Preparation advice

In the past I have talked about preparation which is very important when making hijrah. But as we know Allah is the best of planners and the best disposer of our affairs. I must take this time to advise you that even with the best of intentions you will have to overcome test, trials and tribulations. I will reiterate that once the decisions has been made to make hijrah making sure that all proper documents and paper work are in order is essential. Currently in the US to obtain passports for an adult requires several things the appropriate application form, original birth certificate which is sent with your application to the passport bureau, state identification to acknowledge you are the applicant and several passport size pictures as well as the current fees of course. If there has been any legal name change due to marriage etc.. also have this available. When applying for children the process is similar but the age of the child or children may require both parents to be present to sign the application giving consent to issue passports. Please know that if there are 2 parents names listed on the birth record these 2 individuals as well as the children will need to be present to have the application even considered Yes, there are often special circumstances where the other parent is not available. In cases due to death you would of course need to produce the proper documentation. If someone has relocated they may be able to feel out a special circumstance form (available on line) explaining why they are not available have it notarized and attach this to the application. If an applying parent does not have a legal document specifically stating sole legal custody (primary custody may not be excepted by the passport bureau) or a plowmen petition granting permission to relocate with children that are minors you will need permission from the absent parent in writing. If any parent is not available due to incarceration the same requirements still apply they must request to have the prison notary notarize the forms or letter and this also can be used. These are common required procedures for first time passports. Passports that are being renewed or replaced due to damage or lost I am not aware of the protocol. (mashaAllah)
The reality of life is for one reason or another people divorce, part on good or sometimes not so good terms. People remarry and continue on with their lives even when children are involved unfortunately loose contact or have no on going relationship at all. It is at these times you have to deal with the potential hardship of trying to obtain passports and visas. InshaAllah once you have the passports they are good for 5 years for children and 10 years for adults. Applying for a visa to KSA is a similar process. Children from a previous marriage may also need translated documents submitted verifying the approval of both parents to enter the Kingdom. Depending on the nature of your individual situation waiting for an approval from KSA could possibly take months. If you are approved for a visa this is sent to the Consulate General in NYC or DC once the Consulate General issues you a visa you will have approximately 3 months to enter the Kingdom before it expires.
Bloggers note: I am speaking from my own personal experiences. I understand that many may not have encountered some of the hardships and difficulties that my family has. The state of Pennsylvania and the passport bureau in the USA have very strict and different rules about minor children leaving the USA. Sadly the rules governed by one department may not be governed by the other. My goal is only to share my thoughts so that it may make it easier for others and allow them to be prepared for some possible unforeseen hurdles. In the end my belief is that Allah has guided me here and I thank Allah for his mercy and those companions who have been a sincere support to me and my family
http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

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