Can a Person With a Felony Record Obtain a Passport?
A U.S. citizen must have a passport to return to the United States after traveling abroad. If you have a felony conviction on your criminal record, it will usually not affect your ability to get a passport, but it should still be a consideration when traveling abroad.
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Passport Requirements
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In order to obtain a U.S. passport, you must complete the application (Form DS-11). You will also need to provide proof of identity, two photographs and pay the required fee.
Criminal Conviction
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A criminal conviction alone will not prevent you from obtaining a passport. If you are currently out on bail and awaiting trial, if you have an outstanding warrant or if the State Department determines that you are a risk to others based on all the information it has about you, then you could be denied a passport.
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Entering Other Coviction
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Although you may be able to obtain a passport with a felony conviction, you could be denied entry to a foreign country if you have a felony conviction. Be sure to check the entry requirements for the country you plan to visit before you make travel plans.
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References
- Photo Credit passport image by isatori from Fotolia.com