Consular Report Of Birth Abroad

A consular report of birth abroad is required to prove that a U.S. citizen had a child while outside the U.S., which often happens with travelers and expatriates. It can be a complex process, but obtaining this document will ensure that the U.S. government recognizes and validates the child’s citizenship.

What Is a Consular Report of Birth Abroad?

A consular report of birth is a document that proves that a U.S. citizen had a child abroad. To gain it, the applicant must meet all requirements. The Consular Report proves citizenship similar to a Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. Passport.

Here are some of the main things to consider when filing:

• At least one of the parents must be a U.S. citizen.
• Your U.S. citizen parent must meet the required residency requirements.
• You must file a copy of the consular report at the U.S. embassy or consulate in that respective country.
• The child claiming U.S. citizenship must be under 18 years old at the time of application.

What if the Child Is Over 18?

The child is not eligible for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad if they are over 18 years of age. They must instead apply for an Application for Certificate of Citizenship or Form N-600. Another option is to apply for a U.S. passport.

Why Do I Need a Consular Report of Birth Abroad?

Many legal documents in the U.S. require proof of citizenship. If an applicant provided a birth certificate from another country, the entity could ask for further proof of U.S. citizenship. A consular report of birth is proof of that.

Here are the benefits it can help you with:

• Filing petitions and benefits
• Voting registration
• Health insurance

Can I Apply From Any Country?

You can apply from any country with a U.S. embassy or consulate as long as you fulfill the requirements, some of which are listed above. Children born in countries during a time when they were U.S. territories are ineligible since these places were not considered abroad at the time.

How Can I Get a Consular Report of Birth?

Applying for the consular report as soon as possible is ideal to ensure you can get all the requirements. Follow the steps below to apply:

1. Gather the child’s birth certificate and other documents proving the relation to the parent and the birth. You’ll also need documents to prove your U.S. citizenship and evidence of your previous presence in the U.S.
2. Go to the local consulate or U.S. embassy. By doing this early, you can expedite the process.
3. Complete all information for Form DS-2029 during the application and submit. Along with the application, you’ll need ID for both parents along with the other documents. You’ll also need to submit marital documents, if applicable.
4. Report the birth.
5. Stay in contact if the embassy or consulate wants you to provide any additional information.
6. Receive the Consular Report of Birth abroad.

How Much Does the Application Cost?

The Consular Report of Birth Abroad has a $100 application fee. You’ll pay it during your appointment with the embassy.

Can I Get Multiple Copies of the Report?

Yes. The first document you receive will be the original copy. You can request more copies or get a replacement if you lose the original one. However, you’ll need to provide a notarized letter with all relevant personal information. You’ll also need to provide a valid ID and pay $50 for any replacement or change.

Changes in documentation or replacements can take 3-4 months due to COVID restrictions, shipping delays, and processing.

What if There Is a Mistake in the Report?

You can go back to the consulate to make the necessary changes. You can do this as long as you are the following:

• The person listed on the record (if above 18 years old)
• A parent (if the child is under 18)
• A person with written authorization from the person on record
• An authorized government agency

Can I Apply for a U.S. Passport If I Have the Consular Report of Birth Abroad?

Yes. You can even apply for it along with the consular report to have both processed concurrently.

Next Steps

Getting a consular report of birth abroad can be a tricky process and takes some work, but can be worth the effort if it results in recognizing a child’s U.S. citizenship. If you’re having trouble acquiring this document, contact an expert immigration attorney at Reeves Immigration Law Group. Our skilled and experienced team can help make the process smooth, improving your chances of success.