Passport Disqualifications

What Disqualifies You From Getting a Passport? All 15 Reasons

If you’re thinking about getting a passport or you just applied for one and you’re wondering what disqualifies you from getting a passport, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve listed all nine reasons why you could be disqualified from getting a passport below.

In the event that your passport application gets denied, any and all fees paid will be kept and you will have to submit a new payment with your new application.

1. You’re a Convicted Felon

Passports for felons can be more difficult to obtain. If you’re a felon, you can still get a passport as long as you currently aren’t out on bail, parole, or probation and you haven’t been convicted of a felony where international travel could pose a threat.

2. You Have a Warrant

If there is an outstanding state, local, or federal felony arrest warrant, including those issued under the Federal Fugitive Felon Act, you will not be able to get a passport.

3. You’re a Sex Offender

If you’re a convicted sex offender, you could be disqualified from getting a passport. In order to get a passport, sex offenders must get special approval and agree to have a conspicuous identifier placed on the passport.

4. The Application Was Left Incomplete

The most common reason for a denied passport application is incomplete or inadequate information. Make sure you fill out every question on the application and supply any additional information that may be required.

5. Inaccurate Information Was Used

If you use inaccurate information on your passport application, it will be denied. If it’s found that you intentionally filled out the application with wrong information, you could be prosecuted for fraud and other crimes.

6. The Passport Photo Doesn’t Pass Requirements

If you forgot to include a passport photo or it doesn’t pass the requirements, your passport application will be denied. Make sure the passport photo you include is the correct size, 2 inches by 2 inches with your head being between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches tall, and that you’re not wearing any accessories or smiling.

7. You’re a Minor Without Parental Approval

All minors under the age of 16 must apply in person for their passport and have two parents or guardians present to fill out Form DS-11. Minors aged 16 or 17, can apply for a passport by themselves using their own valid government ID.

8. Insufficient Payment Was Received

If you don’t include sufficient payment with your passport application, it will be denied and you will have to apply again with the correct amount owed and you will lose any payment you may have made with your first application.

9. You’re Committed to a Mental Institution

If you are currently committed to a mental institution under court order, you will not be able to get a passport with a court’s approval.

10. You Were Declared Legally Incompetant

If you were declared legally incompetent by the courts, you won’t be able to get a passport without a legal guardian’s permission.

11. You Owe Child Support

If you are delinquent on child support payments and owe more than $2,500 you could be disqualified from getting a passport. Make sure you stay current with your payments and if you’re behind, you can try to work out a plan.

12. You Owe Back Taxes

If you owe back taxes of $51,000 or more you will not be able to get a passport until a payment plan is made and court approval is received.

13. Defaulted on a Government Loan

If you or your spouse has defaulted on a government loan you, your spouse, and your children will not be able to get a passport or leave the country.

14. Subject to Extradition

If a foreign country has submitted a formal request for extradition or arrest, you will not be approved to get a passport.

15. Armed Forces Restraint or Apprehension Order

If a qualified officer of the United States Armed Forces has issued an order for restraint or apprehension, you will be disqualified from getting a passport.

Alex Knoch

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *