The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Application." A request under the convention by an obligee or obligor, or on behalf of a child, made through a central authority for assistance from another central authority.

"Central authority." The entity designated by the United States or a foreign country defined in paragraph (4) of the definition of "foreign country" in section 7101.1 (relating to definitions) to perform the functions specified in the convention.

"Convention support order." A support order of a tribunal of a foreign country defined in paragraph (4) of the definition of "foreign country" in section 7101.1.

"Direct request." A petition filed by an individual in a tribunal of this State in a proceeding involving an obligee, obligor or child residing outside the United States.

"Foreign central authority." The entity designated by a foreign country defined in paragraph (4) of the definition of "foreign country" in section 7101.1 to perform the functions specified in the convention.

"Foreign support agreement."

(1) An agreement for support in a record that:

(i) is enforceable as a support order in the country of origin;

(ii) has been:

(A) formally prepared or registered as an authentic instrument by a foreign tribunal; or

(B) authenticated by or concluded, registered, or filed with a foreign tribunal; and

(iii) may be reviewed and modified by a foreign tribunal.

(2) The term includes a maintenance arrangement or authentic instrument under the convention.

"United States central authority." The Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.