If you’re a U.S. citizen and your child was born outside the United States, you can apply for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA). This document, also called Form FS-240, serves as proof of your child’s U.S. citizenship. It can be obtained at a U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where your child was born. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of applying for a CRBA and answer some common questions.
What Is a CRBA?
A CRBA is an official document that proves your child’s U.S. citizenship. However, unlike a passport, it cannot be used as identification. Instead, it acts as proof that your child is a U.S. citizen. You can apply for this document at a U.S. consulate or embassy in the country of your child’s birth.
Who Is Eligible for a CRBA?
To qualify for a CRBA, your child must generally be under the age of 18. It’s important to submit your application as soon as possible after your child’s birth. The eligibility requirements depend on several factors, including the citizenship status of the parents and whether the parents are married. Let’s go over the key eligibility criteria:
If Both Parents Are U.S. Citizens and Married
Your child is likely eligible for a CRBA if:
- Both parents are U.S. citizens.
- One of the parents is biologically related to the child, or
- One of the parents lived in the U.S. or one of its territories before the child’s birth.
If one parent is a U.S. citizen and the other is a U.S. national (a person born in a U.S. territory), the U.S. citizen parent must have lived in the U.S. for at least one year before the child’s birth.
If Only One Parent Is a U.S. Citizen
For a child born outside the U.S. to a U.S. citizen and a non-citizen parent, the child may be eligible for a CRBA if:
- The child was born after November 14, 1986.
- The U.S. citizen parent lived in the U.S. for at least five years before the child’s birth (with at least two of those years after the parent’s 14th birthday).
- The child was born via in vitro fertilization or surrogacy.
If the Father Is Unmarried and a U.S. Citizen
An unmarried U.S. citizen father may pass U.S. citizenship to their child if they meet the same requirements as a married parent. These include:
- Submitting a written statement to support the child financially.
- Providing evidence of the father’s U.S. citizenship and biological relationship to the child.
- Meeting the physical presence requirement (at least five years in the U.S., with two years after the father’s 14th birthday).
If the Mother Is Unmarried and a U.S. Citizen
The eligibility for an unmarried U.S. citizen mother changes depending on when the child was born:
- Before June 12, 2017: The mother must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least one year before the child’s birth.
- After June 12, 2017: The mother must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least five years, with two of those years after her 14th birthday.
How to Apply for a CRBA
Once you’ve determined your eligibility, the next step is to apply for the CRBA. Follow this simple process:
1. Complete Form DS-2029
This form is the main application for a CRBA. It will require you to provide details about your child’s birth, the parents’ citizenship status, and more. You may also need to complete additional forms, depending on the country where you are applying. For example, some consulates may ask for a Social Security affidavit or a passport application for your child.
2. Gather Required Documents
You will need to submit original copies and photocopies of the following documents:
- Your child’s birth certificate.
- Your marriage certificate (if applicable).
- Proof of U.S. citizenship for the parent(s) (e.g., U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate).
- Proof that the parent(s) was physically present in the U.S. before the child’s birth (e.g., utility bills, rental receipts, or employment records).
- Documents showing the dissolution of any prior marriages (e.g., divorce papers or death certificates).
- If you’re not the child’s parent, submit a legal guardianship statement or permission affidavit.
3. Purchase Envelopes and Stamps
Some embassies require you to purchase a specific envelope with postage. For example, the U.S. consulate in Austria requires an A5 envelope, an Einschreiben sticker, and €5.05 worth of stamps. Make sure to check with your consulate for specific requirements.
4. Prepare Payment
Consular fees for a CRBA vary by country. Typically, you can pay in person using a credit card or cash. For example, the fee in Austria is USD 215, while in Chile, it’s USD 100. Be sure to verify the current fee on your consulate’s website.
5. Schedule an Appointment
Once you have all the required documents and payment, schedule an appointment at your local U.S. embassy or consulate. Most embassies allow you to book an appointment online. On the day of your appointment, be sure to arrive early and check your consulate’s website for any specific instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Information Is on a CRBA?
A CRBA will include the child’s name, gender, birth date, and birthplace, along with the parent’s names and birthdates. It will also include the consular officer’s signature and an official seal.
Can I Replace or Amend a CRBA?
Yes. If you need to make changes to your CRBA, you can request an amendment. To do so, submit a notarized letter with the necessary information, such as your name, the proposed changes, and supporting documents. The fee for this process is $50.
Can Someone Else Request a CRBA for Me?
Yes, a family member or trusted individual can request a CRBA on your behalf. They will need a notarized letter of authorization from you, along with secondary IDs and supporting documents.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Certain U.S. nationals born in U.S. territories may not need to apply for a CRBA. This applies to people born in places like Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and others, depending on specific periods.
Applying for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad is an important process for U.S. citizen parents whose children are born overseas. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements, you can successfully secure your child’s U.S. citizenship documentation. Always check the specific guidelines of your local consulate to ensure your application is complete.
