Important: Processing times recently changed for both routine and expedited passport applications.

If I allow my ex-wife to get passports for my kids now, will I have the right to stop her from taking them abroad later?

by Dan
(Altamonte Springs, FL, USA)

Question: My ex-wife wants to obtain passports to take my children on a vacation to France. I am not opposed to them going on that particular trip, but I am concerned that once she has the passports she might take them out of the country without my permission later. Her husband is not a US citizen so I could see her easily taking them to his home country of England.


If I agree to sign for the passports now, is there a way to have them flagged to prohibit her from taking the children out of the country without my written permission in the future?

Answer: We know of no way to "flag" passports to prohibit your children from exiting the country without your written permission. However, many countries require the parent of minor children to carry notarized consent to travel from the non-traveling parent. Those who do not can be denied entrance. The problem is that this is not always enforced.

We encourage you to speak with a lawyer about the possibility of amending the custody agreement or establishing a court order that would require your ex-wife to obtain written, notarized consent from you each time she plans to take the children abroad. This would provide you with a certain level of tranquility without having to deny consent for your children to get passports.

Click here to post comments

Return to Passports for Minors FAQ.

Click for reliable expedited passport courier service.

 

More Passport & Travel Information

Getting a Passport Expedited at a Post Office
Requesting express service at post offices and other facilities that accept application forms from U.S. citizens.

Applying at a Regional Passport Agency
Where processing centers are located. How to schedule an appointment. What documents to take with you.

Using a Registered Courier Service
How to pick a legitimate courier service company to assist in getting your passport quickly.

Routine vs. Expedited Passport Service: How to Choose
Guide to help you decide if standard or fast track processing is the best option for your situation.

How to Renew a U.S. Passport Fast
Learn to expedite passport renewals as quickly as the same day. Where and how to renew passport in a hurry.

Top 5 Questions About Expedited Passport Couriers

1. How can you get a passport when you're in a hurry?
2. What exactly does a passport expediter do?
3. Are passport expediting services legitimate?
4. How can I identify a reliable passport expeditor?
5. Is expedited passport service worth it?

Get answers to these questions and more in our Ultimate U.S. Traveler's Guide to Passport Expediters.

You can also visit our library of articles about passport expediting.

In a Hurry? Get Reliable Expedited Passport Courier Service:Expedite My U.S.Passport Now!

This website is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.