International Cases Under the Hague Child Support Convention

When a parent lives abroad, the 2007 Hague Child Support Convention can turn a daunting cross‑border case into a manageable process. The Convention—implemented in the U.S. in 2017—links participating countries through “Central Authorities” that exchange applications, serve documents, and recognize and enforce child support decisions.

What the Convention does. Member countries agree to: (1) recognize and enforce child support decisions made in other member countries, (2) provide simplified applications for establishment, modification, and enforcement, and (3) use standardized forms and channels for service and information. Each country names a Central Authority (in the U.S., the federal Office of Child Support Services and designated state offices) to receive, vet, and transmit cases.

Which cases qualify. The Convention covers child support (and some spousal support) where the creditor or debtor resides in a member country. It also supports establishment of new orders in certain scenarios when paternity or parentage is uncontested or provable. If both countries are Convention members, you gain a predictable pathway for recognition and enforcement.

Application basics. You typically apply through your local child support agency using Convention forms: a transmittal, identifying information, certified copies of orders, a sworn arrears statement, and—if needed—evidence for establishment. Documents usually require translation into the receiving country’s language. The Central Authority screens the packet for completeness before forwarding.

Recognition and enforcement. The foreign court or authority reviews for basic defenses (e.g., lack of jurisdiction, order already satisfied). If recognized, enforcement proceeds under local law—wage deductions, bank seizures, property liens—while honoring the original order’s amount and duration. You don’t relitigate the facts; you’re asking for recognition and execution.

Timelines and expectations. International cases move slower than domestic ones; months are common. Success improves with complete packets, clear arrears math “as of” a date, and high‑quality translations. Keep your contact information current; foreign authorities may request clarifications on short deadlines.

Modifications and CEJ. The Convention provides channels for modification requests, but UIFSA’s CEJ rules still apply on the U.S. side. If a U.S. state retains CEJ, modification usually occurs there, with the foreign country enforcing the result after recognition. If everyone has moved, jurisdiction analysis becomes more complex—consult counsel familiar with cross‑border procedure.

Costs and support. Some countries charge translation or court fees; others waive them for Convention cases. Ask your agency which costs are covered. Legal aid or government counsel may represent you abroad; in some countries, private counsel is required for court appearances.

Bottom line. The Hague Convention turns international support from “impossible” to “procedural.” File through your agency, use the standard forms, translate thoroughly, and be patient—the payoff is enforceable orders across borders without starting from scratch.

Disclaimer: Educational information only; not legal advice. Program rules and participating countries change over time. Consult your child support agency or an attorney experienced in international family law.

Practical checklist. (1) Confirm both countries are Convention members; (2) pick the correct application—establishment, recognition/enforcement, or modification; (3) obtain certified copies and a detailed arrears statement with interest rules; (4) secure sworn translations; (5) include proof of service from the original case; (6) provide employer details or asset leads in the foreign country; (7) add a cover memo explaining the requested relief in plain language; (8) set a 90‑day follow‑up on your calendar to request status from the Central Authority. Pro tip: attach a one‑page “math sheet” converting amounts to the foreign currency for convenience, but always state the order’s currency as controlling.