International child abduction (Hague Convention): checklist

Prepare the application

• 1. Apply to the Central Authority without delayYou may submit the application to the Central Authority of the country where the child has his or her habitual residence or of another Contracting State.
• 2. Include the required identification detailsState the identification details of you, the child, and the person who took the child, along with the child's date of birth, in the application.
• 3. Document the basis for your return requestAttach the decision, agreement, or law establishing your custody rights and, if available, an authenticated copy of the relevant decision or agreement.
• 4. Provide information about the child's locationSubmit all information you have about where the child is and the person with whom the child is staying.
• 5. Use the model application formYou may use the Hague Conference's “Request for Return” model form.
• 6. Follow the proceedingsThe Central Authority first attempts a voluntary return; if that does not succeed, return proceedings are conducted in the relevant country.