Understanding the Process of Obtaining Passports for Children Born to American Parents in Palestine

As an American citizen who gave birth to a child in Palestine, navigating the process of obtaining a passport for your child can be confusing, especially when unsure of how to proceed through the embassies and official bodies involved. There are distinct steps and considerations you need to be aware of, particularly concerning the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) and the American Embassy in Israel. This guide aims to clarify the procedures and your rights as an American parent.

Steps to Obtain a Passport for a Child Born in Palestine

The first step involves obtaining a birth certificate from the Palestinian National Authority. This is the official document that records the birth of the child within the territory controlled by PNA, which operates in Areas A and B of the West Bank according to the Oslo Accords. It is important to note that outside of these areas, you do not have the right to a birthright for a passport.

For children born in the areas controlled by PNA, applying for a birth certificate should be done through the relevant local authorities. Each district within these areas has specific procedures, which may include visiting a local health clinic or municipal office.

Once the birth certificate is obtained, the next step is to apply for a passport from the Palestinian National Authority. The PNA will process the application based on the information provided. It is important to note, however, that the passport issued by the PNA does not denote citizenship, as Palestine is not currently a fully recognized state.

The PNA passport is primarily a travel document and is generally not sufficient for travel by itself. This is because it is only recognized as a non-member observer state by the United Nations. Therefore, if you are planning to travel internationally, you typically need to rely on the parent's passport for the child's travel.

Considerations for US Citizens with Children Born in Other Parts of Israel

For American citizens who give birth to a child in the Palestinian-controlled territories of Israel, the process of obtaining a passport follows similar guidelines. The American Embassy in Israel provides the necessary procedures for obtaining a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, which is used to establish the child's citizenship.

After obtaining the birth certificate from the Palestinian National Authority, the next step involves applying for the Consular Report of Birth Abroad at the U.S. Embassy in Israel. This document confirms the child's U.S. citizenship.

It is crucial to note that the process follows a standard protocol regardless of the specific location of birth, which is the same for all American parents irrespective of whether their children are born in different parts of the world.

Impact of the Consular Report of Birth Abroad Suspension

Bearing in mind the current global health crisis, the U.S. State Department has temporarily suspended the processing of Consular Reports of Birth Abroad due to COVID-19-related restrictions. Until further notice, parents cannot apply for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, making it challenging to establish their child's citizenship.

During this period, U.S. citizens are advised to check the official U.S. State Department website for any updates or changes in procedures. Until these processes resume, parents may find themselves without the necessary documentation to establish their child's U.S. citizenship.

If you are an American parent whose child was born in the Palestinian-controlled territories during this period, it is important to stay informed and proactive in seeking alternative methods to establish your child's citizenship and travel rights.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a passport for a child born to American parents in Palestine involves several steps, each with its own set of requirements and considerations. While the process is overseen by the Palestinian National Authority, the legal and practical difficulties can be significant. Given the current restrictions, American parents must stay updated on the latest travel and citizenship regulations to ensure their children can travel safely and have the necessary documentation.

Despite the challenges, being informed and persistent is key to navigating the complexities of citizenship and international travel for your family.