U.S. to Broaden Passport Revocations for Unpaid Child Support

U.S. to broaden passport revocations over unpaid child support, signaling a tougher stance that could soon limit international travel for some parents. The shift, described by officials on February 10, 2026, would move enforcement from largely wait-and-see to proactive action.

What’s Changing

The State Department plans to begin revoking certain passports on its own initiative using data from the Department of Health and Human Services, rather than waiting for customers to apply for renewals or other services, according to The Associated Press. The first phase would target passport holders who owe more than $100,000 in past-due support—estimated at fewer than 500 people—with an option to avoid revocation by entering a payment plan. Initial focus: debts above $100,000. Officials indicated the effort could later expand to those with smaller arrears, potentially affecting thousands more.

The Legal Backdrop

Under a law enacted in 1996, the federal government can deny or revoke passports for parents who owe substantial child support. Since October 1, 2006, applicants owing $2,500 or more are ineligible for a new passport. State Department guidance also allows for revocation when HHS certifies an obligor’s arrears. The program, jointly run by HHS’s Office of Child Support Services and the State Department since 1998, has long operated by placing holds that block issuance until debts are resolved.

Who Could Be Affected

The immediate pool is small, but AP’s reporting suggests the policy may be rolled out in tiers, with broader impact if the threshold drops. HHS says states have reported nearly $621 million collected through the Passport Denial Program since its inception, illustrating how travel needs can prompt lump-sum payments or structured plans. Revocations could expand to thousands more if lower tiers are triggered.

What Travelers Should Know

As of July 2024 guidance, anyone owing $2,500 or more is not eligible to receive a passport. Resolving arrears with the relevant state child support agency prompts HHS to remove the person’s name from its certification list; the State Department notes that this clearance process typically takes two to three weeks before normal passport processing resumes. As of February 10, 2026, officials had not publicly posted a start date for the stepped-up revocations, and HHS did not provide an estimate of how many people are in arrears.

Sources

• US to expand passport revocations for parents who owe child support, AP sources say — Associated Press (February 10, 2026)
• Pay Your Child Support Before Applying for a Passport — U.S. Department of State (July 23, 2024)
• 7 FAM 1750: International Child Support Enforcement — U.S. Department of State (March 31, 2025)
• Passport Denial Program 101 — Administration for Children & Families, HHS (accessed February 11, 2026)