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Travel

Child Passport Exigent Circumstances (Form DS-5525)

Apply for a child passport when one parent is absent.

We'll guide you through it, step by step

  • ✓Simple questions in plain language — no legal jargon
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Estimated fee

No fee for Form DS-5525 (passport fees apply)

View official fee calculator ↗

Typical timeline

6 to 8 weeks (routine processing)

Category

Travel

Who qualifies

Applying parents or legal guardians of children under 16 who cannot contact or locate the non-applying parent despite diligent search efforts, or who face urgent family emergencies.

The step-by-step roadmap

  1. 1

    Document Your Diligent Efforts

    Detail all attempts to locate and contact the non-applying parent, including dates, methods, and results.

    Watch out: Vague descriptions like 'cannot find them' are almost always rejected.
    Common rejection reason: Failing to explain specific attempts to contact the non-applying parent.
  2. 2

    Gather Supporting Evidence

    Collect third-party records such as court filings, police reports, or certified mail receipts that verify your situation.

    Watch out: Personal statements without secondary proof carry much less weight.
    Common rejection reason: Submitting unsupported claims without verifiable third-party documentation.
  3. 3

    Complete Child's Form DS-11

    Fill out the standard child passport application (Form DS-11) and keep it unsigned until your appointment.

    Watch out: Do not sign Form DS-11 ahead of time; you must sign before an acceptance agent.
    Common rejection reason: Signing Form DS-11 before appearing before an authorized acceptance agent.
  4. 4

    Submit In Person

    Bring the child, original paperwork, photos, and fees to a passport acceptance facility.

    Watch out: Both the child and the applying parent must be physically present.
    Common rejection reason: Applying without bringing the child to the passport acceptance facility.

Documents you'll need

  • Evidence of Diligent Search

    Certified mail receipts, search service reports, or communication logs showing attempts to contact the absent parent.

    Note: Must document multiple channels such as mail, email, phone, and mutual family contacts.

  • Court Orders or Police Records

    Protective orders, custody determinations, or incident reports detailing safety risks or absence.

    Note: Only required if applicable to your special family circumstances.

  • Child's Proof of U.S. Citizenship

    Original or certified copy of the child's U.S. birth certificate or consular report of birth abroad.

    Note: Must show the names of the parents.

Ready to start?

Run the free eligibility check first, then get your personalized roadmap and document checklist.

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Fees and timelines are as published by the relevant agency and may change — verify before filing. This guide is general information, not legal advice.