Other parent won't sign for the kids' passports
CAamal_k1 month ago
I want to take the kids to see my family overseas. Other parent won't sign DS-3053. What can I do?
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✓ Verified answer from a licensed attorney — shown first
Two paths in CA. (1) File an RFO asking the court for an order authorizing passport issuance. Bring DS-3053, your proposed travel dates, and a sworn statement that you'll return on schedule. (2) Some courts will order one parent to sign DS-3053 under threat of sanctions. Country of destination matters — for Hague signatory countries the analysis is easier than for non-signatories (where international child abduction concerns get serious scrutiny). Don't fly without an order if the other parent has explicitly objected — taking the children abroad over objection can trigger Hague-Convention or even criminal exposure.
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