How can I apply for a passport for my child with an absent parent? ?

Question

My child who is 5 years old “father” is no where to be found. We have no clue where he is and last time he spoke with his mother I told her about me wanting to apply for the passport and that I needed her son to sign and get the paper notarized and she said he wouldn’t do it and she doesn’t want to give his information no number or anything! We have a cruise up coming next summer and I need to apply for the passport soon! Is there any other way I can get it?

Disclaimer: He hasn’t been in her life since she was 4 months old she only knows my husband as her father but although we are legally married I don't think he can just sign the paper. So seems like I’m stuck

Brother Hesekiel · Accepted Answer

You'll apply for your child's passport via form DS-11, accompanied by form DS 5525 (Statement of Exigent/Special Family Circumstances). But be aware that the US Department of State, the agency that issues passports, can easily type in the child father's information and track him down, so the chances that this will work are about 75/25% in your favor. If you pull the short end of the stick, DoS will track him down and he will respond and refuse consent.

Long term, assuming he doesn't pay child support, you should file for sole custody. And if he shows up in court, you ask the judge to make sure he pays child support and all previous child support.

Foofa · Answer

You could use this form to claim exigent circumstances - https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds5525.pdf  But if he were to show up and have a problem with it he probably could short-circuit the passport application. One wonders why you haven't yet gone to court to sever his parental rights. That would make your life a whole lot easier.

? · Answer

Talk to a lawyer.  You are going to have to have all his rights removed.  That's probably going to involve your husband adopting her.

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How can I apply for a passport for my child with an absent parent? ?

3 Answers