Frequently asked questions
What is the 1980 Hague Convention?
An agreement between 103 countries (as of July 2026) that creates a legal process to return children who were wrongfully taken across borders by a parent. It decides where custody should be decided — the child's home country — not who gets custody.
Does the Convention apply to my situation?
Both countries must be members, and the treaty must be in force between them (newer members need "acceptance" by older ones — Article 38). Use our checker. Your lawyer confirms your specific case.
My child was just taken. What do I do first?
Contact your country's Central Authority today, talk to a lawyer experienced in Hague cases this week, and report to the police where appropriate. Full steps: emergency guide · guided version.
What is a Central Authority?
The official government office in each member country that processes child-return applications — free of charge. Find yours.
How long does a return case take?
The Convention aims for six weeks. In the latest global study (2021 applications), the average was about 207 days; voluntary resolutions averaged 130 days. Timelines vary by country. See the data.
Does filing a Hague application guarantee my child comes back?
No. In 2021, 39% of applications ended in return overall; of court-decided cases, 59% ended in return. Strong, fast, lawful action improves your position — no one can promise an outcome, and you should be wary of anyone who does.
Can I go get my child back myself?
No — taking a child back across a border yourself ("re-abduction") is a crime in most countries, can end your legal case, and puts your child at risk. The lawful process exists for this.
Can I track my ex's phone to find my child?
No. Surveillance and account access are illegal in most places and damage your case. Location happens through lawful channels: police, courts, and Central Authorities.
What if my child was taken to a country that isn't a Hague member?
The path runs through consular services, local courts in that country, and specialised lawyers. It's harder — and it's still navigable. Start with your foreign ministry's consular service.
What do "wrongful removal" and "wrongful retention" mean?
Removal = taken across a border in breach of your custody rights. Retention = lawfully taken (for example an agreed holiday) but not returned. Both are covered by the Convention.
What is Article 13(1)(b)?
The "grave risk" exception — a court can refuse return if it would expose the child to grave risk of harm. It's the most commonly cited ground in refusals (45% in 2021) and the centre of most legal debate.
Do I need a lawyer? Can I afford one?
You can contact a Central Authority yourself, and specialised legal help matters greatly. Many countries offer legal aid for these cases — ask your Central Authority about options.
Is SafeReturn Alliance part of the Hague Conference (HCCH)?
No. We are an independent nonprofit. We rely on HCCH's official materials and always link to them.
Can SafeReturn Alliance handle my case?
No — we don't represent parents or contact authorities for you. We give you verified information, the right contacts, and tools to get organised. Only authorities, courts and your lawyer act in your case.
Last verified: 2026-07-05.