1. If one parent/guardian cannot appear with the child to apply for the passport, he/she can give a notarized Statement of Consent (permission) by completing Form DS-3053, along with a photocopy of parent/guardian ID at the time of application. The DS-3053 is valid for 90 days from the date of notarization.

2. It is also possible to provide the equivalent of the Form DS-3053 in Russian, accompanied by a professional English translation, and a photocopy of parent/guardian ID at the time of application.  It is valid for 90 days from the date of notarization. The notarized consent must include the following information:

• The full name and date of birth of the child;
• Full name, relationship to the child, phone number, postal, and email address of the absent parent;
• Clear and unconditional consent of the parent who signs the form;
• Full name of parent/guardian who will accompany the minor for the passport application.

If one parent/guardian has Sole Legal Custody, he/she must submit evidence with the application. All foreign documents must be accompanied by an English translation.

• Court order granting you sole legal custody of the child, such as a divorce decree or other
custody order;
• Court order specifically permitting you to apply solely for your child’s passport;
• Original child’s birth certificate listing you as the only parent;
• An adoption decree listing you as the only parent;
• The judicial declaration of incompetence of the parent that cannot appear in person;
• Original death certificate of the parent.

If the written consent of the non-applying parent or guardian cannot be obtained, the applying parent or guardian should provide DS-5525  (Statement of Exigent Special Family Circumstances) and must submit evidence with the application. All foreign documents must be accompanied by an English translation.