CRBA Guide: Consular Report of Birth Abroad
The CRBA application is essential for documenting the citizenship of a child born outside the United States to a U.S. citizen parent. Follow these steps to prepare thoroughly for your appointment:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Prepare a physical folder containing three black-and-white copies of each of the following:
Child’s Birth Certificate (issued by the country of birth).
Child’s Passport Photo (ensure it meets U.S. passport photo guidelines).
Parents’ Marriage Certificate (if applicable).
Death or Divorce Certificates of either parent’s previous spouses (if applicable).
Parent(s)’ U.S. Passport or other proof of U.S. citizenship.
Non-U.S.-Citizen Parent ID or Passport.
Child’s Israeli or Other Passport (if issued).
Proof of U.S.-Citizen Parent(s)’ Physical Presence in the U.S.
Examples: school records, immunization records, high school/university transcripts, tax returns, or employment records.
Step 2: Complete the CRBA Application
Fill out the required application forms as directed by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. For more details, visit the official CRBA page.
Ensure all details are accurate and match supporting documents.
Step 3: Pay the CRBA Fee
The CRBA application fee is $100 USD. Use https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/while-abroad/birth-abroad.html , fill out the form/questionnaire and make the payment.
Save and print the confirmation receipt as proof of payment.
Step 4: Appointment Confirmation
Confirm your appointment and ensure you receive an email with the date, time, and location.
Bring a printed copy of the appointment confirmation to the embassy.
Step 5: At the Embassy
Do not sign any forms until instructed by the clerk.
Submit all required documents, and answer any questions from the consular officer.
Pro Tip: Double-check that all forms are completed in black ink and that you have all necessary signatures.
First Passport Guide for Your Child
Applying for your child’s first passport can be straightforward with the right preparation. Here’s how:
Step 1: DS-11 Form
Access and fill out the DS-11 form here.
Print the form but do not sign it until instructed to do so at the embassy.
Step 2: Passport Photo
Take a passport photo of your child that meets the U.S. State Department’s photo guidelines.
Step 3: Required Documents
Include the following in your folder:
Child’s Birth Certificate
Child’s Passport Photo
Parents’ Marriage Certificate
Parent(s)’ U.S. Passport or proof of citizenship
Non-U.S.-Citizen Parent ID or Passport
Proof of Physical Presence in the U.S. (as listed above)
Step 4: Appointment Confirmation
Schedule and confirm your appointment for the passport application.
Print the confirmation email and bring it with you.
Step 5: At the Embassy
Present all documents, including three copies of each.
Follow the consular officer’s instructions and sign the DS-11 form only when asked.
Social Security Number (SSN) Guide
Applying for an SSN for your child requires careful preparation. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: SS-5 Form
Access the SS-5 form here.
Complete the form but leave the signature section blank until your appointment.
Step 2: Social Security Disclaimer
Download the Social Security disclaimer here.
Print and complete the disclaimer with your name and signature in black ink.
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
Prepare three black-and-white copies of each of the following:
Child’s Birth Certificate
Parents’ Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
Parent(s)’ U.S. Passport
Proof of U.S.-Citizen Parent’s Physical Presence in the U.S.
Step 4: Appointment Confirmation
Schedule and confirm your SSN appointment.
Print and bring the appointment confirmation email.
Step 5: At the Embassy
Do not sign any forms until instructed.
Submit all documents and follow the clerk’s guidance.
Final Notes for All Appointments
Ensure all forms are filled out in black ink.
Double-check that you have all required documents and three copies of each.
Prepare a neat and organized folder to streamline your appointment.
Be punctual and bring all confirmations, including payment and appointment details.
By following these detailed guides, you can confidently navigate the processes for CRBA, first passport, and SSN appointments. Always refer to the U.S. Embassy’s website for the most up-to-date information.

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