A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) is a vital document issued by U.S. embassies and consulates for children born outside the United States to U.S. citizen parent(s). In Pakistan, U.S. citizens can apply for a CRBA through designated U.S. Embassy and Consulates, ensuring their child receives the benefits and protections of U.S. citizenship from birth.
What Is a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)?
The CRBA (Form SF-240) serves as official proof of U.S. citizenship for children born abroad. This document is equivalent to a U.S. birth certificate and is accepted for all legal, governmental, and educational purposes in the United States. It affirms that at least one parent is a U.S. citizen and that the child meets the conditions required under U.S. nationality law.
Who Can Apply for a CRBA in Pakistan?
To qualify for a CRBA in Pakistan, the child must:
- Be under the age of 18 at the time of application.
- Be born in Pakistan to at least one U.S. citizen parent who meets the physical presence requirements in the United States.
- Be biologically related to the U.S. citizen parent(s).
Only the child’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) can apply for the CRBA, and both parents must usually be present for the interview at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad or U.S. Consulates in Lahore or Karachi.
Documents Required for CRBA Application in Pakistan
To ensure a smooth CRBA application process, you must bring the original documents and one photocopy of each. These include:
- Child’s Pakistani birth certificate (Form B)
- U.S. citizen parent’s proof of citizenship (U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or birth certificate)
- Evidence of the parent(s)’ physical presence in the U.S. prior to the child’s birth (e.g., school records, employment records, tax returns, utility bills)
- Parents’ marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of termination of previous marriages, if any (divorce decrees or death certificates)
- Hospital birth certificate from the Pakistani hospital where the child was born
- Photos of the child and both parents
- Application fee (paid at the Embassy/Consulate)
Step-by-Step Application Process at U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Pakistan
1. Complete the Online CRBA Application (Form DS-2029)
Visit the Sjlawexperts website and create an account to complete Form DS-2029 online. This allows you to upload documents, schedule your appointment, and track your case status.
2. Schedule Your Appointment
Appointments for CRBA services in Pakistan must be scheduled online through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website. Early booking is essential as appointment slots are limited and often booked weeks in advance.
3. Attend the Interview
Both parents and the child must be present at the interview unless one parent provides notarized consent via Form DS-3053 (Statement of Consent). During the interview:
- The consular officer will verify documents.
- Both parents may be questioned to confirm the biological relationship and U.S. citizen parent’s residency in the U.S.
- Biometric data and photographs of the child will be taken.
4. Pay the Application Fee
The non-refundable application fee for a CRBA in Pakistan is currently $100, payable in U.S. dollars or Pakistani rupees at the current consular exchange rate.
5. Receive the CRBA and U.S. Passport
If approved, the CRBA and U.S. passport are generally available for pickup within 2–4 weeks. You may also apply for the child’s Social Security Number at this time by submitting Form SS-5.
U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Pakistan: Contact Details
U.S. Embassy in Islamabad
Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5
Phone: +92 51 201 4000
Website: https://pk.usembassy.gov
U.S. Consulate General Karachi
Plot 3, 4, 5, New TPX Area, Mai Kolachi Road
Phone: +92 21 3527 5000
U.S. Consulate General Lahore
50 Sharah-E-Abdul Hameed Bin Badees (Old Empress Road)
Phone: +92 42 3603 4000
Tips for a Successful CRBA Application in Pakistan
- Ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and translated into English.
- If only one parent is a U.S. citizen, their physical presence in the U.S. prior to the birth must be clearly documented.
- Do not purchase travel tickets before receiving the CRBA and passport.
- Keep original Pakistani birth documents safe and undamaged; the U.S. consular office will not accept altered documents.
- Arrive early for your appointment to allow time for security checks.
Common Reasons CRBA Applications Get Delayed or Denied
- Insufficient proof of U.S. citizenship or physical presence.
- Lack of supporting documents such as proof of relationship.
- Inconsistencies in the child’s birth certificate or lack of hospital record.
- Failure to attend the appointment with the child and both parents.
Being meticulous and prepared will significantly improve the likelihood of a successful and timely outcome.
Can You Apply for a U.S. Passport at the Same Time?
Yes, you can apply for your child’s U.S. passport simultaneously with the CRBA application. You will need to submit Form DS-11, passport photographs, and pay the additional passport issuance fee.
Why CRBA Is Crucial for U.S. Citizens Living in Pakistan
Without a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a child born outside the U.S. may face:
- Inability to travel to the U.S. on a U.S. passport.
- Difficulties accessing healthcare, education, and legal protections afforded to U.S. citizens.
- Complications with inheritance, taxes, and other civil matters.
Securing a CRBA immediately after birth ensures the child enjoys all rights and privileges of a U.S. citizen from day one.
📞 Contact SJ Law Experts Today
Trust SJ Law Experts to handle your case with professionalism, empathy, and precision.
📌 Schedule Your Legal Consultation:
- 📱 WhatsApp/Phone: +92 (0) 335-411-2288
- 📧 Email: SJLawExperts@gmail.com
- 📍 Office: No. 1, First Floor, Al Anayat Mall, Above Faysal Bank, G-11 Markaz, Islamabad, Pakistan
- 🌐 https://sjlawexperts.com
Conclusion
The Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) is a cornerstone document for U.S. citizens born in Pakistan. Timely and accurate filing not only establishes U.S. citizenship but also ensures that your child has full access to their rights under U.S. law. The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and Consulates in Karachi and Lahore are well-equipped to assist in the process, provided applicants adhere to the requirements and prepare all documentation meticulously.
