Obtaining a U.S. passport is essential for international travel, but not everyone is guaranteed approval. Passport denials can occur for several reasons, including legal issues, incomplete documentation, or unpaid government debts. Whether you’re applying for a new passport, renewing one, or replacing a lost or stolen passport, it’s important to understand the potential pitfalls that could result in a rejection.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover the most common reasons U.S. passport applications are denied, how to address them, and how USPassport.com can help you navigate the process efficiently and stress-free.

1. Delinquent Child Support

Under U.S. law, individuals who owe more than $2,500 in child support are automatically ineligible to receive a passport. The Department of State (DOS) will deny your application until you resolve the overdue payments.

Similarly, if you owe certain government debts, such as federal loans (e.g., repatriation loans), your passport may be denied or revoked.

How to Fix It:

  • For Child Support:
    • Contact your state child support enforcement agency to arrange payment.
    • Once your debt is cleared, the state will notify the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and they'll take your name of the denial list.
  • For Government Debt:
    • Pay or arrange a payment plan with the IRS or other federal agencies.
    • Request a debt clearance letter as proof.

2. Felony Convictions or Outstanding Warrants

This could occur due to:

  • Drug-related felonies: Under 22 U.S. Code § 2714, individuals convicted of drug trafficking offenses (especially involving border crossing) may be denied a passport.
  • Outstanding warrants: If you have an unresolved federal or state warrant, the Department of State may flag and deny your application.

How to Fix It:

  • For Outstanding Warrants:
    • Contact your attorney to address the legal issue.
    • Once resolved, provide proof of warrant clearance.
  • For Felony Convictions:
    • In some cases, you may need legal counsel to apply for special consideration or appeal the denial.

3. Incomplete or Inaccurate Application

How This May Cause Your Passport Application to Be Denied:

Incorrect or missing information on your passport application is one of the most common reasons for denial. Errors may include:

  • Misspelled name or incorrect birth date.
  • Missing signatures or incomplete fields.
  • Failing to include required documents (e.g., proof of citizenship or ID).

How to Fix It:

  • Carefully review your application before submission or have a passport specialist like us prepare your application on your behalf.
  • Use the official form-filler tool on the U.S. State Department website to avoid errors:
    Form DS-11 (New passports)
    Form DS-82 (Renewals)
  • If denied, you’ll receive a Letter of Denial explaining the issue.
  • Correct the error and resubmit your application.

4. Lack of Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Reasons This Can Trigger a Passport Application Rejection:

To obtain a U.S. passport, you must provide valid proof of citizenship, such as:

  • U.S. birth certificate.
  • Naturalization certificate.
  • Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA).
  • Previous U.S. passport.

If you submit improper documentation or your citizenship proof is deemed invalid, your application may be denied.

How to Fix It:

  • Request a certified copy of your birth certificate from the Vital Records Office if you lost the original.
  • For naturalized citizens, request a replacement Naturalization Certificate from USCIS.
  • If your citizenship status is questioned, contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for assistance.

5. Unpaid Federal Taxes

How It Can Lead to a Passport Denial:

Under the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act), the IRS can deny or revoke passports for individuals with seriously delinquent tax debt (over $62,000 in 2024, including interest and penalties).

How to Fix It:

  • Settle your tax debt or arrange a payment plan with the IRS.
  • Once paid, the IRS will notify the State Department.
  • You may request expedited passport services once your name is removed from the revocation list.

6. Travel Restrictions or Sanctions

Why This Could Prevent You from Getting a Passport:

Certain sanctioned individuals or citizens subject to travel restrictions may be denied a passport. This may include individuals:

  • Subject to court orders or supervised release.
  • Under international travel sanctions by the U.S. government.
  • Facing foreign arrest warrants.

How to Fix It:

  • Consult with an attorney to resolve legal issues.
  • Request a court clearance letter if travel restrictions are lifted.

7. Issues with Passport Photos

How This Factor Can Lead to Passport Ineligibility:

Passport photos that fail to meet official requirements may result in application rejection. Common issues include:

  • Incorrect size (must be 2x2 inches).
  • Shadows or poor lighting.
  • Wearing hats or glasses (prohibited).

How to Fix It:

  • Follow the U.S. State Department’s guidelines for passport photos.
  • Use a professional photo service, or book an appointment with us to have your passport photo taken.
  • Retake the photo and resubmit your application.

Essential Insights

Passport denials can be frustrating and delay your travel plans. Whether due to legal issues, documentation errors, or unpaid debts, it’s essential to identify and address the problem promptly.

With our fast and reliable services, you don’t have to face the process alone. We offer expedited passport services, expert guidance, and assistance with documentation to increase your chances of approval and avoid costly delays. Call us at 1-800-545-0000 or book an appointment.