press releases
Notarized Consent Statement Now Required From Parents Applying For a Passport on Behalf of a Minor Under Age 14
Athens (October 22, 2004)
Explanation of the rule change
The Department of State has amended the rule requiring the consent of both parents to obtain a passport for a minor child. In the past, when only one parent has appeared at the Embassy or Consulate to apply for the minor's passport, we required a written statement of consent from the other parent. Starting November 1, 2004, the Department will require that such statements be notarized.
We still strongly prefer that both parents appear. We will, however, accept a statement from the parent who does not appear, as long as it is notarized.
Reason for the change
Some parents have provided forged letters of consent, purporting to be from the applying parent, sometimes done with the intention of abducting the child. Additional safeguards are necessary to prevent child abduction or other interference with the non-applying parent's rights.
Requirements for the notarized statement
The statement must give the non-appearing parent's unequivocal and unconditional consent to the issuance of the passport, and must be notarized before foreign notaries in most countries or at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. Statement must be in English.
Obtaining more information on applying for a passport overseas
The Bureau of Consular Affairs' website http://www.travel.state.gov/ provides locations of where to apply, application forms, and information about required citizenship and identification documentation, including parental permission information needed for children under age 14, and much more. If parents still need further information, they can send an email with specific questions to ASKPRI@state.gov.