Traveling internationally with your children while your spouse stays home? You’ll need a child travel consent letter to avoid border delays and entry complications. This document proves the non-traveling parent consents to the trip and helps prevent child abduction accusations. Basically, it says “I give permission for my child to travel”.
Scroll to copy & paste the free consent form template letter & don’t forget to get it notarized!
What is a Travel Consent Letter?
You’ll be writing a consent letter when traveling internationally without both parents present. Required when:
- One parent travels with the children
- Children travel with relatives or friends
- Unaccompanied minor travel
Which Countries Require Writing a Consent Letter?
Lately, I’ve seen Brazil, South Africa, the Dominican Republic, Italy, and Germany require these letters. Canada, USA, and EU strongly recommend. Whenever I travel internationally with my children and not my spouse, I bring a notarized letter.
You can find more info on requirements here on the USA.gov site.
What to Include in Your Letter
Required Information:
- Parent/guardian full names, addresses, phone numbers
- Child’s full name, birth date, passport number
- Travel companion’s name and relationship
- Destination countries and travel dates
- Clear permission statement
- All non-traveling parents’ signatures
- Recent date (within 6 months)
Additional Documents Needed:
- Copy of non-traveling parent’s passport/ID
- Birth certificate (sole custody situations)
- Death certificate (if parent deceased)
- Custody documents (divorced parents)
Free Consent Letter Template
CHILD TRAVEL CONSENT LETTER
Date: [Current Date]
I, [Parent Name], am the lawful parent/guardian of [Child’s Name], born [Birth Date], passport number: [Number].
I give consent for my child to travel to [Destination] from [Start Date] to [End Date] with [Adult’s Name], who is [relationship].
Child Information:
- Name: [Full Legal Name]
- Birth Date: [Date]
- Passport: [Number]
My Contact Information:
- Name: [Your Name]
- Address: [Complete Address]
- Phone: [Number]
- Email: [Email]
Signature: _________________ Date: _______ Print Name: [Your Name]
Notary Section: [Space for notary]
Key Steps
- Check destination requirements 8 weeks before travel
- Complete consent letter with all details
- Get notarized (strongly recommended)
- Make multiple copies
- Carry two originals plus copies in separate bags
Special Situations
Divorced Parents: Both parents typically must sign unless court order specifies otherwise
Single Parents: Bring birth certificate or custody documents showing sole custody
Military Deployment: Power of attorney or command-endorsed letters may substitute
Common Mistakes
- Wrong passport numbers or misspelled names
- Vague dates or destinations
- Missing contact information
- Not checking destination-specific requirements
- Carrying only one copy
Important Reminders
- Requirements change frequently – always verify current rules
- Some countries require letters in their official language
- Allow extra time at borders when using consent letters (even with Global Entry)
- Keep documents easily accessible during travel in your personal item
Legal Disclaimer: This is general guidance only. Always verify current requirements with destination country embassies and consult legal professionals for complex custody situations.
Have questions about travel consent letters? Share your experiences in the comments below.
