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Travel and identification documents for entering Canada

From: Canada Border Services Agency

October 1, 2022 : COVID-19 emergency border measures ended

Refer to COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders for details.

Make sure you carry proper identification for yourself and any children or minors travelling with you. You must be able to confirm your legal right or authorization to enter Canada at the border.

Acceptable documents to denote identity and citizenship

Other acceptable documents for establishing canadian citizenship, other acceptable documents to support identity, acceptable documents for establishing registered indian status and identity.

Upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry, travellers must satisfy a CBSA border services officer (BSO) that they meet the requirements for entry into Canada. For Canadian citizens, permanent residents and persons registered under the Indian Act, this can be done through questioning and through verifying documentation such as a:

Canadian passport
Canadian birth certificate
permanent residence card
citizenship card
Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) card or valid Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) card

If you do not have a passport, and are returning to Canada, the following documents can denote identity and citizenship :

NEXUS card, held by a Canadian citizen, when entering Canada by air (when coming from the U.S.), land, or marine modes
FAST card (Free and Secure Trade), issued to a Canadian citizen (when arriving by land or marine modes only)
Canadian emergency travel document
Canadian temporary passport
Certificate of Canadian citizenship (issued from 1954 to present)
Enhanced driver's license issued by a Canadian province or territory
Enhanced identification/photo card issued by a Canadian province or territory

Permanent residents of Canada who are members of the NEXUS or FAST programs must travel with a passport and proof of permanent residence , and may be asked to present these documents to the officer upon arrival at the border.

The following documents may be used to establish Canadian citizenship . Upon presentation by travellers, the documents should be supported by other government issued photo identification:

Certificate of Canadian citizenship (large form issued between January 1, 1947, to February 14, 1977)
Certificate of retention (issued between January 1, 1947, and February 14, 1977)
Certificate of naturalization (issued before January 1, 1947)
Registration of birth abroad certificate (issued between January 1, 1947, and February 14, 1977, by Canadian citizenship authorities)
Provincial or territorial birth certificate (individuals born in Canada)

The following documents may be used to establish your identity :

CANPASS card (air, corporate air, private air, remote area border crossing), held by a Canadian citizen
Commercial driver registration program card, held by a Canadian citizen
Provincial and territorial driver's license
Employment or student card with photo and signature
Provincial health insurance card
Provincial identity card
Canadian Forces identification
Police identification
Firearms acquisition certificate
Credit card
Vehicle insurance certificate
Vehicle registration

Every person registered under the Indian Act can enter and remain in Canada by right as per subsection A19(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act . The Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS), more commonly referred to as the Status card, is an identity document issued by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada confirming that the cardholder is registered as a Status Indian under the Indian Act .

Note: The Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) was replaced by the SCIS in 2009. Existing versions of the CIS will remain valid until their renewal date.

If you plan to travel to or transit through the U.S., we encourage you to visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for information concerning the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, and the requirements to enter or return to the U.S.

For information on Canada-U.S. border-crossing issues, visit Crossing the Canada-U.S. border with a status card .

When travelling with a minor, you should:

carry copies of any legal custody documents, such as custody rights, if applicable
arrive at the border in the same vehicle as the minor
you share custody of the minor and the other parent or legal guardian is not travelling with you
you are not the parent or legal guardian of the minor

A consent letter must include the custodial parents' or legal guardians':

telephone number

Border services officers are always watching for missing children and may ask questions about any minors travelling with you.

To avoid delays, have your consent letter notarized to support its authenticity. For more information on consent letters and to download an interactive form, visit Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad .

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All international travellers must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering Canada. A passport is recommended because it is the only reliable and universally-accepted travel and identification document for the purpose of international travel.

International transport companies, such as airlines, must make sure that travellers have proper, valid travel documents. If you do not have the proper documents, you may be delayed or refused entry into Canada . What you need will depend on where you are from, how you are travelling, and what documents you are travelling with. Consult entry requirements by country .

When you enter Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if you are arriving from a country for which one is required. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website to learn more about what travel documents are required.

Citizens of the U.S. who are members of the NEXUS program may present their membership card as proof of identification and as a document that denotes citizenship, when arriving by air (when coming from the U.S.), land, or marine modes.

Citizens of the U.S. who are members of the FAST program may use their cards as proof of identity when arriving by land and marine modes only.

Permanent residents of the U.S. who are members of the NEXUS or FAST programs must travel with a passport and proof of permanent residence , and may be asked to present these documents to the officer upon arrival at the border.

All visitors arriving from or transiting through the U.S. are encouraged to visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for information concerning the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, and the requirements to enter or return to the U.S.

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization ( eTA ) to fly to or transit through Canada.

Exceptions, or visa and eTA-exempt foreign nationals, include:

U.S. citizens
U.S Lawful Permanent Residents
travellers with a valid Canadian visa
Other exceptions

Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, and Canadian permanent residents do not need to apply for an eTA.

Foreign nationals from select visa-required countries may also travel to or through Canada by air using an eTA , if eligible .

Be prepared: Apply for an eTA before you book your flight to Canada. Most applicants get approved within minutes. However, some applications can take several days to process so don’t wait until the last minute.

Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization
Get help with Electronic Travel Authorizations
Dual citizens
Canadian permanent residents
Lawful permanent residents of the U.S.

Travellers who apply for an eTA are advised to be cautious in all dealings with companies that claim to offer help in getting an eTA. These companies are not operating on behalf of the Government of Canada. Many have established websites that charge a fee to provide information and submit eTA applications.

This Government of Canada website is the official place to apply for an Electronic Travel Application .

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Travel Consent Letter

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

How to use this document?

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

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

Applicable Law

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

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

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Minor children travelling to Canada

Children under the age of 18 are considered minors in Canada. They must follow the same rules to enter Canada as any other visitor.

Minors who try to enter Canada without the proper documents, or who are with adults other than their parents or legal guardian(s), will be checked more closely.

Border services officers are on alert for children who need protection and check very carefully for missing or runaway children. They may question you about children who come with you to Canada or question a child who travels alone. Make sure you have the proper documents with you.

Minor children entering Canada as a visitor

The documents a minor child needs to enter Canada depend on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone.

If a minor child is travelling alone

The child should present

A parent’s passport, even if the child’s details are included in it, cannot be used.
a copy of their birth certificate, and
the parents’ (or legal guardian’s) address and telephone number, and
the name, address and telephone number of the adult who will look after the child in Canada

If a minor child is travelling with one parent only

The parent should present

the child’s passport
a copy of the child’s birth certificate, and
the address and telephone number of the parent who is not travelling, and
a photocopy of that parent’s signed passport or national identity card

If the parents are separated or divorced and share custody of the child

The parent travelling with the child should carry copies of the legal custody documents.
It is also best to have a letter of authorization from the other parent who has custody to take the child on a trip out of the country.

If the parents are separated or divorced and one of them has sole custody of the child

The letter of authorization may be signed by that parent only, and they should bring a copy of the custody decree.

If one of the child’s parents is deceased

The travelling parent should bring a copy of the death certificate.

If a minor child is travelling with a legal guardian or adoptive parents

The child should have a copy of the guardianship papers or the adoption papers (whichever one applies).

If a minor child is travelling with a person other than their parents or legal guardian

The adult who is not the parent or legal guardian of the child should have written permission from the parents or guardians to supervise the child. The permission letter should include addresses and telephone numbers where the parents or legal guardian can be reached.

The letter does not need to be certified. A photocopy of the parents’ or legal guardian’s signed passports or national identity cards should be attached to the letter.

Note: The border services officer may not ask to see these documents when the child enters Canada. However, it is strongly recommended you bring them, in case that you are. The minor child will not be admitted to Canada if the officer is not convinced that the parents or legal guardian have authorized their stay.

Minor children entering Canada to study

Minor children must apply for a study permit if they want to study in Canada.

Find out about the requirements and documents that are needed.

eTA for family members

Each family member must apply separately for an eTA. You cannot apply for more than one eTA at a time.

Inadmissibility

Some people are inadmissible—they are not allowed to come to Canada. Several things can make you inadmissible, including involvement in criminal activity, in human rights violations or in organized crime.

You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons. Find out more about inadmissibility .

Find out if you are eligible

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2. Get a travel consent letter

Question & Answer

It's a good idea to get a travel consent letter from your partner that says they agree to let you travel with your child.

Canada doesn't have a law that says you have to carry a travel consent letter if you're travelling with your child. But when entering or leaving a foreign country you may be asked for one by immigration authorities, airline agents, or Canadian officials when re-entering Canada. If you don't have a letter, your travel may be delayed and you may not get permission to enter or leave a country.

The Government of Canada also strongly recommends that all children traveling with one parent, another family member, friends, or a group, carry a travel consent letter. A sample travel consent letter is available on its website.

There are no rules about what the letter should say. But it should be as detailed as possible. Include information like:

your child's full name
your child's passport number
your child's date of birth
your travel dates
the places you are going to
your contact information while traveling
your full name
your passport number
your relationship to the child
your partner's full name
your partner's contact information

It's best to get your partner to sign this letter in front of a notary public, but you don't have to. A notary public is a person who is able to verify a person's signature on a document.

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All About Consent to Travel Letters

Travelling with kids outside of Canada is exciting and fun, but it takes a lot of work to make a great trip happen. Travel tickets purchased? Hotel booked? Passports ready?

After all of that planning, wouldn’t you do everything you could to make sure your trip will be great? Of course – that’s why so many of us purchase travel insurance.

But did you know that if you are travelling alone with your child, you may need a consent to travel letter to ensure that your trip is as amazing as you planned?

What is a consent to travel letter?

A consent to travel letter is a letter that shows that Canadian children have permission to travel abroad from parents or guardians who are not accompanying them. It may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving a foreign country or by Canadian officials when re-entering Canada.

For example, Jeanne and Louis have a child named Norma. Jeanne is taking Norma to Florida for March Break, but Louis is not going with them. Louis should sign a consent to travel letter that shows that Jeanne has his permission to travel abroad with Norma.

Why should you use a consent to travel letter?

The Government of Canada strongly recommends that Canadian children under the age of majority carry a consent to travel letter if they are travelling abroad alone, with only one parent or guardian, with friends or relatives, or with a group. A consent to travel letter is recommended for all cross-border travel, even for a day trip.

The Government of Canada recommends that the letter be signed by every non-accompanying person or organization with the legal right to make major decisions for the child, including anyone with custody rights or guardianship rights, or parents who have access to the child.

A consent to travel letter is not a legal requirement in Canada. But without a consent to travel letter, there is the real risk that children and persons accompanying them could be refused entry into another country, or have difficulties returning to Canada. Why take that risk?

How can I get a consent to travel letter?

The Government of Canada has prepared a recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad that you can download and print for free. You should provide as much detail as possible in the letter. Once you’ve completed the letter, the person who is not accompanying the child must sign the letter in front of a witness or notary public.

Notarize.ca has a free online consent to travel letter tool that makes it easy for you to create your recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad in minutes. Just answer some questions about your child’s travel plans, receive your customized travel consent letter by email, and sign the letter in front of a notary. Try the free Consent to Travel Letter Tool today.

Should my consent to travel letter be notarized?

It’s not a legal requirement in Canada that consent to travel letters be notarized. However, the Government of Canada strongly recommends having consent to travel letters witnessed by a notary public.

Why? Notaries are like “super witnesses” - they have the legal power to verify that signatures are true and genuine. This means that a notarized consent to travel letter is more likely to be accepted as authentic by immigration authorities. You deserve to enjoy your trip – don’t risk having it ruined by travelling without a notarized consent to travel letter.

Can consent to travel letters be notarized electronically?

Yes! Travel consent letters can be notarized virtually with Notarize.ca’s online notary services. In only a few minutes, our expert notaries will help you complete your consent to travel letter so you’ll have one less thing to worry about.

Here’s how it works:

Notarize.ca makes it easy to notarize your IMM 5646E online in minutes. This is how it works:

Create your secure account and book your appointment

Meet with your notary professional by video conference

Electronically sign your travel consent letter and download the notarized document

Print the completed document and keep a copy with your child while they are travelling.

Ready to enjoy your trip? Schedule your appointment today!

Have more questions about online notarization for consent to travel letters? We’re here to help. Contact us at [email protected] or call us at (888) 632-9971 .

The destination country may also have its own entry and exit requirements for children travelling alone, with only one parent or with another accompanying person. For more information, visit the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories site or contact the embassy or consulate of the destination country.

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Why You Need a Travel Consent Letter When Travelling with Your Child

The winter season is upon us, and March Break is just around the corner, which means many Ontarians are planning vacation travel plans.

However, travelling with your children isn’t always so simple if you’re separated , divorced , or without your spouse. That’s where travel consent letters come in.

We’ll explain travel consent letters, how they work, and what parents should know about using them when travelling with their children. We’ll also touch on the risks associated with international travel and what parents can do to protect themselves if they have concerns about another parent travelling outside the country with their child.

What is a Travel Consent Letter?

A travel consent letter is a document signed by one or both parents granting their consent for their child to travel with the other parent (or another person).

Travel consent letters are commonly used by separated parties (for example, where one parent intends to take the child or children on holiday). Still, they may also be needed in the following scenarios:

Where the parents are not separated or divorced, but only one parent is travelling with a child (this is especially important if the child does not have the same last name as the parent they are travelling with);
Where the child is travelling with both parents but will be returning to Canada with only one parent;
Where the child is travelling with a relative (for example, a grandparent) or
Where the child is travelling with unrelated parties (for example, if the child is travelling out of the country on a school trip).

What Does a Travel Consent Letter Do?

A travel consent letter provides border authorities with evidence of a parent or parents’ consent for their child to travel out of the country with another person.

Contrary to popular belief, travel consent letters are not legally required for cross-border travel—though they may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving a foreign country. Therefore, preparing a travel consent letter is prudent whenever your child travels without both parents.

It’s equally important to remember that travel consent letters aren’t legally binding. Possessing a travel consent letter doesn’t guarantee that a child will be allowed entry into another country without their parents.

What Information Should a Travel Consent Letter Contain?

Technically, there aren’t any requirements for what information should be contained in a travel consent letter (though plenty of sample consent letters are available online, including the Government of Canada’s sample travel consent letter ). However, it’s generally best to include as much information as possible in your travel consent letter and to ensure you’re providing, at a minimum, the following information:

The full names, contact information, and signatures of the person or persons given consent;
The child’s full name, date of birth, place of birth, and passport number;
The accompanying parent or individual’s full name, relationship to the child, contact information, and passport number;
The travel destination, including the purpose of travel and address where the child will be staying; and
The travel dates.

Who Can Sign or Witness a Travel Consent Letter?

The parent or parents providing consent for their child to travel must sign the travel consent letter. They’ll also need to ensure that another person witnesses their signature and that that person also signs the document.

While any adult can be a witness for a travel consent letter, the best practice is to have your lawyer witness the document and affix their stamp and notarial seal to it, as immigration officials may be less likely to question its authenticity.

What Other Documents Do I Need?

Beyond the child’s passport and other essential travel documents, the parent or person travelling with a child may need to bring other documents. For example, if the child’s parents are separated, immigration authorities may request a copy of the parents’ divorce papers and any custody agreements or orders.

Key Considerations When Travelling with Children of Separated or Divorced Parents

As noted above, travel consent letters are extremely valuable when a child is not travelling with both parents.

However, while travel consent letters are a great way to document a child’s travel plans and their parent or parents’ consent to those plans, they do not give parents or other persons carte blanche to travel with a child. Depending on the destination country, the purpose of travel, or other factors, immigration authorities may not permit a child to enter the country.

Consider also that a travel consent letter does not protect against the risks associated with international travel. Many parents ask whether travel consent letters protect them from another parent travelling with a child and preventing the child from returning to Canada. Unfortunately, a travel consent letter (even one that provides specific travel dates) does not technically prevent the other parent from extending their stay in the other country with the child.

What to Do in Parental Child Abduction Situations

Situations where a parent takes a child outside of Canada (or keeps them from returning to Canada) in breach of a custody agreement or court order are referred to as “parental child abduction.”

Parental child abduction is a crime under sections 282 and 283 of Canada’s Criminal Code , R.S.C. 1985, c. C-46 . If a parent has abducted your child (or you suspect that a parent may be attempting to abduct a child) in these circumstances, contact an experienced family law lawyer or Global Affairs Canada ’s Case Management Division for emergency assistance.

Avoiding Parental Child Abduction

If you believe that a trip abroad with a parent may lead to parental child abduction, it’s critical to take steps to prevent the situation from happening. Some steps that can help include the following:

Ensure your parenting or custody order includes conditions relating to international travel.
Secure your child’s passport.
Maintain contact with your child and the other parent.
Consult Global Affairs Canada for further information about preventing child abduction (in particular, their guide, International Child Abduction: A guide for affected parents ).
Speak with an experienced family law lawyer for advice about your situation and additional steps that can help you prevent parental child abduction.

Remember, at the end of the day, there are many resources available to parents that can help navigate complicated parenting situations. Working with an experienced family law lawyer in these cases can help you protect your rights and bring you peace of mind.

Skilled and Compassionate Ottawa Family Lawyers Assisting Parents With Their Family Law Matters

Navigating parenting after a separation or divorce can be challenging, particularly regarding issues like international travel. At Tierney Stauffer LLP , we empower clients with the information needed to help them understand their rights, obligations, and options. Our team offers skilled yet practical legal advice to help parents preserve their rights and protect their interests – all while avoiding unnecessary conflict. To schedule a confidential consultation about your family law matter, contact us at 1-888-799-8057 or online .

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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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Travel Consent Letter: Is It Legally Required?

In case your child travels abroad, it is recommended to notarize a Travel Consent Letter. All-Canada Notary can help you with notarization of your child’s consent letter. It can be notarized online / remotely or in-person in one of our offices by a licensed notary public.

What Is a Travel Consent Letter?

A travel consent letter is a document that provides authorization from a parent or guardian for a child to travel alone or with someone other than their parents.

Is a Travel Consent Letter Legally Required?

While a consent letter is not a legal requirement in Canada, some other countries may refuse to allow your child to enter if the consent letter is not provided. It can simplify travel for Canadian children as it may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving a foreign country or by Canadian officials or airline agents when re-entering Canada. The Government of Canada strongly recommends that this is done.

Do I Need to Notarize a Travel Consent Letter?

A notarization for the letter is not a legal requirement, but it is highly recommended by the Canadian government. Because notaries have the legal power to verify that signatures are true and genuine, your consent to travel letter is more likely to be accepted as authentic by immigration authorities.

Please do not sign any documents required to be notarized or commissioned until you meet our notary public, as we need to see you sign the document as required by law.

Can This Letter Be Notarized Online?

The travel consent letters can be notarized online. You can book an appointment with us today and have your consent letter notarized remotely. Book an appointment here

When Is A Travel Consent Letter Required?

There are certain conditions that require the child to have a travel consent form to travel outside the country. Some of the conditions include:

When children are traveling alone without a parent or a guardian.
If a child is traveling with only one legal parent.
When the child is traveling with a legal guardian.
If the child is traveling with a group for a school or college outing.

Minors Travelling within Canada

Minors (individuals under 18 years of age) should carry identification when traveling within Canada. While a passport is not mandatory for domestic travel, it is highly recommended, especially for air travel. Other accepted forms of identification for minors may include a birth certificate, citizenship card, or provincial/territorial identification card.

Can You Use a Copy of the Consent Letter Or Original?

It is generally recommended that the person accompanying a child carries the original signed letter rather than a copy. While officials may accept a copy of the letter, having the original document can help establish the authenticity and legitimacy of the letter.

At What Age Consent Letter Is Not Required?

The age of majority is generally 18 years old in most provinces and territories, including Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec. However, there are a few exceptions: In Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, and Yukon, the age of majority is 19 years old .

Because the definition of a child varies from country to country, so any child under 19 years old should carry a consent letter.

What Should a Child Travel Consent Letter Contain?

A child travel consent form in Canada should contain the following information:

Child’s Information: Full name, date of birth, and passport information (if applicable) of the child traveling.
Parent/Guardian Information: Full name, address, contact information, and relationship to the child of the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) providing consent.
Travel Details: Dates of travel, destination(s), purpose of travel, and mode of transportation (flight, train, etc.).
Accompanying Adult(s): Full name, address, contact information, and relationship to the child of the adult(s) who will be accompanying the child during the trip.
Consent Statement: A clear and unambiguous statement indicating that the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) consent to the child traveling with the accompanying adult(s) for the specified period and purpose.
Notarization: The consent form should be notarized or witnessed by a legal authority, such as a lawyer or notary public. This adds credibility and authenticity to the document.
Contact Information: Provide emergency contact information for the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Copies of Supporting Documents: It is advisable to attach copies of the child’s birth certificate, passport, and any other relevant identification documents.
Additional Instructions: Any specific instructions or restrictions related to the child’s travel, such as medical conditions, allergies, or necessary medications, should be clearly stated.

Who Should Sign the Consent Letter?

Generally, if a child is traveling with only one parent or without either parent, it is recommended to have a travel consent letter signed by the non-accompanying parent . In cases where the child is traveling with someone other than their parents, both parents may need to provide a travel consent letter.

If neither parent is accompanying the child, they can both sign 1 letter or they can each sign a separate letter. Children from the same family who are travelling together may be listed on 1 (one) letter

If Parents Separated or Divorced

Parents who are not accompanying the child travelling outside Canada and who have 1 of the following:

custody of the child
decision-making responsibility for the child
guardianship of the child (in Alberta and British Columbia

If One of The Parents Is Deceased?

It is preferable for the parent travelling with the child to carry a copy of the death certificate.

Should Witness Sign a Consent Letter?

Canada does not require a travel consent letter to be signed by a witness. However, any adult may witness the signing of a consent letter.

What Are the Other Names for the Document?

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

Does the Length of the Trip Matter?

It is recommended to have a travel consent letter for a child, even if their trip abroad is for a single day.

Do Teens Need Travel Consent Letters?

As mentioned above, a minor is defined as anyone who is under the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province or territory they live in). This means that teens travelling abroad will also benefit from carrying a notarized travel consent letter

What If There Is Not a Father On the Birth Certificate?

If the birth certificate does not include the father’s information , a consent letter is unnecessary. However, the long form birth certificate will need to be presented, stating that there is only one parent.

Now, you must have a clear knowledge about why and when the travel consent letters are essential. It is important not just for the safety of the kids but also for the parents. Parents can also be assured of their kids going with a known guardian or group of people for international trips or outings. It has helped the Canadian government suppress child abduction and other heinous crimes against kids.

To help you with it, All-Canada Notary is here to assist you with Notary Public Services. We have the best team of professionals to look after your needs at an affordable rate. For more information, you can visit the website and book an online appointment today!

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Last Updated February 2, 2024

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What is a Child Travel Consent letter?

This document grants permission for a minor child to travel without one or both of their legal guardians . For example, a child may need to travel:

With an adult who isn’t a legal guardian (e.g., grandparent or family friend)
With only one of their legal guardians
With a group (e.g., school or sports team)

Travel authorities often require a Child Travel Consent form when a child travels internationally. However, requirements can vary by country, the age of the child, their reason for travelling, and who they’re travelling with.

What’s more, parents who’ve separated may have an agreement that requires each parent to give permission for the child to travel. Or, if they’re divorced , they likely have a court order that addresses custody and decision-making authority when it comes to travel. In these situations, a Child Travel Consent form is crucial evidence of parental permission .

Often, these checks are in place to help prevent international child abduction —which is why it’s so important to prepare the right forms before you head to the airport.

What age can you travel without parental consent?

It’s generally best practice for any minor children to travel with parental consent ; in Canada, this means anyone under the age of 18 or 19 (depending on your jurisdiction). An exception to this standard would be if a child were legally emancipated.

While some transportation companies have policies that don’t require a consent letter, authorities at the child’s destination may ask for proof of permission. That being said, it’s essential to research the requirements of both the travel company and the destination country .

How do I write a consent letter for my child to travel?

Use LawDepot’s Child Travel Consent template to generate a custom document in minutes. Simply answer our questionnaire to populate the template, then download a PDF or print your copy.

To write your Child Travel Consent, be prepared with the following information:

1. Travel details

Add a brief description of the child's travel plans, including:

The city and country the child will visit
Their accommodations
The start and end dates of the trip

2. Child’s information

List your child's full name, birth date, and place of birth.

Note that if your child’s last name is different than yours, you may need to prove your relationship to them with government-issued I.D. (e.g., birth certificates, adoption paperwork, or proof of a name change).

If the child will travel with extra documents (e.g., passport or birth certificate) you can also include these details in the consent letter. This information helps prove your child’s identity and relationship to you.

3. Supervision

If applicable, give details of the person/organization in charge of supervising your child during their trip:

Legal guardian : State their name, home address, and whether they have sole custody or not. You can also include their passport details if needed.
Another adult : State their name, home address, and relationship to the child. You can include their passport details if needed.
Group or organization : State the organization’s name and address. You’ll also need to state the name of the supervising adult (and their passport information, if needed).

If your child will travel alone, you may want to assign an adult to pick them up once they reach their destination . These details are essential if travel staff will supervise your child during the trip but not once it’s over.

4. Final details

If needed, you can add the details of the person who should be contacted in case of an emergency.

You should also consider whether you will notarize your document. If so, LawDepot’s Child Travel Consent template will automatically include a space for the notary acknowledgement.

Do both parents need to sign the consent form?

Signing requirements vary depending on your family dynamic and travel advisories. However, if both parents retain legal rights and responsibilities to their child, it’s generally best to get their consent . For example, this is true if both parents have legal custody, but the child will travel with only one.

If it isn’t possible to obtain consent, or if the other parent has no legal rights , you should carry a court order (or equivalent documentation, such as a child custody agreement) to prove that you have sole custody .

If the other parent is deceased, you should carry the original (or a notarized true copy) of the death certificate .

Should I notarize my Child Travel Consent?

Although Canadian laws don’t require a notarized consent letter, border patrol officials may ask for proof of parental permission whenever a minor child enters or leaves a country (i.e., international travel). Generally, a notarized travel consent is all that’s needed to show consent for the child to travel .

However, some foreign countries have specific requirements for travelling with minor children. That said, if your child travels outside North America, you may wish to contact the consulate of the destination country to ensure you meet legal requirements.

What other documents should my child have when traveling?

Travelling with the right paperwork can help ensure your child’s trip goes smoothly. For instance, the following documents help identify your child and ensure they’re properly cared for:

Passport and/or birth certificate
Proof of relationship to parent or guardian
Travel itinerary and addresses for accommodation
Child Medical Consent form to give another person authority to make medical decisions on behalf of the child

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I am travelling with my minor child without my spouse. What documents must I present?

You must present the following documents:

A copy of the child’s birth certificate
A letter of authorization signed by the parent who is not travelling, containing their address and telephone number, in English or French if possible, and
A photocopy of the non-accompanying parent’s signed passport or national identity card

If the parents are separated or divorced, and share custody of the child, the parent travelling with the child should carry copies of the legal custody documents.

If the parents are separated or divorced and one of them has sole custody of the child, the letter of authorization may be signed by that parent only and they should bring a copy of the custody papers.

If one of the child’s parents is deceased, the travelling parent should bring a copy of the death certificate.

For more information, see Minor children travelling to Canada .

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

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Permission to travel – letters for children traveling outside of canada.

What You Need to Know

A Consent Letter, also referred to as a Permission to Travel Letter, is a crucial document that serves as proof that a child has obtained permission to travel outside Canada from each of their parents or guardians who will not be accompanying them on their trip.

When Should a Permission to Travel Letter be Used?

Parents should obtain a Permission to Travel Letter for all international travel. This includes both day trips and longer journeys. Permission to Travel Letters are also recommended where a child is accompanied by only one parent for a portion of the trip. For instance, a child may depart Canada with both parents but return with only one parent. The following are additional scenarios for which parents should obtain a Permission to Travel Letter:

When a child is traveling alone
When a child is traveling with only one parent or guardian
When a child is under the care of friends or family (relative or immediate family)
When a child is traveling with a group, such as a sports team, musical ensemble, religious organization, or on a school trip.

It is recommended that the person accompanying the child, or the child carry the original signed Permission to Travel Letter rather than a copy. This will reduce the likelihood of any doubts regarding the authenticity of the document.

It is important to note that the legal definition of a minor differs from one country to another. Therefore, Permission to Travel Letters are recommended for any individual under the age of 20.

To ensure a problem free travel experience when accompanied by a child for whom you are the sole parent or guardian, it is recommended to carry a document, in addition to the Permission to Travel Letter, which verifies your status as the child’s only parent or guardian. This may include a long form birth certificate that clearly identifies you as the sole parent.

In Canada, a Permission to Travel Letter is not mandatory; however, it can facilitate travel for Canadian children as it may be requested by immigration authorities upon entering or departing a foreign country, or by Canadian authorities or airline agents upon re-entry to Canada.

Contents of a Permission to Travel Letter

When writing a permission to travel letter, it is important to include the child’s name as it appears in travel documentation, the names and contact information of parents or guardians, and the name and relationship of the accompanying person. Additionally, it is necessary to provide information on the destination and duration of the trip, such as the address where the child will be staying and departure and arrival dates.

Depending on the situation, one or multiple letters may be used. For instance, if neither parent is accompanying the child, both parents can sign one letter, or each parent can sign a separate letter. Children from the same family who are travelling together for the entirety of the trip may be listed on one letter, while separate letters are recommended if the children will be travelling separately for part of the trip.

Generally, a separate Permission to Travel letter is required for each trip a child takes. In cases where specific dates are unknown or for frequent cross-border trips, it is advisable to consult a lawyer.

Signing the Permission to Travel Letter

For a child travelling outside Canada, the Permission to Travel Letter requires signatures from parents who are married or in a common law relationship but are not accompanying the child. In the case of separated or divorced parents who are not accompanying the child, the permission to travel letter should be signed by the parent who has custody of the child or guardianship of the child. Additionally, a court order or agreement may dictate who needs to sign the letter for a child travelling abroad.

It is permissible for any adult to witness the signing of a permission to travel letter, however, it is highly advisable to have a lawyer or notary public witness and sign the letter. This will ensure that border officials are less likely to question the authenticity of the document.

If your child will be travelling abroad without both parents, the Lawyers at Malicki Sanchez would be happy to prepare a Permission to Travel Letter or notarize a letter you have prepared.

written by Alfredo Figueroa

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Travelling Outside of Canada With Minor Children: Travel Consent Letters

With ongoing political turmoil south of the border, continued uncertainty with respect to who may be allowed to enter the U.S.A, and consistent stories of Canadians being turned away at the American border for insufficient documentation or other reasons, travel outside of Canada is becoming a top of mind issue to many. This may be particularly anxiety-inducing for parents who are travelling alone with minor children, or parents whose children may be travelling without them.

In order to avoid potential problems with international travel, travel consent letters are strongly recommended. This week, we explore some common questions that arise with respect to these letters.

Who Should Consider a Travel Consent Letter

Travel consent letters should be obtained where:

A minor child (i.e- in Ontario, child under the age of 18) will be travelling alone;
A minor child will be travelling without their parents or custodial guardians but with a coach, grandparent or other family member, friends, or others;
A minor child who will be travelling with only one of their parents.

A travel consent letter demonstrates that children travelling have permission to travel from every parent or guardian who is not accompanying them.

Are Travel Consent Letters Mandatory?

Travel consent letters are not mandatory and there is no legal requirement to obtain one; however, the letters are highly recommended by both family lawyers and the Government of Canada.

A travel consent letter may be requested at any time during your trip by immigration authorities/border agents when you enter or exit a foreign country, by airline employees, or by Canadian officials when you re-enter the country.

If you are asked to produce a letter and you do not have one, your entry or exit from another country may be refused, or your trip may be delayed.

Who Should Sign the Travel Consent Letter?

The travel consent letter should be signed by parents who are not accompanying children on the trip:

One or both parents who are married, or common law, and live with the child;
One or both parents who are separated, divorced, or do not live together;
One or more individuals (or organizations) with guardianship rights and responsibility for care of the child (for example, foster parents);
Anyone who is obligated, by court order, to sign a travel consent letter.

What If I Have Sole Custody?

Even where a parent has sole custody of a child, it is still strongly recommended that a travel consent letter is signed by the parent with custodial rights and the parent with access (i.e.- visitation) rights.

What If My Ex Has Been Denied Access Rights?

In situations where a parent has been denied access rights by court order, the parent with full or sole custody does not require a travel consent letter from the other parent. However, the parent with custody should carry a copy of the court order when travelling outside of Canada to minimize any potential problems.

What If My Ex Does Not Want to Sign a Travel Consent Letter?

If your former spouse does not want to sign a travel consent letter, you should seek the advice of your family lawyer. You may also seek help from your parenting coordinator (if you have one), a mediator, or apply for an order from a Family Court. Generally, judges will permit parents to travel alone with children, unless the trip will present a danger to the child (i.e.- if the travel is to a war zone or other dangerous location, or where there is a concern that a travelling parent will not return to Canada with the child ).

The Government of Canada has published a helpful resource for parents with questions about international travel for children; however, your best source of information about international travel with children is your family lawyer.

If you have questions about travelling with your child, about travel consent letters, or if you would like a travel consent letter drafted and notarized, contact Windsor family lawyer Jason P. Howie at 519.973.1500 or online . We regularly assist clients with issues related to separation and divorce and children, including child custody and support , and shared parenting .

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For questions that only a family law lawyer can answer, contact Johnson Miller Family Lawyers at 519.973.1500 or contact us online . Johnson Miller Family Lawyers has been a fixture of the family law community of Windsor and Essex County for over 25 years, and so understandably, many prospective clients come to the firm through referrals from current or past clients, and also through referrals from lawyers, accountants, medical professionals and marriage counsellors.

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

Article By: Kyle McCarthy

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

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

Travel Documents and Travel Consent Letters Help Protect our Kids

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get Blank Permission to Travel, Minors & Medical Authorization Forms

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

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

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

Document requesters

Essential Documents

Canada Requirements for Minor Consent Letters

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visas & Travel Documents for Minors

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Permission To Travel or Consent to Travel Letters Do

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

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

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

Childrens Travel Permission Letters Required for Cruises Too

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

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

Obtaining a Free Permission to Travel Letter Form

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

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

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

Travel Prepared to Avoid Confusion

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

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

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

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

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

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

And most importantly, safe there and safe home!

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Really informative article. thanks!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

thanks for the information

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We replied: “Hello Colleen,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safe travels!

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

FTF Reply, posted by Admin:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FTF is posting this reply for general interest:

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

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

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

Sent by reader W.T.

Good morning,

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

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

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

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

thanks, Ashley

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

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

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

Hello Jose,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Valuable information and excellent design you got here! I would like to thank you for sharing your thoughts and time into the stuff you post!! Thumbs up!

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

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

Valuable information! Looking forward to seeing your notes posted.

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Canada Recommended Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad

Get Canada Recommended Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad

For instructions and an interactive form you can use to create a customized letter, visit travel.gc.ca/letter. To whom it may concern, , I / We, full name(s) of parent(s) / person(s) / organization giving consent Address: street address, city province/state, country Telephone and email: telephone email am / are the parent(s), legal guardian(s) or other authorized person(s) or organization with custody rights, access rights or parental authority over the following child: Information about t.

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How to fill and sign consent letter for travel, how to edit child travel consent canada, how to fill out and sign letter of consent for child to travel online.

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Video instructions and help with filling out and completing canada travelling form

Canadian consent letter faq, what documents does a child need to travel to canada.

Entry into Canada: Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry both proof of citizenship and proof of identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. Children under 16 need only present proof of U.S. citizenship.

How do I write a letter of permission for my child to travel?

The permission letter should give the child's name, date of birth, the dates of travel, the name of the adult companion, the allowed travel destinations and the reason for travel. Contact phone numbers for both parents, their full names and their signatures should also be included.

Do you need a notarized letter to travel with child to Canada?

Can one parent take a child to Canada?

Children under the age of 18 are considered minors in Canada. They must follow the same rules to enter Canada as any other visitor. Minors who try to enter Canada without the proper documents, or who are with adults other than their parents or legal guardian(s), will be checked more closely.

Do I need a notarized letter to travel with my child?

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.

How do I write a letter of consent for travel?

To whom it may concern; I/We, [Full Name of both parents, if applicable], am/are the [lawful guardian(s), parental authority] of my/our son, [Child's Full Name], born on [DOB], passport number [passport number and expiration date], traveling to [Location], to travel under the supervision of the [Name of Airline] staff.

Do you need a consent letter to travel within Canada?

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.

How do I write a letter of permission for travel?

Introduce yourself, status (guardian/parent) and adult accompanying him/her. Give a strong reason or case for seeking permission. Give detailed points and facts on the nature of her visit and time of stay. Provide her details like passports, medical records (if he/she has a condition) if needed.

What does a child need to cross the border into Canada?

All children returning to the United States from Canada by air must hold a valid U.S. passport. Minors who are under the age of 16 and crossing the border by land or sea may present a government-issued birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad or naturalization certificate to reenter the country.

Minors who are under the age of 16 and crossing the border by land or sea may present a government-issued birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad or naturalization certificate to reenter the country. Older children must present a passport, passport card, an enhanced driver's license or a NEXUS card.

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McGill protesters set up first anti-Israel encampment in Canada

Over a hundred students set up tents and formed a human circle near the center of campus with banners proclaiming, 'Intifada until victory,' and demanding the administration cut ties to Israel

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The first anti-Israel encampment in Canada sprung up on McGill University’s campus on Saturday afternoon.

Over a hundred students set up tents and formed a human circle near the center of campus with banners proclaiming, “Intifada until victory,” and demanding the administration cut ties to Israel.

The demonstrations are co-led by the Montreal chapter of the Palestinian Youth Movement, the same group which praised the October 7 massacres committed by Hamas as “active decolonization of Palestinian land.” Another organizer, Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights (SPHR), called for the release of convicted terrorist Walid Daqqah and celebrated the Oct. 7 attacks as “resistance…with one goal: liberation.”

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The encampments came despite the university’s that “encampments are not permitted on our campus.”

“We support the rights of our campus community to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly within the bounds of McGill’s policies and the law. We also have a duty to create a respectful environment that creates the optimal conditions for carrying out our academic mission and that protects the health and safety of our community,” a mass email sent Saturday morning to students explained.

"Intifada until victory" on a sign at the base of @mcgillu This stain won't wash clean. pic.twitter.com/zzRr2xTqcO — Terry Newman (@TLNewmanMTL) April 28, 2024

Get a dash of perspective along with the trending news of the day in a very readable format.

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The demonstrations drew the condemnation of neighbouring Mount Royal MP Anthony Housefather. “I’ve watched in horror what is happening at Columbia University,” the Liberal Party member said in a video statement released Saturday night.

“Where it seemed that university administrations were incapable of acting when their codes of conduct were being violated and where other students were denied the right to feel safe on campuses.

“Having peaceful demonstrations is a protected Charter right in Canada,” Housefather continued. “But setting up encampments on college campuses is a violation of pretty much every code of conduct, including that of McGill University.”

The Liberal MP demanded administrators, local law enforcement, and city leaders remove the encampment ahead of final exams to ensure student safety.

I call on the @mcgillu administration to act. Final exams are coming up and all students need to feel safe on campus. pic.twitter.com/Wn8VLZA0TD — Anthony Housefather (@AHousefather) April 28, 2024

Former McGill alumni and Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center leader Michael Levitt publicly requested “the administration to do everything in its power to protect the safety of its Jewish students & faculty…(from the) intimidation that’s been a hallmark of these encampments on campuses across the US.”

In February, anti-Israel students at McGill singled out the Bronfman Building, named after a prominent Montreal Jewish philanthropist, blocking the entrance to the facilities, citing its alleged “long history of complicity in the occupation of Palestine.”

Fellow Liberal Montreal MP Marc Miller denounced the “so-called ‘blockade,'” calling it “a despicable act.”

“Legitimate protest doesn’t include this type of outrageous behaviour,” the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship wrote.

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Canada Recommended Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad
Canada Authorization ID Form
Canada Recommended Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad
Canada Consent Form
Sample Letter of Consent to Travel With One Parent
Recommended Consent Letter For Child Travelling Abroad Pdf

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Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad
A consent letter should be used for all cross-border travel when a child is travelling: This includes day trips and travel where a child will be with only 1 parent for part of a trip. For example, a child will leave Canada with both parents but will return with only 1 parent. A consent letter is not a legal requirement in Canada, but it can ...
PDF Recommended Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad
The following sample consent letter, provided by Global Affairs Canada, can be modified to meet your specific needs. For instructions and an interactive form you can use to create a customized letter, visit travel.gc.ca/letter. To whom it may concern, I / We,, full name(s) of parent(s) / person(s) / organization giving consent Address:
Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad
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 ...
Travel and identification documents for entering Canada
To avoid delays, have your consent letter notarized to support its authenticity. For more information on consent letters and to download an interactive form, visit Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad. More information. Children and travel; Our Missing Children program; International visitors to Canada. Check Travel health ...
Children and travel
Children and travel outside Canada, letters of consent for children to travel without a parent, adopting a child from a foreign country and how a child born outside Canada can obtain Canadian citizenship. ... Documents needed by children travelling outside Canada, including the consent letter for children travelling without both parents.
Travel Consent Letter
A Travel Consent Letter is used when a child is travelling alone, with only one parent/legal guardian, or with an authorized group. This document notifies authorities or other interested parties that a parent or legal guardian has given their consent for the child to travel without them. This document can be used both for domestic travel inside Canada or international travel across country ...
Minor children travelling to Canada
Children under the age of 18 are considered minors in Canada. They must follow the same rules to enter Canada as any other visitor. Minors who try to enter Canada without the proper documents, or who are with adults other than their parents or legal guardian (s), will be checked more closely. Border services officers are on alert for children ...
PDF The consent letter should be signed children
return to Canada. Make sure you have a consent letter for children travelling abroad or a court order, if required, if a child is travelling abroad alone, without all parents or legal guardians, or with friends, relatives or a group. A consent letter demonstrates that the child has permission to travel abroad, away from parent(s) or
Travel documents for children
Travel documents for children. Canadian children need a Canadian passport when travelling outside Canada. They may also need the following documents: Consent letter that confirms the child has permission to travel outside Canada (for example, when taking a trip alone or with only 1 parent or guardian) Provincial birth certificate.
PDF Consent Letter
Title: Recommended Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad / Lettre de consentement recommandée pour un enfant voyageant à l'étranger
2. Get a travel consent letter
Next Steps. 1. Tell your partner about your travel plans 2. Get a travel consent letter 3. Get your documents in order 4. Check what documents the other country requires 5. Get help if your partner doesn't agree. It's a good idea to get a travel consent letter from your partner that says they agree to let you travel with your child. Canada ...
All About Consent to Travel Letters
The Government of Canada strongly recommends that Canadian children under the age of majority carry a consent to travel letter if they are travelling abroad alone, with only one parent or guardian, with friends or relatives, or with a group. A consent to travel letter is recommended for all cross-border travel, even for a day trip.
Travel Consent Letters: What They Are and How They Work
A travel consent letter is a document signed by one or both parents granting their consent for their child to travel with the other parent (or another person). Travel consent letters are commonly used by separated parties (for example, where one parent intends to take the child or children on holiday). Still, they may also be needed in the ...
Importance of a consent letter for children travelling without both
A consent letter is not a legal requirement in Canada, but it can simplify travel for Canadian children, as it may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving a foreign country or by Canadian officials when re-entering Canada. The letter demonstrates that Canadian children have permission to travel abroad from parents or ...
International travel documents for children
Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent. Children (under age 16) of U.S. citizens arriving by land or sea from Canada or Mexico may present their original or a copy of their birth certificate, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
Travel Consent Letter: Is It Legally Required?
A notarization for the letter is not a legal requirement, but it is highly recommended by the Canadian government. Because notaries have the legal power to verify that signatures are true and genuine, your consent to travel letter is more likely to be accepted as authentic by immigration authorities. Please do not sign any documents required to ...
Customizable Child Travel Consent Form (Canada)
To write your Child Travel Consent, be prepared with the following information: 1. Travel details. Add a brief description of the child's travel plans, including: The city and country the child will visit. Their accommodations. The start and end dates of the trip. 2.
I am travelling with my minor child without my spouse. What documents
A copy of the child's birth certificate. A letter of authorization signed by the parent who is not travelling, containing their address and telephone number, in English or French if possible, and. A photocopy of the non-accompanying parent's signed passport or national identity card. If the parents are separated or divorced, and share ...
Permission to Travel
Parents should obtain a Permission to Travel Letter for all international travel. This includes both day trips and longer journeys. Permission to Travel Letters are also recommended where a child is accompanied by only one parent for a portion of the trip. For instance, a child may depart Canada with both parents but return with only one parent.
Travelling Outside of Canada With Minor Children: Travel Consent Letters
Travel consent letters are not mandatory and there is no legal requirement to obtain one; however, the letters are highly recommended by both family lawyers and the Government of Canada. A travel consent letter may be requested at any time during your trip by immigration authorities/border agents when you enter or exit a foreign country, by ...
Learn More About Travel Permission and Travel Consent Letters for Kids
The travel consent letter also covers a child traveling internationally with only one birth parent, one guardian, grandparents or other adults. This written and notarized Permission to Travel Letter from both birth parents, same sex couples, or legal guardians is required to enter many countries, even on a cruise ship's shore excursions.
Canada Recommended Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad
For instructions and an interactive form you can use to create a customized letter, visit travel.gc.ca/letter. To whom it may concern, , I / We, full name(s) of parent(s) / person(s) / organization giving consent Address: street address, city province/state, country Telephone and email: telephone email am / are the parent(s), legal guardian(s) or other authorized person(s) or organization with ...
PDF Recommended Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad
The following sample consent letter, provided by Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada, can be modified to meet your specific needs. For instructions and an interactive form you can use to create a customized letter, visit travel.gc.ca/letter. To whom it may concern, I / We,, full name(s) of parent(s) / person(s) / organization giving ...
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How to Write a Travel Nurse Cover Letter (With Examples)
Travel nurse cover letter example To help you learn more about cover letters, here is a sample cover letter for a travel nurse: Chuck Ferris Vancouver, BC 613-555-0123 [email protected] March 19, 2024 Bob Richardson Wavewood Nurses Dear Mr. Richardson, I am writing to express my interest in the travel nurse position advertised on your website. As a registered nurse with six years of ...

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Travel and identification documents for entering Canada

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Travel Consent Letter

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Minor children travelling to Canada

Minor children entering Canada as a visitor

If a minor child is travelling alone

If a minor child is travelling with one parent only

If the parents are separated or divorced and share custody of the child

If the parents are separated or divorced and one of them has sole custody of the child

If one of the child’s parents is deceased

If a minor child is travelling with a legal guardian or adoptive parents

If a minor child is travelling with a person other than their parents or legal guardian

Minor children entering Canada to study

eTA for family members

Inadmissibility

Top questions about visiting Canada

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2. Get a travel consent letter

All About Consent to Travel Letters

What is a consent to travel letter?

Why should you use a consent to travel letter?

How can I get a consent to travel letter?

Should my consent to travel letter be notarized?

Can consent to travel letters be notarized electronically?

How to Complete the Solemn Declaration for Residents of Canada Returning from Compassionate Travel

Why You Need a Travel Consent Letter When Travelling with Your Child

What is a Travel Consent Letter?

What Does a Travel Consent Letter Do?

What Information Should a Travel Consent Letter Contain?

Who Can Sign or Witness a Travel Consent Letter?

What Other Documents Do I Need?

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International travel documents for children

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U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Have a question?

Travel Consent Letter: Is It Legally Required?

What Is a Travel Consent Letter?

Is a Travel Consent Letter Legally Required?

Do I Need to Notarize a Travel Consent Letter?

Can This Letter Be Notarized Online?

When Is A Travel Consent Letter Required?

Minors Travelling within Canada

Can You Use a Copy of the Consent Letter Or Original?

At What Age Consent Letter Is Not Required?

What Should a Child Travel Consent Letter Contain?

Who Should Sign the Consent Letter?

If Parents Separated or Divorced

If One of The Parents Is Deceased?

Should Witness Sign a Consent Letter?

What Are the Other Names for the Document?

Does the Length of the Trip Matter?

Do Teens Need Travel Consent Letters?

What If There Is Not a Father On the Birth Certificate?

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1. Travel details

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