out. I was told I was going to be rejected because I needed a copy of my child's father's prison id and or a copy of a notarized form. My child's father is unable to get the form notarized and can not send a copy of his jail id. Is there anything else I can do? Answer: If travel is not essential, you can wait until the child is 16 and has his/her own government-issued ID. The child will then only need your permission to apply for a passport.

Passport for Minor by: Anonymous Question: Hello, I have made many attempts in the past to get my child's passport. I have tried different ways to contact the father to get the consent form signed no luck. We have no communication whats so ever. He has been out of my son's life for 7 years now. I have filled Form DS-5525, and still my child's passport was denied and the agency still kept the fee. I really need my child to have his passport. What else is there to do? Answer: The best way around the issue is to petition the courts for sole legal custody of the child. You will then no longer need the father to sign the consent nor will you need to submit Form DS-5525. Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

How does the law work? by: Anonymous Question: I have a sister who's child was residing with his father in Mexico for 12 years. He passed away a few days ago and she is trying to get her son back home. He is also a U.S Citizen. How does she bring him home? Answer: If the child has a U.S. birth certificate, the mother can bring him back via land or sea. She must also bring a copy of the father's death certificate to prove that travel consent is no longer needed.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: I have a 5 year old son that I am trying to get a passport for. Dad is not in his life since day 1. He is not on the birth certificate. I am the only one on the birth certificate. Am i still suppose to look for him to get consent? Answer: The father's consent is not required. The birth certificate listing you as the sole parent is sufficient proof of sole legal custody.

One custodial parent by: Anonymous Question: Hi. I have a 5yo daughter. Her passport is about to expire. Father disappeared in 2016. Nowhere to be found. I have a sole physical custody by court. Can I renew the passport for my daughter without him being present or his consent? Answer: Passports issued to minors cannot be renewed. If you do not have sole legal custody, you need the father's consent to apply for the child's passport. If you cannot find the father, you may use Form DS-5525 in addition to the application requirements. Note, however, that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis.

Absent father by: SP Question: Hi, I have a 6-year-old and I cannot locate the father. I have no contact with him nor his family. I need to renew my child's passport. Please assist on how I can renew my child passport without the father. Last I saw him was 2014 when my 6 year old was born. Answer: You need to find a way to contact the father to get his consent if you still share legal custody of the child. Once you have exhausted all means to contact him to no avail, you may then apply for your child's passport under special family circumstances using Form DS-5525. With using this form, you need to establish that you have done everything to contact the father but failed to do so. Please note that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis. Since your child is still 6 years old, it may be best to speak to a lawyer regarding sole legal custody to avoid complications like this in the future.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: Hello, my father is in jail in Cuba. He lives here but something happened and I need to get my American passport. I believe my Cuban one was renewed. I am wondering how can I do that if my father is in jail and they won’t let anyone go in or out. He has been in jail for 3 years. Is there anyway I can get my passport? I am 16 years old and my mother is here in the U.S. Answer: At 16, you will only need one parent's consent to apply for your passport if you already have your own ID. Your mother can provide said consent.

Minor passport by: Anonymous Question: My husband was deported but I stayed with his passport copy. Will I be able to use it when applying for my son's passport? I already made an appointment with the embassy but it was postponed due to the pandemic. Answer: I assume you are not in the United States because you made an appointment at an embassy. Still, you need the father's notarized consent to apply for the child's passport. The father can mail you this and then you can submit it with the photocopy of his passport and the rest of the requirements.

trying to get my daughters passport by: Anonymous Question: My daughter's father is in jail and I need to get her a passport. Answer: The father may still execute a notarized consent from jail through a lawyer. You can then submit said consent with the rest of the application requirements.

Getting my daughter's passport renewed by: Anonymous Question: I called before I applied. I have no idea where my daughter's father is. It has been almost 10 years. I called and they said I need to do a statement with with her application. I did that and I seem to have a issue. So I don't know what to do to get my daughter passport. Answer: Applications sent with Form DS-5525 (Statement of Special Family Circumstance) are processed on a case by case basis. If it was denied, passport services may have deemed it insufficient. The next recourse is to file for sole legal custody of the child and submit the court order when you apply for the passport.

Father in jail by: Anonymous Question: How can I get a passport for my kids if father is in jail? Answer: The father may sign a notarized statement of consent through his lawyer which you can then submit with a copy of his ID and the rest of the requirements for the child's passport.

Deportation by: Anonymous Question: My son was born in the USA in 2011. His father is from Nigeria and was deported back in 2013. His ID had expired back in 2011 when my son was born so he was not able to sign his birth certificate. We are planning a trip to Nigeria so that my son can go live with his father for at least 2 years. Do I need his fathers signature? His father had already written an invitation letter for us to come and visit and his son to stay. Answer: If the father's name is not on the birth certificate, you may apply for your child's passport without him.

ID Issue by: Anonymous Question: I need to get my kids passports and the father of my kids allow it, but all he has is his incarceration card. He is not in jail, and has no other identification. Like NOTHING. Will they except his incarceration badge as an ID? Answer: Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 regarding your concern.

Father in Mexico by: Anonymous Question: I'm trying to get my kids passport but the father is in Mexico. How can I get his passport? Can he sign with a notary in Mexico and send me the paper back? Answer: Yes, the father can mail the notarized consent plus a photocopy of his ID to you. You can then submit these with the rest of the requirements for your child's passport.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: The father of my daughter lives in another state. How would I be able take my daughter passport? What paper will I need? How can we do it being different state? Answer: The father needs to execute a notarized statement of consent and mail it to you with a photocopy of the ID he used. You can then submit these with the rest of the application requirements for your child's passport.

Father has no parental rights by: Angie Question: What do I have to do to get my 4 year old a passport? Her biological father and I was never married and he has never abstained any parental rights, child support or visitation order. He refuses to sign for me to get her one. I am automatically her custodial parent bc he has never established any rights. Is there anything I can do to obtain a passport without him? We are wanting to take a vacation to Canada. Answer: If the father's name is on the birth certificate, he has parental rights. If you want to legally remove his rights, you need to speak to a lawyer. For the passport application, you may submit Form DS-5525 with the rest of the requirements. Note, however, that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis.

His dad is dead and does not live with mom by: Anonymous Question: I’m trying to find out how to renovate my little brothers passport. He is 13, his dad hasn’t been in his life but is on his birth certificate. The father passed away a year ago and he does not live with his mom who lives in Mexico. Answer: I'm not sure what you mean by renovate. Can you elaborate?

Daughters father MIA by: Anonymous Question: Haven't seen or heard from my daughter's father in 12 years. She is now 13. Can I get her a passport without his signature. He is on the birth certificate. Answer: Since the father's name is on the birth certificate, his consent is required to apply for the child's passport.

Need help by: Anonymous Question: My daughter was born in England. I am Jamaican. We left England in 2007 and her father hasn’t been in her life since then. She doesn’t have British citizenship because in England whatever the mother is that’s what the child is. I recently became a citizen and I want to get our passports before she turns 18. Do I have to put him on the document even though i know nothing about his whereabouts? Answer: If the father is listed in the birth certificate, his name needs to be included in the application form. His consent is also required to apply for the child's passport.

Notary problem by: Anonymous Question: I went to the passport agency and they gave me the DS-3053 for my husband who lives in Haiti to sign to get our baby's passport. He sent it to me but I heard that he was supposed to go to the embassy which has been closed for a while now. We don't know when is going to reopen. Can I get my baby passport with the notary paper? Answer: As long as the form as notarized by a reputable notary public, it should be accepted for the application.

Father in prison by: Anonymous Question: How can I obtain a passport for my children with out father's consent? He is in prison and unable to get a notary for the forms. Answer: You can submit Form DS-5525 plus a copy of his incarceration order with the rest of the requirements for each child's passport.

What do I do if there is restraining order? by: mehrnoosh shiraziAnonymous Question: Hi. I’m trying to renew my baby's passport and his father's name is on the birth certificate. There is a 5-years restraining order. No contact, no texting, no phone calls. Do I still need a signature from his dad to renew his passport? Answer: Minors' passports cannot be renewed. When you submit a new application for your child's passport, you may include Form DS-5525 and a copy of the restraining order.

Passport help by: Anonymous Question: My son's father is dead in Haiti. He's never been to the US and I don't have contact with his family. How can I get my son a U.S passport? Answer: If the father's name is on the child's birth certificate, you need a copy of his death certificate to show that you now have sole legal custody.

Trying to get passport without "father" present by: Anonymous Question: My ex husband's name is on my child's birth certificate but she is not biologically his and in our divorce decree there was nothing stating anything about her in it and was nothing set up about a paternity test either. The marriage was abusive and we haven't had contact in years, she hasn't seen him in around 5. What would be the best way to go about getting my 7 year old a passport? Answer: You may try to submit Form DS-5525 with the rest of the requirements for the child's passport.

Father left the country by: Anonymous Question: The father of my kid and I have not seen and heard from each other 6 years. I would like to renew my son's passport. How can i renew it if the father is no where to be found? Answer: You can try to submit Form DS-5525 with the rest of the application requirements. Do note, however, that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis. It is possible that the application will get denied or that passport services will require more documents.

Deported dad by: Anonymous Question: If my children’s father got deported back to Mexico, and has died but in the U.S. we share custody, how would I go about getting a passport for my children? Having a hard time getting a death certificate. Answer: You need the death certificate as proof that you are now the sole legal custodian. Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

Incarcerated parent by: Anonymous Question: My daughter's father is incarcerated. He's not able to make phone calls or have visitors at this time. His name is on the birth certificate but we were never married. He gave me Power of Attorney. Does the Power of Attorney give me the ability to get her a passport without him? Or do I still need to somehow get his consent to do it? Answer: The POA should work. Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 to verify.

Passport fraud by: Anonymous Question: Both mother and father are in contact, and both share custody of children but one parent commits either forgery or fraud in order to get children passports without the other parent's knowledge or consent. What do you do? Answer: This question is best addressed to a lawyer. Please contact one to discuss any legal actions you may take.

Father incarcerated, awaiting deportation by: Anonymous Question: My daughter's dad is in prison. He has 8 months left and has an ICE hold. I need to get my daughter's passport so that we can visit him once he is in Honduras. How do I go about doing this? And if he need to fill out a form, how much does that cost and how would I get it to him in prison? Answer: The father needs to sign Form DS-3053 and provide you with a photocopy of his ID. Since he is in prison, you need to contact the facility where he is detained for visitation. It will also be good to have a lawyer around to notarize the form. Getting the form will not cost anything. We cannot speak for lawyer's fees and other expenses, though. If obtaining the consent form is impossible, you may submit Form DS-5525 plus a copy of his incarceration order with the rest of the application requirements instead.

Need Passport by: Anonymous Question: I need to obtain my child's passport. When my son was a year old, I shared custody with the father but he got deported to another country when he was 2. I never heard of him again. Can I apply for his passport? Answer: The father's deportation does not nullify his rights over the child. You still share custody with him. Please find a way to contact the father for consent for the child's passport application.

My minor child’s passport by: Anonymous Question: How can I get my minor child’s passport without the fathers consent? He doesn’t want to sign it until I take him off child support. Five years ago he signed for one but now it’s expired and he’s on child support and won’t sign it. Answer: The father is well within his rights to refuse to consent to your child's passport application since you share legal custody. The only way around this is to petition the courts to grant you SOLE LEGAL custody.

Passport without father by: Anonymous Question: I am currently divorced and I am trying to obtain a passport for both of my kids. I have no contact with their father but he is on their birth certificate, what can I do? Answer: Since his name is on the birth certificates, the father's presence or consent is required to apply for your children's passports. You need to find a way to contact him.

Help by: Anonymous Question: My kid's father is in a halfway house in Pennsylvania and I live in New Jersey. He does not want to give me custody of my child, but I need him for the passport. What’s the best thing I can do? Answer: You can ask the father to sign and have Form DS-3053 notarized then provide you with a photocopy of his ID. You will need these to apply for your child's passport without him being present. His current circumstance and refusal to give you custody is not grounds for applying under exigent family circumstances.

My son's father is out of the country by: Anonymous Question: I wanted to go to Mexico this year with my kids but my son's father is out of the country and they don't have a passport. Their father is on the birth certificate and signed it. The father of my kids is located in Mexico and has applied for a Visa and still waiting for a response. How do I apply for a passport for my kids if there father is out of the country? Answer: The father can complete Form DS-3053, have it notarized at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City or at any of the U.S. Consulates located all over Mexico then mail it to you with a copy of his valid ID. You can then submit these with the rest of the requirements when you apply for your child's passport.

Applying for child's passport by: Anonymous Question: The only identification I have is an expired passport and ID from Mexico. Can I still try to get a passport for my child that is a United States citizen? Answer: You should still be able to. Please contact customer service at 1-877-487-2778 to confirm.

DS-5525 by: Anonymous Question: Where do you submit the documents for DS-5525? Do I mail it? Or bring it in? Where? Answer: Form DS-5525 must be submitted in person at an acceptance facility with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport.

Father not on birth certificate by: Anonymous Question: How can a parent get a passport if the child is living with both parents but only one shows on the birth certificate? Answer: Only the parent whose name appears in the birth certificate needs to be present from the application for the child's passport is submitted.

My daughter's passport by: Anonymous Question: I'm trying to get my daughter her passport but i don't have much contact with her dad. Last time I heard of him, he was on the run from the police. How can I get her passport without him? Answer: You may try to submit Form DS-5525 with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport. However, please note that applications of this nature are processed only on a case by case basis.

My baby’s father lives in Colombia by: Anonymous Question: I’m planning to go to Colombia for the summer with my baby to see my husband. I need to get his passport but his dad is not here. He can’t come to the U.S. yet because he doesn’t have a visa. I have already filed a petition for spouse but it is currently still processing. Our son has his last name and I put his name on the birth certificate without him being in the U.S. How can I get his passport and permission to leave the country? Answer: He may have his consent notarized at the U.S. Embassy in Bogota and send it with a photocopy of his ID to you. You can then submit these with the rest of the requirements for your child's passport.

Both parents absent by: Anonymous Question: Both parents are absent from my life. I need to get a passport but my grandfather is my guardian and my parents are on my birth certificate. Letter got sent to me today stating that my grandfather's guardianship papers don’t establish our relationship. Answer: If you are a minor, you need to contact your parents. Please call customer service at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

Passport and father in jail by: Anonymous Question: My 5-year-old daughter has a passport and I am trying to plan a trip to Mexico. Her father is in jail. Do I need a notarized letter stating she can travel with me. Thanks. Question: A consent is not required since the child will be traveling with a parent. Please contact the CBP to confirm.

My daughter father is incarcerated; he’s 10 hours away by: Anonymous Question: I need to get my daughter a passport because I plan to take a 2-week vacation to Mexico to visit my grandma but my daughter's dad is incarcerated & I haven’t spoken to him since 2014. How can I go about getting her a passport? Answer: In addition to the requirements for a child's passport, you may submit Form DS-5525 plus a copy of the father's incarceration order.

Deported by: Anonymous Question: My children's father was deported and i have no contact information for him. How can I obtain their passport? Answer: You may submit the requirements for your children's passports with Form DS-5525 and a copy of the father's deportation order.

Need Additional Info for DS-5525 by: Anonymous Question: My letter indicated I needed additional information regarding my ex-husband's incarceration. If he populates the DS-3053, do I have to provide his incarceration record in addition to the DS-3053? I do not know how to obtain an "incarceration order" from across the US. I provided printed online documentation indicating the prison which he resides, along with his release information and inmate number. Answer: If you can obtain a notarized Form DS-3053 from the father, you do not need the incarceration order.

Father is in jail by: Anonymous Question: How can I get my 3-year-old a passport if his father is in jail? Answer: In addition to the requirements for a child's passport, you may submit a notarized Form DS-3053 signed by the father plus a photocopy of his ID. If you cannot obtain these, you may instead submit Form DS-5525 plus a copy of the father's incarceration order.

Incarcerated parent by: Anonymous Question: I applied for my daughter's passport but her father is incarcerated. I did receive a letter that he needs to fill out a form DS–3053. He told me it would take him around a month to get it notarized at his prison, but our trip to Kansas is in two months. I was wondering if we would be able to receive her passport on time or do I have to get it expedited? I found out she doesn't need a passport to travel inside the U.S. only her birth certificate. Answer: A passport is not required for domestic travel. Children do not need to present IDs, only the accompanying adults do. Regarding the passport, processing will resume as soon as the required document is received.

U.S. citizen child by: Anonymous Question: Hi, I am trying to get my 14-year-old daughter a passport. She is an American citizen and so am I but her father is an undocumented immigrant living here with me. He has no identification and cannot get any driver's license etc in our state due to being undocumented. This doesn't seem fair that my daughter can't get a passport because of her father's circumstance. The requirement under 16 is for both parents have to show IDs. What can be done? Can her father use a Mexican consular ID for a form of ID to use on her passport application? She is devastated she won't be able to go on a cruise with her friend. Answer: The father may still apply with your for your child's passport. He may use his Mexican passport or ID as identification. His legal status in the United States should not affect your child's application.

Want to apply for my children’s passport by: TJ Question: I’m a U.S. citizen. My children were born in Mexico but are currently in the U.S. How can I get them a passport? My sister's friend brought them to me; they have no legal status in the U.S. and have been here for about 3 years. One is a 16 years old, the other one is 11 years old. Answer: Children born overseas to a U.S. citizen must have a Consular Report of Birth Abroad as proof of U.S. citizenship. If you have these documents, you should be able to apply for your children's passports. If not, I recommend that you consult the USCIS regarding their status and citizenship.

No ID available by: Anonymous Question: If the father lost his ID and has no form of ID but sent me the notarized consent, what can I use instead? Answer: Please call customer service at 1-877-487-2778 regarding your concern.

Trying to get my kid's passport by: Amanda Question: For the last 4 years. I've been trying to get my child's passport. I was told to get in concert with the father. I've been in contact multiple times through mail and text and sent over the paperwork. and I got a text message telling me the only way I can get the passport is if I take him off child support. I sent multiple notarized letters for him and his family to sign but refused to get back to me what can I do? Answer: The father's refusal is not grounds for applying under exigent/special family circumstances. We recommend speaking to a lawyer about your legal options to resolve the issue.

Emergency Passport by: Anonymous Question: I need a passport as soon as possible because his grandma passed away. My son is 15 years old. His dad has been out of his life since he was 3 months old. We have no contact with him ever since. The last time I heard about him, he got deported and is not in the right state of mind. What do I need to do? Answer: You may apply for your child's passport with Form DS-5525. There is no guarantee that the application will be approved and processed but there is no guarantee.

Father is in a different country by: Griselda Question: Hi. What do I need to send my husband for us to be able to get our daughter who is a U.S. citizen her passport? My daughter and I live in the U.S. but my husband is in Mexico. Thank you. Answer: Your husband needs to complete Form DS-3053, have it notarized, and send it with a photocopy of his ID to you. You need to submit these with the requirement when you apply for your child's passport.

Child's Passport by: Anonymous Question: The agency is asking for additional information regarding my son's approval for a passport but I do not have it. There is no way to contact his dad. I have primary physical custody but shared legal. I filled out the form stating that I have attempted to contact his dad but did not get a response. I no longer have a phone number for him. The letter I recently received wants a birth certificate with only my name, a letter from the court stating his father's rights have been taking away, custody papers stating I have sole custody, etc... I cannot provide any of this. What do I do to get my child a passport if I have tried to contact his father but am unable to? Answer: Applications submitted under exigent/special family circumstances are processed on a case to case basis. There is no guarantee that the application will be approved. Since you are required to provide proof that you have sole legal custody, you need to go to the courts to petition for it. Please speak a lawyer about this course of action.

Kids' passports by: J. Malone Question: My ex wife won’t give me the kids' passports so we can go on vacation. She obtained the kids passports a year ago and now I want to take them on vacation and she won’t let me use them. What do I do? Answer: If the issue cannot be resolved by speaking to your children's mother, you may consult a lawyer about going to court.

Please help! by: Anonymous Question: I need to get my three children's passports to travel abroad. Their father passed away after he and I had divorced, (he remarried and his partner refuses to have any communication with us) so I cannot get a death certificate. What documents do I need to obtain the passports. Answer: You may obtain copy of the death certificate from the vital records office where the death was registered.

Deported father by: Anonymous Question: I want to get my kids' passport, 3 and 4 years old. But their dad got deported back to his home country, what can I do? Answer: The father may have Form DS-3053 notarized at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate located in his home country and send it to you with a photocopy of his valid photo ID. Please have him provide one statement of consent for each child. Once you are in possession of these documents, you may apply for your children's passports.

Husband in prison by: Anonymous Question: My husband is in prison. I want to get my daughters' passports. They just have his last name on their birth certificate. They are 5 and 6 years old. How can I get their passports? Answer: In addition to the requirements, you may submit Form DS-5525 plus a copy of the father's incarceration order. Please note that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis.

Dad incarcerated under another name by: JACKIE Question: I want to apply for my sons passport however his dad is incarcerated under another name. Answer: Your case seems very complicated. I recommend that you contact a lawyer to discuss your options. You may also call passport services at 1-877-487-2778 for advice on the matter.

DS-3053 by: Anonymous Question: Why wouldn't the agency accept my DS-3053? My husband had it notarized in Guatemala. Answer: Something may have been missing or the notary public may not have met the State Department's standards or requirements. It is recommended that passport forms such as DS-3053 be notarized at the U.S. Embassy or consulate if completed abroad. Please call customer service at 1-877-487-2778 for more information.

Please Help by: Anonymous Question: My husband was deported. The kids and I are trying to go to Mexico to reunite. I already got the kids' passports. (He went to the U.S. embassy in Mexico City but is in a different city now). We don't have a lot of money for the letter of consent to travel with the kids out of the country. Is there another option? Cheaper? Do I really need that letter of consent? Answer: Your children do not need travel consents to enter Mexico. However, a parent or legal guardian DEPARTING Mexico with minor children should carry a notarized consent letter from the other parent if traveling separately. INM requires at least one parent to complete a SAM (Formato de Salida de Menores) for all minors departing Mexico with a third party. Travelers should contact the Embassy of Mexico for more information.

Trying to get passport by: Anonymous Question: I’m trying to get passports for my kids. I’m no longer with their father, we have both moved on and remarried. But I feel he’s not going to sign the passport papers. Is there any other way to get the passports? Answer: If the father's name is on the children's birth certificates, his consent is required to applu for their passports.

DS-5525 & DS-3053 is it applicable if the father is dead? by: Anonymous Question: Are DS-5525 & DS-3053 applicable if the father is dead? This is a case of a US minor passport renewal in India. Answer: Both forms are not applicable. You need to present a copy of the father's death certificate -- this will prove that you now have sole legal custody. Please contact the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi or any of the U.S. Consulates for more information.

Abandonment and child support by: Anonymous Question: How can I file a case against my ex husband for not supporting my son? Where do I have to call? Please help me. Answer: Please contact the local family court regarding your concern.

If he is in prison? by: Piper Question: My father is in prison and he doesn't claim I'm his child. I don't know if that will keep my mom from getting my passport so i can study abroad in Japan. Answer: If your father's name is in your birth certificate and you are age 15 or younger, your mother will need to submit a notarized consent from him plus a photocopy of his ID. Alternatively, your mother may submit Form DS-5525 with a copy of your father's incarceration order. These must be submitted with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport. Please note that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis. If you are age 16 or 17, you can apply for your passport with only your mother's statement of awareness or consent. This sort of application will require you to present your own government-issued ID as proof of identity. The statement must be submitted with a photocopy of your mother's ID and the rest of the requirements.

Passports, child support and paternity test by: Anonymous Question: I am applying for child support and paternity test for my child. If I already have a passport for my child, do I have to get another passport if the test comes back "he is the father" because my child will now take on his last name? Answer: You may or may not apply for a new passport for your child.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: How can I get a passport for my child if her father is incarcerated and not on the birth certificate? Answer: Since the father is not on the birth certificate, you may proceed to apply for your child's passport without complications. You do not need the father to apply.

12-year-old daughter by: Anonymous Question: I have years not talking with my daughter's father. Can I take out my daughter's fathers last name from her passport? It will be her first passport. She has a green card. Answer: The passport will be issued in the name you enter in the Form DS-11 as long as it is supported by the citizenship evidence you present. However, please note that if the father's name is printed on birth certificate, the father will need to be present or provide a statement of consent to apply for your child's passport.

Father's not around by: Anonymous Question: I was married twice and had a child with each husband. Neither are involved in their sons' lives. I know where one of them lives but it's halfway across the country. The other one, I have no clue where he is living. My kids are 10 and 15 and have not seen their fathers since they were infants. Trying to find them and get permission would just cause more issues for them, especially my oldest son who is autistic. What form do I need to fill out? Answer: You may attempt to submit Form DS-5525 with the rest of the application requirements. You must explain the situation in as much detail as possible and provide as many supporting evidence of no contact or failure to contact as you can. Please note that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis.

Father is out of the country by: Anonymous Question: Where can the father send the paperwork for his child who has to renew the passport? Answer: The father may have the statement of consent notarized at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate located in the country where he currently resides. He can then mail the document to you so you can submit it with the rest of the requirements for a child's passport.

Passport for child by: Anonymous Question: The father of my child has been incarcerated since she was 6 months old and will be until at least she is 15. How do I obtain a copy of his incarceration orders and would it help to also submit the papers from the court saying I am the managing conservator of my daughter? Answer: You may contact the prison administrator about getting a copy of the incarceration order.

Help by: Anonymous Question: So I have two kids -- a boy and a girl. They're from two different dads. I’m married to my daughter's father. I changed my last name on my license but haven’t changed it on my passport yet. So I’m wondering what kind of proof should I take to my son's application to get his passport and for my daughter? Can I take my passport to my sons appointment to get passport since it has my last name as I have it on his birth certificate? And on my daughters appointment for her passport I have the same last as her on my license? What should I do? Answer: You're correct. You may use the IDs that match each child's last name when you apply for their passports.

Father incarcerated and refuses to sign for passport by: Anonymous Question: The child's father has been recently incarcerated but prior to him going in he refused to sign off on the passport application because he is mad at the mother and her new relationship. Can a DS-5525 be used in this situation? Answer: It is possible to use Form DS-5525 for the application. A copy of the father's incarceration order will help the case. Please note that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis.

How to get my son's passport by: Anonymous Question: I've been trying to get my son his passport. His father was incarcerated and then put into immigration and then he's been deported to Mexico. His name is on my son's birth certificate, I live in the U.S. How can I get my son a passport without the father? Answer: You may contact the father and ask him to mail a notarized statement of consent plus a photocopy of his ID to you. You can then submit these with the rest of the requirements for your child's passport.

No contact with father, mother is not a U.S. citizen by: Turk Question: I want to apply for a passport for my son who was born abroad. I, the custodial parent, am a non U.S. citizen. Father is not on the birth certificate as he has never left the US. Recently I filled a police report against him for domestic violence. He won't talk to me or work with me on applying for our child's first US passport. Paternity has been established in 2014 and father is paying child support ever since. I have legal documentation that he is the father and also have the results of the paternity test and prove of him paying child support. He won't cooperate with me in providing the needed documentation. How can I still apply for a US passport for my minor son? Answer: Hello, Turk. You may apply for your child's passport without the father. The birth certificate without the father's name is sufficient proof that you have sole legal custody. However, the challenge will be proving the child's citizenship. Since you mentioned that the father is not on the birth certificate and that you are not a U.S. citizen, questions may arise regarding the child's U.S. citizenship unless you have a Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by the U.S. embassy located in the country where the child was born.

Father in prison by: Anonymous Question: My child's father has been incarcerated since my child was 3 and he is now 13. We have had no contact with the father for those 10 years. I sent in the DS-5525 form already explaining our situation, plus an inmate locator page and I received a reply back asking for more documents, but I do not have any documents to give. I need help please. Answer: A copy of the father's incarceration order issued by the prison he is in may help your case.

Granddaughter's passport by: Dmyers Question: How can I obtain a passport for my granddaughter if i cannot locate her father? I filled out the DS-5525, sent printouts from social media-emails- certified letters- text messages to his family members and all i got in return was another DS-5525 form. I contacted a lawyer who said it would take months to get sole custody if i cannot locate the father. Our trip is Sept 13th. Answer: Passport applications submitted with Form DS-5525 are processed on a case by case basis. If the application was denied, you need to contact passport services to find out how to proceed.

My kids' dad is incarcerated since they were born by: Anonymous Question: I would like to get my kids their passport so we can travel plus they are getting close to their 16th year and they will need it for cruises also. Their dad's name is on the birth certificate but he has been incarcerated since they were born. I haven’t been in front of a judge to establish paternity or try to get sole custody. Is there any way I can apply for their passport without him signing since he is incarcerated and sentenced for a long time? Answer: You can apply for the children's passports by submitting Form DS-5525 and a copy of the father's incarceration order. These should be submitted in addition to the regular application requirements.

Incarcerated Parent by: Anonymous Question: I applied for my son's passport and turned it in with all forms needed including DS-5525 and a copy of online inmate locator page. The passport agency called and stated that they need more documents but I don't know what other documents I can give. The father does not have an ID to write a letter. I need help , i had to push travel date back due to this situation. Answer: Please call customer service at 1-877-487-2778.

What do I do please? by: Anonymous Question: So I have a dilemma. I wrote the wrong birthday and last name of my son's father on his birth certificate. I assumed the father would have the same last name as his father (grandfather). The Father lives out of the country. I don't know what to do. Answer: The name issue must be addressed first since the father will need to provide a notarized consent for the passport application. Once you've had your child's birth certificate straightened out, you can apply for your child's passport.

Applying for childs passport but fathers ID is expired by: Anonymous Question: How can I apply for my child's passport? Her father's ID is expired and the soonest appointment he could get is in August and i have tickets for us to leave the beginning of August. Answer: Please contact customer service at 1-877-487-2778 or 1-888-874-7793 for advise regarding your concern.

Custodial parent by: Anonymous Question: If I have been named as the custodial parent of my child; her father is paying child support but we have no knowledge of his whereabouts and my husband has raised her since she was 6 months old. She even has my husband's last name but the biological dad is on the birth certificate. Can I fill out the form explaining we have no knowledge of his whereabouts. I found his mom on Facebook. She was supposed to see if she could help me but I found out she passed away Monday. Will my 14-year-old be able to speak for herself that my husband is the only dad she knows? Answer: If you cannot contact the father, you can submit Form DS-5525 and explain the situation in as much detail as you can. If you have proof to show of your efforts to make contact, please include it in the application packet. You need to submit these with the rest of the application requirements. Please note that applications of this nature are processed on a case by case basis.

Father is out of state by: Florida Question: My son is 14, his father lives out of state. Can he have the DS-3053 signed and notarized and mailed back to me. Then I can go into my passport office and apply? Is there anything else I will need to bring with me? Answer: In addition to the notarized consent, a photocopy of the father's valid government-issued ID must be submitted with the application.

Special guardianship order by: Anonymous Question: I have special guardianship of my niece's child. I want to take her on holiday but on her birth certificate, her father is named. I don't know him so how can I get all of his details which I need for the passport? Answer: This question is best answered by the mother of the child.

Help by: Anonymous Question: I am a U.S. citizen who had a baby with a Mexican abroad. His last name is in the birth certificate but I divorced him due to domestic violence and I got custody of my daughter but he still has visitation rights. So I still need his permission to get my daughter a passport to take her to the U.S. I have stay away orders against him and lots of times I have gone to the police to complain against violence. I feel my life is in danger but i cant leave without my daughter. What can I do? How can the U.S. embassy help me? The government here is corrupt and supporting him. Answer: If you have a copy of the restraining order, you may attempt to apply for your child's passport under exigent family circumstances. Please contact the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City or any of the U.S. Consulates located all over Mexico.

Incarcerated father by: Anonymous Question: what do I do if I cannot find my daughter's father who is in prison? I don't know where to find him. He has not been in her life for years. What do I do? I have already purchased tickets for our vacation. Answer: You may try to apply with Form DS-5525 where you need to explain the situation in as much detail as possible. Please note that these type of applications may or may not be approved.

Child passport by: Connie Question: I’m trying to renew my daughter's passport but I cannot locate her dad. I raised my daughter since birth and he's never been there. What should I do? Answer: If the father's name is on the birth certificate, his consent is required to apply for your child's new passport. If you cannot contact him despite efforts, you can try to apply with Form DS-5525. Please explain the situation in as much detail as you can and include pertinent paperwork or any proof of your failed attempts at contact. These should help your case. Please keep in mind that applications like this are processed on a case by case basis.

How can I obtain a passport if my Childs father is deployed? by: Anonymous Question: I need a passport for my son but his father is currently deployed and not coming back for awhile. I have a short amount of time to obtain the passport before vacation but is there anyway I can get it since his father is not able to be there? Answer: If the father cannot get a notarized statement of consent to you, you may submit Form DS-5525 with a copy of the father's deployment orders with the rest of the application requirements.

No Legal Paperwork by: Anonymous Question: I have been raising my nephew (13 years old) since he was 8 months old. My sister was the only parent listed on his birth certificate and she passed away when he was 8 months. CPS interviewed us after her death and made sure he was taken care of. They also got us his Certified birth certificate (I have a certified death certificate of his mother/my sister). However, we never got any "legal" paperwork stating we had custody or that we are his guardians. Now we want to take a family vacation. How should we proceed? Answer: Please contact the NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 regarding your concern.

ID Issues by: Anonymous Question: My son's dad and I haven’t spoken in over a year. I finally got in touch with him to get his consent to go to the notary with me for our son's passport. BUT he DOESN’T have an ID. I am doing everything I can to try and get it before our passport appointment but if I can’t get a copy of his ID will his (my sons dad) birth certificate substitute for the ID? Answer: It might suffice. Please contact NPIC at 1-877-487-2778 to confirm.

Passport by: Alexandria Question: How do I obtain a passport for my son whose father is deported and I have no means of contacting him? We haven’t spoken to him in 9 years. He was deported from El Paso but we stay in NC. So I don’t have any physical proof that he is deported for when I hire a lawyer. Answer: You may send Form DS-5525, explaining the situation in as much detail as possible. You need to submit this with the rest of the requirements for your child's passport. Please note that applications on this nature are processed on a case by case basis and it is possible that more information/documents will be required.

Travel visa info? by: Anonymous Question: My children's father has recently been deported. We were planning to get their passports this year. And after reading all the comments here, I now know how to go about doing that. But will be getting travel visa work the same? I do not have some custody yet. And he had agreed to allow the kids to have passports. We need the visa because now that he has been deported, we are planning to stay longer than originally planned. Answer: You need to contact the embassy of the country you are traveling to regarding visa issues.

Confused by: Anonymous Question: How can I get a notarized form if my daughter's dad got deported to Mexico? It’s illegal for a notary in Mexico to sign English forms. Answer: The consent may be notarized at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City or any of the U.S. Consulates located all over Mexico.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: Can I apply for a passport for my son if he is dead and I present his death certificate? Answer: Yes. The death certificate should suffice as proof of sole legal custody and allow you to apply for your child's passport.

How to get him a passport (American father) by: L. King 🇵🇭 Question: Hi from the Philippines. How can I get a passport for my child? His father is American. We get married in 2005 and I give birth to my child in 2006. We got separated 2011. Since then, we never talked to each other. My mother-in-law is asking us to visit her but he doesn't have a passport. Is it possible to get him a dual citizenship? How can I do that? I need some advice so I can get him an American passport. Please answer my question, I need help. I work abroad and I plan to get him a passport when I go back home so he can travel too. Thanks so much. Answer: We deleted your email address for security purposes. You need to contact the U.S. Embassy in Manila regarding your concern.

Passport for minor by: Anonymous Question: My daughter is 6 and has never met her father. She has his last name on her birth certificate, but he has been in Mexico the whole time. I have zero contact with him. What can I do? Will I need a consent form? How? Is it possible to have a guardian stepfather? I need info. Answer: If you have zero contact with the father and have made all possible efforts to contact him to no avail, you may try to apply for your child's passport under exigent family circumstances. To do this, you need to submit Form DS-5525 with the rest of the application requirements. In the form, you must explain the situation in as much detail as possible. Please note that applications submitted under exigent circumstances are processed on a case by case basis. There is chance that your child will be issued a passport but there is no guarantee. To avoid issues like this in the future, you may want to file for sole legal custody of your child. Please contact a lawyer about this.

Help by: Anonymous Question: Can someone send me the link of what I need to give my child's father to sign for her to get her passport? She has his last name on her birth certificate. He leaves us all the time, comes and goes in her life and I am the one who takes care of her and she stays with me but it's not by court that I have sole custody. Answer: You may have the father complete Form DS-3053, sign it and have it notarized. He needs to send the actual notarized document to you so you can submit it with the application.

Child passport by: Phyo Question: What can I do if my daughter's passport application was not approved because I can't locate the father? I left him in Thailand 10 years ago and we will be travel within two weeks. I called the passport office everyday and they never called me back for answers. Answer: If the father's name is on the child's birth certificate, you need his presence or consent to apply for your child's passport. If contact with him is impossible, you may submit Form DS-5525 where you must explain the situation in as much detail as possible. Please note that applications submitted with Form DS-5525 are approved on a case by case basis.

Death certificate from another country by: Anonymous Question: My daughter's biological father passed away and his niece sent me his death certificate from El Salvador. Should that paper be enough to get my daughter a passport? Answer: Yes, it should be enough to obtain your child's passport. However, if it is in a foreign language, you need to have it translated.

Passport for Daughters by: Anonymous Question: Hi. I want to obtain passports for my daughters but the father is giving me problems. His name is on the birth certificate but he is not active in the kids' life. How do I go about the passport without his consent? Answer: Since the father's name is on the birth certificate, you need his consent unless you have proof of SOLE LEGAL custody. We recommend that you speak to a lawyer about sole legal custody or filing for a court order compelling the father to provide consent for the passport issuance.

Won't sign papers by: Joy R. Question: Hi, I'm wondering how can I have my son's father sign the papers for my sons passport if he's in prison for good? Please let me know what I have to do. Answer: If the father cannot provide the notarized consent, you may use Form DS-5525 and submit it with a copy of the father's incarceration order and the rest of the application requirements.

Child's passport by: Gomez Question: Can I get a passport for my daughter if the father is listed as "unkown" on her birth certificate? What would I need? Answer: Yes, you can. There should be no additional documents required to apply for your child's passport.

Several Attempts to obtain other parent's consent by: Anonymous Question: Hello, I have made several attempts in reaching out to the father of my children through his family members, but have yet to receive a response. I don't know his whereabouts, contact info, no court order in place etc. We would like to travel to Mexico for a family wedding late July. How should I proceed? Answer: You may submit form Form DS-5525 and apply for your children's passports under exigent family circumstances. You need to explain the case and the efforts you have made to contact the father in the statement. Please note that these applications are processed on a case by case basis.

Sole Custody by: Anonymous Question: In the state of Kansas, does the mother have sole custody by default or without/ before court proceedings or motions even if father is on the birth certificate? Answer: Please consult a lawyer to find out if state law applies to applications for a child's passport.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: Hi. I have a question. My son's father just got deported, I want to get his passport. What information do I need so I'm able to get his passport? Thanks! Answer: If you have contact with the father, he can send a notarized statement of consent to you so you can submit it with the application for your child's passport. If you do not have contact with the father, you may attempt to apply for the child's passport under exigent family circumstances. You need to submit Form DS-5525 plus a copy of the father's deportation order.

Confused by: Anonymous Question: I have 2 children by 2 different fathers. With both children we had child support orders set up. My son is now 10 and his father was deported when he was 3. His father was in jail when they did the DNA test and started the child support order.. I am trying to obtain the records from child support to prove I have sole custody .. But the county it was done in says it does not state any custody. With my daughters order from another county it does state it. I'm confused why it would change drastically from one county to the next county over.. The father of my son has not been in his life since birth.. The DS-5525 form asks how have I tried to contact him and how many times. Well I have no known phone number or address or anything except I know he is in Mexico. I'm worried they will deny the passport application. What should or what could I do? Answer: If you can secure a copy of the father's deportation order, it can support the application under exigent family circumstance.

Deceased Father by: Anonymous Question: My daughter's father passed away 3 days before she was born. What is the process for getting her passport? Answer: Since the father died before the child was born, I am assuming his name is not on the birth certificate. The same procedure for obtaining achild's passport applies to your daughter. The birth certificate is enough proof of sole legal custody. If the father's name is on the birth certificate, you will need to present a copy of the death certificate when you apply.

Passport for child by: Anonymous Question: Hello. I'm trying to apply for a passport for my one year old and his father lives in another state. How do I go about getting consent? What forms can I send him to make this process as smooth as possible? He's on the birth certificate so I know I need his permission. Please advise, thank you. Answer: The father may download or you may send him Form DS-3053. He must complete it, have it notarized and send mail the original notarized document to you. You may them submit it with the application for your child's passport.

Son's passport by: Anonymous Question: My son's father is in jail and is on the birth certificate. How can I get my son a passport? Answer: You may apply for your child's passport under exigent family circumstances. Please submit Form DS-5525 and a copy of the father's incarceration order with the requirements for a minor's passport.

Passport for grandson by: Anonymous Question: My husband and I recently finalized custody of our grandson. We would like to get him a passport. What form does our daughter need to fill out and what forms does the father who is in prison need to fill out? Answer: If you (grandparents) have legal custody of the child, the biological parents do not need to do anything. If the mother was awarded sole legal custody of the child, she can apply for the passport without the father. Otherwise, she needs to apply for the child's passport under exigent family circumstances by submitting Form DS-5525 and copy of the father's incarceration order with the rest of the application requirements.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: I need to get a passport for my son. My aunt has terminal cancer but I do no know where the father is at and yes he is on the certificate. What can I do? Answer: You need to have sole legal custody of the child in order to apply for his passport without the father's presence or consent. Please speak to a lawyer regarding custody issues.

Sole Managing Conservator by: Anonymous Question: I'm the sole managing conservator of my child can I get his passport without having to look for my ex husband that hasn't seen my child since before he was one? Answer: If sole managing conservatorship means SOLE LEGAL custody, then you can apply for your child's passport without the father's presence or consent. Otherwise, you need to contact the father to obtain his consent.

I need a passport by: Elena Question: Can I get my 6-month-old baby a passport without her dad's consent? He left when she was 2 months old and had not heard from him. I think he got deported. How can I get the passport? Answer: If the father's name is on the birth certificate, his presence or consent is required to apply for your child's passport. If he was deported and you can secure a copy of his deportation papers, you can apply for your child's passport under exigent family circumstances. You may also speak to a lawyer about obtainig sole legal custody of the child so you will no longer need the father for major decisions involving the child.

Parent In Jail by: Anonymous Question: What happens if one of the parents is in jail and refuses to sign? Am I still able to get my 5 year old their passport? Answer: Yes. You may apply for your child's passport under exigent family circumstances. Aside from the application requirements, please submit Form DS-5525 plus a copy of the absent parent's incarceration order.

Can't find my kids father by: Estephany Question: It's been 2 years that I haven't spoken to or seen my two boys' father. My boys are age 11 and 10. I only have contact with his mother and sister but they don't even know where he is. I'm trying to go to Mexico for vacations but I need a passport and a notarized letter from him. What can I do? Answer: You may speak to an attorney about obtaining sole legal custody of the children.

parental rights by: Anonymous Question: I'm the process to get full parental rights from my ex, but our son needs his passport. What is the process for this situation? Answer: You need to be awarded SOLE LEGAL custody of the child in order to apply for his passport without the father's presence or consent.

Children's Passports by: Anonymous Question: I have joint legal custody with my ex wife for our two children. We have been in court over visitation in the past few months. I found out that she has recently left the country with our two children. She did not send me an application to renew the children's passports. Is there anyway for me to find out if she has fraudulently used my signature to obtain their passports without my knowledge? If so, how do I proceed and inform the federal government of this? Answer: Please consult an attorney regarding your concern.

Green card by: Jose Question: Hi I’m 26 year old. When I first came to this country, I was 17 almost 18. My father was already a citizens but when we entered the United States, Immigration didn’t tell us that I will get my citizenship automatically. They sent me a green card instead. After 5 years, I applied for my citizenship. The interview the guy told me I didn’t have to apply for my citizenship because I was already? That I need to apply for my certificate. Someone told me that I can get my passport with that certificate and send my green card. How is that possible? Answer: Children born outside of the United States automatically acquire U.S. citizenship if said child was residing as a Green Card holder in the U.S. and both parents naturalized before the child’s 18th birthday. We recommend that you contact the USCIS for assistance in getting proof of your U.S. citizenship.

Custody Order by: Anonymous Question: I have a custody order stating I have the exclusive right to obtain and hold my daughter's passport. His name is on the birth certificate. Do I still need him to sign? Answer: The father's presence or consent is no longer required since you have the court order as evidence of sole legal custody.

Can I apply for a passport at 16? by: Anonymous Question: I just turned 16 and I’ve been wanting to travel for a while now. The only problem is I don’t have a passport and my father got deported to our country. His name appears on my birth certificate which makes things harder. What can I do to get my passport as soon as possible in TN. Answer: At 16, you can already apply for your passport without your parent/s being present if you already have a driver's license or any other government-issued ID. You will then only need a signed statement of consent from at least one parent. You may apply for your new passport at a nearby acceptance facility. You can schedule an appointment here.

Conservatives by: Calvin Question: Hi , my name is Calvin. I’m a conservator for my young adult son Casey. We went to the passport agency in LA , but they had to hold the process because the court order doesn't specify in writing for issuance of a U.S. passport. Is there any easy way for me to get him a passport because waiting for the hearing takes months. Answer: You can have the other parent apply appear with the child in person or sign the consent for passport issuance.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: How can I get my kids passports if the the father is in jail? He doesn’t want to sign the papers to get the passport and two of my kids are in Mexico. Answer: You can secure a copy of the father's incarceration orders and apply for the children's passports under exigent family circumstances. You can do this by submitting Form Form DS-5525 with the incarceration order and other requirements for a child's passport. Also, the children have to appear in person when you apply for their passports. Since they cannot travel to the United States, you need to travel to Mexico and apply at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City or any of the U.S. Consulates located all over the country.

Passport by: Erika Question: My dad is supposed to be in Mexico but he is not. And the people say they need my dad's signature to go but my dad is afraid that they're going to kick him back to mexico. What can I do to go to Mexico? Answer: You need a passport in order to enter Mexico and re-enter the United States. Please refer to the previous answer to advice on getting one.

How to get my passport? by: Erika Question: I'm 13 years old. I want to go to Mexico. My dad is supposed to be in Mexico but he's not. And they need my mom's and dad's signature. What do I do? Answer: Hello, Erika. If your dad's name is on your birth certificate, you need his consent and your mom's presence in order to apply for a passport. Please seek the assistance of adults to track down your father's whereabouts in order to obtain the required document.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: I am 13 years old and I want to travel to Mexico. My father's name is not on my birth certificate. Can I get the passport with just my mom's signature? Answer: Yes, you do not need your father to apply for your passport. However, you need your mother to apply with you in person at an acceptance facility.

Passport by: Anonymous Question: I'm trying to travel to Mexico. My two daughters' father passed away. How can I get a passport for them without the death certificate? And my other two kids' father is in ICE custody. How can I get passports for them? Or can i just use birth certificates for all? Answer: If the names of your children's fathers are in their birth certificates, you need to secure a copy of the death certificate and a document from ICE stating that the father is in their custody and in no capacity to provide consent for the passport. Once these documents are obtained, you may apply for your children's passports under exigent family circumstances.

Abandoned by father by: Beth Question: My son is 16 years old. We have not heard from his father (my ex-husband) in almost 3 years. I have tried to e-mail him, his old phone number was not in service the last time I tried to call and I have tried to go online to find out if he is in jail but cannot find anything concerning his whereabouts. I called the social security office and they say his SS# is still active but would not give me anymore information. I cannot afford to hire an investigator to find him nor can I hire an attorney. My parents want to take him to the Caribbean for a vacation this summer. How do I get him a passport? Answer: At 16, your son may already apply for a passport without the presence of both parents as long as he has his own government-issued primary ID like a driver's license. However, he needs to present a signed statement of awareness of the passport application from you and a photocopy of your ID.

Statement of consent by: Anonymous Question: I need a passport for my newborn daughter, her father is outside the U.S. and we're supposed to travel after 5 days. Is a photocopy of the statement of consent is enough or should i get an original copy? Answer: The original notarized consent signed by the father must be sent with the application for your child's passport.

Guardian of husbands child and husband is in jail by: Anonymous Question: My mother-in-law's husband had a child outside the marriage, he is 14. She is his legal guardian. She is trying to get him a passport but the father is in jail. Can she do this and what does she need to do? Answer: Your mother-in-law can apply for the child's passport as long as she can present proof of legal guardianship. She needs to present and submit a copy of the court order awarding her guardianship with the application.

Father is in jail by: Anonymous Question: My son is 4. His father and I separated last year though we were never married. We have joint custody and he agreed to let me take my son out of the country for a month but before he could go with me to get the passport, he was placed in jail. How can I get a passport for my son? Answer: The father may sign a notarized consent for you to submit with the application for your child's passport. If this is not possible, you may obtain a copy of his incarceration order and submit it with Form DS-5525. Please note that applications submitted under exigent family circumstances are processed on a case by case basis.

Father is deployed by: Sarah Question: My daughter's father is in Iraq for 6 months and I need to renew her passport so we can visit out-of-country family for the holidays. The location he is at is very remote and I won’t get the signed forms back on time but I could get them scanned and emailed. Is there ever a circumstance that this would be accepted? Answer: The original notarized consent needs to be submitted with the application for your child's passport. Please call 1-877-487-2778 to speak to customer service about your issue.

How do I get a passport for my son if I cant find his dad? by: Anonymous Question: My kids have not seen their real dad in 7 years since I remarried. Last I heard he was in jail serving a 2-year sentence. I need to to get my son a passport but my ex is on the birth certificate. What can I do? Answer: Since the father's name is on the birth certificate, you need his presence or notarized consent to apply for your child's passport. You need to exhaust all measures to contact him and get his consent. If you cannot secure the consent after exhausting all efforts, you may submit Form DS-5525 Statement of Exigent and Special Family Circumstances. In the statement, you need to explain in as much detail as possible the efforts you have made to contact the father. This form must be submitted with the rest of the requirements. Please note, however, that applications submitted under exigent family circumstances are processed on a case by case basis. We recommend filing for sole legal custody of your children since the father is no longer in the picture.

The father DC can't be located by: Anonymous Question: They need to renew the child's passport but can't locate the father's death certificate. They were not married; they just lived together. Is there anyway to renew the passport for the child without the DC? Answer: Passports issued to minors or when one was still a minor cannot be renewed. In order to obtain a new passport, the parent/s need to apply with the child in person. A copy of the father's death certificate needs to be submitted with the application in order to prove that only the mother now has legal custody of the child. The mother may request a certified copy of the death certificate from the vital records office of the city or state where the father passed away.

Needed my dad birthday but he has passed by: Anna Question: Hi. I want to get my passport but I don’t remember my dads birthday just have the year. What do I do? Answer: Just place whatever information you have. For good measure you can include a signed statement explaining why you only have the year.

Wrong Name on Birth Certificate by: Kaylasmom15 Question: Need to know what I need in order to get my 2 yr old daughters passport the father name on her birth certificate is not her real father's name he gave fake identity when she was born so what do I need to do in order to be able to take her to Mexico for next summer? Answer: We recommend that you speak to a lawyer regarding the issue first. Once the birth certificate issue is resolved, you can proceed to apply for your child's passport.

Deported by: Eva Question: My baby is 2 months old . Her dad is getting deported. What do I need to get her a passport to travel to Guatemala? Answer: You can submit a copy of the father's deportation order and Form DS-5525 with the application for your child's passport.

Father deported by: Anonymous Question: My daughter is 1 and my husband is deported. I wanted to get a passport to go down to Mexico with my daughter. Will I have trouble getting her a passport because she has his last name and he signed the birth certificate? Answer: Since the father's name is on the birth certificate, you need his notarized statement of consent to apply for your child's passport. He can mail it to you so you can apply for the passport.

Passport help by: Anonymous Question: I'm trying to get a passport for my 2-year-old daughter but her father is in immigration custody. He doesn't have any form of I.D. because ICE threw away all his belongings. He did send me a notarized letter but when I tried to apply for her passport they told me that wasn't enough. I was told I needed form DS-3053 and a copy of his I.D. What can we do if he doesn't have an I.D? Answer: Your case may qualify as an exigent family circumstance. Along with the regular requirements for a minor's passport, you can submit Form DS-5525. You must explain the situation in the form in as much detail as possible. If you can provide paperwork pertaining to the father's detention with immigration, also send it with the application. Having said that, please note that applications submitted under exigent family circumstances are processed on a case by case basis.

Custody by: Abby B Question: I have custody and he only has visitation. Can I apply for a minor's passport without the father? Answer: If you were awarded SOLE LEGAL custody, you may apply for the minor's passport without the father's presence or consent.

Child passport by: Anonymous Question: My son's father was deported and is also on his birth certificate. I have full custody of my son now with him having his father's last name. Will I have any problems getting his passport? Answer: If you have SOLE LEGAL custody on the child, you should not have issues applying for his passport. If you do not, you need to submit a copy of the father's deportation order and Form DS-5525 with the following to apply for the child's passport: 1. Form DS-11 2. Original or certified copy of birth certificate 3. Parent's ID 4. Photocopy of said ID 5. One passport photo 6. Payment for fees

Hey by: Nayeli Question: I am 16 years old and want to go to a field trip that is in Italy my dad is in Mexico but I haven't talked to him since I was born how can I get my passport? Answer: If you have a government-issued ID like a driver's license, you may apply for a passport on your own. Along with the requirements, you also need to submit a signed statement from at least one parent that signifies awareness of the application. Since you do not have contact with your father, you may obtain this statement from your mother.

Deported Father by: Anonymous Question: My brother-in-law is incarcerated due to deportation and mother is deceased. What do we need to apply for passport for my nephew? Answer: If you were awarded guardianship of the child after his after was deported, you may apply for his passport. You need to present evidence of legal guardianship. We recommend calling customer service at 1-877-487-2778 for advice regarding the issue.

Passport for nephew by: Anonymous Question: My brother-in-law is being held for deportation and the mother of my nephew has passed away. What do we need to apply for his passport? Answer: If you were awarded guardianship of the child after his after was deported, you may apply for his passport. You need to present evidence of legal guardianship. We recommend calling customer service at 1-877-487-2778 for advice regarding the issue.

Incarcerated for more than 10 years by: Anonymous Question: My children's father has been incarcerated for the more than 9 years so far and I need to get a passport for my daughter who's 15, won't be 16 til January. How do go about getting her passport? Answer: You may fill out Form DS-5525 Statement of Exigent Family Circumstances and submit it with the father's incarceration order and all other documents required to apply for a minor's passport.

14-year-old needs a passport to travel by: Anonymous Question: My daughter is 14 years old. I have all rights to her (abusive relationship). I have not seen or heard from her father in 9-10 years plus; we do not live in the same state anymore, and his name is not on her birth certificate. How do I go about getting her passport? Because I am trying to plan a trip in a couple months. Answer: Since the father's name is not on your child's birth certificate, the process to obtain her passport is easier. You do not need the father's presence or consent; the birth certificate is enough evidence of sole legal custody. You need the following: 1. Form DS-11 (completed but unsigned) 2. Birth certificate (evidence of citizenship and parental relationship) 3. Your government-issued ID 4. Photocopy of your ID 5. One passport photo of the child 6. Payment for fees Please take the requirements and your child to a nearby acceptance facility. Routine service takes 6 to 8 weeks to complete. If you need the passport sooner, please apply for expedited service.

Sharing the passport by: Anonymous Question: I share one child with my ex husband. He currently has my son's passport because he paid for it during the divorce. If I want to go on a trip out of the country, can he deny my access to my son's passport since he paid for it even though I agreed to sign for it? Answer: We recommend speaking to an attorney regarding the issue.

Age 15 by: Anonymous Question: My daughter is 15 but will be 16 in one month. I can't find her father to give consent. She plans to travel with her school several months from now and almost two months after her 16th birthday. However, the school requires a copy of her passport before her 16th birthday. Is there anything I can do? Answer: If the passport is required before the child turns 16, you need to either exhaust all efforts to obtain the father's consent or apply under exigent family circumstances. In order to do the latter, you need to submit Form DS-5525 and explain in as much detail as possible the circumstances that surround the child and how the passport issuance directly affects her welfare. This form must be submitted with the requirements for a minor's passport. Please note that applications of this nature are considered on a case by case basis.

Absent by: Anonymous Question: I need to get my child a passport but have not seen or spoken to my ex husband in years. He wasn't even present when our divorce finalized. There are rumors that he was deported & has never been seen since & his family will not tell me where he can be located. It's been well over 10 years. Answer: You are required to exhaust all possible measures to contact the father in order to get the consent for the child's passport application. If everything has been done to no avail and the child's need to travel is related to his or her health and welfare, you can apply for a passport under exigent family circumstances. You may submit form Form DS-5525 where you need to explain in as much detail as possible the efforts made to obtain the consent from the absent custodial parent and the circumstances that surround the child. Please note that applications submitted with DS-5525 are considered on as case by case basis.

Deported by: Megan Question: My husband was deported three weeks before our travel date and he hasn't been in Mexico since age 8. He knows nothing at all. I submitted Form DS-5255 with his deportation papers explaining his deportation and that at the time of deportation, they took all forms of ID. Will that be enough to get my child's passport? Answer: Please call 1-877-487-2778 to speak to a customer service representative.

My daughter's father lives in another state by: Anonymous Question: I am trying to get my daughter's passport, her father lives in another state. How can I go about getting her passport without having to go to him or him to us to get it for her? Answer: In order to obtain a minor's passport without the presence of one parent whose name appears on the child's birth certificate, the applying parent must submit a notarized statement of consent from the non-applying parent. Your daughter's father can execute a notarized statement of consent and mail it to you to submit with the passport application. He may use Form DS-3053 for this.

Sole managing conservator by: Anonymous Question: I am the sole managing conservator of my child and the mother is the possessory conservator. Do I need her consent to get a passport for my child? We have no contact with her for 4 years and we separated the child from her since she is not fit to be a mother or a danger to the child's well-being. Answer: Please call 1-877-487-2778 to speak to a customer service representative.

I am the real father but not on birth cert by: Anonymous Question: I am the father of my son but another man's name is on the birth certificate. I have the DNA test which shows I am the father but we were denied a passport. The father on the birth cert is dead. How do I get my son a passport to travel with me? Answer: Please speak to an attorney about legally establishing paternity.

No Father by: Abigail Question: I have no signature from my father in my birth certificate. Am I going to be able to get a passport? I am over 25 years old. Answer: As long as your birth certificate meets the requirements and you submit the original or a certified copy, you should be able to apply for a U.S. passport.

Husband deported. How to obtain passport for my daughter by: Anonymous Question: Hello, my husband was deported a few months ago. I want to apply for a passport for my 13 year old daughter. My daughter's birth certificate has my name and my husband's name. The only letter I have from my husband is his deportation letter. Will my daughter's birth certificate and my husband's deportation letter be ok to apply for a passport for my daughter? Answer: Your husband can send a signed and notarized letter of consent for passport issuance by mail. He can use Form DS-3053 for this. He also needs to send a photocopy of his photo ID. Once you have these, you may apply for your child's passport.

Concern by: Hezel Question: I'm planning to file a child support case against my kids' father. Their father's planning to go out of the country. Is there a possibility that I can hold his passport so he can't leave the country? Answer: Child Services cannot revoke or hold a passport. If a parent owes more than $2500 in child support arrears, only then will that parent be in the passport denial list. But if he already has a passport, you cannot stop him from traveling out of the country.

Parents are Divorced, Father recently Deceased by: Anonymous Question: I would like to obtain a passport for my minor child. Her father and I were legally divorced with joint custody. He has recently died. I have tried obtaining a death certificate, but because we were divorced, I am not an eligible applicant. I was also told that I cannot request a DC on my daughter's behalf, that she will have to request one when she is 18. She is 9 now. How can I obtain a passport for her without a DC? Answer: You should obtain a letter from the state informing that they will not issue you a Death Certificate. Also, you should have your divorce papers amended to state that, due to the death of the father, you have sole legal custody. Once you have these documents, you may apply for your child's passport.

Father's name misspelled on the death certificate. by: Anonymous Question: My son's dad passed away 6 years ago. I was not entitled to a death certificate at that time. I recently ordered one as a domestic partner. Once received, i noticed that his name has a typo and has an extra letter typed on his name. Would that be an issue to obtain a passport for my son. Answer: While it is possible that the passport agent accepting your application will provide some leniency on the small difference between the names on the birth certificate and death certificate, it is not guaranteed. Please call 1-877-487-2778 for advice on the matter.

Husband out of Country by: Anonymous Question: My husband is out of the country and can not sign form DS-3053. Can he find a notary public outside the country and send me a scanned copy of his signed form? Answer: Yes, your husband can have Form DS-3053 notarized outside the country. It is recommended that he do this at the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The original notarized document needs to be submitted. Your husband needs to mail the document to you.

Need more clarification so daughter and I can move on with our lives by: Anonymous Question: 2. Apply for a court order requiring the father to sign the consent form. If the courts attempt to contact the father and he is unresponsive, they will issue a clearance letter. You can use this to obtain the passports. What, exactly, is the consent form you speak of here? Just had a bad falling out with the father who stated "You can keep her" and that he is refusing to do anything more for her and I am getting married and have 3 months to get the passport. Thanks! Answer: Unless you have sole legal custody of your daughter, the father's notarized consent is required in order for you to apply for her passport. You can find a complete list of requirements for getting a passport for a minor here. If the father will not provide the consent form, you can contact the nearest family court or consult an attorney to see what your options are.

Passport for 3-year-old son by: Anonymous Question: I want to get my son his passport but don't know if I need his fathers consent. Father has never been around & doesn't appear on birth certificate. Answer: You can submit your son's birth certificate as evidence of sole legal custody. The father's consent is not required. For a complete list of requirements, visit how to get a minor's passport.

Not allowed by: Anonymous Question: With all the imimgration problems going on I'm preparing for the worst case scenario. I have sole custody of my daughter. Her father and I hate each other. There are no chances of him and I communicating. I received a letter after our custody battle was over from Homeland Security stating that if I tried to get a passport for her he would immediatley be notified. How can I go about getting her a passport if I have sole custody and he only has visitation rights. Please advice! Answer: There is a difference between physical custody and legal custody. Sole physical custody means that your daughter lives with you and the father only has visitation rights. Sole legal custody means that you can make decisions about your daughter's upbringing related to schooling, religion, travel and other matters. In order to get a passport without the consent of the father, you must submit evidence of sole legal custody. Even if you are able to get a passport, the custody agreement may limit the ability to travel since the father has visitation rights. We recommend you consult an attorney concerning this matter. You may find Child Custody Strategies for Women to be a helpful resource.

Dad is in jail but I don't have full custody by: Anonymous Question: So, my son has been with me his whole life and the father and I got divorced and I have taken care of my son for 13 years now but I do not have full custody. We tried to conact my ex and we found out he was in jail. We are going on vacation in March and don't know what to do. What are our options? Answer: Unless you have evidence of sole legal custody, the father's consent is required. Instead of the consent form, you might try submitting Form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances. You will need to submit the incarceration order along with the form as evidence of your claim. Statements are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and guarantee can be made as to its acceptability. You may find Child Custody Strategies for Women to be a helpful resource if you want to pursue this option.

Sex offender by: Anonymous Question: I need to get a passport for 14 year old. Father is a registered sex offender adult tier III. Do I have to get his permission? Answer: Unless you can submit evidence of sole legal custody, the father's consent is required. You may want to consult an attorney or speak with someone at a nearby family court to see if there are any legal options available to you.

Passport for daughter by: Anonymous Question: My daughter had been with me since she was born. Her father was never around and he got into trouble which caused him to go to jail for 5 years and he got deported after his sentence was done. My daughter doesn't know him. She has never met him or had contact with him. I just wanted to know how can I go about getting her a passport. We never went to court. I have always had her. Can someone please help me? Answer: If the father is named on your daughter's birth certificate and you know how to contact him, you must submit his notarized consent. If you do not know how to contact him, you can submit Form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances with the passport application and other supporting documents. The statement must explain in detail the father's unavailability and recent efforts made to contact him. You should include documents which substantiate your case such as evidence of incarceration and deportation. The form is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and no guarantee is given as to the issuance of the passport.r can someone please help me

Renew passport for stepson by: Anonymous Question: Been raising my son since he was 3yrs old. I am married to his mom. His biological father has not been in his life and is nowhere to be found. My son has a passport already but it needs to be renewed. How can we go about getting it renewed. Answer: If the child is age 15 or younger, the father's consent is required unless the mother can submit evidence of sole legal custody.

Passports for two toddlers by: Anonymous Question: Hello, I'm planning a trip for the summer but need passports for my boys. Their father passed away a few months ago. We weren't married so I don't have access to his death certificate. Just wondering on how I would go about getting the passports? Thanks. Answer: Most states allow applicants who are not immediate family members to provide legal documentation that documents a direct, tangible interest in the death certificate. Your son's birth certificates should suffice. Please contact the vital records office where the death certificate is filed for more information.

Passport for children by: Anonymous Question: How do I get passport for my children? I am married to their dad but he left the state and I have no way of contacting him. I don't know where he lives and his family won't help me locate him. Answer: The father's consent is required unless you have sole legal custody. You might want to contact an attorney about this option. You could then submit the custody document with the passport application form. You may find Child Custody Strategies for Women to be a helpful resource.

passport for minor by: Anonymous Question: What do I do if father is in jail, and his signature is on birth certificate. I need passport for our child. Answer: You have two options. One, have the father sign a consent form and get it notarized. Some places provide notary services. Two, submit Form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances and an incarceration order along with the passport application and supporting documents. Statements are evaluated on a case-by case basis and no guarantee is made as to your statement's acceptance. You can find a complete list of requirements here.

Passport renewal? by: A.R Question: How can I renew my child's passport if his father was deported 5 years ago? Can he fill something out in Mexico and send it to me? Answer: The father can visit the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City or any of the U.S. Consulates located all over Mexico to complete a consent form and have it notarized.

I have Primary Custody, not Sole custody by: Anonymous Question: Father of 2 minors lives out of country. I have primary custody, but not sole custody. Do I need his consent? I do not have contact with him. Answer: If you do not have sole legal custody, the father's consent is required.

Father not on birth certificate. Mother dead. by: Anonymous Question: Father is not on birth certificate. Mother is dead. I am 14 and a US citizen born in Dallas, Texas. How do I get my US passport? Answer: You should apply in person for a passport at an application acceptance facility and be accompanied by your legal guardian. Your legal guardian should submit proof of legal guardianship and a copy of a valid photo ID. For more information, click here.

I have full custody of both my daughters by: Anonymous Question: I have been awarded full custody of both my daughters from court and I want to get them passports. Do I need their father's consent? Answer: If you have sole legal custody, the father's consent is not required. If you only have physical custody, his consent is required.

Passport for child by: Veronica Question: Hi I was wanting to know if I am able to get my child a passport. She was 2 years old when her father left. She is now 7 and we have no clue where he is. How would I go about getting her a passport? Answer: Unless you have evidence of sole legal custody, the father's consent is required. Please call 1-877-487-2778 to speak with a customer service representative. You might want to contact an attorney about obtaining sole legal custody. You could then submit the custody document with the passport application form. You may find the Child Custody Strategies for Women to be a helpful resource.

Passport question. by: Anonymous Question: I want to get my son his passport. He is 3 months old. His father didn't sign his birth certificate but he is put down as a father on my welfare. Do I need him to sign for a passport? Answer: You can submit the birth certificate without the father listed as evidence of sole legal custody.

How can I obtain US CRBA and passport for my baby? by: Blessing Brown Question: I am married to a US citizen who has refused to file CRBA AND PASSPORT for our daughter. He is a US citizen and I am not but I want our daughter to have US citizenship status. My husband is presently MIA since I gave birth. What can I do? Answer: Please contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate general for assistance.

Getting passport without my husband's consent by: Anonymous Question: I am married and now separated. Can I get a passport for my kids without his consent. Once in a blue moon I writet to my ex but he doesn't want to give permission and never gives any support. I don't know exactly where he lives now. So, what can I do to get the kids' passports? Answer: If your children are age 15 or younger and the father is listed on their birth certificates, his consent is required. If he will not provide consent, we recommend you consult an attorney or contact the nearest family court to discuss your options.

Father deported by: Anonymous Question: Hi, I want to apply for my children's passports. The father's name is on all the birth certificates. He was deported 2 years ago to his native country. We don't have contact with him. What can I do? I want to travel abroad with my children. Answer: You can submit Form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances along with all other forms and documents required to apply for a minor's passport. The statement must explain in detail the father's unavailability and recent efforts made to contact him. The form is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and no guarantee is given as to the issuance of the passport. Another option would be to seek sole legal custody of your children. With sole legal custody, the father's consent is not required. If you choose this option, please consult an attorney and/or contact the nearest family court for guidance. You might find the Child Custody Strategies for Women to be a helpful resource.

Sole Custody by: Lindsay Question: I have spoken to courts, laywers etc. about how to "obtain sole legal custody" of my daughter who's father signed her birth certificate, but has never ever seen her in 14 years. I've jumped thru hoops trying to figure out how to get "sole custody" of my daughter. I was told by the courts that since I gave birth to her and he has never taken me to court for visitation and we were never married that I DO HAVE SOLE LEGAL CUSTODY of her; however, there is no place I can obtain proof of this. How can this be resolved? I've spoken to the Passport Service personnel and they say to go to court and obtain something saying that I have custody; however, the courts have told me over and over they cannot give me anything. Can people like me please get some help. My daughter wants to go on a school trip to Europe and this is hindering her. Answer: Brett Sember is a divorce and child custody expert. We recommend you contact her.

How to get a passport for my minor child never married by: Anonymous Question: Hello, I'm wondering if/ how to get a passport for my daughter who is 12yo. I was never married to her father although he is on the Birth Certificate. I also have know idea of his whereabouts and has not seen her since she was 1yo. What documents or what do I need to get a passport for her? Thanks! Answer: You can submit Form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances along with all other forms and documents required to apply for a minor's passport. The statement must explain in detail the father's unavailability and recent efforts made to contact him. The form is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and no guarantee is given as to the statement's acceptability. Alternatively, you may want to consult an lawyer about the possibility of obtaining sole legal custody. You could then submit the custody document with the passport application form. You may find the Child Custody Strategies for Women to be a helpful resource.

apply for a passport for my minor child by: Mar Question: Hi, I want to apply a passport for my minor child but his father is deceased and we are not married. His father's name is listed on the birth certificate. Do I still need consent to apply passport for my child? Answer: You can submit the father's death certificate as evidence of sole legal custody. Contact the vital records office of the state in which the death occurred for information about obtaining a certified copy of the death certificate.

Wish to get a passport for my child, who's a minor but I'm unable to get in contact with his father. by: Nikki Question: Hi. I would like to get a passport for my minor child, who's six, almost seven. I have joint custody of my child, however, his dad went MIA last August. I've gotten in touch with his dad's grandma, who he used to live with (it's his last address I have), but she doesn't even know where he is whenever I've talked to her in the past. Would steps do I need to do to be able to get a passport for my child? I know there's a form I can fill out, but I'm unsure what steps would be easier to do since I can't find him. Answer: One option would be to seek sole legal custody of your son. With sole legal custody, the father's consent is not required. If you choose this option, you might find the Child Custody Strategies for Women to be a helpful resource. We also recommend you seek the guidance of an attorney. Alternatively, you can submit Form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances along with all other forms and documents required to apply for a minor's passport. The statement must explain in detail the father's unavailability and recent efforts made to contact him. The form is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and no guarantee is given as to the issuance of the passport.

I have legal and soul custody by: Mother of 2 Question: I have legal and sole custody which was ordered by the family Court. The father has visitation orders. There is a clause indicating that neither parent can take the child out of the county. I have a trip set up with a return date. Will I be able to get my child's passport without the father's permission? Answer: Please call 1-877-487-2778 to speak with a customer service representative.

Deported Parent by: Anonymous Question: I want to take my 14 yo on a cruise for Christmas. His father has not been in his life and he was deported a year ago. How do I go about getting my son a passport without going to the courts? His father's name is not on the birth certificate and I feel that it's unfair that I would have to track him down in another country that I have no clue where to begin for a child I have been taking car of for the past 14 yrs. by myself. People keep telling me I won't be able to get a passport for him so I'm asking this question for clarification. Thank you in advance. Answer: You can apply to get your son a passport without the presence or consent of the father. Just submit the birth certificate without the father's name on it as evidence of sole legal custody. A passport is not required to enter the United States when returning on a closed-loop cruise. A passport still may be required to enter specific countries during the cruise. Please contact the cruise line for travel document requirements.

Apply for minor child passport if other parent is deceased by: Anonymous Question: My ex-husband died, so what is required for me to get my daughter a passport? The military gave me a form that is his proof of death, but I don't have a death certificate or anything from the state. I'm an ex-wife and am not entitled to certain documents or information. Answer: You should obtain a letter from the state informing that they will not issue you a Death Certificate. Also, you should have your divorce papers amended to state that, due to the death of the father, you have sole legal custody.

I already been issued the passport for my daughter by: Kattica2002 Question: My question is do I still need any other documentation when we travel internationally. I sent all what they asked me and she was issued a passport. Her dad doesn't appear on birth certificate. I don't want to get to the airport and still gonna ask me for permission from her father. I hope you understand my question. Thank you. Answer: If the father is not listed on the birth certificate nor in your daughter's passport, there should be no need for his consent. However, we recommend you confirm this with the airline.

Passport for my son by: shirley Question: If my son's father has never been in his life and he's 10 and I don't believe he is on his birth certificate, do I still need his permission even though I have no idea where he is? Answer: If the father's name is not included on your son's birth certificate then his consent is not required. If his name is on the birth certificate then you either need to submit notarized consent from the father or Form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances.

Can my new husband sign the form to approve my son passport? by: Anonymous Question: If I haven't had any contact with my ex with in four years, can I have my new husband sign the form for my son so we can travel out of the states? My ex is in the military in Virginia and I have no contact with him. Will I have to go thru attorney general to set up a court date to have him sign the forms? and he has never sign the birth certificate so will I need him to sign that as well or can my new husband sign the birth certificate instead of my ex? Answer: If the father is not listed on your son's birth certificate then you can submit that document as evidence of sole legal custody. In this case, the father's consent is not required. If the father is listed on the birth certificate then you must obtain his consent to apply for your son's passport. He can complete the consent form, have it notarized and mail it to you.

At what age do u no longer by: Anonymous Question: If my son is 15 and his father refuses to sign papers and I have sole legal custody, can I get his passport without his father's signature? Answer: If you can submit evidence of sole legal custody, the father's consent is not required for your son to get a passport.

by: Ngan Tran Question: Hi, I have applied for a passport book for my baby and he is just 2 months old. I just received a letter this morning. They need me have to complete the form DS-3053 and send a copy of a photo identification of my husband. I can complete DS3053 form but I don't have a photo ID of my husband because he lives in Viet Nam. Can you accept my baby's passport with no copy of my husband's photo ID? Answer: Form DS-3053 is a consent form that must be completed by your husband and then notarized. He can do this at the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi or the Consulate General of the United States in Ho Chi Minh City. After he completes the form and has it notarized, he can send it to you along with a copy of his photo ID. The copy must be of the photo ID he present to have Form DS-3053 notarized.

to travel outside the United States with the applying parent. by: Anonymous Question: Hello, I have applied for my daughter’s passport because I and my husband do not live together for over eight years and I have no contact with him. I cannot complete my daughter’s passport application without either his signature or a court order. I have received a letter from the national passport agency stating that i need one of these court orders: * A court order specifically permitting the applying parent/guardian to apply for the child's passport; or * A court order granting sole legal custody to the applying parent/guardian; or * A court order authorizing the minor to travel outside the United States with the applying parent. Please help me.What can I do? Answer: The first option is to obtain one of the court orders listed above and submit it. You can try submitting Form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances. The statement must explain in detail the non-applying parent's or guardian's unavailability and recent efforts made to contact the non-applying parent. You may also be required to provide evidence (e.g., custody order, incarceration order, restraining order) to document your claim of exigent or special circumstances. There is no guarantee that the circumstance you describe in the form will be accepted.

passport for daughter by: Anonymous Question: Can I get my 15-year-old daughter a passport even though her father didn't sign her birth certificate and has never seen her? Answer: You can submit the birth certificate without the father's name on it as evidence of sole legal custody. For a complete list of requirements, click the link below. How to Get a Passport for a Minor

sole custody by: Anonymous Question: If I have sole custody but my daughter's father is on the birth certificate but cannot be located, will I still be able to get her passport with just me? Answer: The father's consent is not required if you can submit evidence of sole legal custody.

father cannot be located by: Anonymous Question: I'm trying to apply for a passport for my 10 yr old child but I can't located his father. He's been out of my son's life for over 9 years. I was granted managing conservator and I have the rights to manage all his decisions. The only right he has over the child is to contact him and try to be in his life. He was granted visitation rights which he never exercised. He has never paid child support and owes over 20 thousand now. Can I apply for for his passport? Answer: You should consult your attorney concerning this. It depends on the wording of the managing conservator order. If it speacifically states that you can obtain his passport and/or mentions international travel, then you should be able to get your son's passport. If this is not included, then you will probably need to get the father's notarized consent or get your attorney to file a Motion to Modify the order.

Passport for my son by: Anonymous Question: My son is 15 years old. I have a passport for him already, but it expired. I was able to get his passport without the consent of his father, because he is not on my son's birth certificate. Can I get a new passport for him again without his father's consent just with his birth certificate? Answer: Yes, you can. Apply in person with your son at an application acceptance facility. Submit a completed Form DS-11 and required supporting documents. The birth certificate can be submitted as evidence of U.S. citizenship and sole legal custody.

applying for a passport without father consent by: Anonymous Question: I would like to apply for a passaport for my son to go on vacation to Mexico at age 12 for acouple weeks. The only problem is that I have been separated from my husband since I was pregnant and never filed for divorce because I was unable to locate him. It's been a little over 12 years and there has been no contact with my husband nor has he been present in our child's life. I tried locating him by looking for him at his last job location but he quit his job. He changed is number back then also which I don't have to provide. Would I be able to apply for a passaport? Answer: If the father's name is listed on the birth certificate, then you need to obtain his consent. If you are unable to locate the father, you submit Form DS-5525: Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances. The statement must explain in detail the father's unavailability and recent efforts made to contact him. The form will be examined by a Passport Agent who will determine its acceptability. For more information, click the link below. How to Get a Passport for a Minor

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