Required and Recommended Documents

Getting your paperwork in order immediately is vital.

NOTE: The list below is not a complete list of all documents that may be requested from you in the course of your application and USRAP processing. And not every document listed below will apply to every person or family. This list is provided to assist you in thinking through what kinds of documents you may need throughout the process so that you can prepare as many documents as possible in advance that may be relevant to your personal situation.

Often Required Documents:

1. Passport(s)

A valid passport is required for each traveller, including infants and children.

Important: For children of divorced or separated parents, both parents are usually required to be present when applying at Home Affairs.

2. Unabridged Birth Certificates

An Unabridged Birth Certificate is a full birth certificate showing both parents’ details.

Needed for all children younger than 18. Children cannot travel internationally without an unabridged birth certificate.
Required for all applicants to confirm identity, family links and legal relationships (required to apply for a green card). If the certificate is unavailable or delayed, a police affidavit confirming birth details may assist as supporting evidence, although it is not guaranteed to be accepted.

3. Marriage Certificate

This may be requested to confirm:

The marriage relationship, particularly if applying as a couple.
Differences in surnames between spouses or between a parent and child.
Legal or financial matters in the host country, such as pensions, tax, or insurance.
Proof of connection if one spouse is listed as a dependent on the application.

4. Parental Consent Letter (if one parent is not travelling)

A signed and certified original affidavit from the non-travelling parent granting permission for the child to travel.
A certified copy of the non-travelling parent’s ID or passport.

5. Court Orders or Death Certificates

If one parent has full custody, a certified copy of the court order will be required to negate the need for the Affidavit above.
If a parent is deceased, a certified copy of the death certificate will be required as supporting documentation.

6. Previously Married Women

Women who have been previously married, especially those who have remarried more than once, should be prepared to submit documentation for all prior marriages and divorces. Providing a clear history of name changes helps prevent delays during identity checks or application reviews.

This includes:

Copies of previous marriage and divorce certificates.
Any name changes, including alias names or former surnames, as they may appear in supporting documents such as passports, birth certificates or financial records.