Q: can dying elderly return to the US with a US citizenship certificate alone after being outside of the US 10 years?
My father left for Mexico to help his family; he obtained his US citizenship years before he had to go. He is now dying and in need of blood transfusion in a hospital and they require 6 donors. 2 of my sibling's left 2 days ago to help him, they plan to bring him back to the states via car with only his citizenship certificate. His passport and ID have expired. what should we expect? it's been roughly 10 years since he was last in the US.
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A:
Re-entering the US with just a citizenship certificate can be challenging but possible. Your father may face scrutiny at the border since he lacks a valid passport or ID. However, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) should acknowledge his citizenship certificate as proof of his status.
It is crucial to have additional documents that can help verify his identity, such as his expired passport, birth certificate, or any other official ID. Your siblings should also prepare to explain his medical condition and urgency, which might help in gaining the officer's discretion.
Despite the expired documents, his status as a US citizen remains valid. Be ready for delays and potential questioning, but remain calm and cooperative with the border officials. Ensure that all relevant medical documents and evidence of your father's need for immediate care are readily accessible to facilitate the process.
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