Children travelling without both parents

What to carry

• A consent letter signed by the parent or parents who aren't travelling, with their contact details and the dates of the trip.
• Proof of your link to the child if your surnames are different, such as a birth or adoption certificate.
• Copies of any custody or court orders, if relevant.

A consent letter isn't always a legal requirement, but it can save a long wait at the border. Some countries have stricter rules for children who are also their citizens.

Country by country

Schengen area

Carry a consent letter for the child. Each Schengen country sets its own rules, and airlines may ask too. Carry a letter signed by any parent who isn't travelling. Portugal requires a certified letter if a child travels alone or with an adult who isn't their parent. Official guidance

Ireland

Bring proof of consent for the child. If a child travels with one parent, or with an adult who isn't their parent, an immigration officer may ask for proof. It isn't compulsory, but it helps to bring a signed consent letter from the other parent with their contact details, a copy of their passport or driving licence, and the child's birth or adoption certificate. Official guidance

United Kingdom

Carry proof of your link to the child. If you don't seem to be the child's parent, for example you have a different surname, Border Force may ask you to prove your relationship. Bring a birth or adoption certificate, or a marriage or divorce certificate. If you're not a parent, bring a letter from a parent giving permission, with their contact details. Official guidance

United States

Carry a consent letter for your child. If a child is travelling alone, with only one parent or with someone else, carry a letter of consent from the parent or parents not travelling. It should be in English and preferably notarised. It can say: "I acknowledge that my child is travelling outside the country with [name of adult] with my permission." Official guidance

Canada

Carry a consent letter for your child. If you're travelling with a child under 18 and the other parent or guardian isn't with you, or you're not the child's parent or guardian, carry a consent letter. It must give the parents' or guardians' full names, addresses and phone numbers. Having it notarised helps avoid delays. Bring copies of any custody papers too. Official guidance

Mexico

Carry proof you can travel with your child. Children who are Mexican citizens or live in Mexico need a consent form (Formato SAM) or a notarised consent letter to leave Mexico without both parents. For other children, officials may ask for a birth certificate and a consent letter from any parent who isn't there. Get the letter notarised, and translated into Spanish if the child travels without either parent. Official guidance

Turkey

Bring the Turkish parent's permission. If you leave Turkey with a child who is also a Turkish citizen, officials may ask to see that the Turkish parent agrees to the trip. Carry written permission from them.

Related guides

• Travelling on two passports
• Travelling with medicines