child international travel with one parent

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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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Free Minor Travel Consent Form

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.

Minor Travel Consent Form

To Whom It May Concern:

I/We,                                                                                                                     (Full Name(s) of Custodial and/or Non-Custodial Parent(s)/Legal Guardian(s))

am/are the lawful custodial parent(s) and/or non-custodial parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of:

                                                                                           (Full Name of Accompanying Person)

                                                                                           (U.S. or Foreign Passport Number)

                                                                                           Date and Place of Issuance of This Passport)

                                                                                                     ((Name of Foreign Country)

during the period of

                                                                                                     ((Dates of Travel: Departure and Return)

During that period,

                            ((Childs Name)

will be residing with

                            ((Name of Person with Whom the Child will be Residing in Foreign Country)

at the following address:

                            ((Number/street address and apartment number)

                            ((City, State/Province, Country)

                            ((Telephone and fax numbers)

Signature:                             Date:                    (Custodial Parent, and/or Non-Custodial Parent or Legal Guardian)

Full Name:                                                                                           

Signed before me,

                                                                                           , (Full Name of Witness)

this                             at                                                                                            . ((Date) and (Location))

Signature of Witness:                                                                                           

Download: Minor Travel Consent Form

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!

Related Articles and FAQs: International Travel with Minors

How to get a passport for a minor

Form DS-3053: Consent to Issue Passport to Minor

Where to apply for a minor's passport

Minor Passport FAQ

Expedite a child's passport in 24-48 hours

Can one parent apply for minor child's passport?

Is a minor consent form necessary?

What do grandparents need to travel with a grandchild?

Does father need consent to travel alone with minor child?

Does minor need passport to enter Canada?

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A Solo Parent’s Guide To International Travel With Kids

• Published on August 28, 2018
• by The Mom Trotter
• in Tips & Tricks , Travel , Travel With Kids

This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking on any of the links below, I may get a commission if you make a purchase at absolutely no additional charge to you. This helps offset the costs of running this blog & I appreciate your support. Please see my  privacy & disclosure policy  for more.

Table of Contents

Travel is always an adventure, especially with kids. But if you are a parent travelling solo with a baby or young child, things can get even more challenging. Whether you’re taking a weekend road trip or flying cross country alone with your little ones, there are some simple things that you can do to make your travels a little easier for everyone. See more below a solo parent’s guide to international travel with kids.

My husband and I travel with our son as well as nieces and nephews on a regular basis, and sometimes I travel with the kids on my own. My first flight alone with my son was easy peasy, however traveling with two, three and even four kids alone was daunting for me the very first time, but following these solo parent trips below helped me tremendously and made our trip very smooth. I recently traveled with all four kids to Puerto Vallarta and we all had such an amazing time there!

Pro Tip : Looking for affordable flight tickets? Make sure to download the Skyscanner App . It is the best and my favorite website to find flights. It will show you the cheapest time to travel to any country in the world. If you prefer to use the Skyscanner Website , then you always can, however I prefer the Skycanner App because you can track flight prices and much more.

Plan Carefully

Planning is the name of the game when it comes to traveling solo with kids. Though spontaneity on vacation can be fun, when you’re on your own with the kids, it’s better to have a handle on your itinerary and travel plans before you head out. Be a little more detailed ahead of time, so that you can relax a bit and just enjoy the ride once your trip begins. When in a new country or place, planning will save you lots of time. If you forget to plan ahead and find yourself in a place with no internet, then you can rely on “ Best Travel Apps You Can Use Without The Internet ” to help you. Can you imagine waiting till the last minute to find a restaurant to take the kids to eat when they are really hungry?

Don’t  Over Pack

It can be tempting to over pack to make sure that you have everything you could possibly need when you’re traveling alone with kids. However, when you’re juggling little ones and multiple bags as you try to check in with your flight and get through security, you might start to have regrets. Certainly, pack the must-haves, but be sure that things are manageable for one adult as you move from destination to destination. Also, make sure that your carry-ons are well stocked with snacks, activities, and a change of clothes in case of accidents or lost luggage. Packing has been a challenge for me, but I have definitely gotten so much better at making sure that we only pack necessary items.

[ Kids Osprey Jet Backpack | Kids Osprey Pogo Backpack ]

Set the Ground Rules

When traveling solo with older kids, be sure to set the ground rules of your trip before ever leaving home. If you’ll need the help of older children in carrying luggage or managing younger siblings, make sure they understand their expected contributions. As with any travel, remind kids of rules about bickering, manners, souvenir purchases, and anything else that might cause conflict then you’re on the road. I make sure to explain to the kids what I expect from them and it makes everything run smoothly. I tell them they have a special job to do for me me and they get excited about it, just like pulling this Jet Kids Bed Box below.

Take A Carrier Or Stroller

Car seats and stroller don’t count as baggage when traveling, so it can be checked it at the ticket counter or at the gate. If you have a long layover, or a long walk from one terminal to another, a stroller is great because you can push your child around the airport without worrying about them getting tired from walking. If you are traveling with 2 kids alone, then having a carrier will allow you to be hands free so that you can push your other child in a stroller making your life much easier when navigating the airport and boarding the plane.

This is how you solo travel with two 4 year olds. When we got to the airport, I asked myself – “Karen, what were you thinking?” But Oops, it was too late now lol ? You know what though, I was able to get through TSA (even with the exrtra pat down ?) and the kids slept most of the flight. ? Special thanks to @GBGlobalOfficial, @ospreypacks and to @BecoBaby for making that possible. Sounds like a WIN to me ?? However, I did spent all night unpacking from 4 trips ago & packing for this trip so I’m in desperate need of a nap ??? #GBPockit #BecoCarrier #SoloMomTravel #TravelWithTwins ——————– . . . . . . . . . My must haves: [aff] 1. A good ergonomic carrier —> http://amzn.to/2xdRjqK 2. A super lightweight stroller –> http://amzn.to/2vS3VV1 3. Passport covers for the kids (make sure you forget to get yours also, #momlife lol) –> http://amzn.to/2fTP3Sa 4. Kids Backpacks –> http://amzn.to/2xe2NLc 5. Your backpack –> http://amzn.to/2fUoIna And the most important ? 6. Money for some liquor on the plane ? #TravelWithKids #ShowThemTheWorld A post shared by TheMOMTrotter| Family Travel (@themomtrotter) on Aug 19, 2017 at 1:19pm PDT

Get To The Airport Early

Getting through airport security (TSA) isn’t always the easiest and/or fastest thing to do when you are traveling by yourself with kids. If you plan to pack food and snacks for kids, such as formula, breast milk, yogurt, water or juice, expect extra security screening for these food items. Getting to the airport early is important so that you don’t miss your flight. This will also allow you to get to the boarding gate on time which is great because certain airlines allow families with young children to board early. Boarding early is a great perk because you have time to settle in and put your luggage away before everyone else boards the plane.

Ask A Flight Attendant For Help

Flight attendants love children, and are willing to lend a helping hand as needed. If you need to get up and take a stretch, or even take a restroom break, you can always ring the call button. As long as the flight attendants aren’t busy, they won’t mind stopping by your seat to give you a break. Remember, it doesn’t hurt to ask for help when you need it.

[ Aiden’s Pilot Hat | Ethan’s Pilot Hat ]

Stay Flexible

Be as flexible as you can when it comes to your daily itinerary. When traveling solo with kids, it can sometimes be tough to keep everyone moving fast enough to stick to a rigid schedule. If a morning meltdown makes it impossible to start the day’s activities on time, stay calm and readjust the plans. Though pre-planning is important for you, avoid giving the kids too much detail about activities on the trip so that you can maintain this kind of flexibility without disappointment. It’s okay if your day doesn’t go as planned, I consider that a reminder to slow down and enjoy the little things.

Check-In For Your Flight 24 Hours In Advance

Checking in for your flight online will save you lots of hassle when at the airport. Checking in online allows you to enter all necessary information as well as passport information for international flights. This will save you time when you get to the airport, and most especially it will help you avoid the long airport check in lines which can be difficult to navigate when traveling alone with kids.

[ Kids Osprey Jet Backpack | Kids Osprey Pogo Backpack  | Pilot Costume | Scooters | Camo Pants | Shoes ]

Have a Backup Plan

Expecting the best but preparing for the worst is always important. Flights get delayed, vehicles break down, and weather can change on a dime. If any of these things could affect your travel, think ahead and have ideas for a backup plan on hand so that you aren’t scrambling should a worst-case scenario occur. I always have Plan A, B and C; especially when traveling with the kids by myself.

Consider a Red-Eye

Traveling overnight with little ones can be a huge help when they are younger and have a hard time sitting still for longer periods. Put them in their jammies, bring along their favorite stuffed animal or blanket, and let them sleep through the drive or the flight. Just make sure to plan a solid naptime into the next day so that you can catch up on any missed sleep. A red eye flight is the way to go for me, the kids sleep all night and then wake up refreshed to explore the day.

[ Airplane Tray Cover | Kids Travel Pillow ]

Arrange For Transportation

As soon as you arrive your destination, make sure that you have someone ready to pick you up. It is better to have this scheduled in advance so that when you get there you don’t waste any time trying to figure out how to take a taxi or where to go. You can get out of the airplane, grab your luggage and head out straight to be picked up. If you have a late flight, it’ll avoid you standing outside the airport late at night especially in a foreign country.

Minor International Travel Consent Letter

When traveling internationally with kids as a solo parent, traveling with a child whom you are not the parent or legal guardian off, or even if your children has a different last name than yours, it is important to note the documents required by immigration at the country you are traveling to. According to the US Customs and Border Protection (BBP), children under 18 years old age traveling international with only one parent are not required to have written permission from the other parent, however every country is different and requirements will vary, so it is better to be prepared with a notarized parental child travel consent form. Click here for the Minor International Travel Consent Letter that I use when I travel with my nieces and nephews.

My husband was stopped by immigration officers in Canada when he traveled with our 2-year-old and no parental authorization from me in hand. Luckily, I was on another flight and landed shortly which took care of the issue. If you plan to travel with a family members child or a friend’s child, then written and notarized parental consent for travel is needed as well.

[ Girls Coat | Girls Boots | Boys Boots ]

Other things needed in addition to a notarized parental authorization , is a copy of each child’s birth certificate and a copy of each child’s medical insurance. If you have full custody of your child, then a parental consent for travel isn’t required, so make to take a copy of any such paperwork with you as well. Make sure to have emergency contacts handy also. It is a good idea to have all these documents as a digital copy on your phone as well.

Take Time To Research Hotels / Accommodation

The accommodation you choose when you travel can make or break your vacation when traveling alone with kids. Using TripAdvisor to search for hotels and read reviews on kid friendly hotels. You’d want to check if they have a kid’s club, complimentary crib or cot, children’s menu or free breakfast for kids, kids pool, a kid’s program and more. This will give you a much-needed break so that you don’t feel burned out. Make sure to ask other parents for kid friendly hotel recommendations as well. HomeAway , VRBO and Airbnb are also great options because you can rent out and entire home allowing your kids lots of space to play and get their energy out, while you relax in another part of the home. When I took all 4 kids by myself to Mexico , I made sure to find a hotel that had a restaurant on site, was located on the beach and that had a kid’s club as well so that everything I needed to keep the kids entertained was within arm’s reach.

[ Boy Sandals | Boys Swim Trunks  | Boys Fedora —  Girls Sandals  | Girls Swim Suit  | Girls Straw Hat  ]

Manage Your Own Expectations

Finally, and probably most important, be sure to manage your own expectations about traveling solo with kids. You might envision this whirlwind trip, filled with happy memories, and grateful children, when in reality what you get is overwhelmed and exhausted children who have a few meltdowns along the way. Celebrate the fun moments and successes of the trip and let any problems or drama roll off your back! Don’t beat yourself up over a crazy day, it is bound to happen.

Traveling with kids alone can be challenging but also very rewarding. Following these tips for traveling as a solo parent internationally with kids should make your trip, whether local or international a more enjoyable one. I have had the pleasure of traveling alone with 1, 2, 3 and even 4 kids and even though exhausting, we always had such a great time when we get to our destination.

Booking Your Trip – Tips & Tricks

How To Book Cheap Flights When You Travel

If you are looking to book the cheapest flights you can possibly find on the internet, then make sure to use  Skyscanner when searching for flights. Don’t forget to download the  Free Skyscanner App  also which is very handy. This is how I was able to get $12.40 airfare from Los Angeles to London, as well as $9.40 airfare from London to Italy.

How To Book Affordable Accommodation When You Travel

When booking accommodation,  TripAdvisor  is the way to go because you can read reviews and see photos from other travelers to get a feel of where you will be staying. Other great sites to book hotels are HotelsCombined , Booking .com and Hotels.com . Don’t forget to check HomeAway and VRBO for house and villa rentals too. Perfect for when you travel with a large family, and also to save money when hotels are expensive. Another favorite of mine is BookVIP – they offer huge resort savings.

How To Book Activities When You Travel

My favorite website to search for activities, tours and especially skip the line tickets is  Viator and Get Your Guide . This makes trip planning so much easier because you don’t have to search several sites as both websites have several options to choose from. Same also goes with TripAdvisor Attractions – you can search and book activities as well as read reviews.

How To Book Rental Cars When You Travel

Instead of checking every single website, I use RentalCars.com , Car Rental 8 and Skyscanner Car Rentals to find car rentals all over the world with just one click. If you plan to park at the airport, visit Airport Parking and make a reservation.

Why Travel Insurance Is a Must When You Travel

People book trips and forget the most important part, purchasing  travel insurance . Because we travel often, I  purchase our travel insurance through Allianz  for a year at a time which means that we are covered for all trips within that year. Travel insurance will protect you and your family against theft, injury illness, flight cancellations and so much more. It is a MUST!

Looking to save even more money when you travel?

Visit my  Travel Resources  page to see all the reliable and trustworthy brands that I use to book my travel with. I only recommend brands that I’ve used and can vouch for, so you’re in good hands! ? Also check out these posts below:

• How To Save Money On Flights
• Best Websites To Find Cheap Flights & Error Fares
• Tips On How To Make Travel Affordable For Families

Top Travel With Kids Tips

Traveling with kids and have a few questions you need answers too, these posts below will help your trip run smooth.

• Best Travel Gear For Kids
• How To Travel With Kids Internationally Alone
• Top Must Have Items When Traveling With Kids
• Everything You Need To Know About Traveling With A Car Seat

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Hey Fam, I’m so glad you’re here! I am an entrepreneur and travel enthusiast who is passionate about sharing an alternate way of living surrounding travel, homeschooling, parenting and financial independence, with a mission to inspire other families.

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This section provides information for international travelers about planning for your trip, returning home, navigating passenger processing. You can also find brochures about traveling overseas.

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Travel Warnings are issued when long-term conditions make a country dangerous or unstable and U.S. citizens should avoid or consider the risk of traveling to that country.

Preparing for your Trip

A passport is required for overseas travel. It is recommended to make a copy of your passport and put it in a separate place. Carry your passport - do not pack it in your checked luggage. You must present it to the Customs and Border Protection officer upon arrival in the United States.

Find out if you need to get a visa. United States citizens don’t need a U.S. visa for travel, but when planning travel abroad may need a visa issued by the embassy of the country they wish to visit. If you have a visa, we recommend you make a copy and put it in a separate place. Carry your visa with you — do not pack it in your checked luggage.

Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP ) provide modified screening for pre-approved members, improve security by being more efficient during screenings at ports of entry.

Learn about the types of identification that are required for travel in the Western Hemisphere (Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Central and South America). There are six types of acceptable documents for crossing US borders.

All children, including infants, must have their own passport or Trusted Traveler Program document for U.S. entry. Carry documents for traveling with minor children.

• If you are escorting a minor child without the parents, have a letter from both parents indicating that you have permission to travel with the minor.
• If the child is accompanied by only one parent, the parent should have a note from the child's other parent. For example, "I acknowledge that my wife/ husband is traveling out of the country with my son/ daughter. He/She/ has my permission to do so."
• If a single parent has sole custody, a copy of the court custody document can replace a letter from the other parent.

If bringing a dog, have a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccinations from a veterinarian in your country of residence. Prior to your trip, check with your airline for its rules on transporting animals – many airlines require a health certificate.

Returning Home

Find out what is prohibited or restricted before you pack for your trip. Products that would harm community health, public safety and domestic plant and animal life are restricted from entering the United States and are subject to seizure by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency .

Other considerations for packing:

• Carry only medication needed for the trip in its original container. Do not pack it.
• Carry only the jewelry needed for the trip. Do not pack it.

Navigating Passenger Processing

When planning connecting flights to or from the United States, allow at least two hours between flights. Allow time for CBP processing that must be completed at your first port of entry.

If entering the United States by air or sea, you will receive en route a CBP Declaration Form 6059B and, if you are not from a Visa Waiver Program country, a CBP Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record . Complete all sections of the forms.

Review the CBP Inspection Process before your travel. Listed below are general steps for the inspection process.

• On your U.S. arrival, go to the primary CBP passport control area. The CBP officer will ask to see all of your travel documents and the completed CBP forms. The officer may refer you for a secondary screening.
• Proceed to baggage claim to pick up luggage.
• Go to the CBP customs inspection checkpoint and show your declaration to the CBP officer, who may examine your bags and refer you for a secondary inspection.
• Pay duty, if applicable.

Traveling Overseas Resources

These resources can help navigate traveling overseas. 

• Know Before You Go – Regulations for International Travel
• International Travel Tips – Online resources for common questions about international travel
• Welcome to the United States – A Guide for International Visitors
• Import/Export Forms – Travel documents and forms
• Ports of Entry (Air, Land, Sea) – Locate the ports of entry into the United States
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Country-Specific Regulations

Travel from brazil.

Resources: For more information regarding Brazil’s documentation requirements, please click on the link below or contact the consulate in the child’s country of residence.

• Cartilha de Viagem de Menores ao Exterior to view a guide released by Brazilian authorities.
• To view a standard authorization form please visit: https://www.cnj.jus.br/programas-e-acoes/viagem-ao-exterior

Requirements for passengers under the age of 18:

• Passengers who are traveling with only one of the parents/legal guardians must have a notarized letter with authorization from the other parent/legal guardian
• A passenger traveling alone or accompanied by someone other than the parents/legal guardians must have a notarized letter with authorization from both parents/legal guardians
• Judicial authorization will be required for travel of Brazilian citizens under 18 if accompanied by an adult that is not a Brazilian citizen and resides abroad, provided (1) such adult is not the parent/legal guardian of the minor or (2) the minor, though born in Brazil, does not have Brazilian citizenship

Exemptions: Authorization is not required for minors traveling with both parents or non-Brazilian citizens that were not born in Brazil.

Flying to or From Canada

Minors under age 14 traveling to or from Canada have the option of sitting next to or near a parent, guardian or tutor. Delta makes every reasonable effort to seat children in close proximity to caregivers according to age group:

• Minors under 5: Adjacent seating.
• Minors aged 5–11: Same-row seating with no more than one seat of separation.
• Minors aged 12 or 13: Seated with no more than one row of separation. 

Accommodations may require seat reassignment, and a Delta agent will reseat eligible passengers in these circumstances based on availability. Accommodation may include requesting other passengers to voluntarily change seats at the time of boarding and before takeoff, and as such, cannot be guaranteed. Note: While promoted system-wide, these arrangements pertain only to minors flying to or from Canada.

If an adjusted seating arrangement results in relocation to a different cabin class, passengers will be reimbursed for the difference if in a lower class of service or asked to provide supplementary payment if a higher class of service is selected, depending on the difference in service level for that cabin.

Travel to or From the Dominican Republic

Travel from italy.

All unaccompanied minors of Italian citizenship under the age of 14 that are traveling internationally are required to have the following documents:

• Individual passport (according to the Ministerial Circular n. 400/A/2012/23.1.3 attached)
• “Dichiarazione di accompagno” duly authorized by the Police Authority (“Questura”).

The current regulation applies to: 

Italian citizens under 14 years traveling as an Unaccompanied Minor (Requirement)

• In addition to a passport, the passenger must have a notarized affidavit from the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child confirming that the minor has permission to travel as an unaccompanied minor.
• This document must be signed by the parent(s) or by the legal guardian(s) and authenticated by the Police Headquarters (Questura) and include the name of the airline to which the minor is entrusted.

Exemptions:

• Authorization is not required for minors traveling with parents.
• Authorization is not required for non-Italian citizens.
• Authorization is not required for UMNR 14 years and older.

The “Dichiarazione di Accompagno” forms are to be prepared and held by the unaccompanied minor, in the unaccompanied minor envelope with their passport. Find more information on traveling as an unaccompanied minor .

Copies of the declaration are to be retained by the origination station for 5 Years. Click on the recommended authorization form for Passengers to follow in Italian.

Travel to or From Mexico

Travel to or from south africa, the amended regulation applies to minor travel if:, 1. both parents are traveling with the minor – (requirement).

Where the minor is a South African national, in addition to a valid passport, parents need an original stamped or sealed birth certificate or certified copy.

Where the minor is a foreign national,a valid passport is all that is required.  See additional details under the “Exemptions” header below. 2. One parent is traveling with a minor – (Requirement)

Where the minor is a South African national, in addition to a valid passport, the parent needs an original stamped or sealed birth certificate or certified copy and one of the applicable items below:

• Parental consent letter from the non-traveling parent listed in the birth certificate — authorizing minor to enter or depart from South Africa.  To be valid, the parent consent letter must not be older than six (6) months from the date presented and must include contact details and a copy of the passport of the non-traveling parent.
• For a sole parent or legal guardian: a court order that indicates full parental responsibilities/rights or legal guardianship
• Where applicable, a death certificate of the other parent who is registered as the parent on the birth certificate

Where the minor is a foreign national, a valid passport is all that is required. See additional details under the “Exemptions” header below.

3. Persons traveling with a minor that is a South African national who is not their biological child – (Requirement) Where the minor is a South African national, the following documents are required:

• Valid passport for minor
• Certified copy of the birth certificate
• Parental consent letter from the parents or legal guardians of the minor confirming that minor has permission to travel with non-related person
• Copies of the identity documents or passports of the parents or legal guardian of the minor
• Contact details of the parents or legal guardian of the minor
• A certified copy of the death certificates of the parents who are registered as the parents on the birth certificate
• A certified copy of the adoption order granting full parental responsibilities / rights or legal guardianship
• A court order that indicates full parental responsibilities / rights or legal guardianship

Where the minor is a foreign national, a valid passport is all that is required.  See additional details under the “Exemptions” header below.

4. Unaccompanied minors – (Requirement)

• A certified copy of the birth certificate
• Parental consent letters from the parent(s) / legal guardian(s) authorizing travel into/out of South Africa
• A copy of the identity document(s) or valid passport(s) of the parent(s) / legal guardian(s)
• A letter from the person receiving the child in South Africa; containing their South Africa residential address and contact details and where the child will reside
• A copy of identity documents or valid passport (and where applicable, visa or permanent residence permit) of the person receiving the child in South Africa
• Parent/Legal guardian contact details

5. Child in Alternative Care –(Requirement)

Where the minor has been placed in foster care, temporary safe care, or care of a child and youth care center following an order of a court in terms of the Children’s Act, 2005, or the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Alternative Care), the following documents are required:

• Letter from the Provincial Head of the Department of Social Development where the child resides authorizing departure from South Africa
• South African minors traveling on South African passports may travel to and within South Africa without birth certificates.
• Minors in possession of valid South African visas are not required to produce identity documents already submitted as part of their visa applications when traveling through a South African port of entry (e.g., a birth certificate).
• Where a minor has a passport that contains the details of their parent(s), the minor is not required to produce a birth certificate as well
• School tours — South Africa immigration will accept a letter from the school’s Principal to cover all minors on a school tour.
• Birth certificate and additional documentation is not required for those transiting South Africa.
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• Special assistance

Traveling with children

Traveling with children and infants.

We are committed to caring for people on life’s journey and want you and your children to have a safe and positive travel experience. To allow enough time for check-in, arrive early and be sure to have any required travel documents. You may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18.

• Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate.
• Only 1 carry-on diaper bag per child is allowed.

You can travel with a breast pump and small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk in addition to your carry-on or personal item. These items don’t have to be checked and are allowed even when you’re not traveling with a child. Also, most airports have nursing rooms and stations available for your convenience.

If you’re a family traveling with children under 15, we want to help make sure you’re seated together on your flight. Here are some tips for when you book:

• Be sure to book everyone in the same reservation.
• The farther in advance you book, the better. (Seats become limited closer to the day of travel.)
• On the seat map, choose seats for your entire family or skip seats for that flight.
• It’s better to skip seats than to choose just a few seats or seats scattered throughout the cabin. Our gate agents can try to reseat you but getting seats together the day of travel is difficult.

If you skip seats

If you’re unable to choose seats, don’t want to pay for seats, or chose a Basic Economy fare, our system will detect that you’re a family traveling. The system will search for seats together automatically before the day of departure. We’ll try our best to keep you together, but if seats are limited, we’ll assign seats so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult.

Children and adults traveling in separate reservations

If you and your children are traveling together but have separate reservations, call Reservations so we can note it in each reservation.

Contact Reservations

Children 2 or older are required to have their own seat, a ticketed adult fare. Children under 5 can’t travel alone under any circumstances.

If you don't choose seats in Main Cabin or Basic Economy, we’ll assign seats a few days after you buy your tickets so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult they’re traveling with.

We welcome infants as young as 2 days old, but infants under 7 days old must have a doctor's letter stating that they are medically cleared to travel.

Keep in mind:

• Only 1 infant may be seated in the lap of each ticketed accompanying adult and the infant must be included in the reservation.
• Additional infants under 2 years old must be ticketed and occupy an infant safety seat or in a separate aircraft seat.
• The infant must be under 2 years of age for the duration of the trip. If they turn 2 during a trip, they will need their own seat for the remainder of the trip.

Adding an infant to your trip

If you’re traveling within the U.S., including Puerto Rico, you can add an infant to your trip when you book on aa.com, or later once it is ticketed. You only need to contact Reservations if you’re traveling with an infant who is under 7 days old; or if you’re traveling outside of the U.S. (taxes and a percentage of the adult fare may apply on international trips).

Book a new trip

• Book your trip on aa.com
• Enter your information on the ‘Passenger details’ page
• Select ‘add infant in lap’

Book a trip

Update an existing trip

• Find your trip on aa.com
• Scroll to the ‘Passengers’ section

Find your trip

Call Reservations if:

• You’re traveling with an infant who is less than 7 days old
• You’re not traveling within the U.S., and Puerto Rico

Reserved seat

If your infant will travel in their own seat, you must buy a ticket. The infant must either travel in a safety seat approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or be able to sit upright in their seat without assistance and have their seatbelt securely fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is on.

Bassinets and changing tables

• Changing tables are available in the lavatories of all wide-body aircraft.
• Bassinets are available on a first come, first serve basis at the gate for travel only on 777-200, 777-300 and 787 aircraft.*
• Bassinets are not available in First / Business cabins.

*Infants using bassinets must be younger than 2 years old and weigh no more than 20lbs (9kg)

Acceptable safety seats

Most safety seats that are approved for use in motor vehicles are acceptable for use in aircraft. The seat must have a solid back and seat, restraint straps installed to securely hold the child and a label indicating approval for use on an aircraft.

The label may include:

• These notes: 'This child restraint system conforms to all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards' and 'this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircrafts' or 'this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.'
• Approval of a foreign government or a label showing that the seat was manufactured under the standards of the United Nations.
• The safety seat can't be used in an exit row or in the rows on either side of an exit row; window seats are preferred.
• Install the seat in the direction appropriate for the size of the child and according to the instructions on the label.
• The child must remain in the safety seat with the harness fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is on.
• To carry on a safety seat, you must have bought a seat for the child, or a seat must be available next to you. If an unoccupied, adjoining seat is not available, the gate agent will check the safety seat to your final destination.

Review seat dimensions before your trip.

Safety seats are not allowed in First or Business on select planes due to the seat angles.

Airbus 321T

• Boeing 777-200
• Boeing 777-300
• Boeing 787-800
• Boeing 787-900
• Any device without an approval label
• Booster seats with no approval label or shoulder harness
• Vest and/or harness-type devices, except Aviation Child Safety Devices (ACSD) showing the FAA aircraft approval label
• Belt extensions that attach to the parent or the parent's restraint
• Any device that positions a child on the lap or chest of an adult

Carry-on and checked bags

If you’re flying internationally with an infant on your lap, we’ll issue the infant a ticket. You may check 1 bag for the infant at the same rate as the adult’s first checked bag.

• Each ticketed customer is allowed 1 stroller and 1 car seat to be checked free of charge
• Strollers over 20 lbs / 9 kgs must be checked at the ticket counter
• All other strollers should be checked at the gate before boarding
• If you have a stroller and a car seat only 1 can be checked at the gate
• Breast pumps and a small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk don’t count as your carry-on or personal item
• Play pens, wagons, cribs and 'pack and play' count as regular bags
• If any of these exceed carry-on limits they’ll be checked and incur regular fees

International documents

Children or infants traveling outside the U.S. are required to have the same documentation as an adult. If anyone under 18 is traveling internationally without both parents, they may be required to present a Letter of Consent.

International travel

Traveling during pregnancy

If your due date is within 4 weeks of your flight, you must provide a doctor’s certificate stating that you’ve been recently examined and you’re fit to fly.

Special assistance throughout your trip

For domestic flights under 5 hours, you won’t be permitted to travel within 7 days (before and after) your delivery date. If you need to travel within this time frame:

• Approval from your physician and a special assistance coordinator is required.
• Your physician will be required to fill out a passenger medical form before your flight. A special assistance coordinator will send the form directly to your physician.

Clearance from a special assistance coordinator is required for international travel or travel over water:

• Within 4 weeks of your due date (travel also requires a physician's note stating that you’ve been examined within the past 48 hours and you’re fit to fly)
• 7 days before or after your delivery (travel also requires a passenger medical form to be completed by your physician)

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

Permission for my child to travel alone or with one parent [Form]

Resource | LawHelpNY

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Many countries have security measures to prevent kidnapping. If you are traveling alone with your child, you may have to show proof 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, some countries require a notarized letter from the parents or legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not going with both parents or a legal guardian,  contact the embassy or consulate of the country  and ask about travel rules for that country.

Source: USA.gov

The form linked below is permission to travel. Download and fill it out. Then sign it in front of a notary.

Download the form

consent-to-travel-form-fillable.pdf

Last Reviewed: June 23, 2023

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Do Parents Need Permission from the other parent to Take their Children on an International Vacation?

Parental permissions for international travel with another parent.

One parent wants to take the child out of the country , and the question presents itself whether that parent needs permission of the other parent to go.

The above depends upon what custody agreement is already in place, or the permission granted to each parent by the other parent. If there is no divorce agreement or prior Order of the Court, the problems become greater and either written permission is needed, or a court proceeding must be imitated to allow that travel.

Does Your Custody Agreement Address the Issue of Travel?

Sometimes court-approved custody agreements address travel. This can be the case if one parent has primary custody or if both parents share custody.

Vacation clauses in custody agreements might set limits on what parents can and cannot do or they might provide instructions for notice of travel. For instance, one parent might be required to notify the other parent concerning all out-of-state travel or to get permission before traveling out-of-state with the child, or no such provision exists.

If permission is not granted by the non-traveling parent, court permission would be required for the traveling parent to legally take the child out of the state, and the parent could petition the court.

If there is nothing in the custody agreement that addresses travel or vacations, or there is no divorce or agreement, either parent would have permission to take the child out of state, but within the confines of his or her normal custody time. For instance, if a parent has custody of a child during the weekends, an out-of-state vacation would need to occur within that 48 hour time duration. Should both the custodial and non-custodial parent agree to extended travel, the court would have no reason for intervention.

If the custodial parent does not agree to an extended visitation and/or travel, the non-custodial parent has the option of requesting a custody modification from the court. There’s usually an uptick in custody modification requests during the summer months when children are out of school and parents want to take them for an extended summer vacation.

In most cases, when a parent has concerns about the other parent traveling with the child and not returning, there is a court order addressing vacationing and travel. If a court order about travel is violated, the accusing parent should notify police and request assistance with return of the child.

International Travel with a Parent

Traveling internationally with a child can be a bit more complicated when both parents are not in agreement concerning the travel plans.

The United States does not have exiting controls that monitor outbound international travel, however, the majority of other Countries do have such mechanisms in place. Exiting the United States with your child is rather easy but entering another Country will usually require permission. Exiting the country that you have traveled to with a child requires proving the child’s identity and providing documentation proving that you have permission to do so. Essentially, showing that both of the child’s parents have agreed to the travel arrangements.

There are very few instances in which a parent can legally leave the country with his or her child without the consent of the child’s other parent, even when the traveling parent is the custodial parent. These restrictions were created to reduce of out-of-country parental kidnapping.

Like adults, children must have a passport before they can travel by air to a non-contiguous country. In order to be granted a passport, the US State Department requires all children under the age of 16 to have permission from both parents. Both parents will need to apply for their child’s passport in person or one parent may apply with signed and notarized permission from the other parent.

For more information on obtaining a passport for a minor child, refer to this information from the US Department of State .

If you are traveling throughout North America by car you’ll need to show both your child’s birth certificate and a written statement verifying your child has permission from his or her other parent before crossing out of the United States and into Canada or Mexico

Parents with sole custody are granted permission to travel out of country with their children without permission from the child’s other parent. However, to do so, the parent with sole custody must show the court-ordered custody arrangement to obtain the child’s passport. A copy of the court order would also be needed when traveling to Canada or Mexico without a passport.

As part of all our final marital settlement agreement(s) unless our client(s) choose not to, Gourvitz & Gourvitz, LLC, always inserts agreed on language with respect to domestic and international travel. We even go as far as to make a distinction between signatory Countries to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of Child Abduction and non-signatory Countries.

If you have questions about traveling with your child or you are concerned your child’s other parent might attempt to travel without the appropriate permission, an attorney familiar with parental custody laws can help. For more information or to speak to someone about parental abduction, contact Gourvitz & Gourvitz, LLC at (973) 467-3200 or (212) 586-1700.

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• Make My Plan

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

Visualize your schedule. Get a written parenting plan. Calculate your parenting time.

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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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Is your kid's friend coming on vacation with you? Get written consent from their parents first.

Years ago, while we were guardians of her niece, my wife and I found that traveling with two kids is easier than traveling with one. Whether cousins or friends, two kids keep each other engaged and let adults have a little more vacation on their spring break , winter getaway  or summer vacation . That’s why we often invited one of our niece’s friends to accompany us when we took a family cruise or visited our favorite family vacation spots .

But traveling with someone else’s child should include a series of extra pre-travel steps to make it wholly clear to authorities that you have permission from the child’s parents. This is when a letter of permission to travel or a child travel consent form is vital. 

The reason authorities may request it is important: A permission letter for a child to travel with a friend is a simple way for authorities to make sure you aren’t illegally trying to avoid some custody order, parentage or guardianship issue, or worse. 

FIND A DEAL: 16 best airfare booking sites for cheap airfares

Who needs a child travel consent form?

If you’re flying or traveling outside the U.S., your airline or destination country might ask for some identification to prove a child has permission to travel with you. The need for ID can also crop up on a domestic road trip . Even if a government official doesn’t ask to see it, you might still need it for a local tourist attraction or excursion requiring a consent form. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

It’s a good idea to have some kind of letter of permission to travel in a variety of cases (and not just with young kids, but also when vacationing with teenagers ). If your family is hosting a child’s friend on vacation it’s always good, especially if it involves flying with kids or international travel, to make sure you get a permission letter for a child to travel with a friend. Be sure to arrive at the airport early in situations where a child consent form is required. 

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It’s also smart to have some kind of documentation if you’re in a situation in which your child is traveling with one parent internationally, if a child is traveling with grandparents internationally or with another family member, or if a child is traveling with one divorced parent.

How do you get a child travel consent form?

The need for child consent forms feels vague right up until the moment an authority asks to see it. There’s no definitive version of the form, but that doesn’t mean they’re not important to have.

Since there aren’t any official child travel consent forms, you’ll have to make up your own.

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A letter of permission to travel doesn’t have to be long. It simply needs to state that the child’s parents or guardians acknowledge and give consent for their child to travel with a specific individual. It should include:

• The child’s name, birthplace, birth date, home address, phone number and, in the case of international travel, their passport number. 
• The names and contact information for the non-traveling parent(s). 
• Who the child has permission to travel with (name and passport information), the dates of the travel window (to clearly show that consent is temporary) and the destinations that will be visited.

The U.S. Customs and Border Control says, “Unless the child is accompanied by both parents, the child must have a notarized letter from the other parent or signed by both parents stating, ‘I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission.’” 

If you’re not up for creating one, you can find and print out child travel consent form PDFs online. Just be sure the one you choose matches your situation. The site eForms has a free customizable template that’s simple to complete and LawDepot has a travel consent form that’s specific to a child traveling with one parent.

KIDS ON PLANES: What you should know before booking a flight for unaccompanied minors

Some countries require that child travel consent forms be notarized, so it’s a good idea to take the extra step and sign the minor travel permission letter in front of a notary. It’s a few extra dollars, but, for international travel in particular, it can be important. 

Is a child travel consent form really required?

While you might not ever have to produce any such paperwork, many countries (including the U.S.) require you to have a child travel consent form on hand if asked while traveling with someone else’s child, or even your own child if all parents or guardians are not present. A letter of travel permission may feel like an added chore in a long list of trip preparations, but you don’t want to risk not having it when you need it.

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Allowing kids to bring friends on vacation keeps them happy and engaged and gives grown-ups the chance to relax, since they won’t be their child’s only playmate on vacation. Traveling with a child consent form can ensure a smoother journey and add peace of mind for all parties. 

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• Travel insurance: Do you need it? How to find the right policy
• 12 best national park lodges in the U.S.

Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age

A couple of times a year, I get a panicked message from a friend or reader who is about to take an airplane flight with their kids. Suddenly they’ve realized that they have no idea what kind of identification they need for their children to fly, if any. After a decade and a half of flying on hundreds of flights and dozens of airlines with my kids to destinations all around the world, I know this question can certainly be confusing!

In the United States, there are multiple entities that set the official legal rules and regulations governing air travel identification and documentation. Those can include Customs and Border Protection, the Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Transportation Security Administration, and each specific airline.

So exactly what documentation is required to board an airplane with kids? As you might imagine, it depends! Here is all the information you need to make sure you have the right identification to travel aboard both domestic and international flights with kids.

Short on Time? Quick Answers in a Nutshell

Children under the age of 18 typically do not need ID to fly on domestic flights within the United States when accompanied by an adult. Airlines may require identification, however, in more unusual circumstances such as with very young infants, lap children, unaccompanied minors, or older teens flying solo. Identification – specifically a passport book but sometimes more – is always required for kids of any age to travel on international flights.

Identification Required for Kids for International Travel

Most travelers usually expect strict identification rules when it comes to international travel. If you are traveling internationally by air the answer to the question of whether kids need ID to fly is pretty simple. Yes! They do!

Not just any ID will suffice. Just as with adults, a passport book is required to fly with kids internationally no matter how young. If you have kids who are United States citizens, getting an official passport can be time-consuming and expensive. In addition, it requires some logistical steps that parents can mess up.

How to Get Passports in the US for Kids

Specifically, the consent of both parents is required for kids under age 16. That usually means both parents need to appear in person at a passport acceptance facility (like many post offices, local government offices, etc.). Alternatively, one parent can appear in person with a notarized statement of consent from the other parent. I got a notarized letter from my husband the last time we applied for our kids because his work schedule made it difficult for him to be available during the limited business hours passport acceptance facilities in our area were open.

Note also that you can’t just easily renew children’s passports by mail like you can for adults. The same in-person application process with both parents present is required. Plus kids under age 16 must renew passports every 5 years, instead of every 10 years for adults.

For that reason, I highly recommend starting the process of obtaining passports for your kids many months in advance of any international travel. After the paperwork is submitted, the process can take 2-3 months for a passport to arrive. Plus, it can often take many weeks before you can get an appointment to even submit the paperwork.

This obviously makes international travel with very young infants especially challenging, as it takes time to first get a birth certificate for the child and then apply for a passport.

Hopefully you are landing on this article in plenty of time to get your paperwork in order for your specific situation. But if not, there may be ways you can get what you need more urgently. You can pay a $60 extra fee to expedite a passport, which can cut several weeks off of standard processing times. And in more urgent situations, there is an even more expedited option available by applying at a passport agency (which can be done if a trip is within 14 days or less).

Special Note about International Land Crossings and Cruises

One reason some travelers misunderstand the air travel rules for kid identification is because the rules for kids crossing land borders and on some cruises can be different. For example, minors who are US citizens can cross into Canada by land with only a birth certificate.

On some closed loop cruises starting and ending in the United States going to destinations like Mexico, Canada, or many Caribbean countries, there are times when both kids and adults can technically travel without a passport using a birth certificate or passport card.

But none of these exceptions apply to international air travel. Don’t mix these rules up!

Child Travel Consent Form

Although a passport book is necessary to travel with kids on international flights, it isn’t necessarily fully sufficient. There are some times that other travel documents may be required – such as a visa for certain countries.

What is even more likely to trip up international travelers is the situation in which a child is traveling with only one parent or is traveling with another adult who isn’t a parent. In many of these circumstances, proof that both parents consent to the specific trip can be required. In these cases, the best practice is to carry a notarized letter of consent for the child to travel.

Some countries have very specific forms or formats that you need to follow. Mexico is one such example and historically has tended to be quite strict. My husband will likely be traveling solo with one of our kids to Mexico for a family wedding in a few months, and we are already planning to get the a letter of consent completed as an extra precaution.

Many countries don’t have clear cut rules that are easy to research. For example, I flew last summer to Italy (first entering the Schengen Area in Frankfurt, Germany) with both of my kids without my husband. I wasn’t able to get completely definitive information as to whether consent was required. As a result, we went ahead and had my husband complete a notarized letter of consent that I kept with me along with a copy of his passport. We weren’t asked to show it, but I breathed easier knowing I had it!

Unfortunately, profiling can and does occur depending on where you are traveling. So parents who don’t share the same last name as their children or who may appear to be another race or ethnicity may find they face extra scrutiny. The best way to avoid any surprises – just or not – is to err on the side of having this document even when it’s not necessarily required.

Identification Required for Kids for Domestic Travel

If you are traveling domestically, the answer to the ID question is a little more complicated but thankfully usually much easier. In most standard circumstances, identification is not required for minors for domestic travel within the USA. There are specific unique situations, however, where it can be.

What Identification is Needed at TSA Checkpoints?

For domestic travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not require you to have an ID for children under age 18 at the security checkpoint.

That said, TSA agents may well talk to your child to confirm their identity and to screen for cases of child abduction. Agents have asked my kids over the years for their names. In some circumstances, they’ve pointed to my husband or me and asked our children who we are. If you have kids who are shy or who take warnings of stranger danger to heart, let them know in advance of your trip that it’s ok for them to speak to these agents and to answer truthfully.

Related: Strategies for Speeding Through TSA Checkpoints with Kids

Special Situations Where Kids May Need ID for Domestic Travel

While the TSA won’t require identification for kids under age 18, many airlines have policies in specific circumstances where some form of ID will be required. It’s vital to know about these outlier circumstances so you don’t come to the airport unprepared.

Young Infants

A number of airlines have rules that prohibit or limit newborns from flying. Airline rules differ, with some airlines like Delta prohibiting newborns under 7 days old from flying on any flights. Others set limits only on international travel, including Southwest which limits infants 14 days old or younger from flying on international flights. Most airlines allow young infants under their age limits, however, to fly with a letter of permission from a physician.

Related: Essential Tips for Your Baby’s First Flight

If you are traveling with a newborn, it’s highly advised to bring a document like a birth certificate for proof of age. And if you are looking for an exception to an age minimum of any sort, a physician’s letter is essential.

Lap Children

When you are flying with a child who will be sitting in your lap (permitted for kids under age 2), having identification to prove age may be required. Some airlines will allow younger infants to board with no ID, as it’s normally obvious that very small babies are not yet near the maximum age cutoff. Families with older babies toddling and speaking always should carry proof of age no matter what the airline. Airline employees can ask at any time for proof to make sure the child is young enough to travel as a lap child.

Related: What to Consider before Flying with a Lap Child

If you are flying Southwest Airlines, however, do not leave ID at home no matter what the age of your lap child. Southwest is the only US carrier that absolutely requires identification of any and every lap child regardless of how old they appear. You’ll need to show it at the ticket counter to obtain a boarding verification document (that works like a boarding pass) for the lap child.

Are there some instances where passengers haven’t had to show documentation for their children on Southwest? For sure. But I’ve flown with a lap child on Southwest more than a dozen times, and I can assure you that every time I had to show proof of age, even with a kiddo as young as 4 months! You don’t want to chance this.

Related: Complete Guide to Flying Southwest with Kids

What kind of identification works for lap children? A simple copy of a birth certificate will usually suffice. No need to rush to the DMV to get your tot a state-issued ID card.

Birth certificates can, however, can take awhile to obtain after a child is born. If you need to fly with a young infant domestically, most airlines will also accept hospital discharge documentation or vaccination records from a pediatrician’s office. The key is that the document have the child’s date of birth on it. When in doubt, if you cannot obtain a birth certificate, call the airline you are flying beforehand to confirm alternatives.

Unaccompanied Minors & Minors Traveling Solo

Another circumstance in which identification may be required for a child is in the case of children flying alone. Again, each airline’s policy is different.

In this situation, age really matters. All US airlines permit older teens (usually ages 15+ but sometimes younger) to fly solo just like adults. And most of them also allow younger kids (often ages 5-14) to fly as unaccompanied minors by paying a fee for limited supervision by airline employees. Depending on the child’s age and circumstances, different documentation can be required.

For older teens under age 18 flying truly solo and not with an unaccompanied minor program, ID is almost always required. Since many kids in this age range won’t have a driver’s license or official government photo ID yet, some airlines (like United) will accept other forms of identification like a birth certificates or student IDs. Other airlines (like Delta), however, require that 15-17 year olds flying solo have the same kind of photo ID that is required of adults. So if your child doesn’t have a driver’s permit or license yet, you’ll likely need to pack a passport.

Younger kids flying as an unaccompanied minor may need some identification as well. This also varies based on the airline and the circumstance. For example, when my son flew earlier this year as an unaccompanied minor on Southwest, I had to show ID as his parent, but I was not asked to show identification for him. Officially, however, Southwest’s policy is that parents may need to show proof of age for the minor. We probably weren’t asked because I booked under my son’s Rapid Rewards account that includes his date of birth (and he clearly appears to be within the age range of the program).

Most other US airlines won’t ask for ID for unaccompanied minors in straightforward situations, but the important thing to note is that they can . So the safest course of action is to at least carry a birth certificate. I put a birth certificate in my son’s backpack anyway, so we were prepared!

Here are links to the relevant age and ID policies that may apply to minors flying solo or as unaccompanied minors on each major US airline:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• Frontier Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines

Additional Identification Air Travel Tips

• When in doubt, bring it : I know from lots of digging around fine print on the internet that it’s sometimes impossible to get a definitive answer about identification. When in doubt, I highly recommend you err on the side of packing more than you need rather than less. A passport book is the gold standard. For domestic travel an original birth certificate (with the raised seal) can be helpful in many circumstances too.
• Keep extra copies on the cloud : Back in the pre-internet old days of travel, most of us traveled with extra passport copies in a separate bag in case we lost the original. In the digital age, having backups is easier than ever. I keep a copy on the cloud of passports and birth certificates for everyone in the family. That way, I can easily access everything on my phone in cases of emergency.
• Take extra precautions in case of child custody disputes and divorce : It’s crucial in situations of divorce or shared custody that parents have all of their legal ducks in a row before boarding a plane with their child, even for a simple hop across state lines. As a former attorney myself, I strongly suggest you consult your own legal counsel. Always make sure travel is permitted and that you know what additional documentation you need to bring to avoid any potential issues.

The post Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age appeared first on Trips With Tykes .

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Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad – FAQ

The following Questions and Answers supplement the Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad .

For more information about travelling with children, consult the Children and travel page, the publication Travelling With Children , or seek advice from a lawyer. If you need help finding legal services in your province or territory, contact a lawyer referral service .

For additional information about entry and exit requirements for Canadian children travelling alone, with only one parent or with another accompanying person, see our country-specific travel advice and advisories  or contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the destination country.

Note that all references to parents on this page apply also to legal guardians.

Note that Global Affairs Canada cannot provide you with advice about the Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad beyond what is offered on this website.

Most frequent questions

• General questions

Legal and custody questions

Documentation questions, other questions.

• What is the purpose of a consent letter? A consent letter demonstrates that children who travel alone, with only one parent/guardian, friends, relatives or a group (e.g. sports, school, musical, religious) have permission to travel abroad from every parent (or guardian) who is not accompanying them on the trip.
• Is a consent letter mandatory? There is no Canadian legal requirement for children to carry a consent letter. However, a consent letter may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving a foreign country, airline agents or Canadian officials when re-entering Canada. Failure to produce a letter upon request may result in delays or refusal to enter or exit a country.
• If the accompanying parent has full/sole custody of the child, is it still advisable to obtain a consent letter signed by a non-accompanying parent who only has access rights? We recommend that even a parent who has full/sole custody obtain a consent letter from another parent who has access rights (also called visitation rights).
• What information should a consent letter contain? There are no official guidelines for the content and format of a consent letter. For your convenience, we offer a sample consent letter  on our website, which may be modified to fit your specific situation. You may also use our  interactive form , which allows you to leave out information that is not available or applicable. Nevertheless, we recommend including as much detail as possible.
• Who should sign the consent letter? The consent letter should be signed by parents who are not accompanying the child on a trip, including:
• One or both parents who are married or in a common-law relationship and live together with the child. Both parents usually have custody rights over the child. In some provinces or territories, other terms (e.g. guardianship rights or parental authority ) may be used.
• One or both parents who are separated, divorced or do not live together. In some situations, parents have “joint custody” or “joint guardianship” of a child, meaning that they make important decisions about the child together. In other situations, one parent has “sole custody” and is responsible for making important decisions for the child, while the other parent has “access rights.” We recommend that the letter be signed by all parents who are not travelling with the child, whether they have custody or access rights.
• One or more individuals (other than parents) or an organization with guardianship rights   and responsibility for the care of the child.
• In Quebec, one or both parents with parental authority over the child. Whether the parents are married, in a civil or de facto union, separated or divorced, they have rights and duties relating to the child, unless a court order states otherwise.

Court orders or agreements sometimes specify who is or is not required to sign a consent letter for children travelling abroad. If in doubt about who should sign the letter, consult with a lawyer.

• Up to what age should Canadian children carry a consent letter when travelling abroad? We recommend that anyone who is under the age of majority (under 18 or 19, depending on the province or territory of residence) carry a consent letter.
• Who can witness the signing of a consent letter? The signing of the letter may be witnessed by anyone who has attained the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province or territory of residence). However, we strongly recommend having the letter witnessed by a notary public , as border officials will be less likely to question the authenticity of the letter. Outside of Canada, the signing of a consent letter may be witnessed by anyone who has attained the age of majority, including a consular officer at any Canadian government office abroad ( fees apply ).
• Is it mandatory to have the consent letter witnessed by a notary? There is no Canadian requirement to have the consent letter witnessed by a notary public. However we strongly recommend doing so, as border officials will be less likely to question the authenticity of the letter.
• If the parents are together (either married or in a common-law relationship), but only one parent travels with the child, is a consent letter still recommended? If the child is not accompanied by both parents, we recommend carrying a consent letter signed by the non-accompanying parent, regardless of the parents’ marital status (single, married, common-law, separated, divorced or never married).

General questions

• Is a consent letter still recommended if a child will be accompanied by both parents for part of a trip, but alone or with only one parent for another part of the trip? We recommend that a child who is travelling with only one parent for even a small portion of a trip (e.g. when returning to Canada with only one parent) carry a consent letter signed by the non-accompanying parent. For example, if a child travels to the United States with both parents, but then the mother stays in the United States while the father brings the child back to Canada, the mother may sign a consent letter stating that the child has permission to travel back to Canada with the father.
• If neither parent is accompanying the child, should they each sign separate consent letters, or can they provide a single letter with both of their signatures? Either separate letters or a single letter may be acceptable. However, if both parents choose to sign separate consent letters, we strongly recommend that both letters be witnessed by a  notary public .
• If children from the same family travel together without one or both parents, should they each carry separate letters or one letter listing all of the children?  Either separate letters or a single letter may be acceptable. However, if the children will not be together for the entire trip (e.g. when returning to Canada), we recommend that they carry separate letters. We also strongly recommend that the letters be witnessed by a  notary public .
• If a child is travelling with several adults, none of whom are the child’s parents (e.g. relatives, group leaders, parents of a friend), should they all be identified as accompanying persons on the consent letter? It is not necessary for the letter to identify all adults as accompanying persons. Instead, we recommend that the letter identify one accompanying person, such as a grandparent or group leader, subject to that individual’s consent.
• Can a parent fax or email a scanned copy of the letter to the accompanying person? Although there is no Canadian legal requirement for children to carry a consent letter, we recommend bringing the original letter, as border officials will be less likely to question its authenticity.
• Is a consent letter recommended even for a day trip? A consent letter is recommended for all cross-border travel, even for a day trip, if the child will be travelling alone, with only one parent, with friends or relatives or with a youth group. The sample consent letter or   interactive form can be used to create a suitable letter.
• If one parent is deceased, what document should a child carry when travelling abroad? A child accompanied by a surviving parent who has full custody may carry a copy of the death certificate of the deceased parent. A child travelling without the surviving parent may carry a consent letter signed by that parent and a copy of the death certificate of the deceased parent.
• If a Canadian child who holds another citizenship travels to the other country of citizenship without one or both parents, will the consent letter offered on this website be accepted by that country’s immigration authorities? The consent letter offered on this website may or may not be considered sufficient by a country’s immigration authorities, as some countries impose their own entry/exit requirements on minor citizens. For example, a child with Costa Rican-Canadian citizenship requires a legally certified consent letter, translated into Spanish and signed by one or both parents, plus a special permit issued by Costa Rican authorities, in order to depart from Costa Rica. Be aware that a foreign country may automatically deem a child born in Canada to be one of its citizens if one or both parents are citizens of that country. As a “deemed citizen,” the child may be subject to the same entry/exit requirements as other citizens of that country. We strongly recommend that parents consult with an embassy or consulate of any country where their child may be a “deemed citizen” and enquire about travel documentation and other entry/exit requirements before travelling to that country with their child. You may find additional information under “Entry/Exit Requirements” in the Travel advice and advisories  for your destination country, our Dual citizenship page and our booklet Dual Citizenship: What You Need to Know .
• What can be done if a parent refuses to sign the consent letter? We recommend trying to find out the reason for the refusal. It may be possible to clear up a misunderstanding or address the other parent’s concerns.   Alternatively, family justice services (e.g. mediation) may help. For a list of services available in each province and territory, see the Department of Justice’s Inventory of Government-based Family Justice Services .  You may also wish to consult with a family lawyer. Note that Global Affairs Canada cannot provide legal advice.
• What can be done if there is a risk that the accompanying parent will not bring the child back to Canada? We recommend consulting with a lawyer without delay and proceeding with caution before signing a consent letter. For more information, see our publication International Child Abduction: A guidebook for left-behind parents  or consult our Child abduction and custody issues page.
• Is a consent letter still recommended from a parent who has been denied access rights? A consent letter is not necessary from a parent who has been denied access rights by a court order. We recommend that the accompanying parent who has full/sole custody of the child carry a copy of the court order when travelling abroad.
• If a court order states that one parent can travel abroad with the child without the consent of the other parent, what documentation is required? We recommend carrying a copy of the court order stating that the other parent’s consent is not needed to travel abroad with the child. Any questions about the wording of the court order should be directed to a family lawyer.
• Is it possible to write a consent letter without specific travel dates so that it may be used for multiple trips (e.g. if the child travels frequently or the non-accompanying parent is not readily available to sign)? We recommend carrying a letter with specific travel dates (as in the sample consent letter  on our website). Doing so may help minimize complications when entering or exiting another country. Consult with a lawyer for information on obtaining a document stating that the child has permission to travel abroad on nonspecific dates.
• If the accompanying person is not the child’s biological parent (e.g. an adoptive or foster parent) but has custody or guardianship rights, is specific documentation needed for the child to travel abroad? We recommend carrying a copy of a court order stating that the accompanying person is the child’s lawful custodian or guardian. If the child is in temporary care, we recommend carrying a consent letter signed by the appropriate child welfare agency representative granting consent for the child to travel with the accompanying person. Consult with a lawyer or the child welfare agency if in doubt about documentation requirements.
• If the parents are separated or divorced, does the child or accompanying parent need to carry documentation (e.g. a court order or separation agreement) other than a consent letter signed by the non-accompanying parent?  In addition to carrying a consent letter, we recommend checking with an embassy or consulate of the destination country in case other documents are required.
• If the other parent is not in the picture and obtaining a consent letter is impossible, what other documents can be carried? If there is a court order stating that the whereabouts of the other parent are unknown and granting the accompanying parent full/sole custody, we recommend carrying a copy of that document. If a court order has not been issued, we recommend consulting with a lawyer to consider taking legal action. If the other parent was granted access rights by a previous court order, but has not exercised those rights in a long time and is now unreachable, we recommend consulting with a lawyer to consider obtaining an up-to-date court order. In either case, we recommend carrying a copy of the court order. If in doubt, be sure to consult with a lawyer, as each situation is unique.
• What documents should a child carry when travelling abroad, apart from a Canadian passport and consent letter (if applicable)?   Since parents are not identified on a child’s passport, we recommend that the child carry a copy of the long-form (or parental information) birth certificate, which clearly indicates the parents’ names. The long-form birth certificate is not a mandatory travel document, but it may help to establish the relationship between the child and the accompanying parent and/or the parent signing the consent letter. For more information on the long-form birth certificate, contact the government of the province or territory where the child was born. Check with the destination country’s embassy or consulate in Canada regarding additional documentation that may be required, including divorce papers, custody court orders or a death certificate (if one parent is deceased).
• If the non-accompanying parent is not identified on the child’s long-form birth certificate and does not have access or custody rights, is there any reason for that parent to sign a consent letter? A consent letter is not needed in this case. However, we recommend carrying a copy of the child’s long-form (or parental information) birth certificate when travelling abroad with the custodial parent. If the child travels alone, we recommend carrying a copy of the long-form birth certificate as well as a consent letter signed by the custodial parent.
• If the child is a naturalized Canadian or permanent resident and immigrated to Canada with only one parent, does the parent who lives abroad need to sign a consent letter? We recommend carrying a consent letter signed by the parent who lives abroad. The signing of the consent letter may be witnessed by anyone who has attained the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province or territory of residence), including a consular officer at any Canadian government office abroad ( fees apply ). If it is impossible to obtain a consent letter from the parent who lives abroad, we recommend carrying a copy of a court order granting full custody to the parent in Canada and stating that the other parent has no rights over the child. If a court order has not been issued, we recommend consulting with a lawyer, as each situation is unique.
• Is there any reason to be concerned if the information requested in the sample consent letter or interactive form is not available or applicable (e.g. passport number, destination address)? The content and format of the child consent letter may be modified to meet your needs. The sample consent letter and interactive form on our website allow you to include information that fits your specific situation or to leave out information that is not available or applicable. However, we recommend including as much detail as possible.

We have revised our consent letter resources to serve you better. We welcome your feedback on the new versions at [email protected] . Please note that this address is to receive your comments and suggestions only.

Free Parental Consent Forms for Minors Traveling Alone

While children between the ages of five and 18 can fly by themselves, younger children in this range usually must participate in an airline's unaccompanied minor program (specific age requirements vary per airline).

If your minor child will be traveling domestically, you will typically need to fill out paperwork through the airline's unaccompanied minor program. But if your minor child will be traveling out of the country alone, with one parent, or with someone other than a parent or legal guardian, he will likely need to carry a notarized letter of consent (and perhaps a medical letter of consent) signed by his parents in addition to the unaccompanied minor program paperwork. Use this guide as a helpful jumping off point regarding such letters of consent, but we advise referring to airline and government websites for more specific information. 

What Is a Child Travel Consent Form?

Because of increasing instances of child abduction in custody cases and a growing number of children who are the victims of trafficking or pornography, government and airline personnel are now more vigilant about traveling children. Therefore, your child will likely be asked by an immigration officer or airline staff member will ask for a letter of consent if he or she is traveling without both parents.

A Child Travel Consent Form is a legal document that allows a minor child to travel without both parents or legal guardians present. It can be used when a child is traveling as an unaccompanied minor, or with another adult who is not the legal guardian, such as a grandparent , teacher, sports coach, or friend of the family. It is advisable for all travel and is particularly important when a minor is traveling outside the country .

The document should include:

• Minor's name, birthplace, and passport information
• Permission from the non-traveling parent or guardian, including his or her contact information
• Relevant information about the traveling parent or guardian, including name, custody information, and passport details
• Travel information, such as the destination and start and end dates for the trip. Note that the consent is temporary and specific to this one trip
• Allergy and special needs information pertaining to the child
• Signature of the non-traveling parent who is giving permission for the child to travel

Be aware that specific rules about documentation can differ substantially from country to country, so you should check the U.S. State Department International Travel website for information about the requirements for your destination country. Find your destination country, click the tab for "Entry, Exit, & Visa Requirements," then scroll down to "Travel with Minors."

What Is a Child Medical Consent Form?

If a minor child is traveling without a parent or legal guardian, a Child Medical Consent Form grants authority to a chaperone to make medical decisions. The form grants temporary medical power of attorney to another adult in case of a medical emergency. You've probably filled out such a form in the past for your child's daycare or school, or for field trips, sleepover camp, and other situations.

• Minor's name and birthplace
• Authorized medical treatments
• Health information about the child
• Identity of the person being granted responsibility
• Health insurance information

There are a number of websites that offer free templates for travel forms. Here are some reliable options:

Free Child Travel Consent LetterFrom LawDepot.com

This form takes five to 10 minutes to complete. Answer a few simple questions and then choose to to print or download.

Free Child Travel Consent Letter From eForms.com

This five-step fill-in-the-blank template is straightforward and easy to complete. The user can select his or her home state from a pulldown menu.

Free Child Travel Consent Letter From RocketLawyer.com

Build your document, print it out, sign it and get it notarized to make it legal.

Free Child Travel Consent Letter From LegalTemplates.net

Follow the directions on the site to complete the form. Then e-sign, download, and print your legally binding document.

Required Documents for International Travel With Minors

Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Does My Child Need ID to Fly?

How the Airlines Handle Unaccompanied Minors

Parent Authorization Letter for Minors Traveling to Mexico

How to Find Your Nearest US Passport Office

Passports and Mexico Entry Requirements for Children

Flying While Pregnant? Check Out the Policies on 25 Global Airlines

Single Parent Travel Tips and Advice

How to Travel to Cuba If You Are an American

Do Children Need a Passport to Visit Canada?

Booking a Baby Bassinet for Your Flight

Marriage Laws for Caribbean Destination Weddings

North American Airlines on Rules for Overweight Passengers

Do I Need a Letter of Permission to Travel With Grandchildren?

Car Seat Policies for the Top 15 North American Airlines

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Preventing International Child Abduction

International parental child abduction (ipca).

Federal law prohibits a parent from removing a child from the United States or retaining a child in another country with intent to obstruct another parent´s custodial rights ( 18 U.S.C. § 1204 ). As required by Title III of the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in coordination with the U.S. Department of State and other federal agencies, has established a program that seeks to prevent the departure of a child from the United States when presented with a valid, enforceable court order which prohibits the child’s removal from the United States ( 6 U.S.C. § 241 ).

If you are concerned that your child is at risk of being abducted internationally by a parent, legal guardian, or someone acting on their behalf

• Obtain a valid, enforceable U.S. court order that includes prevention provisions, such as restrictions on removing the child from the U.S.
• Phone: 1-888-407-4747 (U.S. or Canada) or +1-202-501-4444 (International)
• Email:   [email protected]

If you believe that your child is in the process of being abducted internationally by a parent, legal guardian, or someone acting on their behalf

• Immediately notify local or airport police and provide them with copies of court orders
• Request that they enter your child and the possible abductor(s), if known, into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database
• Phone:  1-888-407-4747 (U.S. or Canada) or +1-202-501-4444 (International)
• Email:    [email protected]

If your child has already been abducted internationally by a parent, legal guardian, or someone acting on their behalf

PREVENT ABDUCTION PROGRAM

U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Prevent Abduction program can assist in the prevention of IPCA ( 6 U.S.C § 241 )

CBP coordinates with DOS Office of Children’s Issues on IPCA cases 

• IPCA cases must include a valid, enforceable U.S. court order indicating the child is prohibited from being removed from the U.S.
• CBP continuously monitors Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) data in real-time on passengers traveling to and from the U.S. using commercial carriers and vets that information against the travel alerts
• If a child at risk of IPCA or potential abductor(s) attempts travel aboard a commercial carrier their travel alert data will match against their APIS data, and CBP will be notified automatically.
• Once travel is identified, CBP officers working the Prevent Abduction Program notify DOS Office of Children’s Issues and coordinates with the CBP officers at the airport, seaport, or land border Ports-of-Entry (POE) on intercepting the child before departure.
• CBP at the airport, seaport, or land border POEs further coordinates with local law enforcement on enforcing the valid court order.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad

Get permission to take a child abroad

You must get the permission of everyone with parental responsibility for a child or from a court before taking the child abroad.

Taking a child abroad without permission is child abduction .

You automatically have parental responsibility if you’re the child’s mother, but you still need the permission of anyone else with parental responsibility before you take the child abroad.

You can take a child abroad for 28 days without getting permission if a child arrangement order says the child must live with you, unless a court order says you can’t.

Get permission from someone with parental responsibility

A letter from the person with parental responsibility for the child is usually enough to show you’ve got permission to take them abroad.

You might be asked for the letter at a UK or foreign border, or if there’s a dispute about taking a child abroad. The letter should include the other person’s contact details and details about the trip.

It also helps if you’ve:

• evidence of your relationship with the child, eg a birth or adoption certificate
• a divorce or marriage certificate, if you are a single parent but your family name is different from the child’s

Get permission from a court

You’ll need to apply to a court for permission to take a child abroad if you haven’t got permission from the other people with parental responsibility.

You must give details of the trip, eg the date of departure, when and how you’re returning, and contact details of people with parental responsibility staying in the UK.

You must give more information if you’re taking the child abroad for a longer trip, eg what education the child will get while they’re abroad.

Find a solicitor to get legal advice about permission to take a child abroad.

Check the age limit in the country you’re travelling to

You need to contact the embassy or consular office of the country you are travelling to for information about the age limit up to which a person is considered a child.

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