Child-support cases become more complicated when the parents or child live in different countries. The available procedure depends on the existing order, the countries involved, where each person lives and which tribunal has continuing authority.
Questions to Resolve First
- Is there an existing support order, and which court or agency issued it?
- Where do the parent and child currently live?
- Is the foreign country covered by a treaty or reciprocal arrangement?
- Does the request concern establishment, recognition, enforcement or modification?
- What reliable income, payment and arrears records are available?
Recognition and Enforcement
The United States participates in the 2007 Hague Child Support Convention, and federal and state law provide procedures for certain international cases. Other matters may proceed under separate reciprocal arrangements or applicable state law. A foreign order is not handled identically in every situation.
Modification and Continuing Authority
The country or state able to modify an order may be different from the place able to enforce it. Moving across a border does not automatically cancel the existing order. A party should obtain advice before filing competing requests in different jurisdictions.
Records and Translation
Certified orders, payment histories, proof of notice, addresses, employer information and accurate translations may be necessary. Currency conversions and differing accounting practices can create disputes about the balance, so the source and date of each figure should be documented.
Connecticut residents may also seek information from the state child-support agency. Federal international-case resources are available through the U.S. Office of Child Support Services.
Contact M.C. Law Group
Call (203) 373-9080 or use the form on this page. Submitting a form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Representation begins only after a conflicts check and a written engagement agreement.
Reviewed September 2026. Laws and court procedures can change. This page provides general information and is not legal advice.
