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Free Minor Travel Consent Form

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A minor travel consent form is a legal document, signed by a child's parents and/or legal guardians, giving permission for the child to travel with another adult. Any time a child travels abroad without both parents and/or legal guardians, U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires the child to have this written permission.

This document is particularly important in international travel situations. It can be used to establish guardianship whether the child is traveling abroad with only one parent or with another trusted adult, such as a family member, friend, or educator.

In today's world, where concerns about child safety are paramount-especially when it comes to child abduction, custody disputes, and human trafficking-a minor travel consent form serves as a protective measure. It provides clear, legally binding, written permission that can be verified by immigration officials, airline staff, or travel companies, to make sure that the child's travel is both safe and authorized.

Without this form, travel may be delayed or denied. Domestic and international authorities need to be able confirm the child's guardianship and obtain the necessary permissions before allowing the child to travel onward.

How to Use the Minor Travel Consent Form

The form available below is a comprehensive template, designed to be easily copy/pasted and adapted in a word processor like Microsoft Word or Google Docs.

Given the critical nature of this document, we also provide a downloadable minor travel consent form in PDF format for your convenience.

It's important to note that while this sample form is a valuable starting point, it should be tailored to fit the specific details and circumstances of your child's travel.

Also be advised that this form does not replace a legal power of attorney document that could be used to make critical medical care decisions on behalf of a child.

This form is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that this form remains current with travel and child safety best practices, reflecting our commitment to providing reliable and authoritative travel resources.

The Legal Implications of Traveling Without a Minor Consent Form

While the minor travel consent form is not a universally required legal document, a child traveling without one can lead to serious complications in many countries. Different nations have their own regulations regarding child travel. Being uninformed or unprepared can quickly lead to distressing situations for both you and your child.

1. International Legal Considerations:

• Country-Specific Requirements Vary: Each country has its own set of rules regarding minors traveling without their parents. For instance, some countries in Europe may require additional documentation, such as a birth certificate or a parental authorization letter, in addition to the travel consent form. You need to be sure your child and their traveling companion(s) comply with all of the requirements for each country they plan to travel to and through.
• Risk of Travel Disruption: Without a consent form, minors traveling abroad may face delays or even denied entry at border control checkpoints. This can lead to missed transportation departures and costly changes to your travel itinerary.
• Embassy and Consulate Involvement: In cases where a minor is detained due to lack of proper documentation, the local embassy or consulate of the child's home country may need to be involved. This can lead to complex legal situations that take significant amounts of tame and/or money to solve.

2. Domestic Legal Implications:

• Airline and Transportation Policies: Within the United States, airlines and other transportation services have specific policies regarding unaccompanied minors (more on this later). Lack of a consent form, even for domestic travel, can result in the child being denied boarding.
• Legal Custody Disputes: In cases of separated or divorced parents, traveling without a consent form can raise legal issues related to custody agreements. It's crucial to understand and adhere to the legal requirements stipulated in custody arrangements to avoid legal repercussions.

A minor travel consent form can help you avoid many of these situations. Before traveling, be sure to research the specific travel requirements of the destination country regarding minor travel. In addition to the resources provided on this site, this can also be done through a country's embassy website or by consulting with travel experts like registered passport expediting services .

In complex situations, such as shared custody or special travel circumstances, consulting with a legal expert can provide clarity and ensure compliance with both domestic and international laws.

Minor Travel Consent Form Notary Requirements

We strongly recommend that you have any child travel consent form notarized. This can prevent issues establishing the authority and credibility of your documentation.

It can be challenging to find and secure the services of a notary in person. Thankfully, it is possible to use an online notary service to notarize your minor travel consent form. This can save you serious time and stress.

We recommend using NotaryLive , a fully-secure, online notirization platform with an "Excellent" rating from TrustPilot . NotaryLive is fast, affordable, and fully compliant with state law, so you can be sure your notarized minor travel consent form is both legal and valid.

Unaccompanied Minors

Airlines have general rules about the ages and circumstances where children can fly alone, too. There are also usually additional fees that come with buying a ticket for a minor that will be traveling without an adult. As part of that extra cost, many airlines offer some additional supervisory and support services to be sure the traveling child is safe and comfortable while traveling on their own.

For more, check out our guide to unaccompanied minors traveling internationally . There, you will find details about the considerations, accommodations, and policies that apply to kids traveling internationally without an adult parent or guardian.

More Tips for Parents of Minors Traveling Abroad

Besides proper documentation, there are other ways to help a child have a safe international trip. Any time your child is traveling without you, give yourself peace of mind by taking these proactive steps.

Be Proactive In Shared Custody Situations

Parents who share custody of their children should each carry copies of the legal custody documents. You can also contact the embassy of the country or countries the minor child will be visiting to confirm travel entry requirements. This proactive step can help avoid issues at border crossings and during the child's stay abroad.

A simple notarized statement, such as the one below, should suffince in most cases.

"I, [PARENT NAME] acknowledge that [SPOUSE NAME] is traveling out of the country with my [SON/DAUGHTER] whom we share custody of. This authorization gives [SPOUSE NAME] my full permission to do so.

Use a GPS Tracker to Keep Track of Your Child While Abroad

GPS technology makes it possible to pinpoint a person's exact location, anywhere in the world. If your child is traveling without you, it makes sense to keep a GPS tracker on their person so that you know where they are. You can also use additional trackers to help keep tabs on your child's luggage or other valuables.

• Apple AirTags are small, inexpensive GPS tags that can be purchased individually or in packs of 4 . They use bluetooth connectivity and the vast number of Apple users across the globe to create a reliable GPS tracking network. Using your iPhone or Apple device, you can ping any AirTag that is linked to your AppleID and locate it quickly. Thanks to its small size, an AirTag can easily be tucked into luggage, sewn into a child's clothing, or stashed in a travel wallet.
• JioBit is an all-in-one GPS tracking system specifically designed for tracking your child. While it is more expensive than Apple AirTags, JioBit is a durable and secure alternative-particularly useful for those who don't already have an Apple device.

Use a Parent-Controlled Debit Card

Traveling costs add up. Everything from food, transportation, lodging, and fun comes with a price. If your child is traveling without you, you want to be sure they have the money they need, but also that it is being protected.

There are a number of debit cards that allow parents to keep an eye on their child's spending as well as their remaining balance. Should your child and their card become separated, you have the ability to prevent unauthorized purchases and possibly even get a replacement sent to wherever your child is staying.

Traveling with minors requires careful planning and a strict adherence to both American and international laws. This guide and the minor travel consent form we have shared are designed to provide you with the necessary information and tools to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for your child. Whether your child is traveling with a guardian, as part of a group, or alone, the right preparation can make all the difference.

Remember, the safety and well-being of your child are paramount. By staying informed about the latest travel regulations and using our resources, you can confidently prepare for your child's next trip. If you have any further questions or need personalized advice, our team of travel experts is always here to assist you. Safe travels!

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

• If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
• Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel. 

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Sample Letter of Consent To Travel With 1 Parent

When parents aren't married to each other, issues may arise when one of them wants to travel with their minor child.

To prevent parental kidnapping , authorities may want proof that the parent who isn't traveling has consented to the trip.

It's always a good idea to bring a letter of consent to travel. To create one easily, download a fill-in-the-blank form:

• Letter of consent to travel with one parent — PDF
• Letter of consent to travel with one parent — Word document

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Sample letter of consent to travel with one parent

You can use the sample letters above for domestic or international travel with your child.

Only the non-traveling parent needs to sign the form.

There's no required format for a letter of consent to travel with one parent, so adjust the samples as you see fit. You can add additional information or skip lines that don't apply to you.

You may never be asked for the letter, but if you are, you'll be extremely glad you brought it. Having a witness or notary sign gives you extra certainty that the letter will ease any concerns travel authorities may have.

In addition to using the sample letters above when you travel alone with your child, you can also use them when you:

• Send your child to visit a long-distance parent alone
• Send your child to visit family alone
• Take your child's friend or a young relative on a trip with you

When a child is traveling with one parent internationally

If you have joint custody , you usually need the other parent's written permission to take an international trip with your child. If the trip will affect your parenting schedule , make sure to get their express permission for that as well. You can do this in the sample letter provided by checking a box.

If you have sole custody , you generally don't need the other parent to consent to international travel, unless your parenting plan says otherwise. But you should bring your court order to prove your sole custody.

In either arrangement, your parenting plan may place additional requirements on you. It may state that permission to travel has to be notarized, obtained a certain number of days in advance, etc.

Always check the laws of the country you're visiting. Usually, leaving the child's home country is not the problem; entering and exiting another country can be more difficult.

Documents you may want to bring to make international travel easier include:

• Child's passport
• Child's birth certificate
• Letter of consent to travel with one parent
• Custody order

When a minor is traveling with one parent domestically

Traveling within the country is much easier. Typically, neither parent needs permission to travel domestically during their parenting time.

However, your parenting plan or court order may require written permission. It may also limit how far you can travel with the child and more. Always follow your parenting plan or court order (or have it modified ).

If your co-parent agrees to let you travel with the child beyond your usual parenting time, get their permission in writing to protect you if they change their mind.

Addressing travel in your parenting plan

A well-thought-out parenting plan is important for parents who want to travel with their child. A detailed plan could be the difference between a smooth trip and a return to court.

The Custody X Change parenting plan template walks you through each step of creating a plan.

Choose from popular provisions in 26 categories. One category is dedicated specifically to travel.

The result is a professional-quality document that secures your child's future and allows you to make memories traveling with them.

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Travel Consent Letter

Rating: 4.5 - 309 votes

A Travel Consent Letter is used when a child is travelling alone, with only one parent/legal guardian, or with an authorized group. This document notifies authorities or other interested parties that a parent or legal guardian has given their consent for the child to travel without them. This document can be used both for domestic travel inside Canada or international travel across country borders. Because of increasing instances of child abduction in custody cases, and a growing number of children who are the victims of trafficking or other abductions , an immigration officer, airline, or travel company may ask parents to provide some form of letter of consent if a minor child is travelling internationally with only one parent or with another adult, such as a teacher, group trip leader, or grandparent.

How to use this document?

Using this document, a parent can name the children , provide information about their passport if the trip is happening internationally, describe the circumstances of their trip and the people who will be accompanying them, and outline the travel itinerary . Finally, this letter form contains contact information for adult chaperones, if applicable, and parents or legal guardians in case someone needs to be contacted in the event of an emergency. During the signing of this letter, a witness should also sign the letter, as this is required by some airlines.

Travelling children should carry a copy of this letter with them and any adult chaperones should be given a copy of this letter to show to authority figures as needed.

Applicable Law

Although not required by law, immigration officers, law enforcement officers, or custom agents may detain a child if they suspect an abduction or kidnapping has taken place. By travelling with a Travel Consent Letter, these officers will have the necessary contact information and further assurance that no abduction or kidnapping has taken place. Remember that specific requirements for the Travel Consent Letter may vary from country to country or airline to airline. Therefore, it is vital to research the specific guidelines and templates relevant to your travel destination and carrier. Taking these proactive steps can significantly contribute to a stress-free and efficient travel experience for all parties involved.

How to modify the template?

You fill out a form. The document is created before your eyes as you respond to the questions.

At the end, you receive it in Word and PDF formats. You can modify it and reuse it.

A guide to help you: How to Travel with Minor Children

Other names for the document:

Child Travel Consent Letter, Children's International Travel Consent Letter, Consent Letter for Child Traveling Abroad, International Travel Consent Letter, Minor Travel Consent Letter

Country: Canada (English)

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Permission To Travel and Travel Consent Letters And Why You Need Them

Article By: Kyle McCarthy

Adults traveling outside the U.S. with children under 18, other than their own, must have a Permission or minor travel consent letter from both of the minors’ guardians. The travel consent letter also covers a child traveling internationally with only one birth parent, one guardian, grandparents or other adults. This written and notarized Permission to Travel Letter from both birth parents, same sex couples, or legal guardians is required to enter many countries, even on a cruise ship’s shore excursions.

“In light of the Supreme Court’s ruling on same sex marriage,” comments a State Department official, “the two parent consent requirement for passport issuance, that all legal parents/guardians of a child, as determined by state law, must consent to passport issuance, remains the same. The validity of consent to travel letters meant for foreign countries or airlines is outside the scope of the State Department.” Learn more in this video:

Travel Documents and Travel Consent Letters Help Protect our Kids

This requirement for an affidavit for children traveling outside their home country was not invented by the Department of State; in fact, it’s due to the enhanced awareness of children’s rights raised by the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction . The Dept of State explains, “The Convention is a valuable civil law mechanism for parents seeking the return of children who have been wrongfully removed from or retained outside their country of habitual residence by another parent or family member. Parents seeking access to children residing in treaty partner countries may also invoke the Convention. The Convention is critically important because it establishes a legal framework between partner countries to resolve parental abduction cases. The Department of State’s Office of Children’s Issues serves as the Central Authority for the United States under the Convention.”

Offer your family further protection with a solid travel insurance policy. Kids are insured for free through Allianz when traveling with a parent or grandparent.

As of May 2017, this treaty created to deter international child abductions is in force between the United States and 76 other countries and territories, including Canada and Mexico.

Nevertheless, international child abduction stories are in the news all the time. To stop these tragic crimes, and prevent the transport of runaways or children involved in child-custody disputes, American carriers have been told to require special documents such as Permission to Travel Letters from adults departing the U.S. with minors. Note that the country of South Africa has recently revised its entry requirements for minors traveling by air, sea or land into and through the country. A full list of Requirements for Minors Travelling Internationally to South Africa can be viewed here.

Additionally, rising health care costs and legal issues have forced many medical providers to deny medical care to minors without proper Medical Authorization forms. Increasingly, written permission or affidavits from guardians who carry the minor’s insurance coverage as well as proof of that medical insurance coverage are required at emergency care facilities.

Learn more about travel consent letters and how to understand them.

The same regulations apply to minors under 18 who are leaving the United States with school groups, teen tours, or just friends on a vacation. Sports teams and academic study programs require a similar Minor Consent to Travel form.

Read on for tips on how to make this paperwork less of a burden, or just fill in the form to to obtain sample documents you can print out and fill in.

Get Blank Permission to Travel, Minors & Medical Authorization Forms

Remember, having these essential documents for travel with minors could save your next vacation. FTF provides these documents free of charge but asks that you subscribe to our travel alerts e-mail list to keep up to date with ever-changing regulations. You may unsubscribe at any time. We do not sell, barter or trade your personal information. Read Family Travel Forum’s Privacy Policy if you have concerns.

Please complete the following form, then check your email inbox or spam filter. You will be asked to confirm your email address, then will be sent a second email with links to download a Permission to Travel and Medical Treatment Authorization Letter you can fill out and use. Keep blank copies to use on future trips.

Please fill in this form to request Travel Documents by email, and check your spam filter if you do not receive them within a few minutes. Safe Travels!

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Canada Requirements for Minor Consent Letters

The Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade reminds visitors that, “Foreign officials and transportation companies are vigilant concerning documentation for children crossing international borders. Make sure you carry the proper identification for yourself and any children traveling with you, including any documents that might be required by the authorities of the country you intend to visit, and by Canadian authorities on your return to Canada with the child.”

Canada regulations request that adults entering the country with minors also carry a photocopy of the signature page of the passport belonging to the guardian who signed the permission to travel letter.

Although minors under 16 may enter Canada from the U.S. by land or sea with only a photocopy of their U.S. birth certificate, the U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) notes that children under age 18 must carry notarized travel permission letters if they are traveling without their parents.

Getting a U. S. Passport or Foreign Passport for a Minor

To enforce the Hague Convention provisions, the U.S. Department of State requires that every citizen, no matter the age , traveling outside the US by air carry her own passport and appear in person to apply for one. The very strictly enforced guidelines to get a passports for a minor require the presence of both parents, with photo ID and proof of parentage, or one parent’s appearance with a notarized statement of consent from the second parent or legal guardian.

Exceptions are made if there’s documented evidence that a minor has only one guardian; for example, divorce papers, death certificate, adoption papers or a lawyer’s letter would indicate that the presence of one legal guardian is sufficient. This is a complex issue, explained in more detail in FTF’s Passport Guide or on the U.S. Passport Office .

If child custody issues are a concern for you, the Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program provides notification to parents of passport applications made on behalf of minor children, and denial of passport issuance if appropriate court orders are on file with the CPIAP. The Office of Children’s Issues will provide more information.

Citizens of other countries must check with their own country’s embassy, as passport issuance laws have become more strict all over the world. Many destinations now require that all foreign nationals entering their country have a passport that is valid at least six months after the planned date of departure.

If you’re planning a foreign vacation, start the passport process early. United States’ security and border regulations change frequently and the increased number of passport applications means a processing backlog at the National Passport Center.

Visas & Travel Documents for Minors

In an era of heightened global security, many foreign countries are revising their visa and documentation procedures as well. Laura Tischler, a spokesman for the Bureau of Consular Affairs at the U.S. Department of State advises families: “Contact the embassy of your destination country or study the Consular Information Sheets provided at travel.state.gov to find out what that country’s requirements will be in terms of documentation, in order to bring a child into the country.”

A March 2019 report by Scott McCartney in the Wall St. Journal noted some other documents which might prove essential, depending on the destination. These include an original, raised stamp birth certificate for each minor in your party, extra passport photos on white backgrounds, plus about US$50 in small bills so that you can purchase entry visas on the spot. Be sure to assign a neighbor or relative back home the responsibility of retrieving some of these documents and sending them, if you need them after departure.

As one of our editors and her son discovered while checking in for an American Airlines flight to Cancun, Mexican law requires that if only one parent or non-custodial adult(s) is accompanying a minor under 18 from Mexico, he/she must carry a notarized Permission to Travel Letter (also known as a Parental Consent Letter) from the child’s other parent(s) or guardian(s) granting permission to leave Mexico with the child, including the dates of travel, the accompanying adult’s name, contact information, and a notarized signature.

According to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, although the regulations are very specific, immigration officers often ask for a Consent Letter in much broader circumstances. They recommend “ all minors traveling without both parents carry a notarized consent letter at all times in the event airline or Mexican immigration officials request one” .

All the airlines follow this protocol. The US Airways website confirms that they enforce this during the check-in process with the posted rule: “If adult passengers do not have the proper documents, as defined by the U.S. Department of State guidelines, boarding is denied in order to comply with international regulations and the foreign immigration process.”

In another incident concerning a press trip to Brazil, FTF’s staff learned that some countries require a notarized original copy of the Permission to Travel Letter before even accepting a visa application for minors. Many countries also require that the authorization notes are in the national language of the country and notarized and authenticated by the nation’s embassy or consulate. For information on the requirements for travel to a specific country by an American citizen, visit US Department of State and navigate to the International Travel Information page. When in doubt about the information, it’s best to call the Visa Section of the embassy or consulate of your intended destination.

What Permission To Travel or Consent to Travel Letters Do

A consular officer at the U.S. Office of Children’s Issues verified that many countries require a Permission to Travel letter with parents’ notarized signatures, plus identification for the child (certified birth certificate or passport), and that both are essential.

Consular Information Sheets issued by the U. S. Department of State (which does not make these regulations) often carry this warning: “In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child’s travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.”

A CBP spokesperson recommends that all travelers read the helpful online resource “ Know Before You Go .”

Childrens Travel Permission Letters Required for Cruises Too

Such concerns apply not only to air and land travel, but to cruise travel as well. Carnival , for example, requires the notarized Permission to Travel Letter for any children debarking in Mexico, if only on a half-day shore excursion, so it’s smart to check ahead with your cruise company. Mexican Consular Officer Hebe Cue advises, “In case of weather or other cruise delay, it’s better if adults have the notarized permission letter. In any case, it is required for American minors entering Mexico by air, no matter how long their stay.” At Royal Caribbean, an agent interviewed about Canada-bound cruises suggested single parents or other adults traveling with a minor carry notarized documentation, “to be on the safe side.”

An officer at the Canadian Tourism Commission agreed: “Canadian customs officers, who are the primary line of inspection for visitors, may require a notarized statement from both parents when they find a child under 18 traveling alone or with other adults. All carriers, including air, sea and land, can be fined for bringing people into Canada without the proper documentation.”

Obtaining a Free Permission to Travel Letter Form

We recommend you download FTF’s sample “Permission To Travel” letter, so you can print it out, fill it in, have it notarized, and carry it with you on all future international travels. We are often asked if notarizing the document is necessary, especially by Canadian families, who pay much higher notary fees than those in the U.S. According to the Canada Consular Affairs Office , “It is strongly recommended that children traveling alone or with one parent carry a travel consent letter for every trip abroad. It is advisable to have the consent letter certified, stamped, or sealed by an official with the authority to administer an oath or solemn declaration so that the validity of the letter will not be questioned.”

Tip: Notarize several copies of the Permission to Travel Letter at the same time if you are applying for foreign visas. Carry two copies with you on your vacation in case a border official at either end asks to keep a copy. (It has happened to FTF families.)

Regardless of where you travel outside the United States , when you are crossing a border by land, sea or air you will need to have proper identification documents for each traveler in addition to the above letters.  Please see the Department of Homeland Security Site if you are unsure about the type of ID documents you and your family need.

Travel Prepared to Avoid Confusion

Thorough documentation is especially important in situations such as travelers or guardians with different last names than each other or the minor. FTF also recommends that birth parents who have different surnames than their child carry a photocopy of the child’s birth certificate while traveling, providing legal evidence of “guardianship” in case of trouble.

Same sex couples, and adoptive, divorced or widowed parents should carry certified custody or death certificates, adoption papers, or other proof of sole custody, as well as photo identification for themselves and the child.

Although travel agents and, occasionally, the fine print on a brochure, are supposed to notify families that airlines, cruise lines and bus tours may require proper documentation — or deny boarding — the paperwork can, and often does, slip between the cracks.

We find that travel insurance — trip-protection and health coverage that many travel experts find essential (and many many vacationers are reluctant to purchase) — is important, too.

For more information, contact your attorney or a professional travel agent. The staff at the FTF office (+1 212/595-6074), while not attorneys, are happy to help answer any questions.

On vacation, travel prepared. It’s better to be safe than sorry.</p?

And most importantly, safe there and safe home!

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48 Replies to “Permission To Travel and Travel Consent Letters And Why You Need Them”

Hello Vinay, If you are the sole legan guardian of a minor child and have a copy of those papers that will travel with the child, you do not need the other guardian/birth parent’s consent. Carry a copy of the papers with you and the child as well as your passports. Please call the airline you are traveling with to make sure they put this information into your passenger record. You may want to check with the U.S. Dept of State regarding any special permission to travel to the Philippines. Please see this page: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Philippines.html Safe travels! FTF Editor

Hello, Do I need the fathers consent to travel to the Philippines from USA? I have awarded sole legal decision making authority and Im the primary custodian and the father has only visitation. I know if I ask him he will not sign any consent form, and we also have domestic violence case and criminal judge put a no contact order for us and I also filed a restraining order against him though it’s expiring soon. Pls help me, thank you. Vinay

Hello Daniel, thanks for your inquiry. The immigration authorities don’t like open-ended documents. If you believe the travel dates will fall within a six-month period, we suggest that you list the dates that make up six months; ie. June 6-Nov.. 7, 2020. This way, your child and the adult traveling with them will be covered for any dates within that period.

Is filling out the Departure and Return dates on the document absolutely necessary upfront? What if we are wanting to fill out the form but the travel dates are unknown currently. We know it will be “within the next 6 months” for example.

How long is a consent letter valid? I have generic consent to travel from 3/2019. Dad has been in Wyoming since last Nov.

Really informative article. thanks!

“This site was… how do you say it? Relevant!! Finally I’ve found something that helped me. Cheers!”

I truly appreciate this post. I have been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You’ve made my day! Thank you again!

Today, while I was at work, my cousin stole my apple ipad and tested to see if it can survive a 30 foot drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My iPad is now destroyed and she has 83 views.

I know this is totally off topic but I had to share it with someone!

You article definitely has all the information and facts I needed about this subject. I didn’t know who to ask, so thank you kindly…

This blog about Learn More About Travel Permission and Travel Consent Letters for Kids, is a very usefull and i will share it!

If you are a divorced parent and are planning on crossing the border with your child, it’s not as simple as packing up a suitcase and heading to the airport. One of the most important things you need to do is to ensure your documents are in order. A letter of consent shows border officials that  ex-partner knows you have the child and gives you permission to travel with the child. While it is not a mandatory document, failing to have it can get you delayed or even denied access in or out of a country.

thanks for the information

Good morning there, I live in Oakland, California last May I went to my country and legally married with my boyfriend. Now we are spouses but I don’t know how to change my marital status here in California. I am actually pregnant with his baby. Am I going to be able to put my husband on his birth certificate? If so, do I need a consent letter to take the baby with him? I am planning to travel and leave to baby with him for a year so I can bring them with me.

I’m traveling with my two kids to Florida where I’d meet with my bf and then driving to Disney.

On the consent letter do I have to include that I’m meeting with my bf then we’re road tripping to Disney from another city within Florida ?

We are so sorry to hear about your family’s loss and hope that the safeguards in place can help prevent more tragedies like this one. Thank you for sharing your story.

Just a little note as far as the Hague convention act. My sons wife abducted there little boy 3yrs ago and still no help from our state department. With a little research I found there has been 50 children abducted to Brazil and not one has been RETURNED through the state department.

Jesus, these letters are specified by the U.S. Department of State for entering or leaving the U.S. with minors. If your sister is a Mexican citizen and traveling as a minor only within Mexico, please refer to this website: https://www.gob.mx/inm for more information. Safe travels!

My sister that is 12 yrs of age is traveling from Tijuana Mexico to Durunago Mexico with our uncle does she need a letter of any sort ?

Reader CCL wrote to FTF after receiving her forms: “May I assume that this will work in our case? My granddaughter and I both live in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. We will travel to Minnesota together where she will attend a summer camp while I stay with friends. Then we will return together to Mexico. We both have US passports. Thank you. Colleen C.L.”

We replied: “Hello Colleen,

Thank you for your note. We are not attorneys, and in this instance, you are doing the reverse of what most of our readers do. However, the rules still apply and the carrier that is transporting you and your granddaughter to the US would be responsible for checking your papers.

I would recommend checking with them – airline or cruise company – to be sure. Additionally, since it’s you and your minor, please be sure to get a medical authorization letter (does not have to be notarized) from the legal guardians/health insurance policy holders, plus a photocopy of the insurance card, just in case anything happens to her at camp. Most U.S. camps would require proof of health insurance coverage for each camper as well.

Please get in touch if you have any other questions and safe travels”

Thank you for your note. According to the Government of Canada website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/minor-children-travelling-canada.html a visitor is considered a minor if under the age of 18, and does require a notarized consent letter from both guardians to enter the country. In your case, you would have to provide this signed and notarized letter to your ex-husband for the trip.

S.A. writes: Hello, my children are visiting their dad My ex husband who lives in Washington next week… They are going to drive to Canada for the day… I have a 17-year-old and a 19-year-old and a 21-year-old… Do I need a certified letter to allow him to take them across the border?

User JC emailed us to ask: “Thank you so much for sending the forms. I will be taking my 16-year-old niece from California to South America in June. I definitely want to get all the forms taken care of by May. Her parents are going through a difficult divorce and it may be tough to get both of them to use one form and go to the same location together to get it notarized. Can I use one form for the mother and one for the father and they can get their own form notarized. “

Thank you for your note and congratulations on planning this exciting trip with your niece. We are not attorneys and cannot offer legal advice, but we suggest you contact the transportation carrier for this trip.

Whether it’s an airline, cruise company, etc that is transporting the minor across international borders, they are responsible for collecting these forms. If, for example, there is an issue and the minor had to be repatriated, that company would bear the cost of transportation and also pay a fine. Since they are responsible, I think it’s best to ask them if they will accept two notarized forms, with the same travel dates and information, for one child on one trip. Make sure they add a note in your travel record so that other company representatives know this was discussed.

Alternatively, your niece’s parents may know the same notary (often a bank clerk or real estate agent) who may agree to hold onto the form until both parents have come in to sign it. Don’t forget to get a Medical Authorization Letter (one of the sample forms, does not need to be notarized) from the parent holding her health insurance policy in case your niece needs treatment, and safe travels!

Hello, I am 21 years Old and I want to go outside the country for vacation with my 2 years old sister, I am not her guardian so whats the requirment for travel?? Thanks

Although you are an adult sibling, you will need a Permission to Travel Letter notarized by your sister’s birth parents or guardians to enter many countries. It should name you as her guardian for the period of travel. It’s also good to have a Medical Authorization Letter (available at the same email as you request the others) in case she needs care when she is in your care, as her guardian.

Safe travels!

Member C. Boonsong writes:  Dose this FTF form can use travel to Vietnam?

FTF Reply, posted by Admin:

Yes, these forms are good if you are traveling between countries with a minor child under 18 years of age. However, Vietnam requires a visa for entry for citizens of many countries.  If you are a U.S. citizen, please check this Vietnam page on the Department of State website for details.

If you are a citizen of another country, please look online for visa information from your own home foreign office.

We received this note from a user and want to share it so others can learn from it: “ I am traveling to SE Asia with my 15 year old son. We adopted him from Russia. Do I need proof of adoption to travel to these countries? “

Our reply: “If the minor child is not traveling with all legal guardians, the missing guardians will have to complete a Permission to Travel Letter for that child, which should be accompanied by adoption papers that explain the child’s legal status.”

Let us know if you are affected by the same issue, and maybe we can help.

Questions from D.V.: I recently requested travel documents (Permission To Travel Letter, Consent for Minor Travel Form); My question is, can I still use these outlines if my child is traveling by herself (She is 17 years old) without either parents or anyone else? Is it okay to use the templates but leave the spaces provided that asks who will be accompanying them blank? Thank you in advance.

FTF Answer: I think you may be better off using this other form called Unaccompanied Minor Travel Authorization – and call her a Solo Traveler.  If you have trouble filling it out, you can use the other Consent Letter form and in the spaces that ask who is accompanying her, put in Solo Traveler.  We think  it will be fine, but you can also double-check with her airline.

Question from D.V.: do both parents need to sign at the same time (same paper and date)or can each parent have their own signature notarized on different pieces of paper (and dates)?

FTF Answer: Different signatures on two forms would probably work, but make sure to give your daughter a copy of her birth certificate proving the names of her legal guardians so those forms are connected to each other. If you have plenty of time, it’s probably best to get one form signed, then mail it to the other birth parent for signature on the same document. Some border officials who don’t speak English may not understand her situation.

C.S. of Washington DC writes:   “I the parent have sole legal and physical custody of my 9 year old, that is how I had my divorce decree worded so maybe I don’t even need this consent form from other parent? Any thoughts?”

FTF is posting this reply for general interest:

“We are not attorneys, but in our experience, a sole legal custodian with papers traveling outside the US with a minor child does not need a written letter of consent from anyone else.  However, it is up to the transportation company to accept your papers — whether it’s an airline, bus, train or cruise ship.     You would be best to ask them what papers they require and if they say they will accept your sole custody papers with the child’s papers (child must have their own passport), ask them to make a note in your Passenger Record so that there’s no trouble when checking in.”

• admin February 23, 2014 at 2:17 pm J. of PA writes:  Your site is great! But I have a question. I was married and we got divorced and ten years later we got back together (just never remarried) I got pregnant…  Child is now almost five. The birth certificate reads father not listed unknown.  I do have my sons passport (had no problems getting it because father name not on bc) … Anyway, my question is what do I do for the consent letter? We never went to court or nothing as I work and raise child alone. … so my question is would I have any issues traveling with my child?  If a father name is not on any documentation do I need a consent form?  Is this a matter that needs to be handled by an attorney? If so, do u recommend a certain one?     FTF replies:  Thank you for your note.  We are not attorneys at Family Travel Forum, so cannot offer you legal advice. However, in our experience of traveling, we have heard that parents with a child whose birth certificate only has one name on it do not need any further documentation to travel across borders with that minor child. They are considered the sole legal custodians of that child.  In your case, you mention that you were previously divorced from the child’s birth father. If that is the case, perhaps you have legal papers showing your divorced status that you could use if any border or customs official questioned this situation. In any case, it is the carrier you choose (airline or cruise company for example) who will require that you provide evidence of guardianship for the child. If you are planning a vacation, perhaps a cruise that will cross borders such as one from Florida that calls at Mexican ports, you can call the cruise line reservations operators, and ask them if your documentation  is enough to board the ship. The  transportation companies should be the ones responsible for examining your travel documents, so if they approve it, you should be fine to travel with him.     The moderator has shared this email exchange, in part, so that the questions and answers may be of help to others in a similar situation. Thank you.

Thank you so much for making our forthcoming trip so much easier.  It is an emergency trip not a pleasure one and your help at a distressful time is much appreciated.

Sent by reader W.T.

Good morning,

I wanted to give you some feedback….  We went to your site to determine what documentation was needed for my grandson to travel with me to Canada, and printed out two forms.  We had one of the forms notarized as suggested, and set out on our trip the next day.  When we arrived at the border, I was told we did not have proper identification!  The page we had been working from on your site did not say anything about a birth certificate or photo ID, which they said I should have had.  PLEASE amend that page to say something like…  “ In addition to a birth certificate and photo ID , these other documents are recommended…” 

Thank you so much for your responsiveness.  You may mention this on other pages on your site, but it really should also be on the documentation page.

it has been a great piece of information regarding travelling i am sure many people will utiliza this information

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My family and I are wanting to move to Costa Rica here in the next few years.  The problem is, is that I am a single mother of a little boy of whom I have no idea who the father is.  He is not on the birth certificate, and I don't know his name, if I still can prove I'm the mother can we still leave without any problems?

thanks, Ashley

Hi Ashley,   To travel outside the U.S. with a minor child you will first need to get that child a passport.  If you are applying in the US for a US passport, you will need a notarized permission letter from both guardians (unless you have sole custody papers) to apply for one;  you can read more about passports at this story – http://www.myfamilytravels.com/how/advice/11037-Passport-Adventure-Acquiring-Your-Passport.html There is also a phone number of the passport help line there to call for more information.   If your minor child already has a passport, and you have sole custody of the child, you should be able to travel  without a problem. However, for relocation or immigration for longer stays than a tourist visa allows, you must ask that question at the Costa Rica Embassy / Visa office in Washinton DC.  You can call them at (202) 328-6628 and ask about their immigration procedures.   We are not immigation attorneys but we hope this is helpful to you.  Good luck!

Thank you for the documents.   I have a few questions, and hoping you can help me.  First, some background.  My 3 minor boys live with their mother in Illinois, USA, I live in Switzerland.  We are divorced, she has physical custody of children but we both have joint custody.  They will be visiting first Puerto Rico (US posession) for 2 weeks, and then will visit Switzerland for 2 weeks to visit me.  During the travel from Illinois ISA to Puerto Rico, and then from Puerto Rico to Switzerland, and then from Switzerland back to Illinois, they will be traveling only with their nanny (neither mom or dad will accompany them).  Given this scenario:   1) What is the difference between the first letter (Permission to Travel) and third letter (Unaccompanied Minor Travel Authorization) below?  Should both be completed? 2) How do we notarize when both mother and father live in different continents?  Can the same paper be notarized individually in each country?

Any assistance you can provide would be greatly appreciated.   thanks jose

Hello Jose,

First, let me say we are not attorneys, but we can offer some advice based on experience.  The transport companies (airlines in your case) are the ones who really care about these papers because they are the ones that are fined if they transport you and the children without the proper documentation and they are responsible for sending everyone back if the guardian does not have the correct papers.  So, your airlines may be a help in answering your questions.

On our end, we recommend using the first form letter you got; the 3rd form letter is very similar but is usually used by an adult hosting groups, such as teachers taking kids on a teen tour.

We suggest you give your nanny 2 original Permission to Travel Letters,  with the 3 children named, and listed as going to each destination (complete itinerary with dates for Puerto Rico and Switzerland).  She should carry extra photocopies of the Permission Letter signed by both of you, and notarized, as well as copies of your joint custodial papers.  She should also have the Medical Authorization Letter in case the children require any medical care while they're en route.

If you have enough lead time, the best option is to have each parent sign and notarize 2 original Permission to Travel Letters and send them to the other parent for signature.  I don't know the procedure for notarizing a document in Europe but if you both try at the same time, there's a good chance that one of you will succeed at getting both signatures on the same letter.  We've had this question often from military families and they can FedEx the letters to each other.

I hope this information is helpful and I wish your children a safe trip, Kyle McCarthy

Thanks! Form was helpful, made it easier. Glad to have found you!

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Lisa – Sorry about your loss. You should call The Office of Children's Issues (888/407-4747) at the State Department in Washington DC to determine next steps.

My husband ex-wife died this morning in Mexico and has their children in Mexico with her. How can we bring them back to the United States? We are desperatly seeking help.

thanks for explaining this clearly. it's such a hassle but I am glad to know the reasons behind it and of course want to keep our kids safe from the predators.

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Thanks for posting this article. I'm definitely frustrated with struggling to search out pertinent and intelligent commentary on this subject. Everybody now goes to the very far extremes to either drive home their viewpoint that either:  everyone else in the planet is wrong, or two that everyone but them does not really understand the situation. Many thanks for your succinct, relevant insight.

Valuable information! I am looking forward to get some more info from your notes.

Valuable information! Looking forward to seeing your notes posted.

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Consent Letter for Travel (as a Solo Parent Travelling with Kids)

If you are travelling with kids as the solo adult and leaving or entering a different country, you may need a consent letter for travel.

What is a consent letter for travel and why do I need one? We have answers to those questions and some other frequently asked questions below, plus a sample consent letter for travel to download below.

What is the purpose of having a consent letter?

A consent letter is a letter giving permission for children to travel abroad without both parents present. Whether the child is travelling with only parent, alone or with another adult, the letter states that all parents have given permission for that child to travel abroad.

When is a consent letter needed?

Anytime a child is travelling without both parents, a consent letter may be needed. If there is only parent on the birth certificate, or one parent is deceased, birth and death certificates will replace the need for a consent letter.

Is a consent letter necessary?

Although it’s not a legal requirement to carry a consent letter, it’s a good idea to carry one when travelling solo with kids. Immigration authorities may ask for a consent letter when entering or leaving a country and may refuse entry or exit if there is no documentation of permission from the other parent.

What should be in a consent letter?

There is no specific consent letter format, but there are details which should be included. Here’s  a template you can download to create your own consent letter!

Who needs to sign the consent letter?

The consent letter should be signed by the parent(s) who are not travelling with the child. This means that both parents need to sign, regardless of whether the parents are separated, divorced or have not been married. This applies whether there is joint custody or sole custody. **If the other parent has been denied access rights, a copy of the court order will take the place of a consent letter, but be sure to carry it with you when travelling abroad with your child! **If there is not a father on the birth certificate, then a consent letter is not needed, but the long form birth certificate will need to be presented, stating that there is only one parent.

In addition to signing the consent letter, it should be witnessed by a notary if possible.

>> Download your free consent letter template here <<

Although this letter will work in most countries, please be sure to check your country’s immigration policy be travelling solo with your children. Some countries may require a letter to be legally certified or to be translated into a language other than English.

If you wish to create your own consent letter, be sure to include the following details:

• Child’s full name
• Birth date, gender, place of birth
• Child’s passport number
• Travel details – destination, length of trip, travel dates
• Parent/Legal Guardian names
• Contact information of parents
• Names of adults travelling with (if neither parent)
• Signature of both parents, dated
• Witness signature, dated

More resources and related posts:

• How to Start Travelling with Kids as a Single Parent
• 5 Essential Documents for Travelling
• 10 Things to Have in a Travel First Aid Kit
• Tips for Travelling Solo with Kids

Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

I am a single mom to my 11 yr old son since he was born as his father totally abandoned us after givig his surname to my son. I am planning to study in Canada this 2024 as an aspiring international student, bringing my son as my dependent, but the embassy is asking for my son’s father parent travel consent to approve my son’s visa. I dpn’t know what to do. I have no communication at all to my son’s father, and he is a Thai citizen. Please help me.

You would have to check with the Canadian embassy, as they’re the ones with the final say on the visa. I hope it works out for you and think you will love studying in Canada!

What if i do no anything about the father of my son?

If there is no other parent listed on the birth certificate, you can just show a copy of the birth certificate in place of the consent letter (it must be the long-form birth certificate, where it shows only one parent)

My son is coming on holiday with me but no longer sees his dad, but has his surname. Can I take him without consent?

It’s always a good idea to have a consent letter, as any country can ask, although many do not. Where are you going on holiday?

Comments are closed.

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• 1 What is a Child Travel Consent Form?
• 2 What is a Child Travel Consent Form used for?
• 3 Why should you use a Child Travel Consent Form?
• 4 How to write a Child Travel Consent Form?
• 5 How to fill out a Child Travel Consent Form with PDFSimpli in five steps?
• 6 Child Travel Consent Form frequently asked questions
• 6.1 Do I Need a Child Travel Consent Form To Travel With My Own Child?
• 6.2 Does a Child Travel Consent Form Need To Be Notarized?
• 6.3 Do I Still Need a Travel Consent Form If I Have Sole Custody?

What is a Child Travel Consent Form?

A child travel consent form is a legal document proving that a child has received permission to travel, either alone or with an adult. Both parents, or the child’s legal guardian, usually need to sign the form. This document is also known as a parental consent form, minor travel consent form, travel permission letter or a travel consent letter for children traveling abroad.

In the United States, any minor children, including teens under 18, need to have a signed child travel consent form. The purpose of requiring parental consent is to prevent child trafficking and international child abduction. It’s not enough for adults to say they know the minor - even in the case of their own children. The adult must prove they have travel authorization from both parents.

There are many situations where a travel consent letter is essential. If you want to take your child on a trip alone, you would need a signed travel consent form from your spouse. This document is also required if your son or daughter is traveling in a group with teachers and classmates. Even grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends need a parental consent form when accompanying a minor.

What is a Child Travel Consent Form used for?

A child travel consent form is used to prove that you have parental authorization to travel with a minor. Parents can also use this form to authorize someone else to travel with their child, such as for field trips. Any family members, including grandparents, will need to show a correctly completed (and probably notarized) travel consent form before they’re allowed to leave the country with your child. These rules apply to flights, bus trips, cruises and even road trips to Canada or Mexico.

Why should you use a Child Travel Consent Form?

Having a valid child travel consent form can save you a lot of time and prevent considerable headaches when traveling internationally with a minor. Whether you’re traveling alone with your kids or letting them go on vacation with another relative, you need to fill out a travel consent form. This form is fairly easy, so it doesn’t take long to make your own. If you get stopped by Customs and Border Protection agents without a signed child travel consent form, it can have huge impact on your vacation plans. CBP agents may prevent minors from getting on a plane until you obtain valid permission. Certain countries may not allow you to enter their borders at all with your child unless you have a notarized travel consent form.

How to write a Child Travel Consent Form?

Most travel consent forms are short and simple. The main point of the document is to state that you, as the child’s parent, have provided consent and permission for your son or daughter to travel. The specific layout depends on whether your child is traveling with you or another person. Here are several important areas:

Name of parents: Your name and the name of the child’s other parent. Name of child: Your child’s full name as it appears on the birth certificate or passport. Child’s contact information: Child’s place of birth, date of birth and/or passport number. Contact information of both parents: Parents’ phone numbers, email addresses and street addresses. Name of responsible adult and relationship: Full name of person accompanying child. Mention if parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, friend, teacher, etc. Information about travel arrangements: Whether child is traveling alone, with a parent, with relative or in a group. Emergency contact info: Name and phone number of person to contact in an emergency. Trip information: The dates your child will be traveling, airline route, city of origin, city of destination and reason for trip. Destination details: Where child is staying (address) at destination or places they’re visiting on field trip. Area for notary public: Empty space for notarizing the document.

How to fill out a Child Travel Consent Form with PDFSimpli in five steps?

1: get everything ready.

Before beginning to fill out the child travel consent form, contact the necessary parties. If you’re separated or divorced, let the child’s other parent know that you will be sending over a document to be signed. If you’re the school coordinator or chaperone in charge of a field trip, decide whether you will print out blank forms for parents to fill out or ask parents to create their own travel consent letters.

2: Choose an Easy-To-Use Software

It’s best to fill out parental travel consent documents in PDF format. That way you can keep digital copies for any travel emergencies. By using an online PDF editor, you can make changes in seconds and have everything ready to go quickly. PDFSimpli’s tools allow you to edit PDF forms, fill in the blanks, add e-signatures and even mail documents digitally to be signed.

3: Fill Out the Child Travel Consent Form

Most of the time, you can use a child travel consent form template and just fill in a few blanks. This document’s layout isn’t complicated. First, choose the Add Text Tool from the top right-hand area of the PDFSimpli window. Next, click on the box you want to add text to. Finally, type in the text you want. Repeat this until the entire form is complete. If necessary, place a digital signature near your name using the Add Signature Tool.

Ensure all of the information is correct. It’s important to check that your child’s name is identical to what appears on his or her passport and boarding pass. Check the contact phone number, email and street address you have provided. Make sure your signature appears in the right place.

5: Save, Download, Print or Send for Signature

When you’re satisfied that everything is correct and complete, click on the Download Button near the top right corner of the page. This will convert to PDF your entire document. From here, you can download the form, print it out directly and save it to your computer. PDFSimpli also lets you send the PDF digitally via eSign. This can allow you to get a signature in a couple of minutes instead of waiting for snail mail.

Child Travel Consent Form frequently asked questions

When both parents are traveling with a child, there’s no need to use a consent form. If you’re traveling alone with your child, this form is not usually necessary for flights within the United States, though some airlines require it. For all international travel, U.S. Customs and Border Protection recommends bringing a child travel consent form signed by your spouse. Many countries (especially Canada) require parents traveling alone with a child to carry this form.

For domestic travel, notarizing a travel consent form isn’t required. When kids or teens travel to other countries (or return to the U.S. from other countries), government agents may request a notarized form. Because of this, it’s usually best to notarize the form just in case. This proves that the document is authentic and may accelerate your journey through the airport. Unaccompanied minors usually need a notarized form also.

In the case of parents who are divorced or separated, it’s generally a smart idea to obtain a signed travel consent document from the other person. Even if you have sole custody, the other parent likely has legal visitation rights. One exception to this rule is if you have a court order or separation agreement that specifically allows you to travel with your child. In this case, you would need to carry an original and certified copy of the court order.

• https://www.lawdepot.com/contracts/child-travel-consent/
• https://www.lawdepot.com/law-library/faq/child-travel-consent-form-faq-united-states/
• https://www.lawdepot.com/law-library/family-articles/what-you-need-to-fly-with-a-child/?loc=US#.X861lNj0lPY
• https://legaltemplates.net/form/child-travel-consent/
• https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-3643

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Child Travel Consent Letter (Free!)

If children are not travelling with both their parents, (ie: if they are travelling alone, or with another adult), this form can be used to give permission for the named adult to travel with the child..

• This form should be filled out by the non-travelling parents/guardians
• Please answer all necessary questions and submit the form
• Fields with an asterisk(*) must be filled in for the form to generate correctly
• Save and print the resulting document
• The document must be signed by the non-travelling parents/guardians in front of a Notary Public
• While travelling, keep this form with the child's ID/passport, and show it whenever you must show the child's ID/passport
• It must be signed by the non-travelling parents/guardians, and it should be notarized.
• To use this online form, please answer all the questions and submit. You can then print it out, and bring it in to a notary to be notarized.
• Although this form was written and programmed by a lawyer, everybody's circumstances may be different, and no information provided on this website is a substitute for seeking professional legal advice in your jurisdiction.

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Parent Authorization Letter for Minors Traveling to Mexico

If you're planning to travel to Mexico with children , either your own or someone else's, it is vital to ensure that you have the correct documentation. Besides a passport and possibly a travel visa, it may be required to prove that both of the child's parents or the child's legal guardian has given their permission for the child to travel. If the immigration officials are not satisfied with the child's documentation, they may turn you back, which can create a major hassle and even derail your travel plans completely.

Many countries require children traveling without their parents to present documentation that proves that the parents gave their authorization for the child to travel . This measure is to help prevent international child abductions. In the past, it was an official requirement of the Mexican government that any child entering or exiting the country carry a letter of permission from their parents, or from the absent parent in the case of a child traveling with only one parent. In many cases, the documentation was not asked for, but it could be requested by immigration officials.

Since January 2014, new regulations for children traveling to Mexico stipulate that foreign children who travel to Mexico as tourists or visitors for up to 180 days only need to present a valid passport , and are not required to present other documentation. However, Mexican children, including those holding dual citizenship with another country, or foreign children residing in Mexico who travel unaccompanied by either parent are required to show proof of their parents' permission to travel. They must carry a letter from the parents authorizing travel into Mexico. The letter must be translated into Spanish and legalized by the Mexican embassy or consulate in the country where the document was issued. A letter is not required in the case of a child traveling with only one parent.

Note that these are the requirements of the Mexican immigration authorities. Travelers must also meet the requirements of their home country (and any other country they travel through en route) for exit and return.

Example Consent Letter

Here is an example of a letter of authorization for travel:

(Date) I (parent's name), authorize my child/children, (child/children’s name) to travel to (destination) on (date of travel) aboard Airline/Flight # (flight information) with (accompanying adults), returning on (date of return).

Signed by parent or parents Address: Telephone/Contact:

Signature/Seal of Mexican embassy or consulate

The same letter in Spanish would read:

(Date) Yo (parent's name), autorizo a mi hijo/a (child's name) a viajar a (destination) el (date of travel) en la aerolinea (flight information) con (name of accompanying adult), regresando el (date of return).

Firmado por los padres Direccion: Telefono:

(Signature / Seal of Mexican embassy) Sello de la embajada mexicana

You can copy and paste this wording, fill out the appropriate details, sign the letter and have it notarized so that your child can carry it along with his or her passport during their travels.

Although it may not be required in all cases, carrying a permission letter from the parents can help ease travel hassles and avoid delays in case immigration authorities question a child's permission to travel, so whenever possible, it's a good idea to get one for a child traveling without his or her parents.

Children Leaving Mexico Without a Parent

The Mexican immigration institute (nstituto Nacional de Migración or INM) has a form called a SAM (which stands for Salida Autorizada de Menores) that should be filled out for any child leaving the country without either of their parents. If the child is traveling with one of their parents it is not required. Fill out the form on the INM website with information about the child, the parent giving permission and, in the case of the child traveling with a third party, that person's name, birthdate and passport information. The form is to be filled out online and then printed and taken to an INM office to be stamped by an immigration official. You should also take three copies of the child's birth certificate, passport, and the identification of the parent and third party.

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