Minor Permission To Travel

Minor Permission To Travel. A 2023 International Guide.

Traveling with minors can be a challenging task, especially when both parents are not present. In many countries, it is required by law to obtain a “permission to travel” affidavit, also known as a consent letter, for minors traveling with one parent or a third party. This affidavit serves as a proof of consent from the non-traveling parent, granting permission for the minor to travel. However, the requirements for obtaining a permission to travel affidavit vary from country to country, and it is important to understand these requirements before embarking on your journey.

In general, a permission to travel affidavit should include basic information about the minor, such as their name, date of birth, and passport details, as well as information about the traveling parent or third party. It should also state the purpose and dates of the trip, and include a clear statement of consent from the non-traveling parent. The affidavit should be signed and notarized, and in some cases, may require additional documentation, such as a copy of the non-traveling parent’s ID or passport.

Let’s take a closer look at the requirements for obtaining a permission to travel affidavit in different countries.

United States:

In the United States, there is no federal law requiring a permission to travel affidavit for minors traveling with one parent or a third party. However, individual airlines and border officials may require one, especially if traveling internationally. The U.S. Department of State recommends that parents or legal guardians obtain a notarized letter of consent if their child is traveling abroad without both parents.

Canada:

In Canada, a permission to travel affidavit is not required by law, but it is strongly recommended. The Canadian government advises parents or guardians traveling with a minor child to carry a consent letter from the non-accompanying parent or legal guardian. The letter should be signed by the non-traveling parent and notarized, and should include information about the child, the traveling parent or guardian, and the purpose and dates of the trip.

Mexico:

In Mexico, a permission to travel affidavit is required by law for minors traveling without both parents or legal guardians. The affidavit should be notarized and should include a clear statement of consent from the non-traveling parent or legal guardian. In addition, the non-traveling parent or legal guardian may be required to provide a copy of their ID or passport, and may be asked to provide a fingerprint.

United Kingdom:

In the United Kingdom, a permission to travel affidavit is not required by law, but it is recommended for minors traveling with one parent or a third party. The affidavit should be notarized and should include information about the child, the traveling parent or guardian, and the purpose and dates of the trip. In addition, the non-traveling parent or legal guardian may be required to provide a copy of their ID or passport.

France:

In France, a permission to travel affidavit is not required by law, but it is recommended for minors traveling with one parent or a third party. The affidavit should be notarized and should include information about the child, the traveling parent or guardian, and the purpose and dates of the trip. In addition, the non-traveling parent or legal guardian may be required to provide a copy of their ID or passport.

Australia:

In Australia, a permission to travel affidavit is not required by law, but it is recommended for minors traveling with one parent or a third party. The affidavit should be notarized and should include information about the child, the traveling parent or guardian, and the purpose and dates of the trip. In addition, the non-traveling parent or legal guardian may be required to provide a copy of their ID or passport.

South Africa:

In South Africa, a permission to travel affidavit is required by law for minors traveling without both parents or legal guardians. The affidavit should be signed and notarized, and should include information about the child, the traveling parent or guardian, and the purpose and dates of the trip. In addition, the non-traveling parent or legal guardian may be required to provide a copy of their ID or passport, and may be asked to provide a fingerprint. It is important to note that the South African Department of Home Affairs requires that the affidavit be written in the language of the country the minor is traveling to.

Brazil:

In Brazil, a permission to travel affidavit is required by law for minors traveling without both parents or legal guardians. The affidavit should be notarized and should include information about the child, the traveling parent or guardian, and the purpose and dates of the trip. In addition, the non-traveling parent or legal guardian may be required to provide a copy of their ID or passport, and may be asked to provide a fingerprint.

China:

In China, a permission to travel affidavit is required by law for minors traveling without both parents or legal guardians. The affidavit should be notarized and should include information about the child, the traveling parent or guardian, and the purpose and dates of the trip. In addition, the non-traveling parent or legal guardian may be required to provide a copy of their ID or passport, and may be asked to provide a fingerprint. It is important to note that the affidavit must be authenticated by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate.

India:

In India, a permission to travel affidavit is not required by law, but it is recommended for minors traveling with one parent or a third party. The affidavit should be notarized and should include information about the child, the traveling parent or guardian, and the purpose and dates of the trip. In addition, the non-traveling parent or legal guardian may be required to provide a copy of their ID or passport.

It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a permission to travel affidavit can vary within a country as well. For example, in the United States, some states may require additional documentation, such as a copy of the child’s birth certificate, or may have different notarization requirements.

In addition, some countries may have specific requirements for third parties traveling with a minor, such as grandparents or other relatives. For example, in Canada, the consent letter for a minor traveling with a third party should include information about the relationship between the minor and the accompanying adult, as well as the name and contact information of the non-traveling parent or legal guardian.

It is important to research the specific requirements for obtaining a permission to travel affidavit in the country you will be traveling to, and to ensure that all necessary documents are obtained and notarized in advance. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in delays, additional costs, or even being denied entry into the country.

In conclusion, obtaining a permission to travel affidavit for minors traveling without both parents or legal guardians is an important step in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. However, the requirements for obtaining this affidavit can vary greatly from country to country, and it is important to research and understand these requirements in advance. By taking the necessary steps to obtain a notarized and authenticated permission to travel affidavit, you can help ensure a safe and stress-free trip for both you and your child.

Need to apostille a permission to travel in New York? Call, text or WhatsApp apostille expediter Harry Otto at (914)441-2444.