The United States Department of State has announced that Americans who owe more than US$2,500 in unpaid child support may have their passports r...
WASHINGTON — The United States Department of State has announced that Americans who owe more than US$2,500 in unpaid child support may have their passports revoked or be denied the issuance of new passports.
The measure is being implemented in coordination with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which maintains records of individuals with significant child support arrears.
According to the State Department, federal regulations prevent citizens with outstanding child support debts above the required threshold from obtaining a U.S. passport.
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“To be eligible for a U.S. passport, you must pay any outstanding child support. If you owe more than $2,500, federal regulations do not allow us to issue you a U.S. passport and we may revoke your valid U.S. passport,” the department said in a notice.
Authorities said passport holders whose travel documents are revoked will receive official notifications directly from the State Department. These notices will be sent through email or to the mailing address listed on the individual’s most recent passport application.
The department advised affected citizens to contact the state where the child support debt is owed and make arrangements to settle the outstanding balance before applying for a new passport.
“Contact the state where your debt is owed for options to repay. After you have paid the state, you will be eligible for a new U.S. passport,” the notice stated.
Officials clarified that a revoked passport cannot be used for international travel even after the debt has been paid. Individuals must complete the restoration process and ...
