Chris and Cheri Phillips, a couple from Minnesota, found themselves in a bureaucratic nightmare while stranded in Brazil with their newborn son. The couple’s two-week trip extended into months after Greyson Phillips was born prematurely on March 8 and spent 51 days in the neonatal intensive care unit. The bureaucratic issues arose when the couple tried to obtain Brazilian and American documentation for Greyson so that they could return home to the United States. In Brazil, the local registry office refused to issue a birth certificate for Greyson because the parents’ passports lacked the names of their own parents, as required by Brazilian law.
Despite their ongoing fight for their son’s life, the Phillips faced unexpected challenges in obtaining the necessary documentation to bring him home. Loved ones in Minnesota provided the couple with their individual birth certificates and marriage license, but these documents were rejected by a court translator due to the lack of an apostille, a certificate necessary for recognition under the 1961 Hague Convention. The media attention prompted the cartorio in Brazil to issue Greyson’s birth certificate, allowing them to move forward with obtaining his American documentation as well. However, the process for acquiring the necessary paperwork was complicated by the distance to the nearest U.S. consulate, which was 300 miles away and impacted by flooding.
As the family navigated the challenges of obtaining the required paperwork, they also faced the mental and financial strain of their extended stay in Brazil. The language barrier, moving between multiple Airbnb properties, and adjusting travel plans have all added to their stress. While their health insurance has covered medical expenses, the financial costs of their prolonged stay have had a significant impact. Chris has been working remotely as a photographer and video producer, while Cheri has been handling childcare duties and is preparing to return to work virtually part-time.
Among the supporters aiding the family in their quest to return home is Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota. Smith has worked to expedite the passport process for Greyson so that the family can finally be reunited in the United States. With the assistance of the U.S. Embassy in Brasilia, the family is close to achieving the necessary documentation for Greyson’s return. Despite the progress made, Chris and Cheri remain cautious, knowing that there are still hurdles to overcome before they can finally bring Greyson home.
The Phillips family’s harrowing ordeal underscores the complexities and challenges faced by international travelers dealing with bureaucratic issues in a foreign country. The obstacles they have encountered highlight the importance of having a support network in place, including government officials and healthcare professionals, to assist in navigating unfamiliar legal systems and protocols. While their journey is not yet complete, the family’s determination and resilience remain steadfast as they continue to work towards reuniting with their loved ones in Minnesota and bringing their son, Greyson, home to the United States.
