Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA): Proof of Citizenship at Birth
A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), issued on Form FS-240, is a document certifying that a child born abroad acquired U.S. citizenship at birth from a U.S. citizen parent or parents. The State Department's Foreign Affairs Manual says it is proof of U.S. citizenship.
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What it is and is not
The CRBA records the child's acquisition of citizenship. It is not a local birth certificate, since consular officers do not perform the foreign vital statistics function. By statute, it carries the same force as a naturalization or citizenship certificate.
Who applies
A parent or legal guardian applies on Form DS-2029, generally before the child's 18th birthday. A consular officer reviews evidence such as proof of the child's birth, the parent's citizenship, the parent's physical presence in the United States and the parent-child relationship before approving.
As evidence of citizenship
The State Department lists a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth as primary evidence of U.S. citizenship for a passport application. Arizona also accepts it as proof of citizenship for voter registration for citizens born abroad.
Amendments and replacements
Amendments and replacements are available through the Department's Passport Services Vital Records Section, and authenticated copies can be requested. Check the Department's website for the current process. This page is general information and not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is a CRBA a birth certificate?
It is a report of birth issued by the State Department, and it is not a foreign birth certificate. Local birth records in the country of birth are separate.
What is Form FS-240?
FS-240 is the form number of the Consular Report of Birth Abroad, according to the Foreign Affairs Manual.
Who can get a replacement?
The Department's Passport Services Vital Records Section handles replacements and amendments.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
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