Incoming Cases


Abductions to the United States

The Office of Children’s Issues handles “incoming” Hague child abduction cases – that is, abductions of children to the United States from countries that are partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.  If you are a parent whose child has been taken to the United States from a Hague Convention country in violation of your parental rights, the Office of Children's Issues is here to help you. We offer many services that you might find valuable during this difficult time.

Services for Incoming Abduction Cases

The services that the Office of Children’s Issues provides for incoming abduction cases include:

  • Accepting applications for return or access from Foreign Central Authorities;
  • Assisting left-behind parents in locating their children within the United States;
  • Attempting to achieve voluntary returns or access where possible;
  • Assisting left-behind parents with securing attorneys, including attorneys willing to work on a pro bono or reduced-fee basis for qualified parents; and
  • Assisting with return of children to their habitual residence abroad.

The Office of Children’s Issues stands ready to assist abducted children and their parents in resolving these difficult and painful cases.  For more information, please contact our office at AbductionUSCA@state.gov.