Passport Parental Permission Form: New Requirement for Families Traveling with Minors
In an effort to further protect the safety and well-being of children traveling internationally, the U.S. Department of State has announced a new requirement for families traveling with minors: the passport parental permission form. This form, which must be signed by both parents or legal guardians of a minor child applying for a passport, is aimed at preventing cases of child abduction and trafficking.
The passport parental permission form is a simple document that requires the signature of both parents or legal guardians of a minor child applying for a U.S. passport. The form includes basic information about the child, such as their name, date of birth, and passport application number. It also includes a section for each parent to provide their contact information and sign the form, indicating their consent for the child to obtain a passport.
This new requirement comes in response to a rise in cases of child abduction and trafficking involving minors who are taken across international borders without the consent of both parents. By requiring both parents to sign a passport parental permission form, the Department of State hopes to prevent these tragic incidents and ensure the safety of children traveling abroad.
“This new requirement is a crucial step in protecting the rights and well-being of children who are traveling internationally,” said Secretary of State, Antony Blinken. “By requiring both parents to provide their consent for a child to obtain a passport, we can help prevent cases of child abduction and trafficking and ensure that children are able to travel safely and securely.”
Families traveling with minors are encouraged to plan ahead and ensure that they have all necessary documentation in place before embarking on their trip. In addition to the passport parental permission form, parents should also carry a copy of the child’s birth certificate and any relevant custody or guardianship documents.
While the new requirement may add an extra step to the passport application process for families traveling with minors, many parents welcome the added layer of protection it provides. “As a parent, I would do anything to keep my child safe, even if it means signing an extra form,” said Maria Martinez, a mother of two who frequently travels with her family. “I think this new requirement is a positive step towards ensuring that children are not taken across borders without their parents’ consent.”
The passport parental permission form is now a mandatory requirement for all families traveling with minors applying for a U.S. passport. Parents who fail to provide their consent on the form may be subject to additional scrutiny and delays in the passport application process. Additionally, parents who are unable to obtain the consent of the other parent due to extenuating circumstances may apply for a waiver of the requirement.
Overall, the introduction of the passport parental permission form is a positive step towards ensuring the safety and security of children traveling internationally. By requiring both parents to provide their consent for a child to obtain a passport, the Department of State is taking proactive measures to prevent cases of child abduction and trafficking and protect the rights of minors. Families traveling with minors are advised to familiarize themselves with the new requirement and ensure that they have all necessary documentation in place before embarking on their trip.
