Hi,

I want badly to bring my son to Bonaire to do his checkout dives. He is going to do his Junior Cert. in the spring of 2003 and will be 11 years of age. Can he get into Bonaire without a passport?

Let me explain the situation some. My name is NOT on his birth certificate and there are no legal papers with custody. Basically, when he was born we (read mother and I) were not talking but since and for the last 10 years we get along great and he is a HUGE part of my life. I pay child support in excess of what the state recommended amounts are. To get court certified custody would mean reduced and government controlled child support!

Anyway, to get a US passport for any child UNDER 14 you need a birth cert. with BOTH names on it OR official court custody papers.

Can him and I get in the country? There HAS to be a way. He is so excited, as is his mom and me.

Thanks,
Mike

Mike,

You will need a certified copy (raised seal on it) of his birth certificate and a notarized document signed by his mother stating you have permission to take him out of the United States (the document needs to be specific as to when and where). Depending on who it states as the father on the birth certificate (could be father unknown) would depend on whether additional documentation would be necessary. Have you ever signed an acknowledgement of paternity?

A passport is not needed for either of you.

Hope this info helps.

Kay,

Thank you for the response. The birth certificate states "father unknown".

I have never signed an acknowledgement of paternity, but as I understand it my child support payments acknowledge paternity.

Thanks,
Mike

Chances are immigration will not even read the Birth Cert. I would be happy to call them as to what they would require, but I think your bigger problmem will be leaving the US and upon rentry.

Mike,

I emailed you with some additional information.