State Department Seeks Feedback on Kidnapping Form Updates
Published Date: 6/15/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of State wants your thoughts on updating the forms used to help return kids taken across borders without permission. This affects parents or guardians applying under the Hague Convention to get their children back. You’ve got until August 14, 2026, to share your feedback—no fees, just about making the process smoother and clearer!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
State Dept. Hague Application Help
If you are a parent or legal guardian seeking the return of a child taken to another Hague Convention country, you can use forms DS-3013, DS-3013-S, or DS-3013-P to request help from the U.S. Department of State. The Department (as U.S. Central Authority under 22 U.S.C. 9008) uses the information to evaluate your claim and to share necessary details with the foreign Central Authority to locate and seek return or access to the child.
Application Time Burden and Submission
Completing the Hague Convention application (forms DS-3013, DS-3013-S, DS-3013-P) takes about 60 minutes on average per response; the Department estimates 400 respondents and a total burden of 400 hours. Responding is voluntary, and you may submit the completed form by mail, fax, or electronically via www.travel.state.gov.
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Key Dates
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