When the Parent with Access Can't Attend the Passport Appointment: T&T Edition -

So you just found out that the parent with access can’t attend the passport appointment with you, the custodial parent. Wondering what additional documents you might need? Well, you’re in the right place.

The new passport application for children is fairly straightforward except if the parent with access is unable (or unwilling) to attend the passport appointment with the custodial parent.

The Main Document that You will Need from the Parent with Access for Your Passport Appointment

In such a case, the custodial parent must have a recent statutory declaration signed by the parent with access and stamped by a Commissioner of Affidavits that –

states the name and address of the parent with access;
states the reason that the parent with access cannot attend the appointment;
states that the parent does not object to the issue of a passport in the name of the child or children; and
appends a copy of the valid passport of the parent with access.

This statutory declaration shouldn’t cost more than $200.00 and should be submitted at the appointment. All things being equal, you should be able to ‘get through’ even if the parent with access can’t attend the passport appointment with you, the custodial parent.

when the parent with access can't attend the passport appointment

Other Documents Specific to Custody and Access

As the custodial parent, you will also need to have original copies of the following documents (where applicable) at the passport appointment for his/her child/children:

An original copy of the Court Order outlining the custody and access arrangements;
An original copy of the Paternity Order issued by the Court; and
If the name of the parent with access has changed from the name listed on the Court Order or Paternity Order, copies of the documents evidencing that change of name should also be appended to the statutory declaration of the parent with access.

No need to worry if you’ve can’t find your child’s birth certificate either. Simply apply for another birth certificate online.

Hopefully, your passport appointment will go smoothly, complete with cute photos of your darlings.