Parental consent for passport applications
A passport application for a child must be signed by both parents or guardians.
Where the parents are not married the father's consent is required if he is a joint guardian of the child.
What happens if one or other parent or guardian will not sign the passport application?
The other parent/guardian can apply to the court for an order dispensing with the second signature.
What happens if one or other parent or guardian cannot be found to sign the passport application?
The other parent/guardian can apply to the court for an order dispensing with the second signature.
How to make an application
Most applications to dispense with a signature are made to the District Court. You will also need to lodge the relevant court forms in the court office. Find your local court office here.
When you have completed the necessary form(s) you must apply to have your application listed before the court. You must also attend in court on the day to make your application.
Court forms
District Court:
S.I. No. 125 of 1999: District Court (Custody and Guardianship of Children) Rules, 1999
Form 58.17 Notice of application for the court's direction - section 11(1) and 11(4)
Court rules
S.I. No. 93 of 1997: District Court Rules, 1997