The U.S. State Department announced it will begin revoking passports this Friday for parents who owe at least $100,000 in back child support. Data from the Department of Health and Human Services identifies roughly 2,700 American passport holders in that bracket. Revocations start Friday and will first target the highest‑debt group before the policy expands to cover anyone owing more than $2,500, a provision of a little‑enforced 1996 law.

Under the expanded policy, any parent with overdue support exceeding $2,500 will have their passport revoked, regardless of renewal status. HHS is aggregating data, so the final count could reach many thousands. Officials say revocations have spurred hundreds of payments, with $657 million collected since 1998, including $156 million in lump‑sum settlements over five years. The State Department estimates the sweep could affect thousands, straining consular resources.

Travelers whose passports are cancelled will receive a notice and must settle their arrears before applying for a new document. Those abroad must obtain an emergency travel paper from a U.S. embassy or consulate. Compliance restores full travel rights.