Can a Person with a Felony Get a Passport?
The short answer is yes, a person with a felony can get a passport, but it’s not a straightforward process. The United States Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA) is responsible for issuing passports, and they have specific guidelines for individuals with criminal convictions, including felonies.
Background Check and Approval
To obtain a passport, applicants must undergo a background check through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of State’s CA. The background check is conducted to ensure that the applicant does not have any outstanding warrants, is not a fugitive, and has not been convicted of a crime that would make them ineligible for a passport.
Felony Convictions and Passport Eligibility
The Department of State’s CA has specific guidelines for felony convictions and passport eligibility. A felony conviction does not automatically disqualify an individual from obtaining a passport. However, the type and severity of the felony conviction can impact the application process.
Types of Felony Convictions
The Department of State’s CA considers the following factors when evaluating felony convictions:
- Type of crime: Certain crimes, such as murder, treason, or espionage, may render an individual ineligible for a passport.
- Length of sentence: If the sentence was longer than one year, it may impact passport eligibility.
- Current status: If the individual is currently serving a sentence or on probation, it may affect passport eligibility.
Passport Application Process for Individuals with Felony Convictions
Individuals with felony convictions must follow the standard passport application process, which includes:
- Form DS-11: Fill out the application form and sign it in front of a passport acceptance agent.
- Proof of identity: Provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID.
- Proof of citizenship: Provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
- Passport photo: Provide a passport photo that meets the Department of State’s requirements.
- Background check: The FBI and Department of State’s CA will conduct a background check as part of the application process.
Additional Requirements for Individuals with Felony Convictions
Individuals with felony convictions may need to provide additional documentation, such as:
- Court documents: Provide court documents or a certified copy of the conviction.
- Probation or parole documentation: Provide documentation showing current probation or parole status.
- Sentence completion documentation: Provide documentation showing completion of the sentence.
Table: Passport Application Process for Individuals with Felony Convictions
| Step | Requirements |
|---|---|
| 1. Form DS-11 | Fill out the application form and sign it in front of a passport acceptance agent. |
| 2. Proof of identity | Provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID. |
| 3. Proof of citizenship | Provide proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. |
| 4. Passport photo | Provide a passport photo that meets the Department of State’s requirements. |
| 5. Background check | The FBI and Department of State’s CA will conduct a background check as part of the application process. |
| 6. Additional documentation | Provide additional documentation, such as court documents, probation or parole documentation, or sentence completion documentation (if applicable). |
Conclusion
In conclusion, a person with a felony conviction can obtain a passport, but it’s essential to understand the specific requirements and guidelines for the application process. Individuals with felony convictions should carefully review the Department of State’s guidelines and consult with a passport acceptance agent or attorney if necessary. By following the correct process and providing the required documentation, individuals with felony convictions can obtain a passport and travel internationally.
