Parents who have recently divorced or separated are being urged not to delay an application for their children's passports.
According to UK Government guidelines, both parents must be named on their child's passport, even after separation. Where this isn't possible, authorities first require an explanation before issuing a travel document.
It comes as the UK's Passport Office are on strike in an ongoing dispute that saw workers walk out in early April. The five-week industrial action is expected to continue until early May and could slow down the application process.
With passport wait times currently at 10 weeks, parents who have separated are being urged to apply for their kids' travel documents as soon as possible before going on holiday.
The National Family Mediation charity says it has had to assist more than 150 couples who have had disagreements over passport applications for their children, reports the Mirror.
Jane Robey, the organisation's CEO, has warned that disputes over passport applications for a child can lengthen the process, and so amid already long waiting times caused by strikes, parents should act quickly.
She commented: "Holidays abroad are supposed to be fun and exciting, and they are likely to be even more so this year given the fact that many families haven’t been able to travel of late as a result of Covid-19.
"However, for couples in conflict, passports for the children and travel to another country can also be a contentious topic, and for a whole host of reasons.
"When one parent feels particularly strongly about the issue, it's not uncommon for them refuse to approve a passport application, which inevitably leads to further disagreements."
The mediation expert said that there is "always" an increase in cases relating to passports for children in the months before the summer.
Jane added: "If your relationship is too fragmented, it is worth considering speaking to a professional mediator as they are highly skilled third-party negotiators with experience in helping families create long-term solutions that work well for their particular circumstances."
If one parent refuses to give permission you can request it through a court.
Parents with a different surname to their children will often need to take further documents with them like birth or adoption certificates to prove their relation.
While the UK Government has not officially changed the amount of time it will take to receive passports despite the strikes, delays could occur due to the disruption.
Anyone wanting to jet off on holidays this summer should apply as soon as possible, with the recommended wait time at 10 weeks.
Currently, a child passport if your child is under 16 costs £49 to apply online and £58.50 to apply with a paper form from the Post Office.
How to apply for a passport for your child
The Government's website states: "You apply for a child passport if your child is under 16. It costs £49 to apply online and £58.50 to apply with a paper form from the Post Office. A child passport is valid for five years. Someone with parental responsibility for the child must apply for the passport.
"You need to give both parents’ details when you apply. If you cannot provide the other parent’s details, you need to say why (for example, you’re the only parent named on the birth certificate or you adopted the child on your own)."
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