We have not reached this stage yet, but I will share soon what I know on how to do this for Americans. It would be best from someone with actual experience though... I know a few of us will be doing this soon!
In the meantime, can someone step-up, and help those from other countries, like the UK, Canada or Australia? I know you are out there... Thanks.
Dr. Patel's Global Support Group
IVF & Surrogacy - Akanksha Infertility Clinic in Anand, India
How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
62 posts • Page 1 of 4 • 1, 2, 3, 4
How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by HammockGuy » March 13th, 2009, 5:54 pm
-
HammockGuy - Father (Thanks Dr. Patel!)
- Posts: 412
- Joined: February 22nd, 2009, 8:15 pm
- Location: Bay Area, CA (USA)
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by tangobaby » April 1st, 2009, 9:55 pm
We were home with our baby ten days after she was born! Both my husband and I are American citizens and are very grateful to other couples sharing their experiences with the American consulate in Mumbai - - it really helped us plan and get organized. Be sure and check the holiday schedule for the consulate because they close on all US and Indian holidays.
we flew from Ahmedabad to Mumbai on Sunday, November 9 – our baby was only six days old but we said she was seven days old (most airlines have a policy with a seven day minimum age). they asked how old she was at the check-in counter and again at the gate and we just kept saying seven days....they also asked what day she was born so I said one day earlier! that was the most nerve-racking part because we didn't want to get stuck in Ahmedabad - thank goodness that they never asked for her birth certificate - they just took our word. we flew jet airways and booked that flight the day before since we weren't really sure when we'd get to leave anand - Anita the pediatrician gave us the go-ahead on Saturday. we also kept altering our hotel reservations in mumbai.
i think one thing that was key was that we flew in and out of mumbai instead of Ahmedabad since the consulate is in mumbai. it alleviated flying back and forth between mumbai and Ahmedabad and everything can be done in mumbai - you won't have to mess around with the frro in Ahmedabad.
another thing that really helped was not booking our departing flight from anand to mumbai until the day before so we could make sure we were really leaving. we flew continental direct from newark to mumbai. our original itinerary was depart newark on Ocotber 30 (which we did) and return on November 28....we gave ourselves almost a month in india - we had no idea what to expect! we were able to change our return flight very easily - it just cost $250 a person change fee - well worth it! another good thing about that continental flight is that it's rarely full so they almost always have room to accommodate your new schedule.
to recap:
11/3: baby was born (completely healthy – spent 1st (and only) night in the clinic with her)
11/6: called to schedule an appointment with the US consulate for november 10 (a little bit of a guessing game and A LOT of pushiness with the consulate - they wanted to schedule us on November 25 - we said we needed an emergency appointment because we needed to get home - no other explanation was needed)
11/9: flew to mumbai
11/10: visited the consulate – baby’s passport and certificate of birth abroad was ready by 4pm
11/11: veteran's day - consulate closed
11/12: picked-up baby's passport and certificate of birth abroad - visited the frro and got exit visa by 2pm - departed mumbai at 11:30pm via continental
I'll try to explain our consulate experience the best I can - feel free to ask any questions....Our appointment was scheduled at 9am on Monday, Nov 10 - they open at 9am and close at 5pm. We arrived at the consulate and although we had an appointment we still had to take a number. It's like waiting at the post office or MVD - the earlier you get there the better off you are - the waiting room filled quickly and was completely full by 9:30am. All that the appointment means is that they send you paperwork in advance to complete to save time at the consulate - I can forward their email with all of the forms to download and complete in advance. You don't sit down at a person's desk or work with any one person through the whole process. they are helping other people while working with you. We were called to the window by an Indian woman - and she was a bit annoyed that we asked for an emergency passport. she started to give my husband static but then the vice consul looked over and told her to just do it - otherwise we would have had to wait around seven days for the passport. both the regular and emergency passports cost the same $150 (they'll take cash, credit and rupees) the only difference is that the emergency passport expires in one year and you have to pay another $150 for another one a year later. i think the regular passport lasts ten years?? the emergency passport is ready the same day - well worth it in my opinion. it all depends on how much international travel you do and if it's worth getting another one within a year or waiting an extra week in india.
we presented the completed forms, our passports, a certified copy of our marriage certificate, each of our social security earnings statements (proof of residency - i think a utility bill works too), baby's birth certificate from Anand, the original surrogacy agreement (Hitesh will give you the original file that will need to be returned to him - our hotel arranged for the file to be sent back via "blue dart" it's like fedex and cost $6 USD). we didn't have any trouble with our paperwork being complete - we had everything they needed. you don't need any copies of paperwork - they make all the copies they need there.
they have a photographer to take baby's passport photos. the photographer is like a contractor and he just comes into the waiting area to take pictures and brings them back to you in the waiting room. two photos cost 300 rupees and you have to pay him rupees (won't take USD) separate from paying the consulate. you'll also need three additional passport photos for the frro so ask the photographer for five copies - two will go to the consulate and then you'll take the other three to the frro - extra rupees of course - plan on having at least 1000 rupees for the photos.
this part of the process took about two and half hours on monday morning. They said that baby's passport and certificate of birth abroad would be ready by 4pm that same afternoon. we tried to stay in downtown mumbai because our hotel was an hour away but it was so hot that we all had enough of mumbai by 2pm. we returned to the consulate but it wouldn't be ready until 4pm. we then returned to the hotel because even if we got it we'd have to return downtown on tuesday to vist the FRRO for the exit visit. we decided that although we could have pushed it by waiting for the passport at 4pm on monday and then going to the frro on tuesday and trying to leave on tuesday night that it would be too much for the three of us and we needed to rest a little. since the consulate was closed on tuesday (veterans day), we stayed at the hotel all day and rested up for another trip to downtown mumabi and then our trip home on wednesday night.
we returned to the consulate on wednesday morning and my husband ran in to get baby's passport and certificate of birth abroad. they also gave us a letter to take to the frro requesting her exit visa. we then went directly to the frro and started that "fun" process. their office is on the third floor (the consulate gives you directions). you have to tell them what you need, show your passports then they give you a number. you then go into their waiting room and have to complete a form on a computer - the office staff there is helpful if you ask. they will need copies of your passports, baby's birth certificate, three passport photos and confirmed airline tickets - you can make copies there for 1 rupee per copy - exact change only (or you forfeit your change) - rupees only. after you've copied you're paperwork and completed the form on the computer, you wait to be seen in another office. My husband went into the other office by himself because baby was fussy - the baby has to be there but one of you can wait in the waiting area. that woman didn't know what she was doing....my husband was in there for about an hour and came out twice to make more copies. she asked him lots of questions about the process and then finally told us to come back at 5pm! My husband said no way - we are leaving tonight and need this ASAP. she said ok come back at 2:30pm - it was 12noon. we decided to go have lunch while we waited. we retuned at 2:30pm and baby's exit visa was ready! they stamped her passport and gave us an official letter with one of her photos stapled to it.
dealing with the frro was frustrating because they acted like we were doing something wrong. it just takes patience and playing by their rules.
we were finally on our way back to the hotel by 3pm on wednesday afternoon. our plane left from mumbai at 11:40pm that night. you need the exit visa from the frro from your departing city. i've learned from other couples that uday tells them you need it from anand or ahemedabad too but you don't – it’s just another way uday tries to get more money out of couples.
the whole immigration process at both airports (mumbai and newark) was seamless. they stamped all of our passports in mumbai and kept the exit visa paper with baby's photo that we got from the frro.
we stayed at the rennaisance in mumbai. it was a really nice hotel and we could get anything we wanted to eat. the rooms were pricey but well worth it since we were only there for two and half nights. it felt like we returned to civilization. the regular rates were like $250 a night but i have a friend that works for marriott and he got us a room at $75 per night. it was quiet and they had a fleet of cars and drivers. they picked us up at the airport on sunday night and took us to the consulate on monday, waited for us - the driver gave us his cell phone number so we could call him when we were ready to leave the consulate. they took us back on wednesday and again to the airport on wednesday night. i definitely recommend staying at a hotel with a driver because most of the taxis are really old and not air conditioned. our drivers were professional, the cars were immaculate and they knew where to go. that cut out A LOT of stress. the cost for the airport trip was about $25 dollars and the whole day on Monday (7:30am - 3:30pm) was $110 (we tipped the drivers $10 for the airport and $25 for the day) - again well worth it!
Our sweet baby was fabulous on the plane rides! She slept most of the time. we were able to take her water for her formula through security in mumbai but not in newark. we had to get more water from the flight attendents on our 14 hour flight between mumbai and newark. we sat in the bassinet seat on the long flight and no one else was in our row - lucky!
i hope all this makes sense - let me know if you have any questions. Please remember that everyone’s experience varies so things may be different for each couple.
we flew from Ahmedabad to Mumbai on Sunday, November 9 – our baby was only six days old but we said she was seven days old (most airlines have a policy with a seven day minimum age). they asked how old she was at the check-in counter and again at the gate and we just kept saying seven days....they also asked what day she was born so I said one day earlier! that was the most nerve-racking part because we didn't want to get stuck in Ahmedabad - thank goodness that they never asked for her birth certificate - they just took our word. we flew jet airways and booked that flight the day before since we weren't really sure when we'd get to leave anand - Anita the pediatrician gave us the go-ahead on Saturday. we also kept altering our hotel reservations in mumbai.
i think one thing that was key was that we flew in and out of mumbai instead of Ahmedabad since the consulate is in mumbai. it alleviated flying back and forth between mumbai and Ahmedabad and everything can be done in mumbai - you won't have to mess around with the frro in Ahmedabad.
another thing that really helped was not booking our departing flight from anand to mumbai until the day before so we could make sure we were really leaving. we flew continental direct from newark to mumbai. our original itinerary was depart newark on Ocotber 30 (which we did) and return on November 28....we gave ourselves almost a month in india - we had no idea what to expect! we were able to change our return flight very easily - it just cost $250 a person change fee - well worth it! another good thing about that continental flight is that it's rarely full so they almost always have room to accommodate your new schedule.
to recap:
11/3: baby was born (completely healthy – spent 1st (and only) night in the clinic with her)
11/6: called to schedule an appointment with the US consulate for november 10 (a little bit of a guessing game and A LOT of pushiness with the consulate - they wanted to schedule us on November 25 - we said we needed an emergency appointment because we needed to get home - no other explanation was needed)
11/9: flew to mumbai
11/10: visited the consulate – baby’s passport and certificate of birth abroad was ready by 4pm
11/11: veteran's day - consulate closed
11/12: picked-up baby's passport and certificate of birth abroad - visited the frro and got exit visa by 2pm - departed mumbai at 11:30pm via continental
I'll try to explain our consulate experience the best I can - feel free to ask any questions....Our appointment was scheduled at 9am on Monday, Nov 10 - they open at 9am and close at 5pm. We arrived at the consulate and although we had an appointment we still had to take a number. It's like waiting at the post office or MVD - the earlier you get there the better off you are - the waiting room filled quickly and was completely full by 9:30am. All that the appointment means is that they send you paperwork in advance to complete to save time at the consulate - I can forward their email with all of the forms to download and complete in advance. You don't sit down at a person's desk or work with any one person through the whole process. they are helping other people while working with you. We were called to the window by an Indian woman - and she was a bit annoyed that we asked for an emergency passport. she started to give my husband static but then the vice consul looked over and told her to just do it - otherwise we would have had to wait around seven days for the passport. both the regular and emergency passports cost the same $150 (they'll take cash, credit and rupees) the only difference is that the emergency passport expires in one year and you have to pay another $150 for another one a year later. i think the regular passport lasts ten years?? the emergency passport is ready the same day - well worth it in my opinion. it all depends on how much international travel you do and if it's worth getting another one within a year or waiting an extra week in india.
we presented the completed forms, our passports, a certified copy of our marriage certificate, each of our social security earnings statements (proof of residency - i think a utility bill works too), baby's birth certificate from Anand, the original surrogacy agreement (Hitesh will give you the original file that will need to be returned to him - our hotel arranged for the file to be sent back via "blue dart" it's like fedex and cost $6 USD). we didn't have any trouble with our paperwork being complete - we had everything they needed. you don't need any copies of paperwork - they make all the copies they need there.
they have a photographer to take baby's passport photos. the photographer is like a contractor and he just comes into the waiting area to take pictures and brings them back to you in the waiting room. two photos cost 300 rupees and you have to pay him rupees (won't take USD) separate from paying the consulate. you'll also need three additional passport photos for the frro so ask the photographer for five copies - two will go to the consulate and then you'll take the other three to the frro - extra rupees of course - plan on having at least 1000 rupees for the photos.
this part of the process took about two and half hours on monday morning. They said that baby's passport and certificate of birth abroad would be ready by 4pm that same afternoon. we tried to stay in downtown mumbai because our hotel was an hour away but it was so hot that we all had enough of mumbai by 2pm. we returned to the consulate but it wouldn't be ready until 4pm. we then returned to the hotel because even if we got it we'd have to return downtown on tuesday to vist the FRRO for the exit visit. we decided that although we could have pushed it by waiting for the passport at 4pm on monday and then going to the frro on tuesday and trying to leave on tuesday night that it would be too much for the three of us and we needed to rest a little. since the consulate was closed on tuesday (veterans day), we stayed at the hotel all day and rested up for another trip to downtown mumabi and then our trip home on wednesday night.
we returned to the consulate on wednesday morning and my husband ran in to get baby's passport and certificate of birth abroad. they also gave us a letter to take to the frro requesting her exit visa. we then went directly to the frro and started that "fun" process. their office is on the third floor (the consulate gives you directions). you have to tell them what you need, show your passports then they give you a number. you then go into their waiting room and have to complete a form on a computer - the office staff there is helpful if you ask. they will need copies of your passports, baby's birth certificate, three passport photos and confirmed airline tickets - you can make copies there for 1 rupee per copy - exact change only (or you forfeit your change) - rupees only. after you've copied you're paperwork and completed the form on the computer, you wait to be seen in another office. My husband went into the other office by himself because baby was fussy - the baby has to be there but one of you can wait in the waiting area. that woman didn't know what she was doing....my husband was in there for about an hour and came out twice to make more copies. she asked him lots of questions about the process and then finally told us to come back at 5pm! My husband said no way - we are leaving tonight and need this ASAP. she said ok come back at 2:30pm - it was 12noon. we decided to go have lunch while we waited. we retuned at 2:30pm and baby's exit visa was ready! they stamped her passport and gave us an official letter with one of her photos stapled to it.
dealing with the frro was frustrating because they acted like we were doing something wrong. it just takes patience and playing by their rules.
we were finally on our way back to the hotel by 3pm on wednesday afternoon. our plane left from mumbai at 11:40pm that night. you need the exit visa from the frro from your departing city. i've learned from other couples that uday tells them you need it from anand or ahemedabad too but you don't – it’s just another way uday tries to get more money out of couples.
the whole immigration process at both airports (mumbai and newark) was seamless. they stamped all of our passports in mumbai and kept the exit visa paper with baby's photo that we got from the frro.
we stayed at the rennaisance in mumbai. it was a really nice hotel and we could get anything we wanted to eat. the rooms were pricey but well worth it since we were only there for two and half nights. it felt like we returned to civilization. the regular rates were like $250 a night but i have a friend that works for marriott and he got us a room at $75 per night. it was quiet and they had a fleet of cars and drivers. they picked us up at the airport on sunday night and took us to the consulate on monday, waited for us - the driver gave us his cell phone number so we could call him when we were ready to leave the consulate. they took us back on wednesday and again to the airport on wednesday night. i definitely recommend staying at a hotel with a driver because most of the taxis are really old and not air conditioned. our drivers were professional, the cars were immaculate and they knew where to go. that cut out A LOT of stress. the cost for the airport trip was about $25 dollars and the whole day on Monday (7:30am - 3:30pm) was $110 (we tipped the drivers $10 for the airport and $25 for the day) - again well worth it!
Our sweet baby was fabulous on the plane rides! She slept most of the time. we were able to take her water for her formula through security in mumbai but not in newark. we had to get more water from the flight attendents on our 14 hour flight between mumbai and newark. we sat in the bassinet seat on the long flight and no one else was in our row - lucky!
i hope all this makes sense - let me know if you have any questions. Please remember that everyone’s experience varies so things may be different for each couple.
- tangobaby
- Posts: 1
- Joined: April 1st, 2009, 8:58 pm
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by HammockGuy » April 5th, 2009, 12:16 pm
tangobaby, thanks for taking the time to register and to provide such an informative post! I need to read it again to get my thoughts together so I can better understand and articulate my questions. I will do so, and hopefully very soon.
Yesterday I got a response from a friend who just returned to the States with their baby from Anand! She provided the below saying that it would be ok to share here:
Here is the sequence of our events-
3/13 (late on Friday afternoon) Lila was born
3/16 sent an email to the Consulate requesting an appointment
3/18 got a response back saying that they could see us on April 15. We told them this wouldn't fly. We called them and they said that they would respond back later that day.
3/19 got an email and a phone call saying they could see us on Monday March 23. We weren't able to make that because Lila was in the hospital. We ask for another date and they gave us April 6.
3/20 we decided we are just going to go on March 30 without an appointment.
3/30 arrived at Consulate at 8:45 (they open at 9:00) without an appointment BUT with all of our paperwork filled out. We were third in line. They gave us some static about not having an appointment, but we begged them to see us since Lila had been hospitalized and and on oxygen for the first week of her life. Finally they told us we could either come back for our scheduled appointment on April 6 or wait all day until they have finished helping everyone else. We waited all day. I highly recommend having an appointment. It really would have made everything go smoothly. The Consulate is very much like the DMV except it has beefed up security. When you arrive make sure you have your hotel phone number handy as they ask for a local contact number. Try to pack lightly as the security is pretty intense. You or your husband will have to taste your baby's formula and bottled water in front of an agent. At about 1:30 in the afternoon they started processing our paperwork. They told us to come back at 3:30. We came back at 3:30 and they told us that they would grant us an emergency passport and to come by the next day to get it. Again, we had to beg for the emergency passport, but luckily they approved it. It was a huge relief.
3/31 arrived at The Consulate at 8:50 AM. My husband ran in to get Lila's passport while I waited in the car. We left for the FRRO to get Lila her exit permit/Visa. We arrived at the FRRO at 9:45. Make sure you bring your airline confirmation to show them that you are leaving that evening. Also, your husband may have to make copies while he is at the FRRO. The cost per copy is 1 Rupee (for your passport/visa/baby's passport/airline itinerary). My husband processed all of our paperwork and was told to wait around until 2:00 to get Lila's exit permit. We were done by 1:30 and on a flight early the next morning.
While it may be thoretically possible to do both the Consulate and FRRO in the same day, I wouldn't necessarily plan on it. One day for the Consulate and one day for the FRRO is reasonable, I think -- as long as you are able to convince the Consulate to grant an emergency passport.
Hitesh has a friend, Vijay who drove us to all of our appointments and even picked us up from the airport. He was great, knew exactly where he was going.
We stayed at Le Royal Meridien while we were in Mumbai. It was about $170 per night. It was so luxurious and exactly the escape that we needed after being in Anand for over 3 weeks. It is right by the airport. They have a complimentary airport pickup and drop-off. We had them take us to the airport when we were leaving. They have a concierge at the airport who carries your bags and whisks you through everything pretty quickly. It was nice not to have to worry about lugging around our bags an it was even better because he had an in with our airline so we didn't have to wait in that line either! The rest of the airport experience was pretty quick and thorough. Because we were travelling with an infant we were whisked through immigration and security. It was awesome.
We flew Cathay Pacific. They are pretty great. We had to change our departure date and they didn't charge us. We called the day before we were leaving to request a bulkhead seat with a bassinet. It was a life saver. Lila was fantastic during the flight and only fussed once.
Yesterday I got a response from a friend who just returned to the States with their baby from Anand! She provided the below saying that it would be ok to share here:
Here is the sequence of our events-
3/13 (late on Friday afternoon) Lila was born
3/16 sent an email to the Consulate requesting an appointment
3/18 got a response back saying that they could see us on April 15. We told them this wouldn't fly. We called them and they said that they would respond back later that day.
3/19 got an email and a phone call saying they could see us on Monday March 23. We weren't able to make that because Lila was in the hospital. We ask for another date and they gave us April 6.
3/20 we decided we are just going to go on March 30 without an appointment.
3/30 arrived at Consulate at 8:45 (they open at 9:00) without an appointment BUT with all of our paperwork filled out. We were third in line. They gave us some static about not having an appointment, but we begged them to see us since Lila had been hospitalized and and on oxygen for the first week of her life. Finally they told us we could either come back for our scheduled appointment on April 6 or wait all day until they have finished helping everyone else. We waited all day. I highly recommend having an appointment. It really would have made everything go smoothly. The Consulate is very much like the DMV except it has beefed up security. When you arrive make sure you have your hotel phone number handy as they ask for a local contact number. Try to pack lightly as the security is pretty intense. You or your husband will have to taste your baby's formula and bottled water in front of an agent. At about 1:30 in the afternoon they started processing our paperwork. They told us to come back at 3:30. We came back at 3:30 and they told us that they would grant us an emergency passport and to come by the next day to get it. Again, we had to beg for the emergency passport, but luckily they approved it. It was a huge relief.
3/31 arrived at The Consulate at 8:50 AM. My husband ran in to get Lila's passport while I waited in the car. We left for the FRRO to get Lila her exit permit/Visa. We arrived at the FRRO at 9:45. Make sure you bring your airline confirmation to show them that you are leaving that evening. Also, your husband may have to make copies while he is at the FRRO. The cost per copy is 1 Rupee (for your passport/visa/baby's passport/airline itinerary). My husband processed all of our paperwork and was told to wait around until 2:00 to get Lila's exit permit. We were done by 1:30 and on a flight early the next morning.
While it may be thoretically possible to do both the Consulate and FRRO in the same day, I wouldn't necessarily plan on it. One day for the Consulate and one day for the FRRO is reasonable, I think -- as long as you are able to convince the Consulate to grant an emergency passport.
Hitesh has a friend, Vijay who drove us to all of our appointments and even picked us up from the airport. He was great, knew exactly where he was going.
We stayed at Le Royal Meridien while we were in Mumbai. It was about $170 per night. It was so luxurious and exactly the escape that we needed after being in Anand for over 3 weeks. It is right by the airport. They have a complimentary airport pickup and drop-off. We had them take us to the airport when we were leaving. They have a concierge at the airport who carries your bags and whisks you through everything pretty quickly. It was nice not to have to worry about lugging around our bags an it was even better because he had an in with our airline so we didn't have to wait in that line either! The rest of the airport experience was pretty quick and thorough. Because we were travelling with an infant we were whisked through immigration and security. It was awesome.
We flew Cathay Pacific. They are pretty great. We had to change our departure date and they didn't charge us. We called the day before we were leaving to request a bulkhead seat with a bassinet. It was a life saver. Lila was fantastic during the flight and only fussed once.
-
HammockGuy - Father (Thanks Dr. Patel!)
- Posts: 412
- Joined: February 22nd, 2009, 8:15 pm
- Location: Bay Area, CA (USA)
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by karebear » April 8th, 2009, 11:50 am
Hi sorry to jump in here just had a couple of questions. First off, thanks to everyone for all their information. I just wanted to find out what you all think about this scenario. I am an American citizen who is married to Irish citizen and we are living in Ireland. Would we be eligible to apply for American passport for baby (hopefully we will get to this point - we are only in early stages) even though I am not living in USA. Does anyone know if this is possible or would we have to go through Irish Embassy. My only concern with Irish Embassy is slowness (no offence) but speed is not of the utmost priority with getting passports in Ireland never mind their embassy in India. Just wondering what do you guys think - any help would be appreciated. Thanks alot
- karebear
- Posts: 2
- Joined: March 29th, 2009, 5:57 am
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by bollandista » April 8th, 2009, 6:09 pm
You will probably need proof of residency in the US:
http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov/transmiss ... ents_.html
I would say, though, that consulates abroad are generally much faster with emergencies than ordering passports in the home country. And US embassies are generally much tougher and have longer line than European ones. Everyone wants to go to the US so you may find the Irish embassy a little more relaxing. Just worth thinking about!
Best of luck!
http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov/transmiss ... ents_.html
I would say, though, that consulates abroad are generally much faster with emergencies than ordering passports in the home country. And US embassies are generally much tougher and have longer line than European ones. Everyone wants to go to the US so you may find the Irish embassy a little more relaxing. Just worth thinking about!
Best of luck!
karebear wrote:Hi sorry to jump in here just had a couple of questions. First off, thanks to everyone for all their information. I just wanted to find out what you all think about this scenario. I am an American citizen who is married to Irish citizen and we are living in Ireland. Would we be eligible to apply for American passport for baby (hopefully we will get to this point - we are only in early stages) even though I am not living in USA. Does anyone know if this is possible or would we have to go through Irish Embassy. My only concern with Irish Embassy is slowness (no offence) but speed is not of the utmost priority with getting passports in Ireland never mind their embassy in India. Just wondering what do you guys think - any help would be appreciated. Thanks alot
Last edited by bollandista on May 15th, 2010, 9:16 am, edited 1 time in total.
- bollandista
- Posts: 13
- Joined: April 3rd, 2009, 1:55 pm
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by karebear » April 9th, 2009, 12:10 pm
Hi Bollandista,
Thanks so much for your answer. I will contact both embassies and see what they say. Thanks for the info I just would be so worried that we would have to wait a month or two for things to sort out - nightmare scenario!! Thanks again for your answer I really appreciate it.
Thanks so much for your answer. I will contact both embassies and see what they say. Thanks for the info I just would be so worried that we would have to wait a month or two for things to sort out - nightmare scenario!! Thanks again for your answer I really appreciate it.
- karebear
- Posts: 2
- Joined: March 29th, 2009, 5:57 am
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by HammockGuy » April 17th, 2009, 3:20 pm
tangobaby wrote:...i hope all this makes sense - let me know if you have any questions. Please remember that everyone’s experience varies so things may be different for each couple.
tangobaby, with a break from work recently, I wish to finally ask some questions. When time permits, kindly respond...
When we went to Anand for the baby-making process, we were convinced, and I still feel this way, that it's prudent to fly direct into Ahmadabad (AMD). A couple Indian colleagues thought it best to minimize the Indian flights... That said, if our next trip is to pick-up a baby late Summer, we are going to go through Mumbai. As you said, since our path out of India is through Mumbai, it just seems best to plan the itinerary accordingly. I will check Continental to see if that is an option for us in the Bay Area...
- Did you book round-trip travel from your home to Mumbai only, or all the way to AMD? Trying to figure-out the best way to leave things somewhat open...
- Did you requests the bassinet seat on the return flights when you booked these plans while still in the US?
- Any questions or explanations needed on why you didn't want such a seat for the trip to India?
- Along those lines, upon entering India or thereafter, were you guys asked what brings you to India?
- Also, having never traveled with a baby before, is there an additional charge? I seem to recall that some airlines charge and others not... I saw the cool photo of your beautiful baby and airline ticket, I believe to Mumbai, but I couldn't tell if that was for her, or you guys.
- Oh, before I forget, what did you need to bring from home? You mentioned a certified copy of your marriage certificate, social security earnings statements and proof of residency. Curious to know if that is it or if there might be anything else that we will need to provide...
- You mentioned about checking the US Consulate's holiday schedule. I was going to ask, but I think I found this info. Can you confirm that this is what you guys checked? Also, when you called from Anand to schedule the Consulate appointment, did you call (91-22) 2363-3611 as provided here? This would seem to be the correct phone number, it would great to get some confirmation, if you recall...
- I've heard FRRO a few times now. I finally looked it up and just added it to the acronyms topic. Thank you. FRRO = Foreigners Regional Registration Officers. It sounds like you guys just went to the FRRO, and that an appointment was not needed?
- Sweet deal on the hotel room! In retrospect, if it was not centrally located to the US Consulate and FRRO, do you think that would be a good idea? Unless I missed something, these are the only entities that must be successfully dealt with in Mumbai... Here one can find some hotels near the US Consulate and the surrounding area... I just heard that the YMCA might be a viable option to some. The price is about $30 USD a night, at least in 2008. Online reviews were favorable. From looking at a map, it seems to be about 2 miles from the US Consulate. Here is some info for those who might be interested:
Bombay YMCA, Central Branch, 12, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Colaba, Mumbai 400 001
Phone 22826384, Fax 22838314, central@ymcabombay.com
- Fantastic info on the emergency passport. Seems like a no-brainer to me and that we all would want one. Do you sense that this might be problematic? Sounds like you got some push-back. A week wait would not be desirable...
- Ok, back to Anand... You mentioned the pediatrician, Dr. Anita and her NICU. Is this also Dr. Kothiala? I know sometimes Dr. Patel is referred to as Dr. Nayna, so I'd like to know if this is the same person. I seem to recall that there are two NICU's in Anand... I've heard many good things about Dr. Anita!
- Is her hospital fairly near Dr. Patel's clinic?
- I'm sure there are costs associated as well of course. For those of trying to figure-out and plan our expenses, it would be helpful to know what these might be. Do you recall what those costs were, even approximately?
- Did you have the surrogate's breast milk provided to your baby? I think a lot of us like the idea of breast milk, especially early-on due to the antibodies contained... Curious to know if you had the milk pumped on a regular basis or if you felt comfortable with breast-feeding. I hope the experience with your surrogate was a positive one.
tangobaby, I realize that this is a lot of questions, so please don't feel pressured to respond right away. Thanks for helping with this valuable info!
-
HammockGuy - Father (Thanks Dr. Patel!)
- Posts: 412
- Joined: February 22nd, 2009, 8:15 pm
- Location: Bay Area, CA (USA)
Australia Info
by HammockGuy » April 17th, 2009, 3:46 pm
A friend in Australia has been doing extensive research on this topic and recently provided me with this information, along with permission to post it here so others can benefit. Thank you once again!
Via an email received from the Australian High Commission regarding the latest immigration procedures for Australians:
Enquiry regarding Australian Citizenship by Descent
Firstly, I would be grateful if you could please provide me your name/s and date/s of birth as they appear on your Australian passport/s. This information will help me to provide better client service to you in the future and will assist me to keep a record of the advice that I have provided to you.
Specific information on how to apply for Australian citizenship by descent for children born through surrogacy arrangements in India will be posted on the Australian High Commission New Delhi website shortly. This information may be subject to review and update, so we advise you to check this website regularly for updates: http://www.india.embassy.gov.au.
Please note that the responsibility for processing citizenship by descent applications is shared among several officers in this office. For this reason general queries should in the first instance be sent to Citizenship.NewDelhi@dfat.gov.au.
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship in Canberra has advised this office of the procedures that are to apply in processing this/these application/applications. That is, applications for citizenship by descent for children born through surrogacy arrangements should be accompanied by:
(1) Confirmation of the genetic link between the Australian citizen registering parent and the child/children for registration
This confirmation is to be provided by way of DNA test results for the child/children. In this regard, please note:
- DNA tests must be carried out by one of Australia's Panel Doctors in India (or any country where there is a Panel Doctor) - a list of current Panel Doctors can be found online at http://www.immi.gov.au/contacts/oversea ... octors.htm.
- Panel Doctors are required to use specific testing kits, which must be provided to them via a DNA laboratory in Australia with which arrangements are in place to do DNA testing for immigration and citizenship purposes. Details of these laboratories are copied below.
- The taking of the DNA test must be witnessed by an Australian Government official, and all applicants are required to travel to New Delhi at their own cost for this test;
- The test results must be returned to the Australian High Commission in New Delhi in the first instance. They will then be on-forwarded to the DNA laboratory in Australia for assessment.
- Fact Sheet 1259i 'Information about DNA testing for visa and citizenship applicants' contains further information on DNA testing. This fact sheet is available online at: http://www.immi.gov.au/allforms/pdf/1259i.pdf.
- If you decide to undertake DNA testing please contact one of the recommended laboratories to make arrangements for the testing. You must provide a copy of this letter to the laboratory. Once you have selected and contacted a DNA laboratory, the Australian High Commission in New Delhi will liaise with you and the laboratory regarding testing arrangements.
- If you choose not to undertake DNA testing I will decide the application based on the information provided.
(2) Written evidence that your surrogacy contract has been reviewed by a lawyer expert in Indian family law and/or contract law
This evidence should include comment on the general legality of the contract (with reference to the provisions of Indian legislation that make it valid) and whether the contract confirms the legal parentage of the child/children (with reference to the relevant provisions of Indian legislation). It should also include comment on the following elements and state the grounds on which the lawyer is satisfied that these elements are met.
- whether all parties consent to the contract
- whether the contract is legally enforceable;
- whether the contract gives full legal parental rights to the Australian citizen parent; and
- whether the contract waives the parental or any other rights of any other parties to the child;
- whether the contract includes evidence that all parties are still consenting and still agree to the contract after the birth of the child/children concerned.
The lawyer should also state their level of experience and accreditation in the field, and declare any potential conflict/s of interest, such as whether the lawyer or their firm was involved in drafting the surrogacy contract.
(3) Documents in relation to donors of genetic material
If applicable, please provide copies of any documents or records in relation to donated genetic material (for example, anonymously donated egg or sperm).
************************
RECOMMENDED DNA LABORATORIES
Genetic Technologies Corporation Pty Ltd
60-66 Hanover Street
FITZROY VIC 3065
PO Box 115, Fitzroy Vic 3065, Australia
Phone: 61 3 9415 7688
Fax: 61 3 9416 4076
Email: immigration@gtg.com.au
Website: http://www.genetictechnologies.com.au
DNALABS Sydney IVF
Level 3, 321 Kent Street, Sydney
NSW AUSTRALIA 2000
GPO Box 4384, Sydney NSW 2000
Sydney: 61 2 9229 6495
Melbourne: 61 3 8414 0605
Perth: 61 8 9460 0810
Canberra: 61 2 6210 0915
Brisbane: 61 7 3811 0961
Adelaide: 61 8 8220 0786
Darwin: 61 8 8989 0820
Hobart: 61 3 6218 0790
Fax: 61 2 9221 9272
Email: dnalabs@sydneyivf.com
Website: http://www.dnalabs.com
Information pamphlets for these laboratories can be downloaded from their website
Via an email received from the Australian High Commission regarding the latest immigration procedures for Australians:
Enquiry regarding Australian Citizenship by Descent
Firstly, I would be grateful if you could please provide me your name/s and date/s of birth as they appear on your Australian passport/s. This information will help me to provide better client service to you in the future and will assist me to keep a record of the advice that I have provided to you.
Specific information on how to apply for Australian citizenship by descent for children born through surrogacy arrangements in India will be posted on the Australian High Commission New Delhi website shortly. This information may be subject to review and update, so we advise you to check this website regularly for updates: http://www.india.embassy.gov.au.
Please note that the responsibility for processing citizenship by descent applications is shared among several officers in this office. For this reason general queries should in the first instance be sent to Citizenship.NewDelhi@dfat.gov.au.
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship in Canberra has advised this office of the procedures that are to apply in processing this/these application/applications. That is, applications for citizenship by descent for children born through surrogacy arrangements should be accompanied by:
(1) Confirmation of the genetic link between the Australian citizen registering parent and the child/children for registration
This confirmation is to be provided by way of DNA test results for the child/children. In this regard, please note:
- DNA tests must be carried out by one of Australia's Panel Doctors in India (or any country where there is a Panel Doctor) - a list of current Panel Doctors can be found online at http://www.immi.gov.au/contacts/oversea ... octors.htm.
- Panel Doctors are required to use specific testing kits, which must be provided to them via a DNA laboratory in Australia with which arrangements are in place to do DNA testing for immigration and citizenship purposes. Details of these laboratories are copied below.
- The taking of the DNA test must be witnessed by an Australian Government official, and all applicants are required to travel to New Delhi at their own cost for this test;
- The test results must be returned to the Australian High Commission in New Delhi in the first instance. They will then be on-forwarded to the DNA laboratory in Australia for assessment.
- Fact Sheet 1259i 'Information about DNA testing for visa and citizenship applicants' contains further information on DNA testing. This fact sheet is available online at: http://www.immi.gov.au/allforms/pdf/1259i.pdf.
- If you decide to undertake DNA testing please contact one of the recommended laboratories to make arrangements for the testing. You must provide a copy of this letter to the laboratory. Once you have selected and contacted a DNA laboratory, the Australian High Commission in New Delhi will liaise with you and the laboratory regarding testing arrangements.
- If you choose not to undertake DNA testing I will decide the application based on the information provided.
(2) Written evidence that your surrogacy contract has been reviewed by a lawyer expert in Indian family law and/or contract law
This evidence should include comment on the general legality of the contract (with reference to the provisions of Indian legislation that make it valid) and whether the contract confirms the legal parentage of the child/children (with reference to the relevant provisions of Indian legislation). It should also include comment on the following elements and state the grounds on which the lawyer is satisfied that these elements are met.
- whether all parties consent to the contract
- whether the contract is legally enforceable;
- whether the contract gives full legal parental rights to the Australian citizen parent; and
- whether the contract waives the parental or any other rights of any other parties to the child;
- whether the contract includes evidence that all parties are still consenting and still agree to the contract after the birth of the child/children concerned.
The lawyer should also state their level of experience and accreditation in the field, and declare any potential conflict/s of interest, such as whether the lawyer or their firm was involved in drafting the surrogacy contract.
(3) Documents in relation to donors of genetic material
If applicable, please provide copies of any documents or records in relation to donated genetic material (for example, anonymously donated egg or sperm).
************************
RECOMMENDED DNA LABORATORIES
Genetic Technologies Corporation Pty Ltd
60-66 Hanover Street
FITZROY VIC 3065
PO Box 115, Fitzroy Vic 3065, Australia
Phone: 61 3 9415 7688
Fax: 61 3 9416 4076
Email: immigration@gtg.com.au
Website: http://www.genetictechnologies.com.au
DNALABS Sydney IVF
Level 3, 321 Kent Street, Sydney
NSW AUSTRALIA 2000
GPO Box 4384, Sydney NSW 2000
Sydney: 61 2 9229 6495
Melbourne: 61 3 8414 0605
Perth: 61 8 9460 0810
Canberra: 61 2 6210 0915
Brisbane: 61 7 3811 0961
Adelaide: 61 8 8220 0786
Darwin: 61 8 8989 0820
Hobart: 61 3 6218 0790
Fax: 61 2 9221 9272
Email: dnalabs@sydneyivf.com
Website: http://www.dnalabs.com
Information pamphlets for these laboratories can be downloaded from their website
-
HammockGuy - Father (Thanks Dr. Patel!)
- Posts: 412
- Joined: February 22nd, 2009, 8:15 pm
- Location: Bay Area, CA (USA)
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by PeterZ » May 9th, 2009, 2:02 am
We'll be traveling to India in September for our baby, although we used Rotunda rather than Dr. Patel.
Most interesting above is the emergency passports. The normal passport (good for 10 years) takes 7 to 10 days. An emergency passport (good for 1 year) can be issued in 1 day. It's unclear what the consulate's requirements are for an emergency passport...I'll have to dig into this.
Also, the consulate seems to be getting stricter on DNA testing. In emails, they've indicated it is "highly recommended" although not yet legally required. I'm wondering if others have feedback on whether DNA testing was required.
The consulate does provide information on the surrogacy process. I've attached the two documents they email out here, one on the Consular Report of Births Abroad and one on DNA testing :http://www.globaldoctoroptions.com/us-information-getting-us-citizenship-for-the-baby/437
With regard to the FRRO - the key goal there is to get an exit visa for the baby. Some folks seem to use local help to navigate the FRRO. Others seem to go on their own. Either way, it's a long day. Feedback is that you can get the exit Visa on the same day if your flight is in the evening or on the next day. Information I've found so far is here:
http://www.globaldoctoroptions.com/foreign-residents-registration-office-the-india-exit-visa/443
Will keep folks posted with what we learn.
Most interesting above is the emergency passports. The normal passport (good for 10 years) takes 7 to 10 days. An emergency passport (good for 1 year) can be issued in 1 day. It's unclear what the consulate's requirements are for an emergency passport...I'll have to dig into this.
Also, the consulate seems to be getting stricter on DNA testing. In emails, they've indicated it is "highly recommended" although not yet legally required. I'm wondering if others have feedback on whether DNA testing was required.
The consulate does provide information on the surrogacy process. I've attached the two documents they email out here, one on the Consular Report of Births Abroad and one on DNA testing :http://www.globaldoctoroptions.com/us-information-getting-us-citizenship-for-the-baby/437
With regard to the FRRO - the key goal there is to get an exit visa for the baby. Some folks seem to use local help to navigate the FRRO. Others seem to go on their own. Either way, it's a long day. Feedback is that you can get the exit Visa on the same day if your flight is in the evening or on the next day. Information I've found so far is here:
http://www.globaldoctoroptions.com/foreign-residents-registration-office-the-india-exit-visa/443
Will keep folks posted with what we learn.
- PeterZ
- Posts: 1
- Joined: May 8th, 2009, 10:11 pm
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by Crystal » May 9th, 2009, 5:53 am
The DNA test is not required. I now several people who have had babies this year, and no one had a DNA test done. It is optional if you want it at this time.
- Crystal
- Posts: 101
- Joined: March 3rd, 2009, 2:10 pm
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by HammockGuy » May 9th, 2009, 7:42 am
PeterZ, welcome to the forum and thank you for taking the time to share what you have learned with us here. The emergency passport seems like a no-brainer. Our baby should be born in mid Aug to early Sep and I will of course share our experiences. I remain in sponge mode for this very important step...
I have not heard yet of anyone from the US being required to do the DNA test. From other countries, this seems to be a requirement though...
The links you provided are quite helpful, thank you.
I will start making a checklist of stuff to bring for this baby pick-up trip. I will also make a list of stuff to bring or consider bringing for the baby-making trip. These would be things to take also for when picking-up baby as well...
I have not heard yet of anyone from the US being required to do the DNA test. From other countries, this seems to be a requirement though...
The links you provided are quite helpful, thank you.
I will start making a checklist of stuff to bring for this baby pick-up trip. I will also make a list of stuff to bring or consider bringing for the baby-making trip. These would be things to take also for when picking-up baby as well...
-
HammockGuy - Father (Thanks Dr. Patel!)
- Posts: 412
- Joined: February 22nd, 2009, 8:15 pm
- Location: Bay Area, CA (USA)
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by Crystal » May 9th, 2009, 7:37 pm
I think people should read this site, as both Mike's are back at home.
http://spawnofmikeandmike.blogspot.com/
http://spawnofmikeandmike.blogspot.com/
- Crystal
- Posts: 101
- Joined: March 3rd, 2009, 2:10 pm
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by HammockGuy » May 9th, 2009, 7:50 pm
Wow, good for them! I just spent 5 or so minutes there, and yes, there is some good info there, that's for sure. I will make some time later to read more.... Thanks Crystal.
-
HammockGuy - Father (Thanks Dr. Patel!)
- Posts: 412
- Joined: February 22nd, 2009, 8:15 pm
- Location: Bay Area, CA (USA)
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by friscogal » May 10th, 2009, 3:17 pm
I will start making a checklist of stuff to bring for this baby pick-up trip. I will also make a list of stuff to bring or consider bringing for the baby-making trip. These would be things to take also for when picking-up baby as well...
Ohhhh...please do! I cannot begin to imagine all the things we would need to bring the first time. Let alone when you have to pickup baby!!
- friscogal
- Posts: 59
- Joined: May 9th, 2009, 9:23 am
- Location: Frisco, TX
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by Crystal » May 10th, 2009, 5:11 pm
For those of you using Dr. Patel, if you know the exact date of birth for your child, I would make an appointment with the consulate even before you get to Anand. You will have to be very vauge with them, because they may ask you when was the baby born. I would email them just stating that you need an appointment for a passport. If you do not do this, they may give you an appointment WEEKS later. The reality is that you can go the the consulate without an appointment, but you need to be there when the doors open at 9:00.
- Crystal
- Posts: 101
- Joined: March 3rd, 2009, 2:10 pm
Re: How do I get my baby/ies home?! (country specific)
by HammockGuy » July 3rd, 2009, 8:38 pm
An update to an earlier post about Australian immigration...
From our dear Aussie friends who just returned to Australia with their son, please see the attached immigration procedure for children born in India via surrogacy. Thanks again for this exceedingly helpful and professional-looking document! As I say with all such information, while this can be 100% accurate as of this moment, it behooves you to double-check to ensure that nothing has changed.
As with all attachments, they can be found in the Helpful Attachments section of this forum...
From our dear Aussie friends who just returned to Australia with their son, please see the attached immigration procedure for children born in India via surrogacy. Thanks again for this exceedingly helpful and professional-looking document! As I say with all such information, while this can be 100% accurate as of this moment, it behooves you to double-check to ensure that nothing has changed.
As with all attachments, they can be found in the Helpful Attachments section of this forum...
Australia Immigration Procedure for children born in India via Surrogacy 20090702.pdf- (48.65 KiB) Downloaded 44 times
-
HammockGuy - Father (Thanks Dr. Patel!)
- Posts: 412
- Joined: February 22nd, 2009, 8:15 pm
- Location: Bay Area, CA (USA)
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