For single parents, navigating international travel with children can pose unique challenges and legal considerations.
One crucial document that single parents should be aware of is the travel consent letter. This document serves as proof that the parent or guardian has given permission for their child to travel internationally, especially when only one parent is accompanying the child.
But why exactly do single parents need travel consent letters, and what legal implications do they carry?
Legal Requirements and Parental Consent
If both parents are accompanying the child, a notarised letter of consent isn’t required. However, if only one parent or someone other than a child’s parent is taking the child on holiday, a notarised letter of consent should be strongly considered. This is particularly important in cases of separated or divorced parents, where custody arrangements may be in place. These letters can also prevent complications at passport control, especially if the child has a different surname.
Additionally, notarised letters of consent can ease travel for grandparents or other family members accompanying a child, as they prove parental permission for the child to travel.
What countries require consent letters?
Notarised letters of consent are often a legal requirement for many popular destinations, such as South Africa, when the child is not traveling with both parents. Border Control in the USA and Canada, Portugal, Italy, Brazil Thailand, Australia and Russia also strongly recommend having such documents on hand. These letters provide clear evidence to Border Control at your holiday destination that consent has been given by the absent parent(s) for the child to travel abroad without them.
Immigration officials in many countries may request proof of parental consent to ensure the child is not being abducted or taken against the other parent’s wishes.
How to Draft a Travel Consent Letter
While there are no strict guidelines for drafting a travel consent letter, it should include specific details to be considered legally valid. These details may include:
1. Full names and contact information of both parents or legal guardians.
2. Child’s full name and date of birth.
3. Details of the trip, including destination, duration, and dates of travel.
4. Signature of the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) providing consent.
5. Notarisation or witnessing by a legal authority for added authenticity.
In Scotland, most solicitors are also Notary Publics. When a document is notarised, it means:
i. The Notary Public has verified the identity of the person signing the document.
ii. The Notary Public confirms witnessing the individual sign the document.
iii. The person signing the document has sworn an oath, similar to one sworn in court, confirming the accuracy of the document’s content.
How can Johnson Legal Family Law help me?
We offer a fixed fee service for preparing and notarizing a letter of consent for holiday travel at an introductory rate of £100 plus VAT. The letter of consent will be stamped with a notarial seal.
If you would like to discuss or find out more about travel consent letters, we offer all our clients a free, 15-minute consultation call with one of our solicitors to determine how we can help. Call our office on 0131 622 8477 , email [email protected] or submit your enquiry here.
