Can a felon get a passport in 2025? Discover the latest rules, eligibility, restrictions, and steps for felons to apply for a passport successfully. Know your rights!
Introduction
Life after a felony can be tough. Many people wonder about their freedom, especially when it comes to traveling abroad. One common question is: Can a felon get a passport?
The short answer is YES, but there are important things you need to know. This article gives a complete, updated guide for 2025. Whether you want to travel for work, family, or leisure, understanding your rights is important.
Let’s dive into the facts, rules, and easy steps to help you on your journey Is a Passport and Why Do You Need One?
A passport is your official travel document issued by your country. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you need a passport to travel internationally. It proves your identity and citizenship when you cross borders.
If you’ve been convicted of a felony, you might be unsure whether you can get a passport. Don’t worry! We’ve got all the answers below.
Can a Felon Get a Passport?
The Simple Answer
Yes, most felons can get a passport in the United States. A felony conviction does not automatically disqualify you from applying for or getting a passport.
But, there are some important restrictions and exceptions you should know about.
Who Cannot Get a Passport?
While many felons can apply for a passport, there are situations where the U.S. government may deny or revoke your passport.
1. Felons Convicted of Drug Trafficking Across Borders
- If you smuggled drugs in or out of the U.S., the government might block your passport application.
- This law applies especially if the crime involves international borders.
2. Active Criminal Court Orders or Probation
- If you are on probation, parole, or restricted by court orders, you may not be allowed to travel.
- Courts can limit your ability to leave the country.
3. Outstanding Child Support Payments
- If you owe more than $2,500 in child support, your passport application will be denied until the debt is cleared.
4. Federal Arrest Warrants
- If there’s an active warrant for your arrest, you won’t be able to get a passport.
5. National Security Risks
- People flagged as national security threats may not be allowed to leave the country.
What Crimes Don’t Stop You From Getting a Passport?
- Domestic felonies that don’t involve international travel.
- White-collar crimes like fraud or embezzlement (as long as you’re not under court restrictions).
- Violent crimes, if you’ve served your sentence and have no travel restrictions.
Tip: If you’re off probation/parole, and have no legal restrictions, you have a good chance of getting your passport approved!
How to Apply for a Passport as a Felon (Step-by-Step)
1. Gather Required Documents
- Proof of Citizenship (Birth Certificate or Naturalization Certificate)
- Photo ID (Driver’s License, State ID)
- Passport Photo (2×2 inches, white background)
- Completed Form DS-11 (Application for U.S. Passport)
2. Visit an Acceptance Facility
You must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, like:
- Post offices
- Some public libraries
- Courthouses
3. Pay the Fees
- Application Fee: $130 (as of 2025)
- Execution Fee: $35
You can expedite for an extra fee if you need it faster.
4. Wait for Approval
- Regular processing takes 8-11 weeks
- Expedited processing takes 5-7 weeks
Will They Run a Background Check?
The State Department does not typically run background checks for a passport unless:
- There’s a court restriction
- You owe child support
- There’s an outstanding warrant
Your criminal record usually won’t appear unless your case has ongoing legal consequences.
Can Felons Travel Abroad With a Passport?
Yes, but with limits!
Even if you have a passport, you still need permission to enter another country.
Each country sets its own rules for visitors with a criminal record.
For example:
- Canada: May deny entry to felons unless they apply for rehabilitation
- Australia & New Zealand: Require disclosure of felony convictions
- Mexico: May refuse entry for serious crimes
Always check the rules of the country you plan to visit!
U.S. Department of State – Travel Advisories
How Can a Felon Improve Travel Chances?
1. Complete Probation or Parole
Having no legal restrictions makes travel easier.
2. Pay Off Debts
Clear any child support or court fines.
3. Expunge Your Record (If Possible)
Some states offer expungement or record sealing, improving your chances of entry into foreign countries.
4. Apply for a Visa or Waiver
Some countries offer special waivers for people with a record. Plan!
FAQs About Felons and Passports
Can a felon get a passport to go on a cruise?
Yes! If the cruise travels internationally, you need a passport. For closed-loop cruises (starting/ending in the same U.S. port), a passport might not be required.
Can a felon get a passport if they have served time?
Yes! Once your sentence is complete and there are no legal restrictions, you can apply.
Can a felon renew a passport?
Yes! If there are no new legal issues, felons can renew an existing passport.
Can felons get a passport card instead of a book?
Yes! But passport cards are only valid for land and sea travel to Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Bermuda—not for air travel.
Final Thoughts: You Have Rights!
So, can a felon get a passport? In most cases, YES!
If you’ve served your time, followed the rules, and have no travel restrictions, you can explore the world again.