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Free Minor Travel Consent Form

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

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

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

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

How to Use the Minor Travel Consent Form

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

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

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

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

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

The Legal Implications of Traveling Without a Minor Consent Form

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

1. International Legal Considerations:

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

2. Domestic Legal Implications:

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

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

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

Minor Travel Consent Form Notary Requirements

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

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

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

Unaccompanied Minors

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

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

More Tips for Parents of Minors Traveling Abroad

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

Be Proactive In Shared Custody Situations

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

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

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

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

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

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

Use a Parent-Controlled Debit Card

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

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

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

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

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Please contact us if you have any travel related questions - especially ones about passports and visa expediting. We usually respond to e-mails within 24 hours, oftentimes the same day. We are committed to working with you until you get the answer you need.

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Free Parental Consent Forms for Minors Traveling Alone

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

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

What Is a Child Travel Consent Form?

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

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

The document should include:

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

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

What Is a Child Medical Consent Form?

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

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

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

Free Child Travel Consent LetterFrom LawDepot.com

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

Free Child Travel Consent Letter From eForms.com

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

Free Child Travel Consent Letter From RocketLawyer.com

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

Free Child Travel Consent Letter From LegalTemplates.net

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

Required Documents for International Travel With Minors

Southwest Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy

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How the Airlines Handle Unaccompanied Minors

Parent Authorization Letter for Minors Traveling to Mexico

How to Find Your Nearest US Passport Office

Passports and Mexico Entry Requirements for Children

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

Single Parent Travel Tips and Advice

How to Travel to Cuba If You Are an American

Do Children Need a Passport to Visit Canada?

Booking a Baby Bassinet for Your Flight

Marriage Laws for Caribbean Destination Weddings

North American Airlines on Rules for Overweight Passengers

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

Car Seat Policies for the Top 15 North American Airlines

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Travel Consent Form

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A Travel Consent Form is used when a child is traveling 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 the United States 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 abduction, an immigration officer, airline, or travel company may ask parents to provide some form of letter of consent if a minor child is traveling 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 travel is happening internationally, describe the circumstances of their travel and the people who will be accompanying them, and outline the travel itinerary. This document also includes the option to describe the child's allergies or special medical needs . 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. To qualify as a witness, a person must be 18 years of age or older and of sound mind and body to sign an official document.

Traveling 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 U.S Customs and Border Protection agents may detain a child if they suspect an abduction or kidnapping has taken place. By traveling with a Travel Consent Form, these officers will have necessary contact information and further assurance that no abduction or kidnapping has taken place.

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

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

Guides to help you

• Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Necessary Documents when Traveling with a Child
• Creating a Child Travel Consent Form

Other names for the document:

Child Travel Consent Letter, Minor Travel Consent Form, Travel Permission Letter, Consent Letter for International Travel, Children's International Travel Consent Letter

Country: United States

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Free Child Travel Consent Form

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What Is a Minor Travel Consent Form

When do i need child travel consent, how to write a consent letter for a child to travel, minor travel consent form sample, other child related documents, child travel consent faqs.

A Minor Travel Consent Form is a written authorization for a child to travel without a parent or guardian.

This legal document is needed when a child travels for a school trip or with a group. It’s also needed when a minor travels with an adult that isn’t their parent or guardian.

The document is also vital if a minor is traveling alone .

There are 2 types of travel that a Travel Consent Form for Minors should be used:

• Domestic Travel : Authorities at locations such as airports and bus stations might question the child. Having the letter will clear any doubts that security might have.
• International Travel : On many occasions, a minor is required to show written permission from parents to be allowed to travel internationally. Using the Consent Form should give them the ability to travel abroad.

A Travel Consent Form for Minors also goes by a few different titles , such as:

• Minor Travel Consent Form.
• Travel Permission Letter.
• Parental Consent Form.
• Letter for Children Traveling Abroad.

LawDistrict provides a Printable Child Travel Consent Form template. Easily create your document to give your child permission to travel without you.

Whenever a minor travels without a parent or guardian, they should have a Child Consent Form.

You should give your child permission when he or she is going to:

• Travel alone.
• Visiting a parent.
• Visit a family member or friend.
• Travel with a group.

When a child has separated parents, it is normal for them to travel more often.

It’s also wise to write a Letter of Consent for a child to travel with grandparents .

Keep a Minor Travel Consent Form PDF available. This will allow them to see their other parent and maintain the process simple.

To write a consent letter, you need to understand the proper structure of the document .

It is essential to know how to fill out a Minor Travel Consent Form .

We have prepared easy to follow instructions below . With these steps, you can complete your valid travel permission.

Download our Printable Child Consent Form template.

Fill in any details of the child’s allergies or illnesses.

Write the minor’s name , date of birth, place of birth and passport information.

Include your name , whether you are the parent or guardian. Add all custodial details and passport information.

Fill in your contact details and any other parent or guardian that is not traveling with the minor.

Write where the child’s destination is and the period he or she will be traveling.

Sign the Minor Travel Consent Form.

Notarizing a Consent Letter for a Child to Travel

When you make your document, you might be wondering if the document is official.

Some authorities require the letter to be notarized .

Your child may not be able to travel or allowed into a country without the document being notarized.

Use our template to create a Minor Travel Consent Form and get it signed by a notary before your child travels.

Before writing your document, review a sample document of a Minor Travel Consent Form .

Below, we have included an example of the document to make the writing process much simpler.

There are certain documents similar to a Minor Travel Consent Form . Understanding the purpose of these documents can help you in similar situations.

• Child Medical Consent Form : This legal document permits another adult to decide on healthcare treatments for a minor.
• Child Power of Attorney : This document grant a trusted individual the power to make important decisions on your child’s behalf.
• Divorce Agreement : This document sets the terms for how assets are separated during a divorce. It also includes visitation rights for each parent.
• Separation Agreement : Similar to a Divorce Agreement, this legal document can decide on a minor’s travel arrangements.

Reviewing this document can clear up any future doubts regarding permissions for minors.

A Child Travel Consent Form is an extremely important document if your child needs to make a trip with only one parent or without either parent .

There are specific requirements that must be met to ensure that the form is valid, which can lead to confusion regarding how to use the document correctly.

We have answered some of the most-asked questions regarding Child Travel Consent Forms.

By doing this, we hope to clarify any doubts you may still have about this document.

Read the answers to the queries below.

Can I Travel with My Child Without the Father’s Consent?

To aid in preventing child abductions, both parents must sign a Child Travel Consent Letter .

This is essential if a child is going to travel with only one parent internationally .

However, you may be in a special situation that leaves you asking yourself: is it possible to travel with my child without the father’s consent or the mother’s consent?

Certain circumstances allow for only one parent to sign the Minor Travel Consent Form.

Only one of the parent’s signatures will be necessary if: one parent has sole custody of the child, or one of the parents is deceased.

If the other parent is deceased, certain airlines or countries may request to see the death certificate of the parent who has passed away.

Can a Minor Travel to the US without Parents?

A minor can travel to the United States without being accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

However, written permission is needed, along with the correct travel documents , such as a valid passport.

In the case of air travel, most airlines in the United States will allow unaccompanied children to travel if they are at least 5 years old .

Airlines offer a service for children between the ages of 5 and 14 who travel without their parents.

If a minor is going to enter the United States alone, they must have a Child Travel Consent Form with them , signed and notarized.

Do I Need to Notarize a Child Travel Consent to Travel Internationally?

Getting a Child Travel Consent form notarized before international travel is recommended by the United States Customs and Border Protection .

Any minor that has not yet turned 16 should have their Minor Travel Consent Form notarized.

Having the document notarized will add to its legitimacy, which means it will be less likely for U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents to doubt the form’s authenticity.

Signing requirements vary by country , so it is a good idea to have your signatures notarized.

You are only a few steps away from your own Child Travel Consent Form !

Preview of your Child Travel Consent

   This authorization shall remain in effect from _________ to _____ . During that period, the child(ren) will be staying at _______ . My child(ren) will be traveling with the herein subscribing parent or guardian. I am the sole custodial parent of the child and do not legally require the consent of any other person to travel with the child. I am carrying an _______________________ (passport nationality) passport numbered , issued by _______________________ on the following date: ___________________ . If there are any questions regarding this document, I may be reached at:             Signed on this ________ day of ______________ , . _________________________ _______ _______ Witness Signature _________________________ Witness Name

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Travel Consent Form for Minors

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Free Travel Consent Form for Minors Template

Travel consent forms for minors provide permission for children to take a trip without being accompanied by their parents or guardians.

Airlines, border control, and other organizations often require a consent form, which should include the child’s name, age, destination, and the name of the accompanying adult, as well as contact information for the parents or legal guardians.

To be valid, it may need to be notarized by a public notary.

What information should be included in a Travel Consent Form for Minors?

When it comes to minors traveling, a Travel Consent Form should contain comprehensive information about their journey plans and the adults who will be travelingwith them.

The form should include the minor’s full name, where they’re going, when they’re traveling, and the contact data of the people they’re with. It should also consist of the guardian’s full name, address, and contact info.

Last but not least, the form must contain the legal guardian’s signature, allowing the minor to travel with the specified persons.

In summary, the form should include:

• Name of the child, age, traveling dates, destination, and contact details of accompanying adult and parent/legal guardian
• Details of any medical conditions, allergies, medication, and special needs
• Duration of travel, mode of transport, and cost of trip
• Signed by both parent/legal guardian and accompanying adult

Who is responsible for making sure the Travel Consent Form is filled out correctly?

The person legally in charge of the child is responsible for making sure the Travel Consent Form is filled out correctly. If the child is flying alone, then the form must be signed off by both custodial guardians.

It is vital that the form is completed correctly, since the document is giving consent for the minor to travel without an adult.

How do I write a Travel Consent Form for minors using a template?

Creating a Travel Consent Form for minors with a template like this one is a great way to make sure all the important info is included. But it is also important to make sure it’s suitable for the airline or transport provider. Also, both guardians need to sign it.

In some cases, you may need to attach proof, like photocopies of passports, or even a letter from the parent not going on the trip.

Don’t know what to do? Then you should check with the trip organizer who will advise you on what is required and will often provide you with a copy of their own child consent form.

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Travel Consent Form for Minors Template

Below you can see a sample of the Travel Consent Form for Minors template:

Travel Consent Form for Minors FAQs

What is a travel consent form.

A Travel Consent Form is a document that grants permission for a child to travel without their parents or legal guardians. It's often required by airlines, border control, and other organizations to ensure the child’s safety during the trip.

Who should sign the Travel Consent Form for Minors?

The form must be signed by the legal guardian(s) of the child and, if required, by the adult accompanying the child during the travel.

What details are essential to include in the form?

Essential details include the child's full name, age, travel dates, destination, contact details of the accompanying adult, guardian's full name, address, contact info, and any relevant medical information.

What if the child has medical conditions or special needs?

Details of any medical conditions, allergies, medication, and special needs should be clearly stated in the form to ensure proper care during the travel.

Can this form be used for all airlines and transport providers?

While the template may be generally acceptable, it's important to check with specific airlines or transportation providers as they may have additional requirements or specific forms that need to be completed instead.

How do I know if my form is filled out correctly?

It's advisable to consult with the trip organizer to ensure all necessary details are correctly included and the form meets all requirements.

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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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Home Resources Personal & Family What Documents Minors Need When Traveling

What Documents Minors Need When Traveling

Updated August 24, 2023 | Written by Gold Tetsola Reviewed by Susan Chai, Esq.

Avoiding any situation that could prevent or slow down your child’s authorized travel and keeping their safety is preferable. You should prepare the required documents if your child is:

• Traveling with only one parent
• Visiting parents who are separated
• Traveling alone because one parent has passed away
• Traveling with a grandparent, aunt, uncle, adult sibling, or babysitter
• Attending a school trip with teachers or chaperones

You should also remember any travel limitations the court orders if you are a single parent with sole legal custody. For example, the court may decide the signature of the co-parent is still required when you want to travel abroad with your child.

Other countries may have specific rules for minor travel for international travel, so it’s advisable to check the destination country’s requirements before traveling .

You should also check with your airline about specific travel regulations for children.

Even if children traveling without their parents in the US generally do not require their parent’s written permission , it is better to be prepared as custody arrangements sometimes might restrict the right to travel. While this is the case with domestic travel, international travel is subject to more ID and consent requirements than domestic travel. Many foreign countries have tight requirements on documentation for adults traveling with minors who do not share a last name.

Preparing all these travel papers seems challenging and exhausting, but you should be ready to have an unpainful and enjoyable journey.

Child Travel Consent Form

A child travel consent form legally grants a minor aged 5-17 permission to travel without their parent(s) or legal guardian(s). The form is strongly recommended if a child travels alone, with only one parent or an authorized adult. Travel can occur either across state lines or across country borders.

Adults should formally document that they are authorized to travel with a child that is not their own when traveling with children. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have the right to request documentation, so it is best to be ready with a child travel consent form.

If only one parent has custody of the child, the parent traveling with the child might consider bringing certified copies of the following supporting paperwork:

• Court decision
• Death certificate
• A birth certificate naming only one parent
• Custody papers documenting the guardian has legal custody
• Notarized statement or affidavit if one of the legal parents is absent

What Should be Included in a Child Travel Consent Form?

Including all the necessary identifying information is essential to alert adults that the child has legal permission to travel alone or with named others. Our Child Travel Consent form asks simple questions that help you complete the document step-by-step.

Child’s Personal Information

Children under 18 should travel with an authorized adult or have special permission documented in a consent form. Otherwise, law enforcement officers will consider such children unaccompanied minors.

Parents/Legal Guardians Permission

The parent or legal guardian who has custody of the child must permit the child to travel alone or with another parent, family member, or other adult. Parents or legal guardians must sign the minor travel consent form if the child travels alone.

Travel Details

The child travel consent form should also spell out the following details:

• Where  the child is traveling to (final destination)
• When  the child will be traveling and returning
• Why  the child is on a journey with another adult or by themselves
• Who  the responsible adult is, if anyone, that will be traveling with them

Child’s Health Details

This form may also cover the child’s food allergies, medical conditions, or special needs . It should provide clear names and numbers for the parents or emergency contacts if needed.

A non-traveling parent should sign the document to authorize the child’s travel.

Can you use the same travel consent form for multiple trips?

Yes, you can use the same travel consent form for multiple trips. If your minor child frequently travels or crosses a border, the CBP states the letter should not be over one year old. It is also recommended to have the letter in English.

Do I need a travel consent form if I travel with my child?

You should have a travel consent form if you’re traveling with your child, particularly when only one parent is traveling. You will need a note from the co-parent unless both of you accompany the child. However, only your signature is required if you have sole legal custody of the child.

What Should be Included in a Minor Medical Consent Form?

A Minor Medical Consent Form should contain the following:

Child’s Basic Information

It should contain the child’s personal information, including the name, birth date, place of birth, passport or ID number, and contact details.

Parent/Legal Guardian Information

Adding parent’s/legal guardian’s information is also necessary for a child medical consent form. It should include the parent’s/guardian’s full name and contact information, such as their address and phone number.

Caregiver’s Identity

You should provide the name of the caregiver’s identity authorized to care for the child in case they need medical treatment and a relationship with the child.

Information Concerning the Minor’s Health

To help medical and healthcare professionals, specify known medical conditions and allergies, current medications, vaccine history, and emergency contact information.

Health Insurance Details

It is optional, but provide the insurance company name, policy/group number, and policyholder’s name if you decide to add the details about health insurance.

ID or Proof of Relationship with the Child

Whether the child is traveling with her parents, another adult, or a group, taking the child’s birth certificate with you on every trip is advisable to indicate the exact date of birth, place of birth, and full name.

To confirm that the child is not a kidnapping victim or a custody dispute, border officers need copies of the adoption certificates or legal guardianship paperwork.

For international travel, minors must carry a passport regardless of how young and whether they’re traveling alone, with a parent, or with another adult companion.

A child must apply for a passport personally, and a parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to the passport office and sign the required documents before a passport agent. If one parent cannot appear, that parent must submit a notarized Statement of Consent ( Form DS-3053 ).

Travel to Canada and Mexico doesn’t require a child’s passport by land or sea.

Reduce Stress When Traveling!

If you have the required papers, you and your family will feel more at peace on your vacation, allowing you to enjoy your trip with a child and worry less about it. Use Legal Templates to create a child travel consent form and a child medical consent form!

Gold Tetsola

Personal & Family Editor

Gold Tetsola is a staff writer at LegalTemplates, his BA in English Literature & Language inspires him to navigate and simplify the complex issues of personal and family law.

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Travel Consent Form (English / Spanish)

• Parental Consent Form
• Travel Consent Form (English/Spanish)

A Travel Consent Form is used when a child is traveling internationally without both parents or legal guardians. It serves as permission for the child to travel with a designated adult. It may be issued in both English and Spanish to accommodate different languages.

Either the parent or legal guardian of a minor child would typically file the travel consent form, which can be filled out in either English or Spanish.

Q: What is a travel consent form?A: A travel consent form is a document that gives permission for a child to travel without one or both parents.

Q: Why do I need a travel consent form?A: A travel consent form is required when a child is traveling without one or both parents to prove that they have permission to do so.

Q: Who needs to sign a travel consent form?A: The parent or legal guardian of the child needs to sign the travel consent form.

Q: Is a travel consent form required for domestic travel?A: A travel consent form is generally not required for domestic travel within the United States, but it can be helpful to have one.

Q: Do I need to notarize a travel consent form?A: Notarization requirements for travel consent forms may vary, but it is generally a good idea to have the form notarized as it adds an extra level of validity.

Q: Can a travel consent form be in a language other than English?A: Yes, a travel consent form can be in a language other than English. However, it is recommended to have a bilingual form that includes both English and the other language.

Q: How long is a travel consent form valid for?A: The validity of a travel consent form can vary, but it is generally recommended to have a new form for each trip as some authorities may require a recently dated form.

Q: Do I need a travel consent form if the child has a passport?A: Having a passport does not negate the need for a travel consent form. It is still recommended to have one, especially if the child is traveling without both parents.

Q: Can a single parent travel with a child without a travel consent form?A: It is generally recommended for a single parent traveling with a child to have a travel consent form, especially if there is a chance of encountering any questioning or issues during travel.

Download Travel Consent Form (English / Spanish)

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Legal Disclaimer: The information provided on TemplateRoller.com is for general and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. All information is provided in good faith, however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind regarding its accuracy, validity, reliability, or completeness. Consult with the appropriate professionals before taking any legal action. TemplateRoller.com will not be liable for loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of using the information provided on the site.

Update April 12, 2024

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Child Travel Consent Letter (Free!)

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

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

Copyright © 2010-2024 | childtravelconsent.com by Documatica Legal Forms

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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

If your child needs a Canadian citizenship certificate to get a Canadian passport, you must apply for proof of citizenship .

Other legal documents may be needed depending on family circumstances, including:

• Divorce papers
• Child custody orders or agreements
• Death certificate of a parent or parents

A child travelling as a dual citizen will need a valid Canadian passport to board a flight to or transiting through Canada by air .

The definition of a minor changes from province to province and from country to country.

Before you leave, check the foreign diplomatic mission or consulate in Canada and the Travel Advice and Advisories  for your destination for any specific entry or exit requirements for minors and other laws and regulations that affect children.

Related links

• Air travel with children
• Citizenship and assisted human reproduction and surrogacy arrangements (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)
• International adoption
• International child abductions
• Provincial definitions of a minor   (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)
• Travelling with Children

These cities raised taxes — for child care….

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Bodycam footage shows ct man shooting at another person before hartford officer opens fire, uncategorized, these cities raised taxes — for child care. parents say the free day care ‘changed my life’.

This March 2024 photo provided by The Hechinger Report shows Derrika Richard as she walks her three youngest children to their child care classrooms at Clara’s Little Lambs in New Orleans. (Ariel Gilreath/The Hechinger Report via AP)

In this undated photo provided by The Hechinger Report, a 3-year-old plays in an outdoor classroom at Early Partners, a child care center in New Orleans that participates in City Seats, a tax-funded program that pays for child care. (Ariel Gilreath/The Hechinger Report via AP)

In this undated photo provided by The Hechinger Report, two girls draw during an activity at Early Partners, a child care center in New Orleans. City Seats, a program that pays for families in the parish to receive child care, funds more than a dozen child care slots at Early Partners. (Ariel Gilreath/The Hechinger Report via AP)

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Last summer, Derrika Richard felt stuck. She didn’t have enough money to afford child care for her three youngest children, ages 1, 2 and 3. Yet the demands of caring for them on a daily basis made it impossible for Richard, a hairstylist, to work. One child care assistance program rejected her because she wasn’t working enough. It felt like an unsolvable quandary: Without care, she couldn’t work . And without work, she couldn’t afford care.

But Richard’s life changed in the fall, when, thanks to a new city-funded program for low-income families called City Seats, she enrolled the three children at Clara’s Little Lambs, a child care center in the Westbank neighborhood of New Orleans. For the first time, she’s earning enough to pay her bills and afford online classes.

“It actually paved the way for me to go to school,” Richard said one morning this spring, after walking the three children to their classrooms. City Seats, she said, “changed my life.”

This series on how the child care crisis affects working parents — with a focus on solutions — is produced by the Education Reporting Collaborative , a coalition of eight newsrooms, including The Hechinger Report , AL.com, The Associated Press, The Christian Science Monitor, The Dallas Morning News, Idaho Education News, The Post & Courier, and The Seattle Times.

Last year, New Orleans added more than 1,000 child care seats for low-income families after voters approved a historic property tax increase in 2022. The referendum raised the budget of the program seven-fold — from $3 million to $21 million a year for 20 years. Because Louisiana’s early childhood fund matches money raised locally for child care, the city gets an additional $21 million to help families find care.

New Orleans is part of a growing trend of communities passing ballot measures to expand access to child care. In Whatcom County, Washington, a property tax increase added $10 million for child care and children’s mental health to the county’s annual budget. A marijuana sales tax approved last year by voters in Anchorage, Alaska, will generate more than $5 million for early childhood programs.

The state of Texas has taken a somewhat different tack. In November, voters approved a state constitutional amendment that allows tax relief for qualifying child care providers. Under this provision, cities and counties can choose to exempt a child care center from paying all or some of its property taxes. Dallas was among the first city-and-county combo in Texas to provide the tax break.

The recent local initiatives are focused on younger children — infants and toddlers — more than ever before, said Diane Girouard, a senior state policy analyst with Child Care Aware, a nonprofit research and advocacy group.

“In the past, we saw more of these local or state-driven initiatives focusing on pre-K , but over the last three years, we’ve seen voters approve ballot measures to invest in child care and early learning,” she said.

One reason: People saw the economic impact of a lack of child care during the pandemic , said Olivia Allen, a co-founder of the nonprofit Children’s Funding Project.

“The value of child care and other parts of the care economy became abundantly clear to a lot of business leaders in a painful way,” Allen said.

For some Americans, the child care crisis has continued, keeping them from being able to hold down jobs and advance in their careers . The number of parents who reported missing work because of child care surged in 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 outbreak; it has yet to recede to pre-pandemic levels . In Louisiana, 27% of households with kids under age 5 reported a child care disruption in February or March, according to Census Household Pulse Survey data analyzed by the Associated Press in partnership with the Education Reporting Collaborative.

In New Orleans, a city with many in the service industry and other low-wage jobs, the City Seats funding has been transformative for parents struggling to hold down demanding, mostly non-unionized jobs. The program has also been a boon for the child care centers themselves.

Richard had struggled off and on to find affordable child care since dropping out of college when she gave birth to her oldest son, now 12. That’s even though she immediately put her name down for a spot at child care centers when she discovered she was pregnant. “Literally, when you see the ‘positive’ line, you fill out an application,” she said of taking a pregnancy test.

Now that she can think about building a career again, Richard has set her sights on finishing her college degree. Her dream is to have a career in forensics.

Another parent, Mike Gavion, who has two children enrolled at Early Partners in the Garden District, said City Seats allowed his wife to finish school and get a nursing job. Before the program was available, Gavion’s wife had to care for the children, now 2 and 4, and could only make slow progress through the coursework she needed to qualify for a job.

“It really gave us an opportunity,” Gavion said. “If we had to pay for two kids, I don’t think she would have been able to do nursing school.”

Families in New Orleans qualify for City Seats if they have children from newborn to age 3 and earn within 200% of the federal poverty level. But many don’t immediately get a spot: As of April, City Seats had 821 students on its waitlist , according to Agenda for Children, the nonprofit that administers the program.

About 70% of the City Seats budget pays for children to attend centers ranked as high quality on the state’s rating system. The rest of the budget goes to improving quality: Child care providers have access to a team that includes a speech pathologist, a pediatrician and social workers.

Participating providers are required to pay their staff at least $15 an hour — on average, Louisiana child care workers made $9.77 an hour in 2020 — and abide by strict teacher-to-child ratios and class sizes. They also receive professional development from early learning experts.

Funding from City Seats has allowed Wilcox Academy’s three centers in the city’s North Broad, Central City and Uptown neighborhoods to raise average staff pay to $18 an hour. The Academy’s goal is to raise it even higher — to $25 an hour.

“Teachers deserve it,” said Rochelle Wilcox, the Academy’s founder and director. “They deserve to go on vacation, they deserve to buy a home, they deserve to buy a car. … This is not a luxury.” ___

Valeria Olivares of The Dallas Morning News and Sharon Lurye of The Associated Press contributed reporting. ___

The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org .

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