Can I Still Get a Passport with a Felony?
If you’ve been convicted of a felony, you may be wondering if you’re still eligible to obtain a passport. The answer is not a simple yes or no. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA) has specific guidelines regarding passport eligibility for individuals with felony convictions.
Felony Convictions and Passport Eligibility
In general, a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a passport. However, the CA may deny your application if you have a pending felony charge or have been convicted of a felony and are currently serving a sentence.
Types of Felony Convictions
The CA considers the following types of felony convictions when reviewing passport applications:
- Non-violent felonies: These include crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, and tax evasion. If you’ve been convicted of a non-violent felony, you may still be eligible for a passport.
- Violent felonies: These include crimes such as murder, assault, and battery. If you’ve been convicted of a violent felony, your passport application may be denied.
- Drug-related felonies: These include crimes such as drug trafficking and possession. If you’ve been convicted of a drug-related felony, your passport application may be denied.
FBI Fingerprint Check
When you apply for a passport, you’ll need to submit your fingerprints for a background check. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) will check your fingerprints against the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and the Interstate Identification Index (III). If your fingerprints match any criminal records, your passport application may be denied.
Passport Application Denial
If your passport application is denied due to a felony conviction, you’ll receive a letter from the CA explaining the reason for the denial. You may appeal the decision by submitting additional information or evidence to support your application.
What You Can Do to Increase Your Chances of Approval
If you have a felony conviction and are applying for a passport, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of approval:
- Wait until your sentence is complete: If you’re currently serving a sentence, wait until it’s completed before applying for a passport.
- Show proof of rehabilitation: If you’ve completed a rehabilitation program or have been cleared to travel by a court or probation officer, provide proof of this to the CA.
- Provide a detailed explanation: In your passport application, provide a detailed explanation of your felony conviction and how you’ve since turned your life around.
- Gather supporting documentation: Gather supporting documentation, such as letters of recommendation, proof of employment, and proof of community service, to demonstrate your rehabilitation.
Passport Application Process
To apply for a passport, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Fill out the application: Fill out form DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport, and provide all required information.
- Gather supporting documents: Gather supporting documents, such as proof of citizenship, identification, and proof of residency.
- Provide a passport photo: Provide one passport photo that meets the CA’s requirements.
- Submit your application: Submit your application and supporting documents to a passport acceptance facility.
- Pay the fee: Pay the application fee, which currently stands at $110 for a U.S. passport book or $40 for a U.S. passport card.
- Wait for processing: Wait for the CA to process your application, which can take 6-8 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited service.
Conclusion
While a felony conviction may not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a passport, it’s essential to understand the CA’s guidelines and requirements. By following the steps outlined in this article and providing supporting documentation, you can increase your chances of approval. Remember to wait until your sentence is complete, show proof of rehabilitation, and provide a detailed explanation of your felony conviction. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can successfully obtain a passport despite a felony conviction.
